Maintaining high water quality is essential for the health and well-being of your household or business. At OVC Plumbing and Drain, we care about the quality of the water our customers ingest and recognize the decrease in quality often stems from undiagnosed plumbing issues. Poor water quality can manifest in various ways, such as unpleasant tastes and odors, discoloration, or even adverse health effects. Addressing these issues promptly can help restore your water to its optimal state and ensure the safety of its consumption.

This article will explore the common causes of water quality degradation, helping you identify potential issues and understand the steps needed to rectify them. We will delve into various factors that can affect water quality, including plumbing issues, external contaminants, and aging infrastructure. When it comes to water quality, safety is our #1 priority, which is why we are earnestly sharing this information! 

Contaminants In Water Supply

Contaminants in the water supply are one of the primary causes of decreased water quality. This section will explore different types of contaminants that can infiltrate your water system and the potential health risks associated with them. 

Heavy Metals

Lead and mercury are toxic heavy metals that can significantly compromise water quality, posing serious health risks to both humans and wildlife. These metals often enter water supplies through the corrosion of old plumbing systems, industrial discharges, and improper waste disposal. When present in drinking water, lead can accumulate in the body, particularly affecting the nervous system and leading to developmental delays and learning difficulties in children. Mercury, on the other hand, is a potent neurotoxin that can damage the brain, kidneys, and immune system. In aquatic environments, mercury can bioaccumulate in fish and other wildlife, disrupting ecosystems and posing health risks to humans who consume contaminated seafood. 

Microorganisms

Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, can significantly impact water quality by posing health risks to those who consume or come into contact with contaminated water. These pathogens can enter water supplies through various means, such as sewage overflows, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal. When present in drinking water, microorganisms can cause a range of illnesses, from mild gastrointestinal issues to severe diseases like cholera and hepatitis. 

Chemical Contamination

Chemicals can have a detrimental impact on water quality by introducing harmful substances into water supplies, posing significant risks to both human health and the environment. Common chemical contaminants include pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial pollutants, which can enter waterways through agricultural runoff, improper disposal, and industrial discharges. These chemicals can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, harming wildlife and reducing biodiversity. For humans, exposure to contaminated water can lead to a range of health issues, including reproductive and developmental problems, cancer, and endocrine disruption. 

Plumbing System Issues

Issues within the plumbing system itself can significantly impact water quality. This section will examine how various plumbing-related problems can lead to a decline in the quality of your water.

Corrosion

Corroded pipes are a frequent cause of poor water quality, as they can release harmful metals into the water, altering its taste, color, and safety. Corrosion often occurs in older plumbing systems where pipes are made from materials like galvanized steel or lead. 

Sediment Buildup

Additionally, sediment buildup within pipes can result in cloudy water and may harbor bacteria, leading to further contamination. 

Backflow And Cross-Connection Issues

Backflow and cross-connections can significantly compromise water quality by allowing contaminants to enter the potable water supply. Backflow occurs when the pressure in the water system changes, causing non-potable water to flow in the reverse direction and potentially introduce harmful substances like chemicals, bacteria, or industrial waste into the clean water supply. Cross-connections, which are points where the potable water system meets a non-potable source, can create pathways for contamination if not properly controlled or maintained. These issues can lead to health risks such as gastrointestinal illnesses or exposure to hazardous chemicals for those consuming or using the affected water. 

Aging Infrastructure

Aging infrastructure is a widespread issue that can lead to decreased water quality. This section will explore how outdated water systems can compromise water quality and the challenges associated with upgrading them.

Many communities rely on water infrastructure that is several decades old, with pipes and treatment facilities that may not meet modern standards. Aging pipes are more susceptible to leaks and breaks, which can introduce contaminants into the water supply. Moreover, outdated treatment plants may not effectively remove newer contaminants, such as microplastics and emerging chemicals. Upgrading infrastructure is often a complex and costly endeavor, but it is essential for ensuring safe and reliable water quality. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort between government agencies, utility companies, and consumers.

External Environmental Factors

External environmental factors can also contribute to a decrease in water quality. This section will discuss how natural events and human activities can impact water sources and affect the quality of your supply.

Weather

Weather events such as heavy rain or drought can significantly impact water quality. Heavy rainfall can lead to runoff that carries pollutants from roads, fields, and industrial sites into water bodies. Drought conditions, on the other hand, can concentrate contaminants already present in water supplies due to lower volumes of water. 

Human Impact

Human activities, such as deforestation and urban development, can disrupt natural water filtration processes, exacerbating the impact of pollutants. These human-induced factors can result in habitat loss, reduced biodiversity, and increased health risks for communities relying on contaminated water supplies. Protecting water quality requires implementing sustainable practices and effective regulatory measures to mitigate these impacts.

Looking To Improve The Quality Of Your Water?

As we have learned, several factors can contribute to a decrease in water quality, ranging from contaminants in the supply to issues within the plumbing system and aging infrastructure. Understanding these causes is essential for identifying potential problems and taking appropriate action to restore water quality. External environmental factors can also play a significant role, highlighting the need for proactive measures to protect water sources. Maintaining high water quality is vital for ensuring the health and well-being of your household or business.

At OVC Plumbing and Drain, we are committed to helping you maintain the highest water quality standards. Our team of experienced professionals can diagnose and address any plumbing-related issues affecting your water supply. Whether you need assistance with testing for contaminants, repairing or upgrading your plumbing system, or addressing external factors, we are here to help. We provide expert advice and solutions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that your water remains safe and clean.

If you are experiencing a decrease in water quality or have concerns about your water supply, contact OVC Plumbing and Drain today. Fresh, clean water is simply a phone call away!