Most people understand that drinking bad water can be dangerous for your health. Even if you don’t drink it, you still use it to shower, clean your clothes, and cook your food. While there are governmental guidelines in place to regulate water quality, these are described as “basic parameters that every water system should strive to achieve,” rather than solid assurances.
Most homeowners overlook water quality as something that they have little or no control over, save moving to another location. Luckily, there are many ways to improve the water quality in your home without ever having to leave Toronto.
Understand your water
One of the first steps should be getting your water tested. Determining what pollutants are present will ultimately help you choose the best solution for your home. You can buy a kit to test the water yourself or enlist the help of a plumber.
Revamp your plumbing
Plumbing can create plenty of problems with water quality. Corroded or leaky pipes can easily result in contamination. Moreover, older pipes, wells, and septic systems can contain dangerous materials or be at risk of complete failure. In addition to boosting water quality, it is always wise to invest in any improvements that may avoid a future catastrophe. A trained professional will be able to more thoroughly inspect your entire system to evaluate whether you may need repairs or an upgrade.
Use a filtration system
The best, most sure-fire way to improve home water quality is to install a purifying system. In-home water filtration can solve a myriad of issues, including disinfection, removal of contaminants, and correcting any chemical imbalances.
Many people opt for simple solutions like pitchers or systems that hook directly to your faucet. These represent the most basic form of filtration and only partially solve the problem. A better choice may be a filter that installs directly on the main supply line that feeds the whole house.
Another option is a distiller. This will heat up your water and condense the steam into the purified water for your use, leaving behind a range of contaminants. Distilling may be one of the oldest forms of water purification, but it is still not perfect as heating your water can also remove important minerals and oxygen, resulting in water with a very flat taste.
One of the most efficient methods available is reverse osmosis. Water passes through carbon filters and a series of membranes with fine proficiency. This retains most of the minerals and oxygen while separating unwanted sediment and bacteria. Reverse osmosis systems are highly versatile, offering either single units for one water source or whole systems for the entire home.
Protect the source
Whether you use city water or have your own well, you can always do your part in safeguarding this natural resource by exercising responsible practices. Be cautious when using any pesticides or fertilizers on your lawn and garden as they may seep into the groundwater. Never dispose of medicine, chemicals or other hazardous waste down the drain.
Conclusion
Home water quality is of utmost importance to your health and the efficiency of your essential appliances. While there are certain standards in place to ensure most water is not overtly hazardous, it does not mean that you have clean, high-quality water running through your taps. Common signs that indicate serious issues are detailed by the Canadian Water Quality Association, including tell-tale stains, smells, and taste. Should you have any concerns about your home water quality, it is advised that you consult with a professional plumber in Toronto.
Author: Sophia Williams
