Household Water Quality Tips

Flush cold taps when water has not been used for several hours
Run cold water faucets for two minutes before using water for drinking, cooking, or preparing baby formula. If you have or ever had a lead service line and have galvanized pipes, you may need to flush up to five minutes to reduce the amount of lead in your water.
Do not use water from the hot-side of the faucet for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula
Water from the hot tap has been in the water heater and may contain metals, sediment, and bacteria that build up in the water heater. Also, hot water dissolves more contaminants from the plumbing. Start with water from the cold tap and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove.
Replace old household plumbing and potential lead sources
Replace lead and galvanized pipes. Replace older brass faucets with newer “lead-free” faucets made in 2014 or later. After replacement, flush cold water taps for five minutes once a day for three days.
Routinely clean faucet aerators
Sediment and metals can collect in the aerator screens at the tip of your faucets. Remove the aerators and clean with vinegar and a toothbrush. Replace aerators that are in poor condition.
Routinely replace water treatment filters, if you have them
Bacteria and metals can build up in filters. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter replacement.
Properly maintain water softeners and other water treatment devices
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent water softeners and other treatment devices from fouling or causing other water quality issues.
Drain your water heater annually
Sediment, bacteria, and metals can build up in the water heater tank. This build-up can affect water heater performance, water quality, and water pressure.
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