Clean drinking water is super important, but it’s easy to forget what happens to the water after it leaves the treatment plant and before it gets to your house. A big problem is that bacteria can start growing again in the old pipes and tanks that carry water to our homes, a phenomenon called bacteria regrowth. And, even though chlorine is used to kill bacteria, it can also create some not-so-good stuff.

Aerial Photo of a Water Treatment Plant
Town Water Distribution Pipes

Why Does Bacteria Grow Back?

Even if the water is cleaned at the plant, bacteria can still find places to grow in the pipes because:

The Aging Infrastructure: Challenges in Water Distribution Pipes

While water treatment plants work hard to deliver clean water, the journey to your tap involves a complex network of distribution pipes, and these pipes can present their own set of challenges to water quality. Aging infrastructure is a significant concern, and the condition of these pipes plays a crucial role in the water you ultimately receive.

Problems Lurking in the Pipes:

  • Leaks and Cracks: Over time, pipes can develop leaks and cracks due to age, ground movement, or external factors. These openings allow contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants, to enter the water supply. Imagine a tiny hole in a straw – even a small opening can let unwanted things in.
  • Biofilm Formation: Bacteria can cling to the interior walls of pipes, forming biofilms. These slimy layers protect bacteria from disinfectants like chlorine, making them harder to eliminate. Biofilms can also harbor other microorganisms and even protozoa.
  • Corrosion: Older pipes, especially those made of metal, can corrode over time. Corrosion can release rust and other particles into the water, affecting its taste and appearance. It can also create rough surfaces that are ideal for biofilm growth.
  • Sediment Buildup: Sediment, including dirt, sand, and mineral deposits, can accumulate inside pipes, especially in areas with low flow or where the water source contains high levels of minerals. This sediment can provide a haven for bacteria and reduce the effectiveness of disinfectants.
  • Cross-Connections: A cross-connection is a dangerous situation where contaminated water can flow back into the clean water supply. This can happen if a hose is connected to a contaminated source and the water pressure drops, allowing the contaminated water to be sucked back into the pipes.

The Role of Water Storage Tanks

Water storage tanks are essential components of many water distribution systems, especially in areas with varying elevations or high demand. They act as reservoirs, ensuring a consistent water supply and maintaining adequate pressure. However, these tanks can also present unique challenges when it comes to water quality.

Potential Problems in Storage Tanks:

  • Stagnation: Water stored for extended periods in tanks can become stagnant. Stagnant water loses its chlorine residual, making it more susceptible to bacterial growth. Think of it like a pond versus a flowing river. The pond is much more likely to have algae and other things growing in it because the water isn’t moving.
  • Sediment Accumulation: Sediment, including dirt, rust, and other particles, can settle at the bottom of storage tanks. This sediment can provide a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. It also reduces the effectiveness of any remaining chlorine.
  • Biofilm Formation: Just like in pipes, bacteria can form biofilms on the interior walls of storage tanks. These biofilms protect the bacteria from disinfectants and make them harder to eliminate.
  • Temperature Fluctuations: Water temperature within storage tanks can fluctuate, particularly in uncovered or poorly insulated tanks. Warmer temperatures can accelerate bacterial growth.
  • Inadequate Turnover: If water isn’t regularly cycled through the tank, it can lead to stagnation and increased risk of bacterial contamination.
Water Storage Tank

Chlorine and Those Other Things

So, the water that reaches your house might not be as clean as it was when it left the treatment plant. Cities often use chlorine to kill bacteria. It works well, but when chlorine mixes with natural stuff in the water in the pipes or storage tanks, it creates other things called disinfection by-products (DBPs). Two examples are trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs).

Why are DBPs a Problem?

  • Health: Scientists think that being exposed to DBPs for a long time might increase the risk of getting cancer and other health problems with your liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
  • Skin and Lungs: Showering in water with a lot of chlorine can irritate your skin and eyes. Breathing in chlorine from showers can also irritate your lungs.

Location, Location, Location

If you live far from the water treatment plant, you might have more problems with your water quality. That’s because:

  • Less Chlorine (Chlorine Residuals): As water travels through pipes, the chlorine gets used up, so there’s less to fight bacteria.
  • More DBPs: The longer the water travels, the more time there is for DBPs to form.

What Can You Do?

Here are some ways to make sure your water at home is cleaner:

  • Whole-House Filter: This filters all the water coming into your house, so it’s clean for everything – drinking, cooking, and showering.
  • Shower Filter: This filter reduces chlorine and DBPs from your shower water, which is good for your skin and lungs.
  • Test Your Water: You can test your water to see if there’s bacteria or too many DBPs, especially if you live far from the treatment plant.

In Short

Water treatment plants are important, but it’s also important to know that problems can happen in the pipes that bring water to your home. Knowing about bacteria, chlorine, and DBPs can help you make sure you have the cleanest, safest water possible.

Family enjoying filtered water together

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