People normally think about how water quality affects their plumbing, but did you know plumbing can also have an impact on the water you consume?

Here are two ways your home’s water can be affected by your plumbing system along with a few helpful tips for improvements.

Hazardous piping materials

It is easy to ignore piping in your home (as most of it is hidden), but you should still be aware of the material the pipes in your home are made out of. Metals like zinc and lead can leach into your water and contaminate it. This contamination can lead to serious health issues.

PVC piping and PEX piping can also create issues with your home’s water. PVC can leach chemicals such as acetone and chloroform, while PEX can cause volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to contaminate your water supply.

Water conditions, like acidity & mineral content, can also impact what seeps into your water from existing piping. Temperature is also a factor, so make sure that only pipes certified for domestic hot water use are installed in your home.

water quality

Neglecting your water heater

A tanked water heater has the potential to affect more than just the temperature of your water. Microbial growth in the tank can potentially expose you to harmful bacteria when showering or bathing.

Luckily, there are easy ways to prevent this. Make sure to have regular maintenance performed on your tank and set the temperature on your hot water to at least 140 ºF. These small changes will not only improve your home’s water quality but will also increase the lifespan of your hot water heater.

Tips for improving your home’s water quality

Installing a water treatment system has several benefits. Rather than live with poor water quality that could eventually affect your health, installing a water softener or water purifier will put your mind at ease.

Water softeners improve water quality by eliminating excess calcium and magnesium in your water supply. Softeners also protect your home’s existing plumbing from further damage due to poor water quality.

Water purifiers protect you and your family from harmful contaminants and provide you with safe, clean drinking water. There are several options when it comes to water purifiers, so it is best to discuss your needs with a professional who can help you choose which is right for you.