The aerators on our faucets are clogged with white particles. What is it?

These particles are most likely pieces of plastic from the hot water tank. There is a plastic part called the dip tube (cold water inlet tube) which deteriorates or fragments over time. These fragments flow out of the tank, through the hot water outlet and throughout a home or building’s plumbing, clogging aerators and shower-heads. 


The fragments will float in a glass of water. This is not a water quality issue. A new dip tube may have to be installed or the hot water tank replaced. In some water supplies with hard water, white particles could be calcium carbonate deposits. These deposits are not an issue with Chesterfield County’s naturally soft water.

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1. Is my tap water tested?
2. Why does my tap water taste like chlorine?
3. What is the pH of my water?
4. What is the hardness of my water?
5. What is the pinkish residue on my bathroom fixtures?
6. Why does my water look cloudy or white?
7. The aerators on our faucets are clogged with white particles. What is it?
8. Why does the water in my bathroom sink smell like rotten eggs?