Where Does Tap Water Come From?
Tap water comes from one of two sources: ground water or surface water. Ground water is pulled from deep underground, and surface water is taken from above-ground sources such as lakes, rivers, and ponds. No matter where you water comes from, it should undergo an in-depth cleaning and decontamination process before it ever hits your faucets; however, mistakes can and do happen on occasion. When these mistakes occur, you and your family may be subjected to dangerous chemicals, minerals, and/or other substances.
What Contaminants Are Found In Tap Water?
While it is highly possible that your tap water is safe and contaminant-free, it is also possible that your water could contain harmful substances. Here are a few of the dangerous substances that are sometimes found in tap water:
Copper or Lead
People were largely unaware of the health risks over-exposure to copper and lead posed before the 1970s, and many homes constructed in those times were built with copper pipes and lead joints. Unfortunately, water running through these types of pipes picks up trace minerals, and we now know that consuming these elements can lead to health challenges. People who drink the tap water in these homes may subject their bodies to the dangers these contaminants pose.
Arsenic
Yes, you read that right. Though not incredibly common in our area, arsenic can be found in tap water all across the United States. Arsenic is classified by the International Academy for Research on Cancer as a Category I Carcinogen, which means it will definitely cause cancer in individuals who consume too much of it. There is a strict maximum allowable arsenic content for tap water in the U.S., but unfortunately some states exceed this level on occasion.Fluoride
Fluoride is a chemical that is known to help prevent tooth decay, but unfortunately is also known to be toxic to both adults and children. Nevertheless, in addition to being used in toothpaste, it is frequently found in tap and bottled water (and even certain baby formulas as well). It is often intentionally added to water to help prevent tooth decay, but the potential health concerns that can arise from consuming too much fluoride may far outweigh the potential benefits it offers.
Chlorine
No matter where you live or what water treatment system you use, chlorine is almost always added to the water as a way of killing and eliminating other bacteria/contaminants. Unfortunately, chlorine in itself is also a contaminant. When consumed in significant quantities, it has been shown to cause serious cell damage. Certain levels of chlorine are considered safe for use in drinking water, but some water suppliers sometimes exceed these limits.
Some people are especially at risk for developing adverse health affects as a result of contaminants in their water. According to WebMD, examples of these individuals include...
- Pregnant women and their fetuses
- People with auto-immune diseases
- Children
- Infants
- People who are undergoing chemotherapy
How Can You Find Out What Is In Your Tap Water?
If you use your home's tap water for drinking and cooking, many experts recommend getting your water tested annually to ensure that it remains free from dangerous contaminants. If you are interested in testing your water quality at the Lake of the Ozarks, contact your local Culligan Man. Our free water analysis is an effective, no-obligation way to learn what is in your water.
How Can You Keep Your Water Safe?
Culligan Lake of the Ozarks offers a variety of ways to help ensure that your home's water remains of the highest quality. We offer drinking water systems, water softeners, water filtration systems, and total home systems to ensure that your water will provide the clean, safe hydration your family needs to survive. If you do not wish to install a new system in your home, we also offer bottled water and bottle-free coolers. To learn more about our drinking water services at the Lake of the Ozarks, visit our website at www.CulliganPro.com or call us at 573-346-5221. We look forward to serving you in any way we can!
277 Lower Business Park Road • Linn Creek, MO 65052 • (573) 346-5221
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