Germs That Can Contaminate Tap Water

When you think about getting sick, you probably think about catching a cold from someone else or getting food poisoning, but tap water should be on that list; yes, tap water. If your home or business uses well water, there are germs in your tap water. Even water that has gone through a treatment plant can still have germs. With that in mind, here is a guide to germs that can contaminate tap water and how to deal with them.

Microorganisms

Your tap water contains various microorganisms, such as protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. We should be particularly concerned about the last two, as they are harmful. 

Bacteria

Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms found in various environments, such as soil, water, and living organisms. While many bacteria are harmless or beneficial, some can cause illnesses, particularly when present in drinking water. Bacteria, such as E. coli or Legionella, are microscopic organisms that can multiply in water or biofilms within pipes. If consumed or inhaled, these bacteria can cause gastrointestinal or respiratory illnesses.

Viruses

Viruses are microscopic infectious agents that require a host to replicate and are much smaller than bacteria. While most viruses are harmless in water, certain types—like norovirus, hepatitis A, and rotavirus—pose significant health risks if ingested through contaminated tap water.

How Do Bacteria and Viruses Get in Tap Water?

Bacteria and viruses can get into tap water in several ways. The two most common ways are contamination of water sources, especially wells, and failures within the water treatment and distribution systems. Here are a few ways that contamination can happen.

Wastewater Runoff

Sewage and waste runoff from humans and animals can let pathogens mix into lakes, rivers, and groundwater, particularly during heavy rainfall or flooding.

Agricultural Runoff

Manure and fertilizer runoff can carry bacteria like E. coli or viruses into nearby water bodies.

Failures in Water Treatment

Failures in water treatment, such as inadequate disinfection (like chlorination or UV treatment), can fail to remove certain bacteria and viruses. Additionally, breakdowns in filtration systems may allow pathogens to remain in treated water.

Well Water

The EPA does not regulate well water, which can become contaminated by nearby septic systems, agricultural runoff, or inadequate maintenance.

What Can Be Done About Germs in Tap Water?

As you have read, bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella or viruses such as norovirus or hepatitis A can find their way into your tap water. So, how do you deal with these harmful microorganisms? Installing a water filtration system is the best way to prevent germs from getting into the water you drink and bathe with. Here is the best option:

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

RO filtration systems are highly effective at filtering harmful microorganisms out of tap water. They use a semipermeable membrane that removes bacteria, viruses, and other harmful contaminants from the water. RO is the best option for removing microorganisms from tap water. RO can also be used in conjunction with a whole-house filtration system to give you an extra level of protection against microorganisms in your tap water. 

We Can Eliminate Micro-organisms From Your Tap Water

Atlantic Coast Water Clinic can install a reverse osmosis water filter in your home to ensure that your tap water doesn’t have harmful bacteria or viruses. With a whole-house filtration system, your water will be safe, feel great, and be odor-free. If you think your family is at risk from contaminated tap water, get in touch today. We will ensure that you don’t need to worry if your tap water is safe.