**Taos Tap: Altitude Lies Hiding Copper Risks?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe tap sputters, then coughs up a stream of water tinged with a faint, unsettling blue. It’s not the pristine mountain spring water you expect in Taos, New Mexico. Could it be the pipes? The answer, unfortunately, might be yes, and it could be leaching copper into your drinking water.
Taos, with its stunning high-desert landscape and rich history, also harbors a hidden risk: aging infrastructure. Many homes, particularly those built before the late 1980s, still rely on copper plumbing. While copper is generally safe, older pipes can corrode, especially when combined with Taos’s unique water chemistry and high altitude. This corrosion releases copper into the water supply, potentially leading to elevated levels that can pose health risks.
So, what can a concerned Taos resident do? Let’s break it down.
First, test your water. Don’t rely on assumptions. You need concrete data.
DIY Kits: Home testing kits are readily available online or at hardware stores like Lowe’s in nearby Santa Fe. These kits are relatively inexpensive (around $20-$50) and provide a quick snapshot of your water quality. However, they often lack the precision of laboratory testing.
Certified Laboratories: For a more accurate and comprehensive analysis, consider using a certified laboratory. In New Mexico, the Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) of the Department of Health can provide information on certified labs. Search online for “New Mexico certified water testing labs.” Expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a copper-specific test.
- Pro Tip: When collecting your sample, follow the lab’s instructions precisely. Typically, you’ll need to flush the tap for several minutes before collecting the sample to get a representative reading of the water that’s been sitting in the pipes.
If your test results reveal elevated copper levels (above 1.3 parts per million, as defined by the EPA), it’s time to take action.
Next, choose the right filtration system. Not all filters are created equal. You need one specifically certified to remove copper.
NSF/ANSI Standard 53: Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53. This certification guarantees that the filter has been independently tested and proven to reduce specific contaminants, including copper.
Types of Filters:
Pitcher Filters: A basic and affordable option for small households. Brands like Brita and PUR offer NSF/ANSI 53 certified pitchers. However, they have a limited capacity and require frequent filter replacements.
Faucet Filters: These attach directly to your faucet and provide on-demand filtered water. They’re more convenient than pitcher filters but can reduce water flow.
Under-Sink Filters: Installed beneath your sink, these filters offer a higher capacity and faster flow rate than faucet filters. They typically require professional installation.
Whole-House Filters: The most comprehensive solution, whole-house filters treat all the water entering your home. They’re the most expensive option but provide the best protection.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: RO systems are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including copper. They’re more complex and expensive than other filter types but provide the purest water.
Specific Recommendations for Taos: Given Taos’s altitude and potential for unique water chemistry, consider a multi-stage filtration system that combines sediment filtration, activated carbon filtration, and copper-specific filtration. Research local water treatment specialists in Taos for personalized recommendations.
Now, let’s talk about dietary adjustments. You can support your body’s natural detoxification processes through targeted nutrition.
Foods to Support Detox:
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that aid in liver detoxification.
Garlic and Onions: These contain sulfur compounds that help the body eliminate heavy metals.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, chard, and other leafy greens are rich in chlorophyll, which can bind to toxins and help remove them from the body.
Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are packed with antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by toxins.
Supplements for High-Altitude Detox:
Chlorella: A type of algae that can bind to heavy metals and help remove them from the body. Start with a low dose (around 500mg per day) and gradually increase as tolerated.
Spirulina: Another type of algae with similar detoxifying properties.
Milk Thistle: Supports liver function and detoxification.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): A precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in detoxification.
Green Smoothie Detox Recipe for Taos Residents:
1 cup spinach
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1/4 cup chopped broccoli
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon chlorella powder
1 scoop protein powder (optional)
1 cup water or unsweetened almond milk
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
High-Altitude Adjustment: Add a pinch of Himalayan pink salt to help with electrolyte balance, which can be affected by altitude.
Finally, explore local resources for plumbing upgrades. Replacing old copper pipes is the most effective long-term solution.
Local Plumbers: Obtain quotes from several licensed plumbers in Taos. Ask about their experience with copper pipe replacement and their knowledge of local building codes.
Financial Assistance Programs:
New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA): The MFA offers various programs to assist homeowners with home repairs and improvements, including plumbing upgrades. Check their website for eligibility requirements and application details.
USDA Rural Development: If you live in a rural area of Taos County, you may be eligible for USDA Rural Development loans or grants for home repairs.
Local Non-Profits: Contact local non-profit organizations like Habitat for Humanity or the Taos Community Foundation to inquire about potential assistance programs.
State and Federal Tax Credits: Research any available state or federal tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements, which may include plumbing upgrades that improve water efficiency.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:
Ignoring the Problem: The biggest mistake is assuming your water is safe without testing it. Procrastination can lead to long-term health consequences.
Using Inadequate Filters: Don’t waste money on filters that aren’t certified to remove copper. Always check for the NSF/ANSI 53 certification.
Neglecting Filter Maintenance: Filters need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter replacement.
Overlooking Dietary Factors: Diet plays a crucial role in detoxification. Focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods and consider targeted supplements.
Delaying Plumbing Upgrades: While filtration and dietary adjustments can help, they’re not a substitute for replacing old copper pipes. Prioritize plumbing upgrades as a long-term solution.
Living in Taos offers a unique lifestyle, but it also comes with unique challenges. By taking proactive steps to test your water, choose the right filtration system, adjust your diet, and explore plumbing upgrade options, you can protect yourself and your family from the potential risks of elevated copper levels. Don’t wait until you see that unsettling blue tinge in your water. Take action today.