Clean, safe drinking water is essential for your family’s health, but how can you be sure that the water coming from your tap is safe? Even water that looks clear and tastes fine can contain harmful contaminants, including bacteria, chemicals, heavy metals, and other pollutants. Regularly testing your tap water is the best way to ensure it meets safety standards and protect your household.
In this guide, Green Group will walk you through the most common contaminants in tap water, how to test your water quality, and what to do if your water is unsafe. For homeowners in Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Franklin, we offer professional water quality solutions to keep your home’s water supply clean and healthy.
Common Contaminants Found in Tap Water
Even if your water is supplied by a municipal system, it can still contain various contaminants. Understanding what might be in your water is the first step in determining how to test it and what solutions may be needed.
1. Chlorine and Chloramines
Municipal water systems often use chlorine or chloramines (a chlorine-ammonia compound) to disinfect water. While effective at killing bacteria, these chemicals can leave an unpleasant taste and odor in your tap water.
2. Lead
Older homes with aging plumbing systems may have lead pipes or solder joints, which can leach lead into your drinking water. Lead is a serious health hazard, especially for young children.
3. Bacteria and Viruses
Contaminants like E. coli, coliform bacteria, and other pathogens can enter water through compromised pipes, poorly maintained wells, or untreated sources.
4. Heavy Metals
Arsenic, mercury, and copper are just a few of the heavy metals that can appear in tap water due to natural deposits, industrial pollution, or corroded plumbing.
5. Sediment and Rust
If you notice cloudy or discolored water, it may be due to sediment, rust, or scale buildup from aging pipes.
6. Chemical Contaminants
Pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals can also make their way into your water supply, especially in areas with agricultural runoff or industrial discharge.
How to Test Your Home’s Tap Water
Testing your water quality is the only way to know for sure what’s in it. Fortunately, there are several ways to test your water, from quick DIY options to professional laboratory analysis.
1. Use an At-Home Water Testing Kit
An at-home test kit is a convenient and affordable way to get a basic understanding of your water quality. These kits are available online or at most home improvement stores.
- Choose a kit that tests for multiple contaminants (chlorine, lead, bacteria, pH, hardness, etc.).
- Follow the instructions carefully, typically involving filling a test vial with tap water and adding test strips or drops.
- Compare the results to the chart provided with the kit to determine your water quality.
While home test kits are great for a quick assessment, they may not be as accurate as professional testing.
2. Request a Professional Water Test
For the most accurate and comprehensive results, consider hiring a professional like Green Group to test your water. Our experts use advanced testing equipment to detect even trace levels of contaminants and provide a detailed analysis.
- We collect water samples directly from your tap.
- Our laboratory tests for a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, lead, heavy metals, chemicals, and more.
- We provide a detailed report with clear, actionable recommendations for improving water quality.
To schedule a professional water test in Nashville, Murfreesboro, or Franklin, call Green Group at 615.756.5057.
3. Review Your Local Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report)
If your water is supplied by a public utility, they are required to provide an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). This report outlines the results of regular water quality testing and lists any contaminants detected, as well as the health risks they may pose.
- Contact your local water utility to request a copy of the CCR.
- Review the report for any contaminants above safe limits.
- Keep in mind that even if your water utility meets federal standards, your home’s water quality may vary due to aging pipes or local conditions.
What to Do If Your Water Quality Is Poor
If your test results indicate that your water is contaminated, don’t panic—there are several solutions available to ensure your tap water is safe to drink.
1. Install a Whole-House Water Filtration System
A whole-house water filter ensures that all the water entering your home is clean and safe. Depending on the contaminants in your water, you may choose:
- Carbon Filters: Effective for chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and improving taste.
- Reverse Osmosis Systems: Excellent for removing lead, arsenic, bacteria, and other contaminants.
- UV Disinfection Systems: Destroys bacteria and viruses without chemicals.
- Water Softeners: Eliminate hard minerals like calcium and magnesium.
2. Use Point-of-Use Filters for Drinking Water
If you’re primarily concerned about the water you drink, a point-of-use filter, such as a faucet filter, under-sink filter, or countertop filter, may be more practical.
3. Replace Aging Plumbing Components
If lead or copper is detected, you may need to replace old pipes, fittings, or solder joints. This is especially important for older homes with galvanized or lead pipes.
4. Schedule Regular Water Testing
Water quality can change over time, so it’s a good idea to test your water at least once a year or whenever you notice changes in taste, smell, or appearance.
The Benefits of Clean, Safe Tap Water
When you know your water is safe, you can enjoy it with confidence. Clean water means:
- Better tasting food and beverages
- Healthier skin and hair with fewer irritants
- Peace of mind for you and your family
- Reduced need for bottled water, saving money and reducing plastic waste
Trust Green Group for Water Quality Solutions
At Green Group, we’re committed to helping homeowners in Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Franklin enjoy clean, safe, and great-tasting water. Whether you need a comprehensive water test, a whole-house filtration system, or expert advice on improving water quality, our team is here to help.
🔹 Accurate, Professional Water Testing Services
🔹 Custom Water Filtration Systems for Your Home
🔹 Expert Installation and Maintenance
Call Green Group today at 615.756.5057 or visit www.greengrouptn.com to schedule your water test or learn more about our water quality solutions. Don’t take chances with your tap water—get peace of mind with Green Group.