The pH of tap water in Flagstaff, USA, typically falls within the range of 7.5 to 8.5, which is slightly alkaline. This pH level is due to the natural geology and water treatment processes in the area. The City of Flagstaff uses a combination of surface water from Lake Mary and groundwater from the Lake Mary well field, which is treated with chlorine dioxide, coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection before being distributed to consumers.
Understanding the pH of Flagstaff’s Tap Water
The pH of water is a measure of its acidity or alkalinity, with a scale ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, while values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline or basic. The pH of tap water in Flagstaff, USA, typically falls within the range of 7.5 to 8.5, which is slightly alkaline.
This slightly alkaline pH is due to the natural geology and water treatment processes in the area. The City of Flagstaff’s water sources, Lake Mary and the Lake Mary well field, contain minerals that contribute to the water’s alkalinity. Additionally, the water treatment process, which includes the use of chlorine dioxide, coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, can further influence the pH of the final product.
Contaminants in Flagstaff’s Tap Water
Although the tap water in Flagstaff meets U.S. EPA standards for arsenic, it does contain low levels of this mineral. Arsenic is a naturally occurring contaminant in the region’s water sources and is known to cause cancer in humans at high concentrations. It is also linked to other health effects such as skin damage and circulatory problems.
Other common contaminants found in Flagstaff’s tap water include total coliform and E. coli bacteria, which can indicate the presence of more harmful organisms. However, the City of Flagstaff maintains a low risk designation for the degree to which its drinking water sources are protected, indicating that most source water protection measures are already implemented or have little impact on protection due to the hydrogeology of the area.
Balancing the pH of Tap Water
To balance the pH of tap water, home remedies such as adding lemon juice or vinegar can help lower the pH, while baking soda can raise it. However, it is essential to test the water regularly to ensure it remains within the safe pH range and to address any contamination issues promptly. Consumers can contact the City of Flagstaff’s Regulatory Compliance Manager or Water Production Manager for any questions or concerns related to their drinking water.
Filtering Tap Water in Flagstaff
For those interested in filtering their tap water, activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange filters can reduce contaminant levels, including arsenic and barium, which have been detected in Flagstaff’s tap water. Regularly changing filters and maintaining the filtration system is crucial to ensure its effectiveness in removing contaminants and maintaining a safe pH level.
Conclusion
The pH of tap water in Flagstaff, USA, typically falls within the range of 7.5 to 8.5, which is slightly alkaline. This pH level is due to the natural geology and water treatment processes in the area. While the tap water meets U.S. EPA standards, it does contain low levels of contaminants such as arsenic, total coliform, and E. coli bacteria. Consumers can balance the pH of their tap water using home remedies or install filtration systems to reduce contaminant levels and maintain a safe pH range.
References:
– City of Flagstaff. (2017). 2017 Water Quality Report. Retrieved from https://www.flagstaff.az.gov/DocumentCenter/View/51547/2017-Water-Quality-Report
– Ponderosa Utility Corporation. (n.d.). Water Quality. Retrieved from https://ponderosauc.com/water-quality/
– EWG. (n.d.). Flagstaff Ranch Water Company. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=AZ0403088
– EWG. (n.d.). City of Flagstaff. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=AZ0403008