By: Aqua Soft Water Treatment, Millstone Township NJ
Clean, safe drinking water is something most of us take for granted—until something goes wrong. Whether you’re drinking tap water, bottled water, or using a filter at home, understanding what’s in your water and how it affects your health is crucial. We’ll explore the key facts about drinking water quality, what contaminants to watch for, and how to protect yourself and your family.
Why Water Quality Matters
Water plays a critical role in nearly every function of the human body—regulating temperature, flushing out toxins, aiding digestion, and supporting brain function. But when drinking water is contaminated, it can pose serious health risks, especially to children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Common Drinking Water Contaminants
Even water that looks clean can contain hidden dangers. Common contaminants include:
Lead: Often from old pipes or plumbing materials. Lead exposure is especially harmful to children and pregnant women.
PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”): Synthetic chemicals used in manufacturing that resist breakdown in the environment. Linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and immune issues.
Bacteria & Viruses: Such as E. coli or Giardia, which can cause gastrointestinal illness.
Pesticides & Fertilizers: From agricultural runoff, particularly in rural areas.
Chlorine & Disinfection Byproducts: Used to treat water but can lead to other health concerns with long-term exposure.
How Is Drinking Water Regulated?
In the U.S., public water systems are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the Safe Drinking Water Act. Water utilities are required to test and treat water regularly and share annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) with the public.
However, private well owners are responsible for testing and maintaining their own water supply—something many people overlook.
How to Check Your Water Quality
Request a Water Quality Report from your local utility (usually available online).
Test your water at home using kits or hire a certified lab for more comprehensive analysis—especially if you use a well.
Pay attention to taste, color, and smell—but remember, not all contaminants can be seen or tasted.
Improving Your Water Quality at Home
If you’re concerned about what’s in your drinking water, here are some steps you can take:
Install water filters: Choose filters certified to remove specific contaminants like lead, PFAS, or bacteria.
Use reverse osmosis systems for more advanced purification.
Maintain plumbing systems to avoid corrosion and lead leaching.
Have your well water tested at least once a year for bacteria, nitrates, and other chemicals.
Should You Be Worried About Bottled Water?
Bottled water is regulated by the FDA, not the EPA, and is not always safer than tap water. It’s also less sustainable and more expensive. Always check the label for source and treatment information.
Drinking water quality affects your health, safety, and peace of mind. Whether you rely on city water, a well, or bottled sources, it’s important to stay informed, test regularly, and use filtration when needed.
Clean water is not a luxury—it’s a basic right.
If you’re concerned about your water quality or want to know more about filtration options, reach out to a water quality specialist such as AQUA SOFT WATER TREATMENT in MONMOUTH COUNTY .
