Concerned About Your Water? Steps to Evaluate It and Move Forward

A Complex Water Story

It wasn't long ago my spouse and I received an unsettling yet casual note from our local municipality. It informed us about the detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, better known as PFAS or 'The Forever Chemicals,' in our water supply.

Understanding this message after a lengthy attempt at deciphering it led us to a sobering conclusion: there are potentially harmful chemicals lurking in our tap water.

Regional Disparities in Water Issues

A nationwide sample of households reveals that recognition of water quality issues is uneven across regions. Households in the Pacific and Mountain West regions report fewer problems compared to the significantly higher awareness in the Southwest.

Variable Water Quality Concerns

Water quality issues are deeply influenced by location and environmental factors, as well as whether the source is a municipal supply or a private well. This variability results in a wide spectrum of possible contaminants—from heavy metals and minerals to bacteria and chemicals like PFAS.

Evaluating and Addressing Water Quality

Unlike other household improvements like solar panels, which might yield financial returns, investing in water treatment primarily enhances peace of mind, especially when dealing with contaminants such as lead or high PFAS levels that pose significant health risks.

Critical Questions for Water Assessment

The path to improved water quality begins with asking the right questions, often triggered by official alerts, noticeable changes in water characteristics, or proactive concern. At-home mail-in test kits provide an entry point, though comprehensive testing is best handled by professional services.

Treatment Options: A Strategic Approach

Solutions for water treatment range in intensity, from adjusting properties like acidity and hardness with pH neutralizers and softeners to using advanced methods like reverse osmosis for tackling microscopic pathogens and fully dissolved contaminants.

Point-of-use systems offer a targeted method, typically being installed under sinks, while point-of-entry systems treat water as it enters the home, providing comprehensive protection throughout the household.

Future Prospects and Continued Concerns

While our own town has taken steps to install municipal filtration systems to address issues like PFOA levels, we're left with a continuous need for vigilance. This only amplifies the desire for more advanced, household-level monitoring technology.

Improving water quality is a crucial priority, influencing everything from health to the enjoyment of everyday activities like drinking a cup of coffee or taking a shower. With water being fundamental to well-being, it deserves careful attention in our home maintenance agendas.