Seasonal Water Quality Concerns: What to Watch For

As the seasons change, so too can the quality of your water supply. From increased runoff during heavy rains to changes in water temperature during the summer months, various factors can affect the safety and taste of your drinking water.
In this article, we’ll explore common seasonal water quality concerns and provide practical tips on what to watch for to ensure your water remains clean, safe, and refreshing all year round.
Spring Thaw and Runoff
With the arrival of spring, melting snow and ice can lead to increased runoff, potentially carrying pollutants into local water sources. This runoff may contain sediment, debris, pesticides, and fertilizers from lawns, farms, and roads, all of which threaten water quality.
Keep an eye out for changes in water clarity, unusual odors, or an earthy taste in your drinking water. These can be indicators of increased sediments and contamination from runoff.
Tip: Consider installing a Reverse Osmosis system with a sediment filter or investing in a comprehensive water filtration system to remove contaminants from your water supply.
Summer Algal Blooms
Warmer temperatures and nutrient-rich runoff can promote the growth of algae in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs during the summer months. While not all algae are harmful, certain types, such as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that pose health risks to humans and animals.
Be on the lookout for the presence of green, blue-green, or red algae blooms in bodies of water near your home. These blooms can produce foul odors and discoloration in the water, indicating potential toxin production.
If you rely on surface water sources for drinking water, consider using a water filtration system with advanced filtration technologies to effectively remove algae and their toxins.
Fall Leaf Litter and Organic Matter
As autumn sets in, falling leaves accumulate in gutters, storm drains, and waterways, contributing to the buildup of organic matter. Decomposing leaves release organic compounds into the water, which can affect its taste and odor.
Pay attention to any changes in the taste, odor, or color of your water, especially after heavy rainfalls. Increased levels of organic matter can lead to unpleasant smells and flavors in your drinking water.
Take proactive measures such as regular gutter cleaning, debris removal from storm drains, and mesh covers over rain barrels to prevent leaves and organic matter from contaminating water sources.
Winter Chlorination
During the winter months, water treatment facilities may increase the use of chlorine and other disinfectants to combat microbial growth in cold water pipes. While effective at killing bacteria and viruses, excessive chlorine levels can lead to unpleasant tastes and odors in your drinking water.
Be alert for strong chlorine odors or a medicinal taste in your water, particularly during periods of cold weather. These symptoms may indicate higher levels of chlorine.
To guard against the risks of high chlorine concentrations, consider installing a carbon filter or activated carbon pitcher to remove excess chlorine and improve the taste and odor of your water.
Differences Between Public Water and Well Water
It’s important to note that water quality concerns can vary depending on whether you rely on public water or well water for your household supply.
Public water systems are regulated by local authorities and undergo regular testing and treatment to meet safety standards. However, contaminants can still enter the water supply through aging infrastructure or environmental factors.
Well water, on the other hand, is sourced directly from underground aquifers and is not subject to the same regulations as public water systems. While well water may be naturally filtered through layers of soil and rock, it can still be susceptible to contamination from nearby sources such as septic systems, agricultural runoff, or industrial activities.
If you rely on well water, be proactive about testing and monitoring its quality regularly. Common contaminants in well water include bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, and pesticides. A water testing kit or a professional well water testing service can help you identify any issues in your supply.
Consult a Professional
We understand the importance of monitoring water quality year-round to ensure the safety and enjoyment of your drinking water. At NH Tap, our comprehensive water testing services can identify potential contaminants and provide recommendations for improving water quality.
We conduct thorough, onsite assessments and collect water samples at New Hampshire homes to zero in on your unique set of environmental factors, threats, and seasonal changes. Then, we make recommendations based on our assessment and the lab test results. By pairing our water testing and filtration services, you benefit from a system that accounts for every contamination threat.
Conclusion
Seasonal changes can bring about shifts in water quality that may affect the safety and taste of your drinking water. By staying vigilant and monitoring for common concerns such as runoff, algal blooms, leaf litter, and chlorination, you can protect your health and well-being throughout the year. With NH Tap as your partner in water quality monitoring, you can relax knowing that your water is clean, safe, and refreshing, no matter the season.
Stay ahead of seasonal water quality concerns with NH Tap’s professional water testing services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take proactive steps towards clean, safe water in your home.
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