FAQ's
While many people are aware of the serious health risks that the inhalation of asbestos, lead, and other contaminants may induce, many more people don't know the health hazards contaminants pose to many North Americans' drinking water.
Contaminants in water can cause a wide range of problems. For example, lead found in water can impair the mental and physical development of children and can cause high blood pressure and hearing damage in adults. Asbestos, which was commonly used to strengthen concrete water pipes, can still be found in drinking water across Canada and the United States and can cause several types of cancers, including mesothelioma and colon cancer.
What's the solution?
A good first step is to contact your local health or environmental department or your municipal water provider. Your area health department can advise you about the types of contaminants that may exist in your area, and your municipal water provider is required to test its supply and report its findings. Another step is to test your home's water supply, though such tests can be costly and may only indicate what's in your water today—not what may be in it six months or a year from now.
For many, the simplest, most affordable solution is to install a residential water filtration system, either under counter or whole house, certified to filter all types of contaminants. Always look for third party certification, such as NSF, WQA, UL or CSA.