With many California water sources impacted by drought, contamination, and other environmental factors, it is natural to ask, “what is the safest way to get drinking water?”
Our state’s water scarcity and quality issues can impact the health and well-being of residents. So, it’s crucial that you ensure that the water you and your family are drinking is safe and healthy.
Here are a few ways you can do so …
Check your water source.
The first step to ensuring you have safe drinking water is to check the source of your water. If your water is already safe to drink, then you have nothing further to do.
If you are on a regulated, public water system, you can contact your water provider to obtain a copy of the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The CCR is an annual report that provides information about the quality of your drinking water, including any contaminants that have been detected.
If you have a private well, you should have your water tested at least once a year. The California Department of Public Health recommends testing for coliform bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. You can contact a certified laboratory to have your water tested.
EcoWater of Central California offers free basic water testing for residents in our local service areas, regardless of whether you’re on a public system or well. And we also offer full laboratory testing at an affordable price. Click here to learn more and see if you qualify for the free basic water test.
Filter your water.
Using a water filter is an effective way to remove contaminants from your drinking water. There are many types of filters available, including activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and whole house filtration systems. The type of filter you need depends on the specific contaminants in your water.
It is important to choose a filter that has been certified by a reputable organization, such as NSF International or the Water Quality Association. These organizations test and certify filters to ensure that they meet certain standards for performance and safety.
Boil your drinking water.
Boiling water is an effective way to kill bacteria and viruses that may be present in your water. If you are in a situation where you do not have access to safe drinking water, boiling is a good option. Boil water for at least one minute to ensure that it is safe to drink.
Use bottled water.
Bottled water can be a safe option, but it is important to choose a reputable brand that has been tested for safety. Be aware that bottled water can be expensive and may contribute to environmental waste. If you choose to use bottled water, make sure to recycle the bottles.
The Most Convenient, Safest Way to Get Drinking Water
While all of these methods can provide you with safe drinking water, the most convenient and sustainable is to install a reverse osmosis drinking water or whole house filtration system that you manage, maintain, and control. We invite you to get pricing for an EcoWater system that meets your specific needs. Simply click here to get started.