Water problems
Sediment, sand, and cloudy water
Sand, grit, and cloudy water clog fixtures and protect nothing. What causes sediment in wells and city water, and how spin-down and cartridge filters fix it.
Sediment is any solid particle in the water: sand, silt, rust flakes, or scale. In wells it can come from the aquifer, a worn pump, or a damaged screen. On public water, cloudy or discolored water usually follows main breaks, hydrant flushing, or pressure changes, and should clear after a few minutes of running cold water. If it doesn't, call your utility.
Why it matters
- Clogged aerators, shower heads, and appliance valves
- Wear on water heaters, softeners, and other treatment equipment
- Cloudiness that blocks UV disinfection from working
Filter options
| Filter | Best for |
|---|---|
| Spin-down screen | Sand and grit; rinse it out with a valve |
| Cartridge filter (rated in microns) | Finer silt; cartridges are replaced on a schedule |
| Backwashing media filter | Heavy sediment, often with iron, in wells |
Picking a micron rating is a trade-off: finer filters catch more but clog faster and cut flow. A sediment stage is usually the first step in a whole-house treatment or well treatment system. If your well suddenly starts producing sand, have the well and pump checked before adding filters. Cloudiness can also be air bubbles, which clear from the bottom of a glass upward within a minute.
Solutions that help
Systems we'd typically recommend
From the WÜDR range. The exact model, configuration and sizing follow your water analysis.
What drives the price? See Whole house water filter cost. Every recommendation starts with your free water report.
Where this comes up in our service area
Common questions
Why is my tap water cloudy?
Usually tiny air bubbles, which clear from the bottom of the glass up within a minute. If the cloudiness settles to the bottom instead, it's sediment.
Will a sediment filter lower my water pressure?
A properly sized one shouldn't noticeably. Pressure drops as the cartridge fills, which is your cue to change it.