is philadelphia tap water safe

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Is Philadelphia Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Yes, generally Philadelphia’s tap water is considered safe to drink. The Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) consistently meets or exceeds federal and state safety standards for drinking water quality. However, like any municipal water supply, occasional issues can arise, and some individuals might have concerns about specific contaminants.

Philadelphia Water Quality Standards

The Philadelphia Water Department is responsible for treating and distributing drinking water to the city. They regularly test the water for a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, lead, and chemicals. The water is sourced from the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers and undergoes a rigorous treatment process that includes filtration, disinfection, and corrosion control. PWD publishes an annual water quality report that provides detailed information about the levels of various contaminants detected in the water. This report is available to the public and can be found on their website.

Potential Concerns: Lead and Old Infrastructure

One of the main concerns regarding Philadelphia’s tap water is the potential for lead contamination. Lead can leach into the water from older lead pipes and plumbing fixtures, particularly in older homes built before lead was banned in plumbing materials. While the PWD uses corrosion control measures to minimize lead leaching, it’s still recommended that residents of older homes take precautions such as flushing the tap for a few minutes before drinking or using a lead filter.

You can find more information on Philadelphia Water Department and its responsibility for the city’s drinking water.

Other Contaminants

While lead is the primary concern, other contaminants can occasionally be found in trace amounts. These might include disinfection byproducts, which are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the water. The PWD works to minimize the formation of these byproducts and ensures that they remain within safe limits. Other potential contaminants include pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), although these are typically present in very low concentrations.

What You Can Do

If you are concerned about the safety of your tap water, there are several steps you can take:

• Flush your tap: Run the cold water tap for a few minutes before drinking, especially if the water hasn’t been used for several hours.
• Use a water filter: Consider using a water filter certified to remove lead and other contaminants.
• Test your water: You can hire a certified laboratory to test your water for lead and other contaminants.
• Contact the PWD: If you have any questions or concerns about your water quality, contact the Philadelphia Water Department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Philadelphia tap water hard or soft?

Philadelphia’s tap water is generally considered moderately hard. The hardness levels can vary depending on the source water and the time of year.

How does Philadelphia Water Department treat the water?

The Philadelphia Water Department uses a multi-stage treatment process including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection.

Is it safe to drink tap water during a boil water advisory in Philadelphia?

No, during a boil water advisory, you should boil your tap water for at least one minute before drinking, cooking, or brushing your teeth.

Where does Philadelphia get its drinking water from?

Philadelphia gets its drinking water from the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers.

How often does the Philadelphia Water Department test the water?

The Philadelphia Water Department tests the water continuously and publishes annual water quality reports.

Summary

Philadelphia’s tap water is generally safe to drink, thanks to the Philadelphia Water Department’s efforts to meet or exceed federal and state water quality standards. Residents of older homes should be aware of the potential for lead contamination and take necessary precautions. By staying informed and taking steps to protect your water, you can ensure that your tap water is safe and healthy for you and your family.

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