Where Does My Tap Water Come From?

Well water is considered generally safe as it’s naturally filtered through layers of soil and rock to reach the aquifer. However, it’s crucial to test your well water regularly to protect your loved ones against potential contamination by:

• Microorganisms: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can cause immediate negative health effects, particularly in vulnerable residents like children or the elderly.
• Inorganic contaminants: Lead and copper, often from outdated pumping systems, can leach into water and pose serious health risks.
• Industrial chemicals: Pesticides, industrial byproducts, and other synthetic chemicals can contaminate underground water sources.
• Radionuclides: Naturally occurring radioactive materials such as uranium, radium, and radon can be present in some groundwater sources.

Public water systems are required to test their water regularly and provide annual reports to consumers. These Consumer Confidence Reports detail the water’s source, detected contaminants, and compliance with EPA standards. Consumers can request these reports from their local water utility to stay informed about their water quality.

Common Water Issues in Barrington and Northern Illinois

In the Barrington and Chicagoland areas, our water sources vary:

• Lake Michigan: Many municipalities, including Chicago, source their water directly from this Great Lake. This vast freshwater resource provides high-quality water, but it’s not without challenges — the lake faces threats from pollution, invasive species, and climate change.
• Municipal wells: Some suburbs rely on deep aquifer wells. These wells tap into underground water sources that can be hundreds of feet deep. But according to a report by the Chicago Tribune, nearly a million Illinoisans get their drinking water from municipal wells contaminated with toxic forever chemicals at levels exceeding state health guidelines.
• Private wells: In more rural areas, private wells are common. These wells draw from shallower aquifers and require regular maintenance and testing by homeowners.

Each source presents unique challenges. Lake Michigan water, while generally of high quality, contains trace pharmaceuticals and microplastics. Well water in northern Illinois often contains high levels of naturally occurring iron and manganese, which can cause staining and unpleasant tastes.

What You’re Drinking in West Palm Beach and Southeast Florida

In our Southeast Florida service area, including West Palm Beach, water sources include:

• Surface water: From Lake Okeechobee and local canals. These sources are vulnerable to agricultural runoffs and algal blooms, particularly during rainy seasons.
• Biscayne aquifer: A shallow groundwater source that provides water to millions in West Palm Beach and other south Florida communities. Its proximity to the surface makes it vulnerable to contamination from human activities.
• Floridan aquifer: A deeper, more mineralized source. While less vulnerable to surface contamination, it often requires more extensive treatment due to its high mineral content.

Florida’s water faces unique challenges due to its geography. In coastal areas, saltwater intrusion is an increasing concern due to rising sea levels and over-pumping of freshwater aquifers. Since 1950, Florida has experienced 8 inches of sea level rise.

Protect Your Family with Water Testing and Filtration

While municipal water is treated to meet safety standards, many homeowners, especially those with private wells, choose to further purify their water for taste, odor, or additional safety.

Common treatment methods include:

• Reverse osmosis: These systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids, heavy metals, and some organic compounds. They produce very pure water but can be somewhat costly and waste some water in the process.
• Water softeners: These systems reduce hardness caused by calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. They can extend the life of appliances and improve soap lathering but don’t remove certain other types of contaminants.
• Whole house filtration systems: These systems treat all the water entering your home. They can be customized to address specific water quality issues and provide comprehensive protection.

When to Test Your Water

Consider testing your water:

• Annually for insidious new contaminants
• If you notice changes in taste, odor, or appearance
• After nearby construction or land disturbances
• If family members experience recurring gastrointestinal illnesses
• When a baby joins the household

Comprehensive EPA-certified water testing services performed by licensed plumbers can provide an in-depth analysis and data-driven actionable steps. This information is invaluable in determining if you need additional water treatment and what type would be most effective.

Get Started Today

Understanding where your tap or well water comes from and how it’s treated is the first step in ensuring your household’s continued health and safety. Whether you rely on municipal water or a private well, staying informed about your water quality is essential.

Remember, water is a precious resource. By understanding its journey and taking steps to protect and conserve it, we can ensure safe, clean water for generations to come.

If you’re concerned about your water quality or interested in home water treatment options, call or click today to schedule a visit from our licensed plumbing experts. It’s the best way to determine your specific water needs and ensure your family is drinking the safest, cleanest water possible!