August may be winding down, but there is still time for homeowners to observe National Water Quality Month. We all need to have access to high-quality water. Unfortunately, the water coming from your taps may not be as clean and pure as you’d like. Many municipal water supplies and even wells are contaminated with chemicals, bacteria, heavy metals, etc. In observance of Water Quality Month, we’ve put together this guide to what you can do to help keep the freshwater sources in your area clean and how to find out what’s lurking in your water.

KEEPING FRESHWATER SOURCES CLEAN

While a single household is unlikely to produce enough pollution to have a serious environmental impact, an entire community can have a huge impact. Here are just a few simple ways to decrease your family’s contribution to water pollution:

• Avoid using antibacterial soaps and cleaning products
• Never flush unwanted or outdated medications down the toilet
• Do not pour anything other than water down storm drains
• Switch to non-toxic household products
• Avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers
• Install a liner on your driveway to collect leaks before they permeate the ground.

IS YOUR HOME’S WATER CLEAN?

Your family needs clean, clear water for drinking, bathing, cooking and more. Water is a vital resource, so it’s important to know whether your supply is clean. Many homeowners are surprised to discover that the water coming from their faucets is contaminated.

If your water has an unusual taste, color or odor, you need to have it tested right away. It’s also a good idea to have your water tested if you notice any buildup around plumbing fixtures or if your appliances seem to wear out quickly. At Carter Services, we offer professional water testing services, and we will find out exactly what’s lurking in your water supply. If we find a problem, we’ll recommend a water treatment system to remove the contaminants. To request an appointment, please call (310) 872-1898.