South Adams County Tap Water Report

by | Jan 25, 2023 | Water information

The Adams County Water and Sanitation District tap water report is a comprehensive analysis of the drinking water quality provided by the local utility company in Adam’s County. The utility details include information about the source of the water, the treatment methods used, and the contaminants that have been detected in the water.

Zip Codes in South Adams County Water and Sanitation District

The Adams County Water and Sanitation District serves the following zip codes:
80022, 80037, 80216, 80239, 80249, 80603

The source of the water is surface water, specifically the South Platte River. The water is treated with a combination of methods, including coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection with chlorine and chloramines.

Water Treatment process

The South Adams County Water and Sanitation District (SACWSD) uses a multi-step process to treat its water supply. The process begins with the intake of raw water from the South Platte River, which is then pumped to the treatment plant. The water is then screened to remove large debris and sent to the treatment process.

The first step in the treatment process is coagulation and flocculation, which involve the addition of chemicals to the water to cause small particles to stick together and form larger ones that can be easily removed. The water then goes through sedimentation, where the larger particles settle to the bottom of the tanks, and the clear water is sent to the filtration process.

The next step is filtration, where the water is passed through filters made of sand and anthracite coal to remove any remaining particles. The filtered water then goes through a disinfection process, which involves the addition of chlorine to kill any remaining bacteria and viruses. The water is then sent to the clearwells, where it is stored before being distributed to customers.

The SACWSD also monitors the water quality throughout the treatment process and performs regular testing to ensure that the water meets or exceeds all federal and state standards for drinking water.

Contaminants to watch for after treatment

The our water test indicates that there are several contaminants detected in the tap water after treatment that exceed health guidelines. Here is a list:

 

Contaminants

1,4-Dioxane
0.35ppb - Health Guideline
1.1ppb - Test Results
3.1x Over Guidelines
Bromodichloromethane
0.06ppb - Health Guideline
3.21ppb - Test Results
54x Over Guidelines
Bromoform
0.5ppb - Health Guideline
5.44ppb - Test Results
11x Over Guidelines
Chloroform
0.4ppb - Health Guideline
3.35ppb - Test Results
8.4x Over Guidelines
Chromium (hexavalent)
0.02ppb - Health Guideline
0.31ppb - Test Results
16x Over Guidelines
Dibromochloromethane
0.1ppb - Health Guideline
5.64ppb - Test Results
56x Over Guidelines
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
0.1ppb - Health Guideline
20.9ppb - Test Results
209x Over Guidelines
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
0.06ppb - Health Guideline
15ppb - Test Results
250x Over Guidelines
Nitrate and nitrite
0.14ppb - Health Guideline
5.38ppb - Test Results
38x Over Guidelines
Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
0.15ppb - Health Guideline
33.3ppb - Test Results
222x Over Guidelines
Uranium
0.43ppb - Health Guideline
10.95ppb - Test Results
25x Over Guidelines

Other Water Issues: Lead service lines

The city of Denver has been dealing with a lead pipe crisis in recent years, with thousands of homes and buildings still having lead service lines that can contaminate drinking water. The issue of lead in drinking water is not unique to Denver, as cities across the country have struggled with aging infrastructure and the presence of lead pipes.

Lead is a toxic metal that can cause a range of health problems, including damage to the brain and nervous system, as well as developmental delays in children. When lead is present in drinking water, it can leach into the water supply from lead service lines, which are pipes that connect homes and buildings to the main water supply.

Denver Water, the city’s primary water provider, has been working to address the issue by offering to replace lead service lines at no cost to homeowners. The Lead Service Line Replacement program is mandatory. Denver Water also conducts regular testing of water samples to ensure that lead levels are within safe limits.

In addition, they provide educational materials to customers on how to reduce lead exposure and they are making sure that they are in compliance with all regulations according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

Despite these efforts, hundreds of homeowners have ignored or refused the city’s efforts to remove the dangerous lead pipes. This is a concern for public health, as even low levels of lead in drinking water can have serious health consequences, particularly for children and pregnant women.

The lead pipe crisis in Denver highlights the importance of regular testing and maintenance of water infrastructure to ensure safe and clean drinking water for all residents. It also highlights the need for community education and cooperation in addressing this issue. Denver Water is working to find ways to educate the public on the dangers of lead in drinking water, and how to minimize the risk of exposure.

While the lead pipe crisis in Denver is a serious issue, it is also an opportunity for the city to invest in modernizing its water infrastructure and ensuring safe and clean drinking water for all residents. It is important that the city and its residents continue to work together to address this issue and protect public health.

Filtration Options

Recommended media:
Activated carbon, KDF, Resin, Reverse Osmosis

Short term solution:
Shower filter head, water pitcher, Reverse osmosis system.

These filtration methods are effective but will need consistent filter replacements. Those costs can add up. Additionally, this will not over the water you use to wash and clean with.

Long term/full solution:
Whole home filtration system – Check out this 7-stage whole house system that includes a reverse osmosis system under the sink.

Whole home systems will filter every drop of water before it enters the home. Not only will this protect the pipes and appliances, but it will also guarantee clean water throughout the entire house.

Solution: Schedule A Water Test

Getting a water test is a simple process that can help ensure the safety and quality of your drinking water. There are a variety of water testing services available, such as Clean Water Co.

Our company offers various types of tests, including free in-home tests, as well as full-scale lab tests that can detect a wide range of contaminants. To schedule a free test, simply complete this form.

Once you’ve scheduled the test, a representative from the company will contact you to confirm the appointment. They will come at the scheduled time to test the water straight from the faucet. With a water test, you can have peace of mind knowing that your water is safe to drink and use.

0 Comments