About Water
The United States has one of the safest water systems in the world, largely due to the fact that it is regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) which was inacted in 1974. Unfortunately, pullutants and contaminants can still make their way into our every day drinking and bathing water. It is therefore important to know what to look out for when it comes to the quality of your water!
What affects water quality?
The quality of the water in your home or office can be affected by a variety of issues and depends on the condition of the source from where it is drawn and the treatment it goes through. All water in the United States must meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
Many different types of contaminants may be found in water as outlined below. For a complete list please visit the CDC Drinking Water website.
- Microbes (Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and E. Coli
- Chemicals (solvents, petroleum products, pesticides, fertilizers etc.)
- Diseases (typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, etc.)
For more information on lead exposure please visit our lead services page.
Building Systems
Naturally Occuring Chemicals
Disposal Sites
Storage Facilities
Possible Contamination Sources
Sewage Systems
Septic Systems
Naturally Occuring Minerals
Pipe
Erosion
What are signs of poor water quality?
Discoloration and odor in your water can be indicative that there is a contaminant(s) present. Water discoloration and/or odor is often related to the piping in your home, building, or apartment and can be a sign that metals and/or minerals are present in your water.
Health side-effects can be another sign of poor water quality. There are various health concerns that can be caused by poor water quality. For a complete list of health effects due to water contaminants please visit the CDC Drinking Water website.
Diarrhea
Stomach Cramps
Rashes
Muscle Aches
Fever
Vomiting
Headaches
Contaminants Categories Covered By The NPDWRs
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Microorganisms
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Disinfectants
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Disinfection Byproducts
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Inorganic Chemicals
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Organic Chemicals
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Radionuclides
Safe Drinking Standards
The EPA has a set of legal limits on over 90 contaminants that can be found in drinking water. This is often referred to as the National Drinking Water Regulations (NDWRs). These set standards are for the presence of microorganisms, disinfectants, metals, minerals, and bacteria that can be found in water.
Water Regulations
New York City has recently lowered lead-based paint thresholds and increased laws and regulations. It is crucial for property owners to understand the new laws in order to stay compliant and avoid unnecessary fines.