The United States has one of the most reliable water systems in the world. However, there are plenty of reasons why your water may not be meeting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) standards. How do you know that you have safe drinking water?
Contaminants in your drinking water can lead to serious health concerns if left unnoticed. Continue reading to find five signs that you have contaminated water.
1. Cloudy or Colored Water
Healthy water will still contain a certain level of minerals. But if you notice that your water is cloudy or has any color to it, then you need to get it tested. Orange or brown are common to see when your pipes have gone bad.
In any case, never drink water that has color to it. These are both signs that you have unhealthy drinking water. Be sure that you are using a clean glass when making observations.
2. Water That Smells
From city to city, the smell and taste of drinking water will differ. Water treatment facilities will use chlorine to kill bacteria in drinking water. It’s not typical for them to use enough to create a smell.
A rotten egg or sulfur smell is also a concern. Water safe for drinking should be essentially odorless.
3. Deteriorating Pipes
Your clean drinking water runs through your home’s pipes. If you have noticed that your pipes have deteriorated, then it may be a good time to test your water. Contact an expert for more information.
Again, orange or brown-colored water may be an indication that your pipes have gone bad. This can be a sign that there are high levels of iron and manganese present.
4. Water Issues Close to Home
When you hear that someone who lives close to you is experiencing water issues or contamination, there is reason to be concerned. Always be aware of what is going on near your home. This includes the use of pesticides, farming, livestock, sewer issues, manufacturing, and more.
5. Experiencing Physical Symptoms
Exposure to contaminated water can cause a number of physical symptoms to appear in humans. If anyone in your home is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention and have your water tested:
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach cramping
- Dehydration
There are several risks of unhealthy drinking water including reproductive issues, chronic diseases, gastrointestinal illness, development effects, waterborne diseases, and many more. The effects can range from short-term to long-term and even become life-threatening.
Keep Well with Safe Drinking Water
We all deserve access to safe drinking water. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Remember to keep an eye out for these signs when drinking water from the tap.
If you feel that your drinking water is unsafe, have an expert conduct water quality testing. It’s best to be safe rather than sorry. It could save your life.
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