How do you know if your water is safe to drink and bathe in?

City Water

If the water to your home is coming from a municipal water department, you can be sure that your water is safe for consumption. Most municipal water departments produce a water report that is available to view online.

The St. Paul Reginal Water Services department produces a monthly detailed report of everything that is in the water. Municipal water department employees take their jobs very seriously to make sure that the water provide is safe for people to drink. Here are the links to read local reports:

St. Paul Water Quality Report

Minneapolis Water Quality Report

Well Water

If the water to your home is coming from a well, you need to make sure that the water is potable (safe to drink). You should have a water treatment technician come out and take a sample of your water for analysis. Once they know what is in your water, they can decide if and how your well water needs to be treated.

Often, treating the water means putting in water filters or installing a water-softening system. At the high end, it may be suggested that you install a reverse osmosis system.

Do Water Softeners Improve Water Quality?

Many municipal water departments that treat their own water will soften the water as well. Here in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro areas, the two municipalities deliver water that is 6 grains hard which is relatively soft water.

Sometimes just by physically touching the water in the house, you can tell that the water is too hard. Noticeably hard water starts at around 12 grains hard. Hard water can have a negative effect on many things in your home.

Unsoftened water can not only be uncomfortable to the skin, but it can also be hard on clothing, hard on dishware, and also hard on plumbing fixtures and faucets by prematurely wearing things out.

 

If you have questions about the quality of your water or are just looking for a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today.

Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager

FAQs

Q: How do I know if my water is safe to drink?

A: If the water to your home is coming from a municipal water department, you can be sure that your water is safe for consumption. Most municipal water departments produce a water report that is available to view online.

If the water to your home is coming from a well, you need to make sure that the water is potable (safe to drink). You should have a water treatment technician come out and take a sample of your water for analysis.

Q: Does softening the water improve its quality?

A: Many municipal water departments that treat their own water will soften the water as well. Unsoftened water can not only be uncomfortable to the skin, but it can also be hard on clothing, hard on dishware, and also hard on plumbing fixtures and faucets by prematurely wearing things out.

Softening the water can improve its quality in some cases. However, it is always best to test your water first to determine what treatment is necessary.

Q: What should I do if I think my water isn’t safe to drink?

A: If you suspect that your water is not safe, it is best to contact a professional water treatment technician and have them take a sample of your water for analysis. They will be able to determine what is in your water and suggest the appropriate course of action.

They may also recommend installing a filter or reverse osmosis system if necessary. It is always best to be safe and err on the side of caution when it comes to drinking water.

If you have any further questions, contact a plumbing professional for more advice. St Paul Pipeworks can help with all your water safety needs. Contact us today!

Q: Is there anything else I should do to ensure my water is safe to drink and bathe in?

A: In addition to testing your water, you should make sure that all of your plumbing fixtures are properly installed and maintained. Check for any cracks or leaks and ensure that the pipes are not rusting or corroding.

Additionally, it is important to regularly check the filters on your water treatment systems (if applicable) and make sure that they are not clogged or blocked.

Finally, make sure to keep your water heater clean and in good working order. Regular maintenance of your plumbing fixtures and systems can help ensure that your water is safe to drink and bath in.

For more information on water safety, contact St Paul Pipeworks today! We have experienced technicians ready to answer all of your questions. With our help, you can be sure that your water is safe for consumption and use. So don’t wait. Call us today!

Q: What should I do if I find something wrong with my water?

A: If you notice any changes in the taste, smell, or appearance of your water, it is best to contact a professional water treatment technician and have them take a sample of your water for analysis.

They will be able to determine what is in your water and suggest the appropriate course of action. In some cases, they may recommend installing a filter or reverse osmosis system if necessary.

Additionally, it is important to make sure that all of your plumbing fixtures are properly installed and maintained. Check for any cracks or leaks and ensure that the pipes are not rusting or corroding. St Paul Pipeworks can help with all your water safety needs, so don’t wait, contact us today!