**Phoenix Faucets: Copper Pipes Crashing Youth?**
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine turning on your tap in Phoenix, Arizona, and wondering if what’s coming out is truly safe. It’s a valid concern, especially with aging infrastructure potentially leaching copper into your drinking water. This isn’t just about a metallic taste; long-term copper exposure can have serious health consequences, including cognitive decline. Let’s dive into how you, as a Phoenix resident, can take control and test your tap water for copper, understand the results, and take action to protect your health.
First, let’s talk about why copper is a concern in Phoenix. Older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, often have copper pipes. While copper itself isn’t inherently dangerous, the problem arises when it leaches into the water supply due to corrosion. Phoenix’s water chemistry, including its pH and mineral content, can sometimes exacerbate this corrosion process. This means that even if the city’s water treatment meets federal standards, your home’s plumbing could still be a source of copper contamination.
The good news is that testing for copper is relatively straightforward and affordable. You can find DIY copper testing kits at most local hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Phoenix. These kits typically involve collecting a water sample and using a reagent to detect the presence and concentration of copper.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a typical DIY copper testing kit:
- Gather your supplies: You’ll need the testing kit, a clean glass or plastic container (usually provided in the kit), and access to your tap water.
- Choose the right tap: The best tap to test is one that hasn’t been used for at least six hours, preferably overnight. This allows any copper that has leached from the pipes to accumulate in the water. A kitchen or bathroom tap is usually suitable.
- Collect the sample: Remove the aerator from the tap (the mesh screen at the end). Let the water run for 30 seconds to flush out any debris. Then, carefully collect the water sample in the provided container, following the kit’s specific instructions on how much water to collect.
- Perform the test: Add the reagent to the water sample as instructed in the kit. The reagent will react with any copper present, causing a color change.
- Compare the color: Compare the color of the sample to the color chart provided in the kit. This chart will indicate the concentration of copper in your water, usually measured in parts per million (ppm).
Understanding the results is crucial. The EPA’s action level for copper in drinking water is 1.3 ppm. If your test results show a copper concentration above this level, it’s a cause for concern. Even levels below 1.3 ppm might warrant further investigation, especially if you have young children or other health concerns.
Now, what do you do if your test results are high? Don’t panic. Here are some actionable steps you can take:
- Flush your pipes: Run the cold water tap for several minutes each morning before using the water for drinking or cooking. This helps to flush out any water that has been sitting in the pipes overnight and may contain elevated levels of copper.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking: Hot water is more likely to leach copper from pipes. Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula.
- Consider a point-of-use filter: Install a water filter certified to remove copper at the tap you use for drinking water. Look for filters that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for copper reduction.
- Investigate pipe replacement: If you consistently find high levels of copper, it may be necessary to replace your copper pipes with alternative materials like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) or CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride). This can be a significant investment, but it’s a long-term solution to the problem.
Phoenix offers resources that can help with pipe replacement. The City of Phoenix Water Services Department may have programs or rebates available to assist homeowners with replacing lead or copper pipes. Contact them directly to inquire about eligibility and available assistance. You can also explore options for low-interest home improvement loans to finance the project.
Another option to consider is a whole-house water filtration system. These systems are installed at the main water line entering your home and filter all the water used in your house. While they are more expensive than point-of-use filters, they provide comprehensive protection against copper and other contaminants. Look for systems specifically designed to remove copper and consider having a professional plumber install the system to ensure it’s properly connected and functioning.
One common mistake people make is only testing their water once. Copper leaching can vary depending on factors like water temperature, pH, and the age of your pipes. It’s a good idea to test your water periodically, especially if you notice changes in the taste or color of your water.
Another pitfall is relying solely on the city’s water quality reports. While these reports provide valuable information about the overall water quality in Phoenix, they don’t reflect the specific conditions in your home’s plumbing. Your home’s pipes are a separate system, and their condition can significantly impact the water quality at your tap.
Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario: Maria, a resident of the Encanto Village neighborhood in Phoenix, noticed a slight metallic taste in her water. She purchased a DIY copper testing kit from a local hardware store and found that her water had a copper concentration of 1.8 ppm, exceeding the EPA’s action level. Maria immediately started flushing her pipes each morning and switched to using only cold water for drinking and cooking. She also contacted the City of Phoenix Water Services Department and learned about a program that offered financial assistance for pipe replacement. While she waited for approval, she installed a point-of-use filter at her kitchen sink to ensure her drinking water was safe.
This example illustrates how taking proactive steps can protect your health and well-being. Don’t wait until you experience symptoms of copper exposure to take action. Regular testing, combined with appropriate mitigation strategies, can help you ensure that your tap water in Phoenix is safe and healthy for you and your family. Remember, your health is worth the investment.