Quick Answer:
Coming back to a house after weeks away and finding brown or cloudy water is common. Stagnant water can loosen mineral scale or rust deposits and release them when pressure changes. Start by flushing fixtures, beginning at the lowest point in the house, run cold first then hot, and check aerators and screens. Avoid drinking the first water you run and watch for persistent discoloration or odors before using the plumbing normally.
Why This Happens
- Water left standing lets heavier particles and mineral deposits settle in low spots, fittings and water heater tanks. When water flow starts again, those deposits can be dislodged and carried to taps.
- Changes in pressure from municipal work, a smart shutoff or restarting the supply can free built-up material. For related causes, see Particles after smart shutoff triggers.
- Hot-water systems collect more sediment. If only the hot side is cloudy, the water heater is a likely source.
- Recent repairs or pipe work can introduce sand or grit that travels through the system until it’s flushed out.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Safety first
- Do not drink the first water you run after returning. Use bottled water for drinking and cooking until you flush and confirm clarity.
- Run water at a safe, moderate temperature to avoid scalding when checking hot taps.
2. Flush all fixtures starting from the lowest after long vacancy.
- Start at the lowest fixture (usually a basement sink, laundry tub, or outdoor hose bib). Open the cold tap and let it run until the water clears — this may take several minutes.
- Move upward through the house: lower floor fixtures, then mid-level, then upper-level. Finish with exterior hose bibs and irrigation lines.
3. Run hot water and check the water heater
- After clearing cold lines, run the hot taps. If sediment appears only in hot water, the heater likely needs attention (tank flushing or service).
- If you see a lot of sediment from the hot side, avoid prolonged use until the heater is inspected.
4. Check aerators, showerheads and filters
- Unscrew faucet aerators and showerheads and look for trapped particles. Clean or replace screens as needed.
- If you recently had work done, also watch for grit — for example, Sand in water after pipe replacement can behave the same way until the lines are flushed.
5. Confirm with simple tests
- Run each tap for several minutes. Water should come clear and remain steady in clarity and pressure.
- If clarity returns but you still see occasional specks, run the lines longer or until the municipal utility confirms no nearby work.
What Not to Do
- Do not consume first-draw water after long absence.
- Don’t try to disassemble a water heater or main service components unless you are experienced. That can be dangerous and may void warranties.
- Don’t assume discoloration is safe; avoid using discolored water for drinking, cooking, or to fill baby bottles.
When to Call a Professional
- If sediment continues after thorough flushing of all fixtures.
- If sediment appears only in hot water and flushing the tank (per the heater manual) doesn’t help.
- If you have persistent low pressure, strong metallic taste, foul odors, or visible corrosion at fittings.
- If your home has older galvanized or unknown pipe materials and you’re seeing repeated rust or discoloration.
Safety Notes
- Hot water can cause burns; check temperature before prolonged running and use protective gloves when removing aerators or filters.
- If water shows signs of contamination beyond simple sediment (brown with strong odor, oiliness, or cloudiness that doesn’t clear), stop using it for consumption and contact your water utility or a plumber.
- Keep children and pets away from running taps and buckets used for flushing to prevent accidental scalds or drowning hazards.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Q: How long should I flush the taps?
A: Run each tap until water is clear; typically a few minutes per fixture, longer if the house was vacant for weeks.
- Q: Is cloudy water harmful?
A: Cloudiness from air is usually harmless, but brown or metallic sediment can indicate rust or deposits—avoid drinking until it clears.
- Q: Can I fix a sediment-filled water heater myself?
A: Basic tank flushing is often possible per the manufacturer’s instructions, but significant buildup or mechanical issues should be handled by a professional.
For more related articles, see the Black Specks, Sediment, or Grit in Water hub.