What are the white particles in my water: calcium versus dip tube?
There are two types of white particles that have been observed in Ann Arbor drinking water. They have very different causes and solutions. Both occur rarely. One type is calcium. The water pipes are naturally lined with a calcium deposit. When pressure changes occur, such as during plumbing work, water main breaks, hydrant flushing or other disruptive procedures, some of this calcium may break loose from the pipe and come out the water faucet. Typically, the particles will be very small, around 1 mm in diameter. They usually do not clog the aerators (screens) on faucets. They are very hard, but can be dissolved in vinegar. These are the same deposits that you may notice inside a teakettle after many uses. These types of particles should only occur for a very brief time. If they are persistent or abundant in the water, you should call the water plant so that we can investigate and take action. The second type of particle is actually plastic. The particles vary in size, even up to half a
