How Good Are Your Pipes?

In focusing on the improvement of your drinking water, an often overlooked topic is the condition of your water supply distribution system.  Most cities had their greatest population growth and infrastructure expansions during the late 1800’s, around World War I, through the 1920’s, and post-World War II.  The materials, lifespan, and even the manufacturing processes of the pipes laid during these times, all affect the quality of the water delivered to your home today.

The Water Science and Technology Board released their first report of The Committee on Public Water Supply Distribution Systems: Assessing and Reducing Risks in 2005, which studied the public water supply distribution systems and their potential risks. Since the report was requested by the EPA, it was written toward a more governmental perspective. However, we feel our customers should begin to learn more about our aging water distribution infrastructure, specifically by reading Section 2, Trends Relevant to the Deterioration of Drinking Water in Distribution Systems.  Understanding the potential problems can lead you to make a more educated decision about taking personal control of your water filtration choice.