Contaminants Present Guide

What if my test results register contaminants but they do not exceed the EPA’s maximum contamination levels (MCL’s)?

If your test results register contaminants and your home or facility is at high risk for contamination, then we recommend consistent monitoring of your water supply every 120 days to ensure the levels aren’t increasing.

What are high risk factors for contamination?

• City service lines that contain lead or lead solder that bring water to your property.
• Buildings and homes built before 1986 with original plumbing are likely to contain lead pipes or solder.
• Wells that are adjacent to golf courses, plant and/or animal farm operations.
• Wells that are in the proximity of gas and oil hydraulic fracturing “fracking”.

In addition, here are some precautionary measures you can take to reduce your exposure to harmful contaminants:

1. Flush your tap water. Before using any water, run the kitchen tap or which ever you intend to use for drinking and cooking on COLD for 1–2 minutes;

2. Drink only cold water. In all situations, drink or cook only cold water that comes out of the tap. Water that is warm or hot can contain much higher levels of contaminants. Boiling this water will NOT reduce the amount of contaminants in your water.

3. Purchase a water filtration system. A water filtration system that’s been certified by an independent testing organization, such as The Public Health and Safety Organization (NSF), will reduce the contaminants in your tap water. For a list of certified filtration systems visit the NSF  or Water Quality Association’s database.

4. Buy bottled water. You can reduce your exposure to contaminants by purchasing bottled water. Make sure to select a bottled water that’s been certified by an independent party.