9 Signs Your Tap Water Is Not as Safe as You Think
Tap water has been the go-to source for quenching our thirst for generations. Running clear of home faucets, we may drink tap water without a second thought. We may think tap water is contaminant-free, but some factors can make it less ideal for drinking. But, in recent years, rising concerns have emerged about the safety and purity of tap water. Let’s understand what tap water is!
What to Know About Drinking Water?
Tap water, or municipal water, flows through a tap or faucet. While tap water offers easy access to hydration, it may not be the healthiest option. Despite the convenience, tap water often has contaminants, chemicals, and impurities. These unwanted substances could impact well-being over time. The range of toxins and hazards present make tap water of dubious benefit. Chlorine and fluoride are the two most hazardous chemicals present in tap water. What seems like a straightforward way to hydrate may introduce risks.
Reasons To Avoid Drinking Tap Water
Is tap water safe to drink? Here are reasons why you might want to think twice before drinking tap water: –
Contaminants
Drinking tap water without purification contains many contaminants like pesticides, & industrial chemicals. Such disease-causing pathogens & heavy metals over time can jeopardize your health. So, it is better to avoid it as tap water is not safe to drink in the long run.
Use of Chlorine for Disinfection
Chlorine is often used to disinfect tap water. But this can cause disinfection byproducts (DBPs) to form. DBPs like trihalomethanes are a cancer risk. Chlorine reacts with natural organic matter when added to water. This forms DBPs like trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids. Further, Long-term trihalomethane exposure may also cause other health problems.
Microplastics Substances
Research has revealed minuscule plastic fragments, known as microplastics, in tap water. It signifies the infiltration of tiny plastic particles into the water supply. The possible health consequences of ingesting these microplastics are still under investigation. But, finding them in water supplies heightens worries over safety for drinking.
Residues of Medicines
Medicine and personal care leftovers get into tap water. This happens through human waste and improper dumping. Continuous consumption of water-containing mixtures of these compounds can potentially contribute to adverse health effects or illnesses.
Deteriorating Infrastructure
Old and decaying water pipe systems can pollute drinking water. Antiquated pipes made of lead or other materials can leach toxic substances into tap water. This is a bigger issue in older buildings and places with poor maintenance of water infrastructure.
Unpleasant Taste and Odor
The taste and odour of tap water are important indicators of its quality and drinkability. One common cause of unhealthy tap water flavour is chlorine which is used as a disinfectant in water treatment. Further, pipe corrosion, sediments, and biofilms can contribute to musty or mouldy odours. One can opt for drinking boiled or filtered water for a safer and more purified hydration experience.
Disturbance in Hormones & Endocrine
Tap water has tiny amounts of hormones like estrogen. It also has chemicals that mess with hormones. These substances can throw off hormone balance. They may also cause problems with reproduction and growth. While more research is still needed, experts recommend that vulnerable populations take precautions. This includes pregnant women, young children, and those with other health conditions. Using water filters from alternative sources may help limit exposure to tap water contaminants.
Lack of Regulation
Water treatment standards and enforcement differ across countries, regions, and municipalities. Tap water in the US is very well regulated and meets EPA guidelines. Violations are rare. But it is not similar for every country. Major cities and populated areas tend to have more advanced water treatment systems and regular testing procedures. Water quality issues are more likely in rural or remote areas. Home filters, or tap filters for drinking water, can remove traces of chlorine and other compounds that impact taste/smell. They provide an extra level of polishing.
Agricultural Pollutants
In some cases, agricultural runoff can contaminate tap water with pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals. Many utilities lack the filtration methods to remove agricultural pollutants fully. Investment in regulation, infrastructure, testing, and modern water treatment methods would greatly improve the situation. Filtration of drinking water or using the best ro water purifier for home is recommended.
Opt for Safer Options
Since tap water contains lots of chlorine and high mineral content, it is unsafe to drink. Using filtered water, bottled water, or at-home water purification provides added peace of mind while improving water quality.
Rеvеrsе osmosis (RO) water purification systems effectively remove a wide range of contaminants from water. The semipermeable membrane used in RO filters out particles as small as ions and large molecules. This includes bacteria, parasites, pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals. By removing chlorine, RO water has a better taste and Odor than tap water. RO provides the cleanest drinking water possible by eliminating microbiological and chemical contaminants. RO systems are a smart choice for those concerned about tap water quality.