Your Tap Water Probably Has Toxic Chemicals -- Here's How to Find Out for Sure
If you're like most Americans, you probably run the tap countless times per day -- say, when you're feeling thirsty, need to boil a pot for pasta, or are filling up your pet's water bowl. But do you know what's in your tap water?
Research by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has shown that tap water in many communities is loaded with contaminants that have been linked to brain and nervous system damage, thyroid disruption, fertility issues, and even developmental problems in children -- among other negative effects. Most of these contaminants come from industrial waste; discharges from treatment plants and septic tanks; and landfill, agricultural, and manufacturing runoff. The good news? You don't have to settle for unsafe drinking water. Water purification technology has been advancing in recent years, allowing anyone to reduce their exposure to all of these potentially harmful chemicals.
As for which chemicals the EWG found in U.S. tap water -- let's just say the list includes heavy metals like lead and copper, herbicides that interfere with hormone production, and even known carcinogens like arsenic. In fact, arsenic was found in the drinking water of all 50 states during the EWG's investigation between 2017 and 2019. And a new study revealed that almost half of U.S. tap water contains PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," which many experts consider toxic even at very low levels. Research has demonstrated that even low exposure to PFAS is linked to immune system suppression and increased risk of certain types of cancer.
"Many contaminants in water cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled -- and PFAS are a particularly concerning example," says Judd Larned, president of Culligan North America.
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That's where water filtration comes in -- but these systems can be an investment. That's why experts recommend testing your water to determine which system is the best fit for your needs. Here's how to find out what's in your tap, so you can take that first step toward cleaner, safer drinking water.
After entering your zip code, the EWG will provide a report with a list of all the contaminants present in your local water. Not only that, but you'll see the levels of each contaminant and whether those levels exceed the EWG's safety guidelines.
Checking this invaluable tool can help guide you in determining whether further testing may be needed, as well as what kind of water purification system you may want to invest in.
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends having your water tested by a state-certified laboratory. There are two ways to find one:
Lots of companies that make water filters will offer free water testing. For example, Culligan makes one of the only whole-home filters certified to NSF Standard 53 for total PFAS reduction by more than 99%, the Aquasential® Whole Home PFAS Water Filter. And they offer complimentary in-home water analysis.
Here's how it works: Start by scheduling a time for a local Culligan expert to visit your home. During the visit, which only takes about 30 minutes, the expert will inspect your appliances and plumbing, and take a sample of water.
"Depending on where you live, your water source, and any specific concerns you may have, we may recommend sending your sample for more in-depth laboratory testing."
Culligan can send a sample of your water to an EPA-certified lab if a complex issue is identified that warrants further testing. After sharing the results, the expert will then guide you through the recommended solutions and provide an obligation-free estimate.
While there are a number of relatively affordable at-home water tests you can order on Amazon, Larned says it's important to keep in mind that not all tests are created equally.
"I always recommend working with a trusted local expert. While DIY tests may seem simple, it can be challenging to interpret the results and understand the best solutions without a professional," he tells AskMen. "And to add to that, basic water tests do not measure all contaminants or with the same levels of accuracy. Expert-conducted lab tests offer the highest level of detail and personalized guidance based on your specific results. For instance, Culligan's PFAS test checks for up to 55 PFAS compounds commonly found in drinking water, exceeding the EPA baseline."
And when it does come time to invest in water filtration, here's something else to keep in mind: There's a big difference between "'certified" and "tested to standards." To that end, the Culligan Aquasential Whole Home PFAS Water Filter is certified by the Water Quality Association against NSF/ANSI Standard 372, CSA B483.1, and NSF/ANSI Standard 53 which ensures effectiveness and safety for PFAS reduction.
"A certified product has been tested by NSF or another accredited lab like the Water Quality Association (WQA)," Larned explains. "Whereas 'tested to standards' just means the manufacturer has tested the product, but it hasn't been formally certified. Certification provides an added layer of trust and assurance which is important for peace of mind and reliable water quality."