Some people assume that tap water is the same everywhere. They turn on the tap that’s been treated by a local facility, and the water quality is like anywhere else in the state. However, that’s not the case.
Have you ever looked into how your area ranks for drinking water quality by city? When was the last time you checked your water? If you’re someone who has asked yourself, is my water safe? Now is the time to answer that question.
Here is what to consider when seeking the cleanest, safest, and most reliable tap water, and the steps to take when your city ranks lower than expected.
How To Interpret Water “Rankings” Responsibly
There are several reports and data sources you can turn to when learning about your local tap water.
These include:
- Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) are annual water quality reports. These mandatory documents are provided by water suppliers each year and detail local tap water sources, treatment processes, and contaminant testing results.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports water quality data and stores that information in its Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS). You can search your geographic area to find your drinking water supplier and view its violations and enforcement history over the last 10 years.
- EWG’s Tap Water Database shows hundreds of contaminants widespread in U.S. tap water. By entering your ZIP code, you can find detailed information about contaminants in your local water supply, along with filtration tips to reduce exposure.
Understanding how to read this data matters, especially when limits are set. For example, a passing grade from the EPA may mean your local water meets legal requirements, but it does not guarantee that it is safe. Data generated under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) focuses on whether water meets legal Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). In comparison, EWG ranks water based on stricter, voluntary "health-based guidelines" rather than just federal legal limits.
So, while a water supplier may comply with the law, it doesn’t mean they are meeting scientific health guidelines.
A Simple Way to Check Your Water
To get started on your journey toward safer, cleaner water, refer to your CCR. Utilities are required to send them, often with your water bill, so you may have a hard copy. If not, search your provider's site, often under "Water Quality" or "Reports."
You can also head to the EPA website. The EPA maintains a database of links to local reports.
Look for these key terms:
- Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The legally enforceable maximum concentration of a hazardous substance allowed in public drinking water, as set by the EPA. Primary MCLs focus on health, whereas secondary MCLs highlight quality issues like staining and taste.
- Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): Health-based targets for public water systems — they are not legal limits. For contaminants suspected to be carcinogenic, like lead and benzene, the MCLG is typically zero.
- Violation: A breach of legally mandated standards where water quality, chemical, physical, or biological parameters exceed authorized levels.
- Detection Range: A reading showing the lowest, highest, and average levels found during the year. Your CRR will include the highest detected level of a contaminant and the range.
Please note: While your results may indicate safe water, water quality can be affected by aging infrastructure. Homes built before the mid-1950s may have lead pipes, which can affect the water supply to those homes. Also, safe doesn’t necessarily mean high-quality drinking water.
Are You Concerned About Your Results? Take These Steps
Is your water showing high levels of certain contaminants? Did your report include any violations or special alerts? Are you simply trying to ensure the highest quality water, regardless of your CCR water report?
Take the following steps:
- Contact your supplier: If your report includes a violation, call your supplier to get an explanation so you can take the necessary steps toward cleaner, healthier water.
- Test your water independently: CCR water reports are not based on samples from your home. Conduct an at-home water test, especially if you have an older home with lead pipes.
- Install a filtration system: If you are concerned about specific contaminants, invest in a water filtration solution.
Water Filtration Approaches by Concern
The right filtration system for you will depend on the specific contaminants found in your water sample. Solutions range from basic sediment removal to advanced filtration of "forever chemicals" (PFAS).
You may also want to select a filtration system based on non-health-related characteristics, such as taste, odor, color, and turbidity (cloudiness). For example, if your water is cloudy and smells of chlorine, a 2-stage system water filtration solution will improve the water quality. However, to address those concerns while also removing VOCs and other contaminants, you’d want to look into a 4-stage system.
If you want broader contaminant reduction for optimal safety and quality, reverse osmosis systems offer an all-in-one approach. These systems can remove heavy metals and VOCs, whereas carbon and sediment filters do not. If you are concerned about bacteria or are on well water, you’ll want to install a UV light.
Once you figure out the type of system you want, Brio can help you choose the best option based on your space constraints, intended use, budget, and more. For example:
- You may want to opt for a countertop bottleless cooler when you need instant access to hot, cold, and room-temperature water without a dedicated faucet. If you also enjoy sparkling water, check out the Brio Q60 4-Stage Reverse Osmosis Sparkling Countertop Water Dispenser. It’s ideal for homes, offices, and apartments.
- When you’re space-limited, choose a multi-stage undersink system. These systems come with easy "twist & lock" filters. Explore all undersink options.
Explore Filtration Solutions
Access to the cleanest, best-tasting water starts with understanding your water report. See how your city ranks and what concerns are common in your area. Then, conduct an independent at-home water test to pinpoint other possible issues.
Once you discover what is in your water, you’ll want to explore filtration solutions. Unsure which system is best for you? Contact Brio to get started today!
