Boise's Baths: City Copper Burning Baby Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine a world where the simple act of bathing your child could be fraught with worry. For some families in Boise, Idaho, this isn’t a hypothetical scenario. Whispers of elevated copper levels in the city’s water supply have sparked concerns, particularly regarding potential skin irritation in infants and young children. But are these concerns justified, and what can Boise residents do to protect their families? Let’s dive deep into the issue, separating fact from fiction and providing actionable steps you can take today.
Boise’s municipal water, sourced primarily from groundwater aquifers, generally meets all federal and state safety standards. However, older homes, especially those built before 1988, may have copper pipes. Copper can leach into the water, particularly if the water is slightly acidic or sits stagnant in the pipes for extended periods. This leaching is exacerbated by the naturally occurring corrosive properties of some Boise water sources.
The primary concern with elevated copper levels is its potential impact on health, especially for vulnerable populations. While copper is an essential nutrient in small amounts, excessive exposure can lead to gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and, in rare cases, kidney problems. Infants and young children are particularly susceptible because their bodies are still developing. Anecdotal reports from Boise residents suggest a possible link between tap water and skin irritation, such as rashes and eczema flare-ups, in young children. While these reports don’t establish a direct causal relationship, they warrant further investigation and proactive measures.
So, what can a concerned Boise resident do? The first step is to test your water. Don’t rely solely on the city’s annual water quality report, which reflects average levels across the entire system. Your home’s plumbing could be significantly different. You have two main options for testing: DIY kits and accredited laboratories.
DIY testing kits, available at most hardware stores like Lowe’s on Milwaukee Street or online retailers, offer a quick and relatively inexpensive way to get an initial indication of copper levels. These kits typically involve collecting a water sample and using a color-coded chart to estimate the copper concentration. However, be aware that DIY kits are not as accurate as laboratory tests. They provide a general idea but shouldn’t be considered definitive. Common pitfalls include improper sample collection, expired reagents, and subjective interpretation of color changes. To overcome these, carefully follow the instructions, use a fresh kit, and compare your results with the kit’s control sample.
For a more accurate and reliable assessment, consider using an accredited laboratory. In Boise, reputable labs like IEA Labs offer comprehensive water testing services. These labs use sophisticated analytical equipment to precisely measure copper levels and other contaminants. The process typically involves contacting the lab, obtaining a sample collection kit, carefully following their instructions for collecting the sample, and then submitting it for analysis. The cost can range from $50 to $150, depending on the number of contaminants tested. While more expensive than DIY kits, the accuracy and reliability of lab results are well worth the investment, especially if you have young children or other health concerns.
When choosing a lab, ensure it is accredited by a recognized organization, such as the EPA or a state-level agency. Accreditation ensures that the lab meets specific quality standards and uses validated testing methods. Ask the lab about their detection limits for copper and other contaminants of concern. A lower detection limit means the lab can accurately measure even trace amounts of these substances.
If your water test reveals elevated copper levels (above the EPA’s action level of 1.3 mg/L), don’t panic. Several effective strategies can reduce copper exposure. One of the simplest and most cost-effective methods is to flush your pipes before using water for drinking or cooking. Run the cold water tap for 2-3 minutes, especially after the water has been sitting stagnant overnight or for several hours. This flushes out any water that has been in contact with the copper pipes for an extended period.
Another effective solution is to install a water filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for copper reduction. These filters are specifically designed to remove copper and other heavy metals from drinking water. Options range from pitcher filters like Brita to faucet-mounted filters like PUR to under-sink filters like Aquasana. When choosing a filter, look for the NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification mark to ensure it has been independently tested and verified to meet performance standards. Replace the filter cartridges regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer, to maintain optimal performance.
Consider adjusting your water heater temperature. Higher water temperatures can increase the rate of copper leaching from pipes. Lowering the temperature to 120°F (49°C) can help reduce copper levels without compromising hot water availability. Be cautious when lowering the temperature, as excessively low temperatures can promote the growth of harmful bacteria like Legionella.
In some cases, the source of copper contamination may be your home’s plumbing system itself. If you have older copper pipes, consider replacing them with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes, which are less prone to leaching. This is a more expensive option but can provide a long-term solution to copper contamination. Consult with a licensed plumber in Boise, like Thompson Plumbing, to assess your plumbing system and determine the best course of action.
Finally, consider the pH of your water. Acidic water (pH below 7) can increase copper leaching. You can test your water’s pH using a simple test kit or have it tested by a laboratory. If your water is acidic, you may need to install a neutralizing filter to raise the pH and reduce copper levels.
Addressing concerns about copper in Boise’s water supply requires a proactive and informed approach. By testing your water, understanding the potential risks, and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies, you can protect your family’s health and ensure access to safe and clean drinking water. Don’t wait for a problem to arise; take action today to safeguard your well-being.