Water is a source of life and clean water is essential for our health. Though modern plumbing systems have greatly improved the quality of our water, there are still some risks. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have witnessed everything from excess minerals to harmful pathogens and toxins in our clients’ drinking water. Harmful contaminants may be lurking in your water source. It is always worth your while to investigate, test, and correct the quality of your home’s or business’ water. If you discover that your water quality is less than ideal, then don’t worry. Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help you improve your water quality. Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing now if you have any questions or concerns.
Use Your Senses
If your water smells bad, looks bad, and tastes bad, then it might be bad. But, let’s get a bit more specific. Allow your water to run for a few minutes then fill a cup with water and first inspect its color. Check for murkiness or discoloration. See if there are floating particles and cloudiness. Anything in excess should be noted. Next, smell the water. An earthy smell or the smell of bleach might be bothersome but are most likely harmless. A rotten-egg smell, however, may be reason for concern. Finally, give it a taste. If it tastes foul, then spit it out immediately. If you spot anything unusual with your water, then consider calling a professional plumber or using a home testing kit.
Check the Consumer Confidence Report
If your home is connected to the municipality’s water, then you should receive an annual water quality report called the CCR, or Consumer Confidence Report. You should receive this in the mail. If you don’t receive yours, then check online on the Environmental Protection Agency website or call your local water supplier. If you are a tenant, then contact your landlord. If you rely on a well for water, then water testing is your responsibility.
Home Test Kits
There are plenty of home water testing kits on the market today. Head to your local general store or order yours online. The method of testing may vary, but they all can provide accurate measures of pH levels, water hardness, chemicals, and chloride. The most common type uses test strips. You will simply dip the test strip in the water and wait a few minutes then compare the color changes to a color chart that came with the testing kit. Another popular option is the testing solution. Adding a few drops of this testing solution to a vial of your water will change its color. Again, compare the color changes to the color chart.
Professional Water Testing
The most reliable way to test your water is by hiring a professional local plumber. The Environmental Protection Agency has a database of approved and certified water testing professionals on its website. Head over to its website to find an EPA-certified testing service near you.
If you need professional advice about water filtration systems or water softeners, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We are committed to providing reliable and helpful plumbing services so that you have access to clean, safe water.
