If your tap water ever looks cloudy, murky, or gritty, you’re not alone. Many Houston homeowners notice this, especially after heavy rain, plumbing work, or changes in water pressure.

That cloudiness is known as turbidity, and it often comes from sediment. Aka small particles of sand, silt, rust, or organic matter suspended in your water. While sediment isn’t always dangerous, it’s a sign that your water may need attention.

Why Cloudy or Gritty Water Happens

There are several reasons Houston homes experience sediment or turbidity (cloudy water):

Aging Infrastructure: Houston’s older pipes can shed rust or mineral flakes into the water as they corrode over time
Construction or Hydrant Use: Nearby roadwork or maintenance can stir up sediment in municipal lines
Private Wells: Shallow wells often draw in fine sand or silt, especially after heavy rains or well pump wear
Plumbing Corrosion: Internal pipes may contribute small particles of metal or scale buildup

Sometimes, the cloudiness clears after a few minutes, but if it’s consistent or gritty to the touch, it’s a sign that particles are moving through your plumbing system.

Risks to Appliances and Fixtures

Even if sediment doesn’t make you sick, it can quietly damage your home over time.

Appliances: Water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines can clog or wear out faster
Plumbing: Sediment builds up inside pipes, reducing water flow and pressure
Fixtures: Faucets and showerheads become coated with mineral or rust residue
Water Quality: Fine particles trap bacteria, affect taste, and cause cloudy ice or dull laundry

Over time, that grit adds up and you end up replacing appliances or fixtures far sooner than expected.

How to Fix Sediment and Cloudy Water

The best solution depends on the source and size of the particles in your water. That’s why professional testing and filtration design are key.

Common solutions include:

Sediment Filters: Capture sand, silt, and rust before they enter your home’s plumbing. Available in different micron sizes depending on the particle level.
Whole-Home Filtration Systems: Remove fine particles, protect every fixture, and extend the life of water heaters and appliances.
Reverse Osmosis Systems: Provide perfectly clear drinking and cooking water by filtering out microscopic particles and dissolved solids.

A properly designed system ensures your water stays crystal clear, not just at the tap, but throughout your entire home.

Why Environmental ProTech

At Environmental ProTech, we’ve been treating Houston water for over 30 years. We understand how sediment and cloudy water vary by neighborhood, and we know exactly how to clear it up.

When you call us, we’ll:

Identify what’s causing the cloudiness
Recommend the right filtration system for your home’s plumbing and water source
Install high-quality systems that protect your water, appliances, and peace of mind

Call now to schedule your free water test