Where does your water come from?

If you pay a water bill, you are purchasing water from a public water system, where your water is monitored, tested and the results reported to the federal, state or tribal drinking water agencies responsible for making sure it meets the National Primary Drinking Water Standards. Your water company must notify you when contaminants are in the water they provide that may cause illness or other problems. Most people in the United States receive water from a community water system that provides its customers with an annual water quality report, also known as a Consumer Confidence Report. Normally, you will receive it with your water bill once a year in July. The report contains information on contaminants found, possible health effects, and the water’s source. If you do not receive a report, contact your water company for this information.

 

If your drinking water does not come from a public water system, or you get your drinking water from a household well, you alone are responsible for assuring that it is safe. For this reason, routine testing for a few of the most common contaminants is highly recommended. Even if you currently have a safe, pure water supply, regular testing can be valuable because it establishes a record of water quality. This record is helpful in solving any future problems and in obtaining compensation if someone damages your water supply.

 

Should you have your water tested?

If your water comes from a private well, yearly testing is helpful to establish a record of water quality. Additionally, any of the following events may be reasons to test your water:

 

1. If you expect to have a new baby in the household.
2. If you have taste, odor and staining issues, or if your water appears cloudy or frothy.
3. If you have otherwise unexplained symptoms which your doctor feels may be due to water contamination.
4. If you live near a large agricultural center or mining operation
5. If you are concerned your household plumbing may contain lead