Have you ever wondered what’s really in your tap water?

While it may look clean, many hidden contaminants flow through most homeowner’s homes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a wide range of pollutants—ranging from industrial chemicals to bacteria—make their way into the public water supply.

Understanding what’s in your water is essential for protecting your health and home.

Let’s break down the most common tap water contaminants, their potential risks, and what you can do about it to have cleaner water for your family.

Where Do Contaminants in Tap Water Come From?

Tap water contamination can occur at multiple points in the water supply system. Some common sources include:

• Natural Sources: Groundwater can naturally contain heavy metals (arsenic and lead), and radioactive elements like radon.
• Aging Infrastructure: Many U.S. cities still use decades-old pipes, which can leach lead and other harmful substances into the water.
• Industrial Pollution: Factories release pollutants like PFAS, mercury, and heavy metals into nearby water sources.
• Agricultural Runoff: Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers seep into the water supply, leading to nitrate and bacteria contamination.
• Municipal Treatment Issues: While city water treatment removes some contaminants, it also adds chlorine and other disinfectants, which can create harmful byproducts.

To have your home’s water tested for contaminates, book a free water test today.

Common Contaminants Found in Everyday Tap Water

Depending on where you live, your tap water may contain a variety of contaminants. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Chlorine & Chloramines

• These disinfectants are added to municipal water supplies to kill bacteria and viruses. However, they can react with organic matter in water to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs), which have been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer and other health issues. In addition, chlorine and chloramines can cause dry skin, eye irritation, and a strong chemical taste.

2. Lead

• One of the most dangerous contaminants, lead often leaches from aging pipes and plumbing systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that even low levels of lead exposure can cause neurological damage, developmental delays in children, and high blood pressure in adults. Since lead contamination often occurs after water leaves the treatment facility, testing your home’s water supply is crucial.

3. Fluoride

• While fluoride is added to many municipal water supplies to promote dental health, excessive exposure has been linked to skeletal fluorosis, a condition that weakens bones over time. Additionally, some studies suggest potential links between high fluoride levels and lower IQ in children, raising concerns about long-term exposure.

4. Nitrates & Nitrites

• These contaminants primarily come from agricultural runoff, including fertilizers and animal waste. The EPA warns that high levels of nitrates in drinking water can cause methemoglobinemia, or “blue baby syndrome,” a potentially fatal condition that reduces oxygen delivery in infants. Pregnant women and individuals with compromised immune systems are also at risk.

5. PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals found in nonstick cookware, firefighting foams, and industrial processes. PFAS do not break down in the environment and have been linked to serious health issues, including kidney and liver damage, hormone disruption, and increased cancer risk. Studies have found that PFAS contamination is widespread in U.S. drinking water supplies.

6. Microorganisms & Bacteria

• Waterborne pathogens such as E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium can cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. These contaminants can enter water supplies through sewage overflows, stormwater runoff, and improperly maintained water infrastructure.

7. Heavy Metals (Mercury, Arsenic, Cadmium)

• Exposure to heavy metals can have long-term health effects, including kidney damage, neurological disorders, and an increased risk of cancer. Arsenic, for example, is naturally occurring in some groundwater sources and is a known carcinogen, while mercury contamination often results from industrial pollution.

Health Risks of Contaminated Water That Most Home Owners Never Consider

Long-term exposure to these contaminants can lead to various health problems, including:

• Increased risk of cancer: PFAS, arsenic, and disinfection byproducts have all been linked to different types of cancer.
• Developmental issues in children: Lead, nitrates, and fluoride can interfere with cognitive development and growth.
• Skin conditions and allergies: Chlorine, heavy metals, and certain bacteria can contribute to eczema, rashes, and other skin problems.
• Digestive and kidney problems: Bacteria, nitrates, and heavy metals can lead to gastrointestinal distress, kidney disease, and metabolic issues.

How Water Filtration Can Help Your Health (and Wallet)

Investing in a high-quality water filtration system can significantly reduce these contaminants, providing cleaner, safer drinking water. Here’s how different filtration methods help:

• Carbon Filters: Remove chlorine, chloramines, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and some heavy metals, improving taste and odor. Most commonly found in household refrigerators.
• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: One of the most effective filtration methods, RO systems remove up to 99% of contaminants, including lead, nitrates, PFAS, fluoride, and bacteria.
• UV Purification: Uses ultraviolet light to neutralize harmful bacteria and viruses without adding chemicals.
• Whole-Home Filtration Systems: Provide comprehensive protection for all water sources in your home, addressing contaminants at the point of entry.

How to Easily Test Your Home’s Tap Water

If you’re unsure about your water quality, testing is the first step toward finding a solution. Here are some options:

• DIY Water Testing Kits: Available at home improvement stores, these kits can detect common issues like chlorine, pH imbalances, and lead.
• Professional Lab Testing: A certified lab test provides a detailed report on the exact contaminants present.
• Free Water Testing Services: Aqua Life offers free water tests to help homeowners identify potential water quality concerns and find the best filtration solution.

Get a Free Professional Water Test Today

If you’re unsure about the quality of your tap water, a professional water test can help identify any contaminants present. At Aqua Life, we use state-of-the-art testing methods to detect harmful substances and recommend the best filtration solution for your family and home.

💧 Book your free water test today! Contact us to learn more about water filtration solutions for your home and take the first step toward safer, healthier water.