What's In My Water?

Most contaminants can be tasteless or odorless, making them difficult to detect without proper testing and analysis. Contact us for a FREE analysis.

Common City Water Issues and Contaminants

Lead

Lead, a prominent toxic metal found in contaminated water throughout the U.S., particularly notable in Flint, Michigan, is a result of aging water systems. Its presence leads to a range of health issues. To mitigate this, the EPA mandated the Lead and Copper Rule, requiring corrosion control treatment in city utilities. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays and health problems like high blood pressure and kidney issues

Chlorine

Chlorine, a longstanding disinfectant in water treatment, is crucial for eliminating microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. One common form, chloramines, results from mixing chlorine and ammonia to treat tap water, meeting EPA standards for safety in daily use. However, chlorine can leave an unpleasant taste and odor, making it less desirable for drinking despite its safety. It may also cause skin and eye irritation and stomach discomfort if ingested. Municipalities regulate chlorine levels, but variations exist in water quality, potentially leading to higher chlorine content than advised

Hard Water

Tap water in Florida often has elevated levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, resulting in a distinct taste and mineral residue on surfaces and appliances. While hard water isn't harmful to health and is potable, its taste and buildup can be bothersome. Installing a water softener can alleviate these issues by eliminating the hardness minerals, transforming the water into a softer, more palatable form.

Fluoride

While fluoride is commonly known for its dental benefits in toothpaste and dental procedures, excessive levels in water can lead to contamination. Overconsumption of fluoride can cause bone pain and fractures in both children and adults. Children under eight are particularly vulnerable, as excessive fluoride can lead to enamel pitting. Although fluoridated water appears beneficial, its excess in drinking water poses health risks, particularly for infants and young children.

Common Private Well Water Issues and Contaminants

NITRATE

High nitrate levels in drinking water, similar to arsenic, pose significant health risks, especially for vulnerable groups like infants and pregnant women. Nitrates come from natural sources and fertilizers used in farming and landscaping, contributing to water quality problems, particularly in agricultural areas.Nitrate pollution arises from agricultural runoff, urban runoff, wastewater discharges, and septic systems, leading to increased nitrate concentrations in water systems, a trend expected to continue

ARSENIC

Arsenic, both naturally occurring and a byproduct of industrial activities, can seep into water sources, especially in areas like Florida where groundwater is a primary source. This contamination leads to health issues ranging from nausea to neurological problems. Despite EPA guidelines, studies show that any amount of arsenic in drinking water poses risks. Shockingly, over 10 million Floridians have been exposed to unsafe arsenic levels in their tap water from various systems

SULFUR

The concentration of hydrogen sulfide typically found in tap water is generally not a health concern. However, its foul odor is a significant deterrent to drinking or using it for cooking.

The distinct rotten egg smell of hydrogen sulfide stems from sulfur-reducing bacteria commonly found in wells and entering surface water through springs. Sulfur can cause corrosion in pipes, leading to the leaching of harmful chemicals like copper, lead, or iron, indirectly contaminating the drinking water supply

TDS

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) includes various minerals, salts, and other dissolved substances in water, often originating from natural sources like soil and rocks, as well as human activities such as agriculture and industry. High TDS levels can affect the taste, odor, and overall quality of drinking water, and may also indicate the presence of other contaminants.

In Florida, factors such as agricultural runoff, urban development, and groundwater contamination contribute to elevated TDS levels in water sources. Excessive TDS can lead to scale buildup in pipes and appliances, affect aquatic ecosystems, and pose health risks if certain contaminants are present at elevated concentrations.

BACTERIA

Bacteria in Florida's water sources, like coliforms and E. coli, are major public health concerns due to their potential to cause gastrointestinal illnesses. These bacteria can enter water via agricultural runoff, sewage, and natural sources, posing risks particularly to vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.. Florida's warm, humid climate fosters bacterial growth, necessitating consistent monitoring and treatment of water sources.

IRON

Iron can enter water supplies naturally from soil and geological formations, as well as from corrosion of pipes and plumbing fixtures. High iron levels can cause water to have a metallic taste, discoloration, and staining of laundry, fixtures, and surfaces. In Florida, factors such as acidic soils and groundwater conditions can contribute to elevated iron levels in water.

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Other Contaminants

PFAS

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as (PFAS) issues in Florida's water are a growing concern due to their potential health and environmental impacts. PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in a wide range of products such as firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics. These substances can persist in the environment and accumulate in water sources over time.

In Florida, PFAS contamination has been detected in various water bodies, including groundwater, surface water, and drinking water supplies. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to health risks such as immune system effects, developmental issues, and certain types of cancer.

Chromium-6

Hexavalent chromium, also known as Chromium-6, famously spotlighted in the film Erin Brockovich, is the hazardous substance responsible for causing serious health problems among affected residents. These include cancer, respiratory ailments, and skin and nasal damage.

Primarily used in industries like stainless steel and textiles to prevent corrosion, hexavalent chromium can migrate from manufacturing areas into nearby groundwater, which then supplies residential communities. It's hazardous to drink and can cause harm upon direct skin contact