Is Phoenix Tap Water Safe?
Residents of San Tan Valley and other cities in the Phoenix area should think twice before drinking tap water.
In April 2017 it was reported that a letter was sent out to San Tan residents by Johnson Utilities, warning them of high levels of nitrate in tap water.
Water samples tested by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality were found to have higher nitrate levels than the nitrate standard.
Nitrates pose a serious health risk to infants and could result in blue baby syndrome which can lead to death or serious illness.
Residents of the area were warned not to use tap water to make infant formula or in any type of food for babies.
Pregnant women were told to consult with their doctors if they consumed tap water.
The water was turned off at Copper Basin K-8 school after a decision was made by the Florence Unified School District.
Parents of the school’s children were asked to bring in bottled water donations to play it safe.
Water Contamination Solutions
Boiling water was not an effective option, as nitrates remain even if the water is boiled, and the process may actually make them more concentrated.
San Tan Valley is not the only area in Arizona affected by water contamination. In fact, more than one-third of the state’s population gets their drinking water from a company or utility which has violated federal regulations.
That means almost 2.5 million Arizonans are served by potentially unsafe water systems.
Chromium-6, the cancer-causing chemical made famous by Erin Brockovich has been found in drinking water in Phoenix and many other surrounding cities.
The toxic chemical levels were highest in Phoenix at 7.9 parts per billion, with Glendale and Avondale coming in at more than six parts per billion. Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler all tested at more than five parts per billion.
In addition to the potentially hazardous chemicals found in tap water, your water also likely has a bad taste and odor in addition to hardness.
Aqua Science can help soften your home’s water which can improve the taste and reduce chemicals and hardness among other benefits. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.
