The pH value of tap water in Fairfax County, USA, typically falls within the range of 6.5 to 8.5, which is considered safe for consumption. This range is slightly higher than the pH of New York City tap water but is still within the same category. The pH level of water can vary based on the minerals present in the source waters, which in Fairfax County are the Potomac River and the Occoquan Reservoir.
Understanding the pH of Tap Water in Fairfax County
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Values below 7 are considered acidic, while values above 7 are considered basic or alkaline. The ideal pH range for drinking water is typically between 6.5 and 8.5, as this range is considered safe for human consumption and does not cause significant corrosion or scaling in plumbing systems.
In Fairfax County, the pH of tap water is influenced by the mineral content of the source waters. The Potomac River and the Occoquan Reservoir, which are the primary sources of water for the Fairfax County Water Authority, contain various minerals that can affect the pH. These minerals can include calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate, among others.
Measuring and Adjusting the pH of Tap Water
To determine the pH of your tap water in Fairfax County, you can use a home water testing kit. These kits are readily available at hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers. The testing process is straightforward and typically involves dipping a test strip into the water and comparing the resulting color to a provided chart to determine the pH level.
If the pH of your tap water is outside the recommended range of 6.5 to 8.5, you can take steps to adjust it. If the pH is too low (acidic), you can add baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to raise the pH. For every 10 gallons of water, add 1 teaspoon of baking soda, stir, and then retest the pH level. If the pH is too high (basic), you can add a few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar to lower the pH. Always remember to retest the pH level after making any adjustments to ensure the water is within the safe range.
Contaminants in Fairfax County Tap Water
In addition to monitoring the pH, it is essential to be aware of the contaminants present in Fairfax County’s tap water. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database, the following contaminants have been detected in Fairfax County’s tap water:
- 1,2-Dichloroethylene
- Tribufos
- Trichloroethylene
- Tritium
- Vinyl chloride
- Xylenes (total)
These contaminants were detected in Fairfax County Water Authority’s tap water between April 2019 and March 2021. The water utility complied with health-based drinking water standards during this period.
To address these contaminants, you can consider using water filters that are designed to reduce specific contaminant levels. For instance, activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis filters, and ion exchange filters can be effective in reducing various contaminants.
Conclusion
The pH of tap water in Fairfax County, USA, typically falls within the safe range of 6.5 to 8.5. To ensure the quality and safety of your drinking water, it is essential to monitor the pH and address any imbalances using home remedies like baking soda or lemon juice. Additionally, being aware of the specific contaminants present in Fairfax County’s tap water and using appropriate water filters can help provide clean and safe drinking water for you and your family.