What Causes Dirt and Sediment in Water and How Is It Treated?

Dirt and sediment are small particles such as sand, silt, rust, or debris that can get into your water supply. They are more common in private wells, older plumbing systems, or water sources affected by heavy rain and ground movement.

These particles can make water look cloudy and may build up in pipes, faucets, water heaters, and appliances over time. Sediment is commonly treated with cartridge filters, backwashing filters, or whole-house filtration systems. The best solution depends on the amount of sediment and your water source.