Types of contaminates based on water source.

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 City water is treated to meet basic safety standards leaving traces of containments.

• Chlorine & Chloramine
  Used to disinfect, but they can leave behind harmful byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs), which are linked to cancer. They also cause dry skin, eye irritation, and a chemical taste or smell.
   
• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
  Industrial chemicals from runoff and cleaning agents. Many are toxic to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, some are known to cause cancer.
   
• Pharmaceuticals
  Trace amounts of medications like antibiotics and hormones make their way into the water supply. These can disrupt hormones and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
   
• PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)
  Found in non-stick coatings, firefighting foam, and industrial waste. These chemicals build up in the body and are linked to cancer, immune suppression, and fertility issues.
   
• Fluoride
  Added for dental health, but controversial. Overexposure can lead to dental and skeletal fluorosis, and some studies suggest potential neurological effects in children.
   
• Lead & Copper
  From aging pipes, especially in older homes or infrastructure. Lead is extremely toxic — especially to children — and can cause brain damage, developmental delays, and behavioral problems. Copper in excess can harm the liver and kidneys.

 Well water comes from the earth, untreated and unregulated, it often carries contaminants that can harm your health and home.

• Bacteria, Viruses & Parasites
  Organisms like E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium can enter from animal waste or septic runoff. These can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, and serious illness — especially in children and the elderly.
   
• Iron & Sulfur
  Common in groundwater, these leave rust stains, foul odors (like rotten eggs), and can damage appliances and plumbing over time.
   
• Hard Water Minerals (Calcium & Magnesium)
  Not harmful to drink, but they create scale buildup that clogs pipes, ruins appliances, and makes soap less effective.
   
• Nitrates
  Often from fertilizers or septic systems. Dangerous for infants and pregnant women — can cause blue baby syndrome and interfere with oxygen in the blood.
   
• Arsenic & Heavy Metals
  Naturally occurring in some soil and rock layers. Arsenic is a known carcinogen, while metals like lead and mercury are toxic and can cause organ and nervous system damage over time.
   
• Sediment & Sand
  Grit and particles that wear down fixtures, clog filters, and cloud your water.