16 May 2025
If you’ve ever poured a glass of water from your tap and noticed it’s cloudy or milky in appearance, you’re not alone. Cloudy tap water, sometimes referred to as ‘milky’ or ‘fizzy’ water, is a common issue and often nothing to worry about. The primary cause is usually tiny air bubbles trapped in the water. When water is pressurised through pipes, especially after maintenance or heavy rain, air can become dissolved. When you pour it into a glass, these bubbles rise to the surface and disappear, clearing up the water in seconds to minutes.

Other possible causes include:
If you’re unsure what’s causing the cloudiness, it might be worth getting a professional opinion. At PM247, our expert plumbers are experienced in diagnosing water quality issues fill in the form here to get a water leak fixed by a local PM247 plumber.
Certain environmental factors can also cause your tap water to appear cloudy. For example, heavy rainfall can disturb sediments in local water supplies, temporarily affecting water clarity. Likewise, construction work near water mains can shake up sediment and create a cloudy appearance.
Cold weather is another factor—water temperatures drop, increasing the amount of dissolved air it can hold. This is why you might notice cloudier water in the winter months compared to summer.
If the cloudiness is caused by air bubbles, there’s usually nothing to worry about. Simply letting the water sit for a moment in a glass should clear it up. If it’s persistent or you’re unsure, try these steps:
These providers often have live updates about maintenance or water quality issues in your area.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it might be time to get it checked out. Call PM247’s plumbing experts on 08082 504 203 and let us quickly identify the cause and provide the right fix to restore your water’s clarity.
In most cases, cloudy water caused by air bubbles is perfectly safe to drink. However, if you notice:
It’s worth investigating further. Mineral deposits, while typically harmless, can sometimes indicate a need for pipe maintenance or filtration. If you’re unsure, PM247 can perform quick water checks to give you peace of mind.
Cloudy water that clears from the bottom up is almost always caused by air bubbles. As the bubbles rise and escape, the water clears, starting from the bottom of the glass. This is a natural process and is no cause for concern unless the water remains cloudy for an extended period.
If it doesn’t clear up after a few minutes, it might indicate a different issue. In cases like this, PM247’s plumbing team can investigate further.
When water appears white and fizzy, it’s usually due to an abundance of tiny air bubbles. This often happens when there’s a change in water pressure or after plumbing work. The ‘fizz’ is simply the air escaping, much like when you open a bottle of sparkling water. If it clears up within a few minutes, there’s generally nothing to worry about.
If the water remains fizzy, it could be a sign of a different problem. PM247’s team is equipped to assess the situation and fix any issues promptly.
Yes, in the majority of cases, cloudy tap water is safe to drink, especially if it’s caused by trapped air. If you have concerns or notice other changes like smell, taste, or persistent cloudiness, it’s worth consulting with your water provider to ensure everything is in order. PM247 can also provide a professional assessment if needed.
Hot tap water can sometimes appear cloudy due to trapped air or mineral deposits. To address this:
If the problem persists, it might be worth getting your water heater inspected for scaling or other issues. PM247’s experienced plumbers can perform these checks and make sure your hot water runs clear and clean.
Cloudy tap water is usually harmless and easy to fix. However, if you notice any changes in taste, colour, or if the cloudiness doesn’t settle, PM247 is here to help. Our team of skilled plumbers can diagnose and resolve the issue efficiently, keeping your water safe and clear.
Need a plumber to fix your cloudy water? Call us on 08082 504 203 or fill in the form here to get your water supply back in order with a local PM247 plumber.
Need a plumber to fix your cloudy water? Call us on 08082 504 203 or fill in the form here to get your water supply back in order with a local PM247 plumber.