Water Heaters - My hot water looks like milk!

I recently noticed that my hot water is VERY milky. The cold water is perfectly clear. It seems to be worse at certain faucets. My hot water heater is about 2 years old and I've never drained it. We have hard water and no water softener. What in the heck is causing this and how do I get clear water? Is it as simple as draining the WH or is this a pipe issue?

Thanks in advance for all your input!

Jabby, Welcome to the DIY Forums.
Interesting problem. I would try draining the water heater first so if nothing else, that, would be eliminated. Click on the link below for instructions on how to do this.

http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=134483

After you finish draining and flushing the tank, refill , and see if there is a difference. Post back either way please so we know if it worked. Good luck.

Thanks Majakdragon...

Well, I did some research on the internet and found that this "problem" is actually normal and harmless. It is caused by dissolved oxygen and other gases that are released when water is heated or depressurized. The milky appearance clears when water is left standing a few minutes. I tested this and, sure enough, my water turned clear in about a minute.

I guess you really do learn something new everyday! Thank goodness I don't have a serious problem like I originally thought!

Glad to hear it is solved. I would still flush the heater. Should be done at least once a year. Sediment settles to the bottom and if your heater is gas, it gets "fried" and reduces the efficiency of the heater.
If you have any other problems, we are always here to assist you to Do It Yourself.