Why Water Testing Is Important for Your Family
Do you know how much water your family uses each day? On average, the answer is 300 gallons. That’s a lot of water, and the possible presence of contaminants affects everyone’s health. The only way to know if your home’s water is safe is to have a professional test your water. To understand why water testing is important for your family, follow along as we discuss what the tests look for and how you can do it in your home.
What Is a Water Test Looking for?
Before having your water tested, knowing what the test is trying to uncover is helpful. Hopefully, it finds nothing but healthy water; however, sometimes, it shows contaminants. The following is a list of possible contaminants found in water:
- Pesticides
- Metals
- Pharmaceutical toxins
- Nitrogen
- Parasites
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Feces
- Fertilizer (organic or chemical)
- Radioactive elements
- Fluoride
- Lead
- Calcium and magnesium
Keep in mind that a water test measures these levels. Some levels are safe while others are not, and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) determines the safety levels.
How Contaminants Affect Your Health
The EPA creates two categories for water contaminants: acute and chronic. Let’s look at each one.
Acute Contaminants
You’ll feel the effect of acute contaminants shortly after ingesting them. It’s like a virus or bacteria; your body fights them off similarly. You may experience an upset stomach, headache, or diarrhea. Still, those who are chronically ill with compromised immune systems can get dangerously sick from acute contaminants.
Chronic Contaminants
When someone consumes chronic contaminants over a period, it can damage the kidneys, liver, and reproductive organs and cause cancer. Common chronic contaminants in water include chemicals, arsenic, and radium.
When To Test Your Water
Protecting your family’s health is one of the most important reasons to have your water tested. Therefore, there’s never a wrong time to test your water. Still, some telltale signs should cause you to test immediately. The following are several signs it’s time to test your family’s water:
- Constant gastrointestinal issues
- Dry and itchy skin
- Spotted dishes
- Stained plumbing or laundry
- Salty water
- Living in an agricultural area
- Living close to a gas station
Besides these issues, water tests will show the levels of all possible contaminants and the pH level.
At Alamo Water Softeners, we offer water testing in San Antonio, Texas, and the surrounding areas. We believe it’s important to ensure your family uses and drinks the safest water possible. Contact us to schedule a water testing soon.
