Is Your Tap Water Safe to Drink?

If you’d rather have a uniformed plumber stop by, then call Proline Rooter to request an urgent dispatch. We are also happy to schedule an appointment for a more suitable time.

Understanding tap water safety

Tap water in most developed countries undergoes rigorous treatment processes to meet safety standards set by governmental and regulatory bodies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. These processes typically include filtration, disinfection (usually with chlorine or chloramine), and various treatments to remove contaminants.

Despite these measures, several factors can influence the quality of tap water by the time it reaches your faucet. These include aging infrastructure, local contaminants such as agricultural and industrial runoff, and chemical byproducts.

Testing your tap water quality

Luckily, there are several methods to assuage your worries. Let’s go over three primary ways to test your tap water.

The first is via municipal water quality reports. Public water suppliers are required to provide annual water quality reports, often called Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs), which detail the levels of various contaminants in the water.

Then, there are home water testing kits. These kits are available online and in stores, allowing you to test for common contaminants such as lead, chlorine, nitrates, and pH levels. They provide quick, though sometimes less precise, results.

For more accurate and comprehensive results, you can send a water sample to a certified laboratory. This option is particularly useful if you suspect specific contaminants that home kits might not detect.

Introducing the new gatekeeper for your tap water

If testing reveals contaminants or if you simply want to ensure the highest water quality, installing a whole-house water filtration system is an effective solution. These systems filter water at the point of entry, ensuring that every faucet and appliance in your home receives treated water.

Filtration systems can significantly improve the taste and smell of tap water by removing chlorine, sulfur, and other compounds that affect sensory qualities. Filtered water also reduces the buildup of scale and sediment in appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, effectively extending their lifespan and efficiency.

Learn more about water filtration systems

A whole-house water filter is a comprehensive solution, but there are plenty of other options. A water softener installation, for instance, can address “hard” water, which can cause a chalky buildup on silverware, glassware, and plumbing components.

Whether you want to consult about water filtration system or need emergency plumbing repair service, the uniformed plumbers in North Highlands at Proline Rooter are ready, willing, and able to help. Call now to get in touch!