**Park City's Pipes: Altitude Lies Hiding Copper Harm?**
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine waking up in Park City, Utah, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, ready for a day of skiing or hiking. But what if something invisible was lurking in your home, potentially impacting your health? It’s not a monster under the bed, but something far more insidious: copper leaching into your drinking water.
Park City, with its historic charm and aging infrastructure, faces a unique challenge. Many homes still rely on copper pipes installed decades ago. Over time, these pipes can corrode, especially at the high altitude of Park City, releasing copper into the water supply. While copper is an essential nutrient, excessive levels can lead to serious health problems. Are you unknowingly drinking water that’s slowly poisoning you? Let’s find out.
The problem isn’t just theoretical. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a limit for copper in drinking water at 1.3 parts per million (ppm). Exceeding this level can cause gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and kidney problems, particularly in children. The altitude in Park City, often exceeding 7,000 feet, can exacerbate the issue. Lower atmospheric pressure can affect water chemistry, potentially increasing the rate of copper corrosion.
So, how do you know if you’re at risk? The first step is testing your water. Don’t rely on assumptions or what your neighbors tell you. Get concrete data. Several testing options are available specifically for Utah residents.
- Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ): The DEQ provides resources and information on certified labs that can test your water for copper and other contaminants. This is often the most reliable option, as certified labs adhere to strict quality control standards.
- Home Testing Kits: While convenient, home testing kits can be less accurate. If you choose this route, opt for a reputable brand with good reviews and follow the instructions meticulously. A good option is the Watersafe Drinking Water Test Kit. It’s readily available online and at some hardware stores in Utah.
- Local Water Providers: Contact the Park City Water Department. They may offer free or low-cost testing programs to assess water quality in the area.
Once you’ve collected your water sample, follow the instructions provided by the lab or testing kit. Pay close attention to details like sample collection time and storage. Improper collection can lead to inaccurate results.
Let’s say your test results come back showing elevated copper levels. Don’t panic. Several solutions can help mitigate the problem.
- Flushing Your Pipes: Before drinking or cooking, run your cold water tap for a few minutes. This can help flush out water that has been sitting in the pipes and potentially contains higher copper concentrations. This is a temporary fix, not a long-term solution.
- Point-of-Use (POU) Filters: These filters are installed at specific taps, like your kitchen sink. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for copper reduction. Brands like Brita and PUR offer POU filters that can effectively remove copper.
- Whole-House Filters: For comprehensive protection, consider a whole-house filtration system. These systems filter all the water entering your home. They are more expensive but provide peace of mind. Research systems that use activated carbon or reverse osmosis technology for copper removal.
- Phosphate Treatment: This involves adding phosphate to the water supply to create a protective coating inside the pipes, preventing copper from leaching. This is typically a municipal-level solution, but you can inquire with the Park City Water Department about their treatment methods.
Choosing the right filtration system depends on your budget, water usage, and the severity of the copper contamination. Consult with a qualified plumber or water treatment specialist to determine the best option for your home.
Beyond filtration, dietary adjustments can support your body’s natural detoxification processes. Certain foods and supplements can help your body eliminate excess copper.
- Zinc: Zinc competes with copper for absorption in the body. Increasing your zinc intake can help reduce copper levels. Good sources of zinc include oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
- Molybdenum: This trace mineral aids in the detoxification of copper. Foods rich in molybdenum include legumes, grains, and nuts.
- Avoid High-Copper Foods: Limit your consumption of foods high in copper, such as shellfish, liver, and chocolate.
It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
One common mistake people make is assuming that boiling water will remove copper. Boiling water only kills bacteria; it does not remove heavy metals like copper. In fact, boiling water can actually increase the concentration of copper by reducing the water volume.
Another pitfall is neglecting regular filter maintenance. Filters become less effective over time and can even become a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly maintained. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter replacement and cleaning.
Living in Park City offers unparalleled access to outdoor recreation and a vibrant community. Don’t let concerns about copper in your water overshadow the joys of mountain living. By taking proactive steps to test your water, implement appropriate filtration systems, and support your body’s detoxification processes, you can ensure that your drinking water is safe and healthy.
Remember, knowledge is power. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Take control of your water quality and protect your health. The peace of mind is worth it.