Understanding Tap Water Safety
Ensuring the safety of tap water is crucial for the health of millions who rely on it as their primary source of hydration.
The safety of drinking water is determined by adherence to strict regulations, the presence of various contaminants, and how it compares to bottled water.
Regulations and Standards
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the standards for water quality in the United States through laws like the Safe Drinking Water Act.
Public water systems are subject to these safety standards to confirm their tap water is safe to drink.
Every year, water utilities send out a Consumer Confidence Report which details the water quality and any contaminants found.
This enforcement of standards has greatly increased the safety of drinking water since the Act was passed in 1974.
Common Contariants in Tap Water
Contaminants in tap water can range from bacteria and viruses to minerals and chemicals like lead and chlorine.
Some contaminants, like certain minerals, are naturally occurring while others are a result of industrial processes or the result of the water treatment itself, such as chlorine which is used to kill harmful pathogens.
The treatment process aims to remove or reduce these contaminants to levels established as safe by EPA standards.
Comparing Tap and Bottled Water
When comparing tap water to bottled water, one significant difference is the regulatory bodies overseeing their quality.
The EPA oversees tap water safety, while the Food and Drug Administration regulates bottled water.
However, several studies, including one referenced by the Cleveland Clinic, suggest that tap water is just as safe as, if not safer than, bottled water when proper safety standards are met.
Additionally, bottled water is significantly more expensive and its production and disposal have a greater environmental impact.
Ensuring Personal Tap Water Safety
To maintain personal tap water safety, it is essential to understand water testing protocols, know your options for water filters, and recognize when to resort to alternative water sources.
Water Testing and Treatment Options
Regular water testing is the first step in safeguarding drinking water.
A certified lab can conduct tests for common contaminants such as E. coli, arsenic, lead, and PFAS.
Results can be cross-referenced with the latest water quality report from local water providers, which details the presence of pathogens, mineral content, and other substances.
Depending on these findings, treatment options may include standardized disinfection methods or advanced treatments like reverse osmosis.
Choosing the Right Water Filter
Selecting an effective water filter involves matching the filter’s capabilities to the specific contaminants identified in the water testing phase.
A carbon filter is widely used for improving taste and removing certain chemicals, whereas a more elaborate filtration system, like reverse osmosis, is needed for removing a broader scope of contaminants.
When choosing a filter, always look for options certified by reputable organizations addressing water safety.
When to Use Alternative Water Sources
In circumstances of a water crisis or new regulations indicating a decline in water safety, alternative sources such as bottled water or mineral water might be necessary temporarily.
Well water and groundwater from private land, which are not subject to public water system regulations, should be monitored with the same meticulous attention as tap water, considering the potential risks of contaminants.
If water quality cannot be guaranteed or improved with a water filtration system, then spring water or certified mineral water can serve as a short-term solution while ensuring safe drinking water.