Isn't the City Responsible for My Water Quality?

October 5th, 2020 by Nick Koz

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Isn’t the City Responsible For My Water Quality blog image

Most people understand that water quality is an important part of daily living, but many trust that their city will take care of it. In many instances, the city is responsible for your water quality, at least in part. However, the old adage holds true: If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.

Municipal Water Sources and Water Quality

Municipal water sources such as wells or reservoirs are typically sent to a water treatment facility to attain the quality of water that comes out of your faucet. Here, chemicals such as chlorine are added to the water to disinfect it. These chemicals can add a disagreeable smell and taste to your water, but it shouldn’t make you sick.

City water can also contain minerals that make your water hard. Hard water leaves behind residue that can clog pipes and wear down appliances. It also ineffectively rinses soap, which means you never feel completely clean when getting out of the shower.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates water quality and sets standards in which cities must adhere. However, these systems do not ensure good water quality. As seen in Flint, Michigan, water quality is not a guarantee. Cities are somewhat responsible for water quality, but that doesn’t mean you should rely on them for it.

Well Water Sources and Water Quality

If you are on private well water, the city is not responsible for your water quality. This means that your water must be tested every year to check for contaminants. Contaminated groundwater can occur for many reasons, but the water will also pick up minerals from the ground through which it travels. In some cases, this results in hard water.

Having your own private well can be wonderful, and you may end up with water that is of better quality than the city can provide, but this comes with a risk that you must mitigate by testing and responding to changes in your water quality.

You Are Responsible for Your Water Quality

Ultimately, you are responsible for your water quality. Neither city nor well water is going to be drinking grade water. If you want to be sure as you can that your water is safe then, then you’ll need to first test it. Home filtration systems such as reverse osmosis systems (ROS) are a great solution to ensure the water you are drinking is clear and contaminant-free. You may be able to blame the city for some of your water woes, but only you can ensure the best quality of water.