Common Local Water Contaminants

(U.S. General Overview)

Found in Residential Water

Contaminants:

Chlorine/Chloramines Hard Water (Calcium & Magnesium) Iron & Manganese Nitrates/Nitrites PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) Lead Bacteria & Coliform Pesticides/Herbicides Fluoride

Why It Matters:

Used in city water as disinfectants Leads to scale buildup in pipes & appliances. Common in well water Common in agricultural areas. Found in many cities — from firefighting foam, industrial waste. Can leach from old plumbing. Found in untreated well or rainwater. Runoff from agriculture and lawns.

Health/Impact:

Can cause dry skin, bad taste/odor Irritates skin, reduces soap effectiveness Metallic taste, stains sinks & laundry Dangerous for infants, affects oxygen in blood Linked to cancer, thyroid, reproductive issues Highly toxic, especially for children Can cause illness or infection Potential hormone disruption, cancer risks. Controversial; excess linked to bone issues