Get Tap Water You'll Love With LifesSource
Kara Lewis If you live in a city, especially one of the cities on this list, you and your family may be particularly vulnerable. However, it’s possible to take steps to protect yourself, including filtering your water with a trusted, whole-house system. Read on to understand causes of poor water quality, the dangers it carries, and tips for making your water supply safer.
The EPA state drinking water dashboard tracks water violations across the United States. According to recent data, violations are most frequent in the following cities:
1) Newark, NJ
Newark’s water supply has been found to contain lead and haloacetic acids, often ranking above the federal action level. Recently, city officials have begun to replace lead pipes with copper in an effort to improve water quality.
2) Flint, MI
Flint’s water crisis has made national headlines and resulted in a state of emergency being declared. When the city switched its water source from Lake Huron to the Flint River, lead became prevalent in the water supply.
3) Pittsburgh, PA
City analysis found both lead and the toxic metal Chromium 6 in Pittsburgh’s water supply. This is thought to be due to the city’s old service pipes and plumbing.
4) Milwaukee, WI
City water assessments found that water in Milwaukee is “highly susceptible to contamination.” This is due to the presence of lead, chromium 6, and synthetic chemicals called per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
5) Fresno, CA
Assessments of Fresno water found Chromium 6, synthetic contaminants, and even arsenic. Fresno residents also note its earthy or musty taste.
Several key factors contribute to the poor water quality in many U.S. cities, including the pressures of industrial activity, urban runoff, and aging infrastructure. If your city made this list, it could be for many interconnected reasons:
Aging pipes and sewer systems. If water systems in your city are old, they can contain lead, allow for cross-contamination, or break down.
Trash, debris, and chemicals. Litter from streets and sidewalks, vehicle fluids, road salt, and sediment from construction sites can all make their way into a city’s water supply.
High demand from large populations. With the high amount of people living in cities, demand can strain city water supply. More people in a given place also increases the wastewater volume and the concentration of personal care products in local water.
Reduced natural filtration over time. Warming temperatures, the prevalence of concrete and asphalt in cities, and the loss of wetlands all chip away at natural filtration.
If your city has poor water quality, it’s essential to understand the effects on your home, family, and long-term health. This awareness can help you look out for signs of harm and be proactive about preventing them. If you’re drinking unhealthy or contaminated water, you might notice the following consequences:
Stomach problems. Water contamination can lead to nausea, vomiting, cramps, and abdominal pain.
Fever and chills. If you drink poor-quality water, you may have difficulty self-regulating your temperature.
Dry or irritated skin. Contaminated water can lead to rashes and worsen conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Respiratory problems. Germs in your water often result in coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Signs of dehydration. If your water contains pollutants, it might not be hydrating you properly. You may experience increased thirst, low energy, and dizziness.
While these short-term effects of drinking poor quality water can be painful and worrying, they also act as powerful warning signs. According to a report from the Environmental Protection Agency, the long-term effects of contaminated water can prove even more concerning, with potential outcomes including chronic illness, kidney failure, and reproductive health problems.
One of the biggest determinants of these more serious issues is the length of your exposure to poor quality water. Put simply, that means if you have already been exposed, you can intervene now to reduce risks.
Test your water. You can test your water to be sure of its safety by sending a sample to a certified lab. While not as reliable, you can also observe your water’s color, clarity, and smell – cloudy water, discolored water, and bad-smelling water can all be signs of contamination.
Maintain your plumbing system. Regular plumbing servicing and inspections keep your water running more smoothly. Flushing your water heater annually reduces sediment buildup. Similarly, routine inspection of your pipes can reduce rust and decay in your water supply.
Stay informed about water conditions in your area. A city’s water conditions can change based on weather, natural disasters, and precipitation levels. Consider signing up for free government water alerts to stay aware.
Install a water filtration system. It’s estimated that filtration systems remove 99% of contaminants, including the most common ones, like lead, bacteria, microplastics, and pesticides. LifeSource Water Systems stand out by adding minerals back into your water, so you’re not missing key nutrients.
Water filtration systems remove urban runoff from your water, greatly improving your water supply. A whole-house filtration system, like the one offered by LifeSource, protects your entire home – from the water you drink, to the water in your washing machine and shower.
LifeSource Water Systems use activated carbon filters to ensure safe water from every faucet in your home. Plus, we know you don’t want to worry about harsh, harmful water, but that you also don’t want to worry about regular maintenance. With LifeSource, you don’t have to change tanks, lug salt bags, or replace filters monthly to keep your water supply healthy and secure.