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White or Off-White Particles

Most Common Cause: White particles are naturally occurring dissolved minerals (largely calcium and magnesium carbonates) in water due to the limestone bedrock in Indiana water, and are commonly referred to as hardness. The hardness leaves white spots on dishes and may build up on faucets and aerators. Hardness will vary depending upon whether the water comes from wells, rivers or reservoirs. Citizens does not remove hardness minerals. 

Recommended Action: To confirm particles are the result of hardness, mix some particles with white vinegar. If particles dissolve, the particles are the result of hardness. If particles do not dissolve, they are likely sand from a whole-house filter (see next Common Cause).

Using commonly found calcium/lime/rust cleaning products will typically remove build-up from faucets, aerators and other hard surfaces. Remove aerators and turn on all taps to flush internal plumbing. An aerator can trap hardness particles, which may result in reduced water flow. A home water softener will remove the minerals on an ongoing basis. No health/safety concerns and water use can continue as normal.

Over time, sediments accumulate in the water heater. If the water heater has not been flushed in the last six (6) to 12 months, please contact a plumbing expert to have it flushed.

Example of hardness particles.


Common Cause: If a whole-house particle filter is installed in the home, the filter may have failed and is releasing sand or very fine particles into internal plumbing.

Recommended Action: Replace the whole-house filter and flush all faucets and the water heater. No health/safety concerns and water use can continue as normal.


After taking the above listed actions, if the concern was not resolved, please open a case to be contacted by a Customer Case Manager.

Open a Case