Is Tap Water Safe to Drink? Tips to Improve Your Home’s Water Quality


water qualityHave you ever asked yourself “Is tap water safe to drink?” You’re not alone! For most homeowners worrying about this question, the answer is yes, it’s very safe to drink. Public water systems in the United States are heavily regulated, ensuring they meet strict safety standards. However, even safe water can have taste or odor issues, contain hardness minerals, or harbor lead contamination in older homes. At Fosh Plumbing & Heating Inc., we understand the need for fresh, clean water at home. That’s why we’ve compiled these tips to improve tap water quality and give you peace of mind.

Choose Cold Water Over Hot

Hot water spends more time sitting in your pipes, which can lead to a metallic taste or sediment buildup. For drinking and cooking, prioritize using cold water. This ensures you’re getting the freshest, purest water available from your main line.

Add Equipment for Tap Water Quality 

There are several plumbing options available to elevate your home’s water quality including:

  • Whole home water filtration systems: These systems treat all water entering your home, removing impurities like chlorine, lead, and sediment. This provides cleaner, better-tasting water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
  • Filters that attach to the tap: These offer a more localized solution, filtering water only at the point of use. This is a convenient option for improving the taste and clarity of your drinking water.
  • Whole home water softeners: If hard water is a concern, a water softener can be installed to remove excess minerals like calcium and magnesium. This can improve the efficiency of your appliances and make your showers and baths feel better.
  • Aerators on taps: These small attachments mix air into the water stream, increasing pressure and creating a more refreshing flow. They can also help reduce water waste.
  • Filtration Water Systems: Fosh Plumbing is now a distributor of US water systems a.k.a. Penguin Water. We now supply and install all forms of filtration, point-of-use filters, and point-of-use pure water to drink from your kitchen sink, (Reverse Osmosis systems).

Flushing

Stagnant water sitting in your pipes for extended periods can develop an unpleasant taste or odor. To ensure fresh water, run your cold tap for a few minutes before drinking or cooking, especially if the faucet hasn’t been used in a while.

Testing Your Water

While most municipal water supplies are safe, a home water test kit can provide additional reassurance. These kits test for various contaminants and can help you determine the best action for further treatment. 

Keep Your Plumbing Maintained

Regular plumbing maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal water quality. Schedule routine inspections with Fosh Plumbing & Heating Inc. to identify and address any potential issues with your pipes. This could include leaks, corrosion, or mineral buildup, which can negatively impact tap water.

Hiring a Professional to Update Your Plumbing 

Older homes may have lead pipes or fixtures. Lead can leach into your drinking water, posing a serious health risk. If you suspect lead contamination, contact Fosh Plumbing & Heating Inc. We can help you replace outdated plumbing with lead-free alternatives, ensuring the safety of everyone in your home.

Why Choose Fosh Plumbing & Heating Inc.?

By following these tips and consulting with the plumbing professionals at Fosh Plumbing & Heating Inc., you can ensure your home has clean and fresh-tasting water that’s safe for drinking and cooking. We offer several plumbing services, including water filtration system installation, plumbing maintenance, and complete plumbing system upgrades. Contact us at (610) 496-5700 to schedule an appointment and take control of your home’s water quality!