The pH value of tap water in Spokane, USA, typically falls within a range of 8-9, which is slightly alkaline. This is due to the presence of minerals like calcium carbonate, which does not pose any health risks but can make it difficult for phosphate-free dishwasher detergents to remove film. The water is not chemically filtered and only contains a small amount of chlorine for disinfection purposes.
The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer
The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, which serves as the primary source of water for Spokane County in Washington and Kootenai County in Idaho, is the origin of Spokane’s tap water. This aquifer has been extensively studied since 1977, leading to the development of programs and regulations aimed at preserving it for future generations.
Rigorous Testing and Monitoring
Spokane’s tap water undergoes rigorous testing, with more than 2,000 tests conducted annually for 80 contaminants to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. The City of Spokane’s Water Department maintains a 24-hour testing and monitoring system, seven days a week, to ensure the safety of the drinking water.
In 2022, the City of Spokane performed inorganic testing at the Central and Well Electric wells, revealing the following:
| Well | Antimony (µg/L) | Arsenic (µg/L) |
|---|---|---|
| Central | 1.89 | 3.68 |
| Well Electric | ND | 5.0 |
The MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level) for antimony is 6 µg/L, and the MCL for arsenic is 10 µg/L, making these the highest results for City of Spokane drinking water.
Balancing the pH Level
To balance the pH level of tap water in Spokane, home remedies such as adding lemon juice or vinegar can help lower the alkalinity. However, it is essential to ensure that the water’s pH level remains within a safe range, typically between 6.5 and 8.5.
Contaminants and Substances in Spokane’s Tap Water
When it comes to contaminants, chemicals, and substances present in Spokane’s tap water, the 2022 Technical Drinking Water Report provides a comprehensive overview of the city’s water quality. The report includes detailed information on inorganic and organic contaminants, radionuclides, radon, disinfection by-products, volatile organics, synthetic organics, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
To address these contaminants, the City of Spokane implements various measures, such as regular testing, monitoring, and adherence to state and federal regulations. For instance, the city typically has a Washington State Department of Ecology accredited laboratory run a full drinking water inorganics analysis once every three years on each of their source wells.
References:
– Reddit discussion on Spokane tap water
– City of Spokane Water Quality information
– 2022 Technical Drinking Water Report
– Inlander article on Spokane tap water
– EWG Tap Water Database for Spokane