Fort Drum

.. ...

1. What is pure water?

   Pure water means different things to different people. All life depends on water that exists in nature in various forms. However, strictly speaking, pure water doesn't exist for any significant time in nature. Even when falling as rain, water collects small amounts of gases, ions, dust, and particulate matter from the atmosphere. As it flows over or through earth's surface layers, it dissolves and carries almost everything it touches, including pollutants.

   These substances can be classified as biological, chemical (organic and inorganic), physical and radiological impurities. They may include industrial solvents, metal salts, sediments, pesticides, plant nutrients, radioactive materials, road salts, decaying organic matter, and microorganisms like algae, bacteria, and viruses. Many impurities are removed during water treatment at municipal facilities.

   Water purity and safety standards are established through specific rules set by governmental authorities.

2. Is my water safe to drink?

   "Safe" is relative and depends on each individual's health condition. Municipal water reasonably contains small amounts of some impurities. As long as these remain below levels established by the EPA or PA Department of Environmental Protection, the water is considered safe for healthy people. Those with compromised immune systems or specific health conditions should consult their physicians about their water needs. People seeking additional protection from waterborne pathogens can boil their drinking water for one full minute.

3. How do I determine the quality of my water?

   At Pennsylvania American Water, we routinely sample and analyze source water, monitor treatment processes, and test distribution systems to ensure compliance with all state and federal drinking water standards. Water Quality Reports are distributed annually to our customers. Those wanting additional testing may have their water analyzed by a state-approved laboratory at their own expense.

4. Where can I get my water tested?

   Customers can choose to have water tested at their cost through a DEP-approved laboratory. These private facilities collect and analyze samples for fees that vary by test type. Samples should only be taken under their guidance. A list of approved drinking water labs can be found on the PA Department of Environmental Protection website or in your telephone directory.

5. Why should chlorine be added to the water?

   Chlorine is added for consumer safety as a disinfectant that provides continuous protection against microbial contamination. Regulations require minimum chlorine residual throughout the distribution system. Consequently, residents closest to the treatment facility may experience higher chlorine levels. For more information about chlorine in drinking water, view our Chlorine Fact Sheets for Groundwater and Surface Water.

Common Water Issues:

• White or cloudy water: Usually caused by tiny air bubbles in water, similar to carbonation in soda. When you turn on your tap, pressure releases, creating bubbles. This occurs more frequently in winter when cold water enters heated homes. If you let the water stand, bubbles will rise and clear from bottom to top. This harmless phenomenon is called entrained air.
• Blue water: Toilet bowl disinfectant can discolor tap water if your home's water supply was recently interrupted, potentially causing back-siphoning from toilet tanks. This creates conditions where colored water enters your plumbing system.