Though adequate water sanitation exists in many communities, some places in the US lack the infrastructure to provide clean drinking water to their residents. Even in areas where proper treatment exists, tap water may contain small amounts of emerging contaminants that are unregulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including some pesticides and pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and PFAS chemicals. In addition, media coverage of extreme events in Philadelphia, Camp Lejeune, and East Palestine, Ohio is raising awareness about water contamination issues, leaving many to wonder—is the water I’m drinking safe? Home water filtration systems may help improve the safety and quality of your drinking water. While they shouldn’t be used on water that local officials say is unsafe to drink, they can help reduce exposure to potentially harmful contaminants and provide some peace of mind.
Common Drinking Water Contaminants
At a glance: common water contaminants and how to reduce them.
