Having access to safe and clean water for drinking and daily usage is paramount. Most people ignore the quality of water coming from their taps. However, poor water quality can result in numerous problems, including issues that may affect your plumbing system. For this reason, it’s crucial to identify factors that affect water quality so that you can determine how to improve water quality at your home.
1. Usage
High usage can strain the water system and affect water quality. Most likely, you share your water supply with others in your locality. This collective usage can strain the water system. Some regions might have to upgrade greywater treatment systems, resulting in water restrictions and high water costs. In addition, reduced groundwater tables may result in increased concentrations of natural or human-made pollutants.
2. Sedimentation
Natural mineral deposits are one of the top pollutants found in tap water. Sediment may accumulate in the plumbing system, interfering with water pressure or obstructing water flow within the plumbing system. When high levels of residue dry, a thin film forms on surfaces, which may necessitate the installation of filters and other treatment methods to solve the problem. Mineral deposits that have accumulated over time may cause extensive damage to your plumbing pipes and fixtures.
3. pH Balance
The pH balance refers to a measure of your water’s alkalinity or acidity Distilled water should have a neutral pH level, but your tap water’s pH level may vary due to several factors. You may not detect minor changes in pH levels, but significant variations may start to cause problems, including interfering with meal preparation and cooking.
4. Pollution
Dumping fats, oil, grease, pesticides, detergents, and other chemicals down the drains can contaminate local water sources. Leaves and loose grass clippings can block drainage systems, and septic tank overflows can cause severe problems if they reach the water supply. While most companies use sophisticated water testing and analysis techniques to detect pollutants within the water supply, most of these issues can be avoided if people take the right action. Throw garbage and debris into the trash, never flush prescriptions, and follow manufacturer’s guidelines when applying herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizer.
5. Plumbing System and Fixtures
From pipes to faucets, each component of your plumbing system can impact your water quality. Old plumbing systems, especially those with lead pipes, can cause water contamination. Faucet aerators can also affect water quality; clean and replace them as recommended to prevent metal and sediment accumulation.
6. Water Heater
Failure to drain the water heater tank every year can allow sediment and bacteria to accumulate. This accumulation can negatively impact your water quality and pressure.
7. Organic Pollutants
Bacteria and other micro-organisms found in water can reduce its overall quality. Foul-smelling water is an indication of organic contaminants. Basic water filters and treatment techniques can help deal with organic pollutants, but it can be challenging to deal with some micro-organisms, which may pose a safety and health risk if ignored.
8. Salinity
Salinity is a measure of salts in water, which is a natural feature of most landscapes. Human activities, such as poor land management, vegetation clearance, and irrigation practices may increase salinity levels in waterways, negatively affecting water quality.
9. Acid Sulfate Soils
Acid sulfate soil refers to the type of soil that contains naturally occurring chemical elements called metal sulfides. If soil containing these chemical compounds gets exposed to air, it can affect water quality by releasing acid and other pollutants, including heavy metals, into wetlands and waterways when rewetted. This leads to a reduction in dissolved oxygen and pH levels.
Maintaining Water Quality
There are countless appliances and products in the market that can help you address and fix issues negatively affecting your water quality. From basic filtration equipment that uses reverse osmosis and UV-light purification methods to remove pollutants, investing in the right equipment will help reduce water quality issues. Maintaining water quality can help improve the taste of drinking water, eliminate foul odors, and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system, fixtures, and appliances.
If you buy water from a company, you should get a report from them indicating water quality. If you have a well, ensure you have your water tested annually at a DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) laboratory.
Water Treatment in Pacifica
If you suspect your water quality is not up to the standards, reach out to Works Plumbing in Pacifica, CA. Our seasoned and skilled plumbers will help you assess your water quality and find the best ways to keep pollutants out of your water. We also perform drain cleaning and service water heaters. Call Works Plumbing now and leave your home’s water supply in safe hands.
