I Want To

Utilities

• What and why are there black particles in the water at one of my faucets.

  The particles are likely from a disintegrating washer or corrosion of the plumbing.  Run the water for a few minutes to clear the particles.  If there is a screen in the faucet, remove and clean it, or clean the aerator.  If the problem persists, call a plumber.

• What are the black particles in the toilet bowl water.

  The black particles are likely the result of the disintegration of the float in the toilet tank.  The float is especially likely to break down over time if you use an automatic toilet bowl cleaner in the tank.  Replace the float or call a plumber about replacing the float.

• Why are there water marks on my glasses and/or dishes.

  The watermarks are mineral deposits in the water.  If you use a dishwasher, follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid watermarks. If you use a dishwasher, follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid watermarks.  If you hand wash your dishes, dry them immediately after washing and rinsing rather than letting them air dry.

• Why does my water appear cloudy in a glass and then it clears up.

  Cloudiness in water that disappears in a few minutes is dissolved air in the water.  When cold water from the water main enters a warm building, the air escaping from the water makes the water look cloudy or milky.  The cloudiness usually occurs more often in the winter than in the summer because cold water can hold more dissolved air than warm water.

  Water may appear cloudy after you have not used the tap for a few hours.  This is because the water has been motionless in the plumbing for more than a few hours, it has warmed up a few degrees.  Even a few degrees will warm the water enough so air escapes quickly from the water.  Run the tap water three to five minutes so fresh water from the water main is coming into the house.

• Why is there pink growth on bathroom fixtures.

  The pink growth or stain is the result of a mold or a bacterium, specifically, Serratia Marcesecens.  The mold is present in the air.  Mold and bacteria grow wherever there is a warm, moist, or humid environment, like a tub or showerhead.  The mold and bacteria feed on the small quantities of nutrients in the water.

  Regular cleaning with bleach or a cleaner that removes mildew will clear the mold.  Wipe away standing water to reduce growth.  Certain materials, like rubber, plastic gaskets, etc., contain nutrients that help these organisms grow.

• Why is there white deposits inside my coffeemaker or kettle that I use to boil water.

  The white deposit, or scale, is a deposit of calcium and magnesium, which naturally occurs in the water.  Rinse the kettle with warm vinegar to remove the deposit.  Follow the manufacturer's recommendations to clean a coffeemaker.