Common Water Issues and Solutions, Part 2 - Wisler Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical

In our previous blog post, we talked about visible and invisible water contaminants and some of the possible solutions. In this post, we’re going to investigate chemical contaminants in water and how to find out whether or not your water has bacteria in it. If you missed out on part one, it might be a good idea to read it first. Because in this blog we will talk more about those common water issues and solutions.

Because you can’t see bacteria with your naked eye, the best way to find out if your water is contaminated is by getting it tested in a certified lab. First, a qualified technician will take a water sample, being careful not to contaminate it. (Even airborne bacteria could potentially get into the sample.) The sample is then placed in a bacterially friendly environment with food, warmth, and oxygen. It takes around 24 hours to give the bacteria a chance to grow during the incubation period, after which a test result will be determined.

It’s important that a qualified professional conducts the test, ensuring that there are no false positives resulting from a contaminated sample. The water will be deemed safe to drink if the test result shows no bacterial reproduction. We work with a reliable lab on a regular basis, so give us a call at (540) 483-9382 if your home’s water needs to be tested.

If your water has an odd odor, or if other people in your neighborhood have reported getting sick from water bacteria issues, you should definitely call to get your water laboratory tested. Children, the elderly, and people with a weakened immune system may be especially at risk of illness. Your doctor would be able to make a proper recommendation (and if water may be an issue, we would be glad to assist with getting the water tested).

Aside from bacterial contamination, it’s very common for homes to have chemicals in the water that are introduced on a municipal level. Sometimes the city intentionally adds chemicals (e.g., chlorine) to the water. Chlorine is added to the system because it kills bacteria and ensures that the water remains safe for drinking. However, even though it’s necessary for chlorinated water to travel in the underground pipes throughout the city, it doesn’t have to make it all the way to your home. Carbon filters are very effective at absorbing chlorine in the water.

You don’t have to put up with drinking unhealthy water with an odd taste or odor. If you have any doubts about whether or not your water has some of these common issues, give us a call at (540) 483-9382 so we can make a professional assessment and provide a recommendation to solve your water problems.