What Is Tap Water, and Is It Safe to Drink?
Tap water, supplied by the local public water system, is a safe and affordable way to hydrate yourself and your family. While it can be a trusted source of clean drinking water, it is not always safe to drink. In this article, we will look at the composition of tap water, where it comes from, and if and why it can become dangerous to your health.
What Is Tap Water?
Tap water is provided to households and commercial properties through pipes from the local water authority. This piped water contains a mix of water from rivers, lakes, and wells. It is filtered and typically treated with chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals to kill harmful bacteria and make it safe to drink.
The Composition of Tap Water
Tap water is made up of about 99% water, 1% solids, and a trace amount of air. The solids include dissolved minerals, organic chemicals, and fertilizers that have seeped into the water. The majority of tap water is also treated with chlorine and fluoride, as well as other treatment chemicals, to make it safe to drink.
Is Tap Water Safe?
Tap water is generally safe to drink; however, it can become contaminated with certain pollutants, chemicals, and even microorganisms, which can make it unsafe to consume. It is important to keep an eye on your local public water system’s contaminant testing reports to make sure your tap water is safe to drink.
Where Does Tap Water Come From?
Tap water typically comes from rivers, lakes, wells, and other water sources. These sources are used to collect, filter, and treat water for public consumption. It is important to question the quality of the water when you are looking for potable water, as there may be contaminants that have snuck in during the filtration process.
Health Risks of Drinking Contaminated Tap Water
If your water source has been contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other pollutants, there is a risk of serious health impacts. Unsafe chemicals, such as lead, arsenic, and fluoride, can come from natural sources or from industrial plants and pipelines. If not treated correctly, these chemicals can cause severe health problems and even death.
How to Test the Safety of Tap Water
The best way to test the safety of your tap water is to get it tested by a certified laboratory. These tests will measure the levels of any known contaminants, biological or chemical, and will let you know if it is safe for your entire family to consume.
Tips for Ensuring the Safety of Your Tap Water
While tap water is generally considered safe, there are steps you can take to ensure that your water is as safe and healthy as possible. These include:
• Testing your tap water regularly.
• Installing water filters on your taps.
• Using certified lab tests to make sure the water is safe.
• Replacing your home filter system regularly.
• Using a pitcher filter to filter out contaminants.
• Cleaning or replacing water fountains to prevent contamination.
• Following government regulations on drinking water.
In summary, tap water is a safe and affordable option for your family to stay hydrated with. While it is generally considered safe, you should monitor local reports to make sure it remains safe and healthy to drink. Additionally, always take steps to ensure the safety of your tap water, including installing water filters, conducting regular water testing, and replacing filters regularly. Furthermore, be sure to follow all government regulations for drinking water for the best possible water safety.
