Iowa American Water Explains Cloudy Tap Water

Water company reassures customers that cloudy water is not a health concern.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:47pm

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Iowa American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is addressing customer inquiries about cloudy or milky-looking tap water. The company explains that this is caused by dissolved air bubbles in the cold water and is not a health issue. The phenomenon is more common during the winter months when the water temperature is lower, and the water remains saturated with dissolved oxygen as it travels from the treatment plant to customers' homes.

Why it matters

Addressing customer concerns about water quality is important for maintaining trust and transparency, especially for a utility company that provides an essential service. Iowa American Water's proactive communication helps reassure customers that the cloudy water is harmless and provides helpful information about the science behind the issue.

The details

Iowa American Water says the cloudy or milky appearance is caused by tiny air bubbles in the water, which is a common occurrence, especially during the winter months. The cold water absorbs more air from the atmosphere, and as it warms up in customers' plumbing systems, the excess dissolved air cannot be held in the water and is released as bubbles. This is a normal physical process and does not indicate any water quality issues.

  • The cloudy water phenomenon is most common during the winter months.
  • The water temperature in the Mississippi River, Iowa American Water's source, can drop as low as 32.5 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter.

The players

Iowa American Water

A subsidiary of American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 227,000 people in Iowa.

Tony Loete

Vice President of Operations at Iowa American Water.

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What they’re saying

“Cloudy or milky-looking" water, caused by dissolved air (oxygen), is not a health problem. The phenomenon of cloudy water from the tap is like bubbles being released from a carbonated beverage when the cap is removed and pressure released.”

— Tony Loete, Vice President of Operations

“Customers can observe dissolved air (oxygen) escaping from a glass of water by holding the cloudy water up to a bright light or sunlit window and watching the water clear from the bottom of the glass up as the tiny air bubbles rise to the surface. The glass of water should clear in a minute or two.”

— Tony Loete, Vice President of Operations

What’s next

If the cloudy/milky water does not clear up within a few minutes, customers are advised to contact Iowa American Water at (866) 641-2108.

The takeaway

Iowa American Water's proactive communication and explanation of the science behind the cloudy water phenomenon helps reassure customers that this is a common and harmless occurrence, especially during the winter months when the water temperature is colder. This builds trust and transparency between the utility company and its customers.