The pH of Tap Water in Gainesville, USA

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The pH value of tap water in Gainesville, USA, ranges from 8.1 to 8.9. This alkaline pH level is due to the water being sourced from the Floridan aquifer and treated with lime softening, recarbonation, filtration, fluoridation, and disinfection.

Understanding the pH Level

Although the pH level is within the acceptable range for drinking water (6.5-8.5), it is still essential to understand how it can affect your health and home. Alkaline water can have a bitter taste, which might not be appealing to some people. To balance the pH level, you can add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar to your water. However, it is crucial not to over-adjust the pH, as it can lead to other issues, such as corrosion of pipes and leaching of metals.

Contaminants in Gainesville’s Tap Water

PH of Tap Water in Gainesville, USAImage source: Flickr

Regarding contaminants, GRU’s water quality report for 2021 indicates that one sample exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM), which was 85.5 parts per billion (ppb), while the MCL is 80 ppb. Long-term exposure to TTHM can lead to health issues, such as liver, kidney, or central nervous system problems, and an increased risk of cancer.

Addressing Contaminants

To address this issue, consider using a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter, which can reduce TTHM levels and other detected contaminants, such as:

  • Bromodichloromethane
  • Chlorite
  • Chloroform
  • Chromium (hexavalent)
  • Dibromochloromethane
  • Dichloroacetic acid
  • Haloacetic acids (HAA5 and HAA9)
  • Nitrate & nitrite
  • Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
  • Trichloroacetic acid
  • Chlorate
  • Fluoride
  • Manganese
  • Monobromoacetic acid
  • Strontium
  • Vanadium

Conclusion

In summary, the pH level of Gainesville’s tap water is slightly alkaline, ranging from 8.1 to 8.9. While it is within the acceptable range, you can balance the pH by adding a few drops of acidic substances. To deal with contaminants, consider using a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter. Regularly check GRU’s water quality reports for updates on contaminant levels and potential health risks.

See also  The pH of Dissolved Water: Understanding the Importance of Water Acidity and Alkalinity

References:

  1. EWG Tap Water Database | City of Gainesville. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2024, from https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=TX0490001
  2. GRU. (2021). Water Quality Report – GRU. Retrieved April 27, 2024, from https://www.gru.com/Portals/0/GRU_2021WaterQualityReport_Final.pdf
  3. Water Quality – GRU. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2024, from https://www.gru.com/OurCommunity/Content/WaterQuality.aspx
  4. WATER QUALITY REPORT – Gainesville.org. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2024, from https://www.gainesville.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/814
  5. EWG Tap Water Database | Gainesville. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2024, from https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=GA1390001.