City Water Testing
Living on city water comes with its conveniences – but have you ever stopped to consider the quality of that water you rely on daily?
Municipal water systems undergo rigorous treatment processes to ensure safety, but depending on infrastructure age and local factors, contaminants can still slip through.
Why Test Your City Water?
Even if your city water appears clear and tasteless, it’s wise to schedule a test. Here’s why:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing exactly what’s in your water can alleviate concerns and promote confidence.
- Early Detection: Testing can identify potential problems like lead, bacteria, or nitrates before they cause health issues.
- Optimizing Treatment: Test results can guide you in choosing the right filtration system for your needs, whether it’s a simple carbon filter or a more complex reverse osmosis unit.
What Does a City Water Test Check For?
Here are some common contaminants tested for in city water:
- Lead: This heavy metal can be present in older pipes and can cause developmental problems, especially in children.
- Chlorine: While used for disinfection, high levels of chlorine can affect taste and odor.
- Bacteria: Contaminated water can harbor harmful bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): These are gases that are emitted into the air from products or processes. Some are harmful by themselves, including some that cause cancer.
How Often Should You Test Your City Water?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing your city water every 3-5 years. However, you may want to test more frequently if:
- Your home has lead pipes or was built before 1986.
- You experience changes in water taste, odor, or color.
- You have concerns about local environmental factors that could affect water quality.
Get Expert Help with City Water TestingSchaefer Inspection Service offers professional city water testing services in your area. Our inspectors will collect samples, drop them at the lab for analysis, and provide you with a detailed report. Click here for more information.