Water is a vital resource for all life on Earth. However, many factors can affect water quality. While some of these factors can be caused by human activity, others occur naturally.
This post will walk you through some of the most significant factors contributing to your water quality and how plumbers in Detroit can guarantee exceptional service when it comes to maintaining the water system in your building(s).
The two primary sources of water that can affect the quality of water available to us include;
Surface water is collected from lakes, rivers, and streams. Various pollutants, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and sewage, can contaminate surface water. These pollutants can cause serious health risks, such as respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses, if left untreated.
Groundwater is collected from aquifers below the ground. Groundwater can also be affected by pollutants but is generally less vulnerable to contamination because it is usually stored in a deep, enclosed area.
Groundwater contamination can be caused by the infiltration of pollutants from the surface, such as agricultural runoff and industrial waste, or from underground sources, such as leaking septic tanks and underground storage tanks.
Both surface water and groundwater can be affected by various factors that can degrade water quality, such as temperature, pH levels, and sedimentation.
Sedimentation
Sedimentation is a process that occurs when small particles in water, such as dirt, clay, and other suspended solids, settle out of the water. When these particles settle, they collect on the bottom or corners of your water tank, pipes, and other water-holding structures.
This sediment can lead to various water-quality problems, including reduced clarity, taste, and odor. In addition, sediment can also reduce the effectiveness of chlorine and other disinfectants, which can lead to bacterial contamination.
Decayed Organic Materials
Decayed organic materials, such as leaves, grass clippings, and animal waste, can negatively affect water quality. These materials can release harmful pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can cause algal blooms and other water quality problems.
Decayed organic materials can block plumbing systems, leading to clogged pipes and backed-up sewers. This can cause water to back up into our homes, resulting in costly repairs and an unpleasant mess. Furthermore, clogged pipes can lead to stagnant water, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria and other contaminants to thrive.
PH
PH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, and it directly impacts the quality of the water. Understanding how pH affects water quality is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy living environment.
PH is usually measured on a scale of 0 to 14, with seven being neutral. Water with a pH below 7 is acidic, while that above 7 is alkaline.
At a very basic level, pH affects the stability of the molecules in the water and can determine whether or not certain pollutants or pollution-causing bacteria can thrive in the water.
Water that is too acidic or alkaline can be dangerous to drink and cause pipe and other infrastructure corrosion.
Turbidity
Water turbidity, or the presence of suspended solids in water, can significantly impact the quality of the water and the pipes that deliver it to your home.
Turbidity can be caused by various sources, including soil erosion, industrial and urban runoff, and the breakdown of organic matter in the water.
When water is turbid, it is difficult to see through it and has a cloudy appearance. This can make it difficult to detect any contaminants in the water that could harm our health.
Additionally, the suspended solids can interfere with the effectiveness of chlorine as a disinfectant, leaving the water vulnerable to contamination.
Turbidity can also cause problems in the pipes that deliver water to our homes. Suspended particles can cling to the interior surfaces of the pipes, leading to clogging and blockages that can reduce the flow of water. This can result in low water pressure, which can be a major annoyance. It can also lead to increased wear and tear on the pipes, eventually leading to corrosion and leaks.
Temperature
We all know that temperature plays a crucial role in our lives, and it’s no different regarding our home’s water quality and pipes.
As the temperature outside fluctuates, so does the quality of our home water supply and the condition of our pipes.
Temperature affects water quality in many ways. During cold weather, water can freeze and expand in our pipes, causing them to burst. In addition, colder temperatures can cause a decrease in water pressure, resulting in less water being supplied to our homes.
Water quality can also be affected by the temperature of the water itself. Hotter water will not be able to dissolve certain minerals as easily as colder water, resulting in an increase in mineral deposits in our pipes and fixtures. When these deposits accumulate, they can create blockages and reduce the water pressure in our homes.
The good news is that there are ways to protect our pipes and improve the quality of our home water supply. Insulating our pipes can help keep them from freezing and bursting during cold weather.
Additionally, installing a water softener can help reduce the number of minerals in our water, preventing common issues like clogged pipes and fixtures.
How to Maintain the Safety of Water Quality
When it comes to maintaining the quality of the water, it is important to follow these tips to ensure your family uses safe, clean water.
1. Test the water regularly
It is necessary to test it regularly for contaminants. This can be done by hiring a professional to conduct the analysis or by using home testing kits.
2. Check for signs of contamination
If you notice a change in the color, taste, or odor of the water, it may be a sign of contamination, and you should have it tested.
3. Do not use chemicals
Chemicals such as bleach and other cleaning products can contaminate the water. But if you must use chemicals, ensure that you only use them in small amounts, as the manufacturer directs.
4. Use safe storage containers
Use food-grade containers to store and transport water.
5. Avoid contact with polluted water
Avoid contact with water from sources that may be polluted.
6. Disinfect your water
Boiling or chlorinating your water can help kill bacteria or other contaminants.
Water Treatment in Detroit
Water treatment in homes is a major problem that needs to be addressed. If you seek to make strides in improving your water quality, the professionals at WaterWork Plumbing can make a significant difference in upgrading your water quality.
Contact WaterWork Plumbing today and see how these plumbers in Detroit will treat your water and fix all your plumbing needs efficiently and effectively.
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