**Phoenix Filters: Desert Water Inflaming Copper Guts?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe tap water in Phoenix might seem clear, but lurking beneath the surface are potential health hazards, especially for those living in older homes. The city’s water, while treated, interacts in unexpected ways with aging plumbing, leading to a silent threat: copper leaching. This isn’t just about a metallic taste; it’s about your health.
Phoenix’s water supply is a complex mix. It relies on both surface water from the Colorado River and groundwater. This blend, combined with the city’s efforts to disinfect and treat the water, creates a unique chemical profile. This profile, while meeting federal standards, can be aggressive towards older copper pipes.
The problem is exacerbated in areas with hard water. Hard water, rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, is prevalent in many Phoenix zip codes, including 85008, 85016, and 85028. These minerals can accelerate the corrosion of copper pipes, especially in homes built before 1988, when lead solder was still used. This corrosion releases copper into the water supply.
Why is copper a concern? While copper is an essential nutrient in small amounts, excessive exposure can lead to a range of health problems. Short-term effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure can damage the liver and kidneys. Children are particularly vulnerable.
So, how do you know if you’re at risk? The first step is to determine if your home has copper pipes. If it does, especially if it’s an older home in a hard water area, testing your water is crucial.
Here’s a simple, actionable guide to testing your water for copper:
- Purchase a Copper Testing Kit: You can find these at most hardware stores or online retailers like Amazon. Look for kits certified by the EPA. A reliable kit is the Watersafe WS220B Drinking Water Test Kit.
- Collect Your Sample: The most accurate sample is taken first thing in the morning, after the water has been sitting in the pipes overnight. This allows for maximum copper leaching.
- Follow the Instructions Carefully: Each kit will have specific instructions. Generally, you’ll need to fill a vial with water from your tap and add a reagent.
- Compare the Results: The kit will provide a color chart to compare your sample against. This will give you an approximate copper level in parts per million (ppm). The EPA’s action level for copper is 1.3 ppm.
- Consider Professional Testing: If your home test indicates elevated copper levels, it’s wise to get a professional water test done by a certified laboratory. They can provide a more accurate and comprehensive analysis.
Don’t rely solely on municipal data. While the City of Phoenix Water Services Department publishes annual water quality reports, these reports reflect the water quality at the source, not necessarily at your tap. Factors like your home’s plumbing and proximity to the water source can significantly impact copper levels.
If your water test reveals elevated copper levels, don’t panic. Several filtration options can effectively remove copper from your drinking water.
Here’s a comparison of common filter types for Phoenix water:
- Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are effective at removing chlorine and improving taste and odor, but they are not very effective at removing copper.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: RO systems are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including copper. They work by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, leaving contaminants behind. However, they can be expensive and require professional installation. A good example is the APEC Water Systems ROES-50.
- Point-of-Use Filters (Faucet Filters and Pitchers): These filters are a more affordable option for removing copper. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for copper reduction. Brands like PUR and Brita offer certified options. However, they require frequent filter replacements.
- Whole-House Filters: These filters are installed on the main water line and filter all the water entering your home. They are a good option if you want to protect all your plumbing fixtures from corrosion. However, they can be expensive to install and maintain.
Choosing the right filter depends on your budget, water usage, and the severity of the copper contamination. For most Phoenix residents with elevated copper levels, a point-of-use filter certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 is a good starting point.
One common mistake developers make is assuming that all water filters are created equal. They aren’t. A standard carbon filter will do little to address copper leaching. Always check for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification to ensure the filter is specifically designed to remove copper.
Another pitfall is neglecting to replace filters regularly. Over time, filters become saturated with contaminants and lose their effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement to maintain optimal performance.
Consider the long-term implications of copper leaching. It’s not just about the water you drink; it’s about the health of your plumbing system. Copper corrosion can eventually lead to leaks and costly repairs. Installing a whole-house filter can help protect your plumbing and extend its lifespan.
If you’re planning a remodel in an older Phoenix home, consider replacing copper pipes with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes. PEX is a durable, flexible plastic that is resistant to corrosion and leaching. It’s a more expensive upfront investment, but it can save you money in the long run by preventing future plumbing problems.
Don’t underestimate the power of awareness. Talk to your neighbors, share your water testing results, and advocate for improved water infrastructure in your community. Collective action can lead to positive change.
The City of Phoenix offers resources and information on water quality. Contact the Water Services Department to learn more about their testing procedures and any ongoing initiatives to address copper levels in the water supply.
Ultimately, protecting your health from copper leaching in Phoenix requires a proactive approach. Test your water, choose the right filtration system, and stay informed about your community’s water quality. Don’t wait for a problem to arise; take action now to ensure the safety of your drinking water.