How often do you think about the quality of the water in your home? This is an important question because this is the water that we wash, clean with, bathe in, and drink on a regular basis. And the truth of the matter is, the basic water filter pitchers used commonly in households across America may not be doing as much as you might think.
Clean water is essential for the health and well-being of all members of your household and community at large. Why? Because outside contaminants like lead, mercury, and other pollutants can be detrimental to your health and things like arsenic and E. coli can cause severe, life-threatening issues. For homeowners with well water sources, the city does not take responsibility for water quality testing. This makes it imperative to monitor your water on a regular basis. But homeowners on city water also should be weary of the quality of the water running through their pipes.
Common Contaminants Residents in Gainesville, Virginia Need to Look Out For
The water in the Gainesville area is also known to be hard, meaning that it is high in mineral concentration. This isn’t inherently a health concern per se, but hard water can result in buildup in pipes and appliances, can dry out your hair and skin, and make cleaning challenging. Homeowners in the area with homes built in 1986 or earlier should consider water testing because the state of Virginia banned lead piping in 1985. While the Gainesville Department of Water Resources has diligently worked to remove and replace any utility-owned lead piping over the last two decades, lead piping may still be a concern for those with water lines not managed by the city.
Gainesville homeowners should be on the alert for things like arsenic, disinfectant biproducts (from municipal water treatment!), heavy metals, bacteria, nitrates, and even industrial contaminants. Nitrates are common in Northern Virginia because of the risks associated with agricultural runoff. Flooding events warrant immediate concern because of the high likelihood of agricultural and industrial runoff. Most experts recommend immediate water quality testing after a flooding event.
Why Regular Water Testing in Gainesville is Critical for Residents
So, how does water testing help? Simply put, regular water testing helps homeowners detect contaminants early. This preemptive action can prevent more serious concerns down the road. From the perspective of social responsibility, you aren’t just protecting your family, you’re also alerting friends and neighbors to public safety hazards that can have a community-wide impact. Responsible homeowners who engage in regular water testing through state-accredited laboratories have a hand in managing environmental pollution.
For homeowners with well water, it is crucial to have your water evaluated annually as recommended by both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Center for Disease Control. The prevention and early detection of waterborne illnesses can prevent long-term health issues. If members of your household are experiencing prolonged bouts of unexplained sickness or health problems, you should rule out water contamination as a cause. For those on city water, it holds the municipality accountable for upholding regulatory standards and provides a baseline for water quality.
Is it time to get your water assessed? Owned and operated in Northern Virginia, Joiner Micro Labs has a sterling reputation for timely and accurate water quality testing results and stellar customer service. Serving the greater Gainesville area since 1991, our water technicians are skill in all types of water quality testing. Contact us for more information.