White Particles in Drinking Water

In the last few years we have had many complaints about white particles in the customer's taps. Usually the particles are clogging their aerator at the end of their faucets.

We have discovered that the cause for these particles has nothing to do with the distribution system, but starts at the customer's hot water heater.

We learned that a hot water heater supplier of polypropylene tubes had a problem with the anti-oxidant used in making these tubes.

The dip tube is an extension of the cold water, extending nearly to the bottom of the tank. This prevents the incoming cold water from diluting the temperature of the hot water heater.

We advise the water customer to take a few of the white particles and see if they float. If the material floats, it is very likely that it came from the hot water heater.

Remember you need to flush out your hot water heater at least once per year.