Taos Water: Altitude Lies Hiding Copper Harm?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 10, 2026

The tap water in Taos, New Mexico might be more dangerous than you think. It’s not just about the usual suspects like bacteria or lead. The unique combination of Taos’s high altitude and aging infrastructure could be creating a perfect storm for copper toxicity, a threat often overlooked. Are you unknowingly poisoning yourself with every glass?

Copper is essential in small amounts, but excessive exposure can lead to serious health problems, including liver damage, neurological issues, and gastrointestinal distress. The question is: are Taos residents at a higher risk, and what can they do about it?

Here’s the problem: Taos sits at a lofty 6,969 feet above sea level. This altitude affects water chemistry. Lower atmospheric pressure means water boils at a lower temperature, potentially altering the rate at which copper leaches from pipes. Furthermore, the water’s pH and mineral content, influenced by the local geology, can exacerbate corrosion.

Older homes in Taos, particularly those in the historic district, often have copper plumbing installed decades ago. Over time, these pipes can corrode, releasing copper into the water supply. The longer the water sits in the pipes, the more copper it can absorb, especially overnight.

So, how do you know if you’re at risk? The first step is testing your water. Don’t rely on assumptions. You need concrete data.

Here’s how to test your water for copper in Taos:

Contact the Taos County Environmental Services Department: They may offer free or low-cost testing programs. Call them at (575) 737-5720 to inquire.
Purchase a DIY copper testing kit: These kits are available online or at hardware stores like Lowe’s in nearby Española. Make sure the kit is certified to meet EPA standards. A reliable brand is Watersafe.
Hire a certified laboratory: This is the most accurate option. Look for labs certified by the New Mexico Environment Department. A good option is NM Environmental Lab in Albuquerque.

When collecting your sample, follow these steps carefully:

Use a first-draw sample: Collect the water first thing in the morning, after it has been sitting in the pipes overnight. This will give you the highest possible copper concentration.
Use the correct container: Use the sterile container provided with the testing kit or by the lab.
Follow the instructions precisely: Each test has specific requirements for collection and handling.

If your test results show copper levels exceeding the EPA’s action level of 1.3 parts per million (ppm), you need to take action. Don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either.

The most effective solution is a point-of-use (POU) water filter specifically certified to remove copper. Not all filters are created equal. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for copper reduction.

Here are some recommended POU filters for Taos residents:

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems: These are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including copper. APEC Water Systems ROES-50 is a popular and reliable choice.
Activated Carbon filters: These filters can reduce copper, but their effectiveness depends on the type of carbon and the concentration of copper. Look for filters with catalytic carbon, which is more effective at removing heavy metals. The Aquasana AQ-5300 is a good option.
Faucet filters: These are a more affordable option, but they may not be as effective as RO systems or activated carbon filters. PUR and Brita faucet filters offer models that claim to reduce copper.

When choosing a filter, consider these factors:

Certification: Ensure the filter is certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for copper reduction.
Capacity: Check the filter’s capacity and how often it needs to be replaced.
Flow rate: Make sure the filter provides an adequate flow rate for your needs.
Cost: Compare the initial cost of the filter and the cost of replacement cartridges.

Beyond filtration, there are other strategies you can implement to mitigate copper exposure:

Flush your pipes: Run the cold water tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially after the water has been sitting in the pipes for several hours.
Use cold water: Hot water leaches more copper from pipes than cold water. Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula.
Replace copper pipes: If you have old copper pipes, consider replacing them with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes, which are less likely to leach copper.
Dietary Considerations: Certain foods can either increase or decrease copper absorption.

To minimize copper absorption from food and water:

Increase zinc intake: Zinc competes with copper for absorption in the body. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds. Consider a zinc supplement, but consult with a healthcare professional first.
Limit high-copper foods: Foods high in copper include shellfish, organ meats, nuts, and chocolate.
Avoid acidic foods in copper cookware: Cooking acidic foods like tomatoes in copper pots can increase copper leaching into the food.

It’s also crucial to be aware of the symptoms of copper toxicity. These can include:

Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Headaches
Fatigue
Muscle weakness
Liver damage

If you experience these symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional.

In Northern New Mexico, several resources and health professionals specialize in heavy metal toxicity:

Integrative Medicine Doctors: These doctors often have experience in diagnosing and treating heavy metal toxicity. Dr. Mark Hyman’s practice, although not local, offers resources and information on heavy metal detoxification.
Naturopathic Doctors: Naturopathic doctors can provide natural therapies to support detoxification. Look for NDs in Santa Fe or Albuquerque.
Functional Medicine Practitioners: Functional medicine practitioners focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness, including heavy metal toxicity.
Local Hospitals and Clinics: Holy Cross Hospital in Taos can provide initial assessments and referrals to specialists if needed.

Don’t underestimate the potential risks of copper toxicity in Taos. The combination of altitude, aging infrastructure, and local water chemistry creates a unique challenge. By testing your water, implementing appropriate filtration, and adopting strategies to mitigate copper absorption, you can protect your health and well-being. Take control of your water, take control of your health.