Is Atlanta Tap Water Safe to Drink?

July 5, 2024

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Ensuring safe, clean water with C&C water filtration services

Residents are right to be concerned about tap water quality in Atlanta. In fact, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), Atlanta has, at times, exceeded the EPA's Lead Action Level. The city has also been in violation of federal drinking water standards for a total of four quarters between April 2019 and March 2021. Beyond these issues, there are other contaminants in Atlanta water that are either not federally regulated, or that meet federal standards but exceed EWG standards for health and safety. Read on to learn more and find out how you can protect your family.

What substances are found in Atlanta tap water and what are their health effects?

According to the EWG, Atlanta water contains 18 contaminants, 10 of which exceed the organization’s health guidelines. Their contaminants include:

Bromodichloromethane in Atlanta tap water

Bromodichloromethane is a type of chemical that forms when chlorine used in water treatment reacts with natural organic matter in the water. This compound poses a known health risk—and is considered a carcinogen (cancer-causing) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Experts also believe it can increase the risk of liver, kidney, or central nervous system problems. Bromodichloromethane was found in Atlanta tap water at levels 128x EWG’s health guidelines.

Chloroform in Atlanta tap water

Chloroform in tap water is also a byproduct of water treatment processes. At levels that exceed guidelines, it can increase the risk of cancer and cause liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage. Chloroform was found in Atlanta tap water at levels 85x EWG’s health guidelines.

Chromium (hexavalent) in Atlanta tap water

You may know this contaminant from the true story (and movie) about Erin Brockovich, a woman who fought to uncover a company’s illegal dumping of hexavalent chromium, which contaminated a local water supply and sickened residents. This chemical is used in various industrial processes, during which small amounts can end up in the water supply. Hexavalent chromium can increase the risk of stomach and intestinal cancers and cause severe respiratory, skin, and eye irritation, plus kidney and liver damage. Hexavalent chromium was found in Atlanta tap water at levels 7.3x EWG’s health guidelines.

Dibromochloromethane in Atlanta tap water

Dibromochloromethane is a chemical that occurs in tap water—a byproduct of treatment and sanitization processes. Like Bromodichloromethane and chloroform, it has been linked to cancer, liver and kidney damage, and nervous system problems. Dibromochloromethane was found in Atlanta tap water at levels 7.8x EWG’s health guidelines.

Haloacetic acids in Atlanta tap water

Haloacetic acids (including trichloroacetic acid, and dichloroacetic acid) have been linked to liver damage and developmental and reproductive issues. They can also affect the nervous system. It is created during the water treatment process. Dichloroacetic was found in Atlanta tap water at as high as 905x EWG health guidelines.

Nitrates and nitrites in Atlanta tap water

Nitrates and nitrites can be naturally occurring in tap water or a result of human activities—including agricultural runoff, wastewater, and industrial pollution. Babies are most at risk for health effects from nitrates and nitrates, which interfere with the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Long-term exposure to high levels of nitrates has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as gastric cancer. High nitrate levels may also contribute to thyroid problems. Nitrates and nitrites were found in Atlanta tap water at 6.3x EWG health guidelines.

PFAs in Atlanta tap water

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution recently reported that the tap water in several Atlanta counties contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as Forever Chemicals. These chemicals have been linked to cancer and impaired immunity, even at low levels.

What is the source of Atlanta tap water?

Atlanta’s tap water comes from the Chattahoochee River. The water is pumped and treated before it ends up in the homes of the city’s approximately 1.2 million residents.

Who is responsible for tap water regulation in Atlanta?

The Atlanta Department of Watershed Management manages tap water in Atlanta.

The role of home water filtration systems in Atlanta

The good news is, that reverse osmosis is highly effective at removing many of the contaminants found in Atlanta tap water. Beyond removing potentially harmful chemicals, they have other benefits, including:

Water filtration delivers better-tasting water and food
Water is gentler on appliances and plumbing since water filtration “softens” water by removing some of the minerals that can cause buildup.
Whole-home water filtration systems can increase property value

So can you drink tap water in Atlanta?

Based on the above analysis, it’s probably a good idea to drink filtered water if you live in Atlanta. In addition to lapses in adherence with federal and EPA standards, several contaminants found in Atlanta tap water are either not regulated, or could still be dangerous at low levels over time.

C&C Plumbing offers the best water filtration installation in Atlanta

Need someone you can trust to install your water filtration system? We’ve got the best team in all of Atlanta! From small residential installations to large-scale commercial jobs, you’ll see the C&C difference from the moment you meet us! We’ve completed hundreds of installations with our customized design process, so we have deep knowledge and extensive skills. What’s more, we deliver value long after the installation—with lifelong maintenance and support. Learn more about water filtration in Atlanta and contact us today for a free estimate!

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How Much is a Water Filtration System?

By Casey Nelson • July 27, 2024

How Much Does a Whole-House Water Filtration System Cost? At C&C Plumbing, we believe in providing safe and clean drinking water. While prices vary and are impacted by a myriad of factors, there are plenty of budget options as well as higher-end ones, ranging from $150 – $3,500. We understand that getting a water filtration system can be a very personal thing, determined by budget, house size, and treatment type. With C&C, you can rest assured we will handle your water needs with honesty and transparent communication, providing you with what you need, nothing more, nothing less. Things to consider include model-size, and system-functions, as well as choosing a high-end model with more functions, or one with just the essential features. Whatever you choose, you can guarantee C&C Plumbing will help you find the perfect fit for you, your home, and your family. How Do You Know if You Need a Whole-House Water Filter? At C&C we believe anyone can stand to benefit from a whole-house water filtration system. We also understand there are many factors that affect water quality, making it difficult to know if you really need one or not. Some signs your home could be in need of a whole-house water filter include: Your home's water supply has a higher level of contaminants than allowed by the EPA. There are PFA chemicals in your water supply. Heavy metals such as lead and iron are found in your water. You have what is considered ‘heavy water,’ which can lead to limescale buildup in your plumbing and pipes Water Testing You can test your water with the help of an at-home testing kit, or you can skip the hassle of it all and give us a call for a consultation. Doing so not only ensures it is done properly, but it allows you to understand your own specific needs better. Let C&C Plumbing and Well Services help you with the waterworks. Type of System and Cost Whole-House Water Filtration System The average cost for a whole-house water filtration system is about $150 – $3,500, and as much as $10,000 for a high-end reverse osmosis whole-house water filtration system. Under-Sink Water Filtration System The average cost for an under-the-sink water filtration system ranges from $170 – $580. Well-Water Filtration System The average cost of a well-water filtration system can cost homeowners anywhere from $800 – $4,000 So You Need a Water Filter, How Much is a Water Filtration System A whole-home water filtration system costs as little as $850 and as much as $8,000 after installation. Price varies depending on the desired function of your water filtration system, which can include the following types of water treatment: Carbon, mineral, & sediment filters: $850-$1,400 Carbon, mineral, sediment, & UV-light filters: $1,850-$2,900 Carbon, mineral, sediment, UV-light, & water softener: $2,650-5,400 Reverse osmosis: $1200 - $1600 Reverse Osmosis Reverse osmosis removes any sediments and chlorine from your water, ensuring that the water in your home is free from salts, chemicals, harshness, and any other unwanted impurities and contaminants. Reverse osmosis is recommended for those wishing to remove any specific water pollutants, as reverse osmosis can eliminate 99% of any organic and inorganic matter found in your water. Installation With over 20 years of being in business and over 100 years of combined work experience, we make choosing and installing your whole-house water filtration system as easy as drinking water. When you make the call, we begin your journey to cleaner and healthier water by uncovering what you need and want from your whole-house water filtration system. Once your needs are understood, we design a custom water filtration system, based on your home size, shape, location, as well as other factors such as plumbing, and even local weather conditions. Once every detail of your home is taken into account, we are ready for installation. During installation, we will treat your home as if it were our own, making sure to be extra careful when accessing your home's water lines, moving furniture, and assembling equipment. Once the system is installed and finalized, we will conduct one final system flush and quality check after installation to ensure that what you asked for is what you’re getting. Once finished, you and your family are ready to enjoy fresh and safe water with your brand-new whole-house water filtration system. Call C&C Plumbing and Well Services for all your water needs. Extra Cost Factors to Consider Drywall Repairs Repairing drywall for holes made for your water filtration lines can cost anywhere from $100-$500. Modification of Countertops During the installation process, sometimes the cutting and modifying of countertops is needed in order to install a new faucet, or even a water dispenser (typically reserved for reverse osmosis). While not always necessary, if found to be needed, it can range from $50-$225. Outlet Installation Typically an outlet is required within 15ft of the tank for your whole house filtration system. If one is not there, the installation is around $150-$350. Water-Filtration System Repairs Whole-house water filtration system repairs depend on the size, model type, and specific issues found with your filtration system. While cost factors may vary, they typically range from $50-$800. Protecting your Investment Once your brand-new whole-home water filtration system is in place, we will schedule regular maintenance to ensure the safekeeping of your investment. We know how important it is to protect your loved ones, so we want to make sure you do so with our annual service. At C&C we know and understand that water and plumbing issues can be a hassle and difficult to deal with, especially on your own, with many years of experience you can rest assured we will get the job done. Trust our team of professionals to put your worries at ease. Are Whole-House Water Filtration Systems Worth It? Whole-house water filtration systems are essential in keeping you and your family’s water safe and clean. Whole-house water filtration systems can provide your home with better health, as it can remove impurities, contaminants, chemicals, semidents, and other microorganisms that can have an effect on your quality of life. Many of the contaminants found in unfiltered water can cause skin irritation, magnify respiratory problems, and other adverse effects on you and your family's health. The adverse health effects do not stop with you and your family but extend to the longevity of your home as well. In installing a whole-house water filtration system, you extend the life span of your plumbing systems and water heaters. The pesky minerals and sediments found in your water can build up over time in your appliances (dishwasher, faucet, pipes, etc.) and damage their structural integrity, costing you more money in the long run. Quality You Can Taste Cleaner water doesn't just mean safer water, but better tasting as well. With a whole-house water filtration system, you can taste the difference in flavor in your food: coffee, tea, pasta, and soups! Watch as you go from home cook to culinary expert.