Clean Drinking Water (How Pure is Your Home’s Water?)

Pure, clean water is something we easily take for granted. You turn on the faucet and trust that the water flowing from it is clean and healthy to drink – but what if you’re wrong? Ideally, your Houston home’s water pipes are healthy and the city’s water treatment facility has done an adequate job of removing contaminants. But did you know that it is still very rare that you will ever find 100% pure water. Even after being treated, our water typically has trace elements of various contaminants in it.

These trace elements are not harmful, however, water treatment facilities are not infallible – and contaminants can seep in through the various pipes the water comes into contact with on its way to your home. Your water will give you clues that it is not safe to drink. If you notice any of these signs, have your water tested before drinking it.

Signs of Polluted Drinking Water

  • Cloudy Water

Your water should always be clear to the sight. If it’s cloudy it should be tested.

  • Chlorine Smell

Your water shouldn’t have an odor. Chlorine is part of the water treatment procedure but there should not be enough present to detect it. An high amount of chlorine can be dangerous to your health. Have it tested to make sure it is within the healthy limits.

  • Colored Tint

As mentioned above, water should always be clear. If there is any discoloration, make sure to get a sample. The most common discolorations are brown or orange. These can be a sign of rust seeping into your water from the pipes or a result of mining near the water source.

  • Sulfur Smell

Small amounts of sulfur in your water are normal. It naturally occurs in the ground and is common in well water. However, too much sulfur can cause intestinal distress and dehydration. If your water smells like rotten eggs, then it’s a sign of too much sulfur in your water. Call a professional for proper treatment solutions.

  • Pipe Deterioration

If you are having plumbing problems, it could be affecting your water quality. If your pipes are deteriorating some of the chemicals and elements from the pipes can seep into the water and affect its quality and safety.

If you notice any of these signs then it is time to check your home’s water quality. To accurately measure contaminants, it is best to send your water for testing at a lab. Your county health departments or a state certified laboratory can help test for bacteria or nitrates. It is important to test every year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids and ph levels, especially if you have a new well or have replaced or repaired pipes, pumps or the well casing.

How to Keep Your Water Clean

A whole home water filtration system will treat all the water coming through the pipes in your home and out your faucet. These are also known as point-of-entry systems because they treat the water as they enter the residence. These include UV microbiological systems, water softeners or whole-house fitters for chlorine, taste, odor, and particulates.

Benefits

  • Save money on bottled water.
  • Longer life of appliances due to less mineral deposits and higher efficiencies.
  • Lower utility bills by allowing water to flow more freely.
  • Protect your skin, hair and clothes.
  • Protect your plumbing with less mineral deposits.

Make sure your home’s water is as clean as it can be. Universal Home Experts has many different water filtration systems available and the most up-to-date and effective methods and products. Call us at (713) 364-0226 to upgrade your home’s water filtration system today!