The city of Renton released their annual Water Quality Report as required by the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act. In the report, it details the four main sources of Renton’s drinking water supplies and what minerals or chemicals are present in each. Over half of the city’s drinking water comes from a wellfield of six wells in downtown Renton. These wells obtain their water from the Cedar Valley Aquifer and produce water that requires very little treatment. Though the water is very clean naturally, chemicals are added during the treatment process. Chlorine is normally added due to its ability to eliminate harmful viruses, bacteria, or parasites that could potentially find its way into the water source. Other chemicals such as ortho-polyphosphates and sodium hydroxide are added to the water as a preventative measure for household plumbing systems.
Almost every household in Renton has a plumbing system and these systems are made up of various plumbing parts. Many of these parts are created with materials that will deteriorate or wear down over time, especially when they come in contact with constantly flowing water. One of the most common types of material used in modern plumbing is metal and it is particularly susceptible to corroding when it’s exposed to water.
The infrastructure for cities like Renton was established long ago, and metals such as copper, lead, and iron were often the most prominent plumbing materials used. One neighborhood in Renton still uses cast iron water mains and in order to protect them and reduce corrosion, ortho-polyphosphate isÂ
added. Similarly, sodium hydroxide is added to the water supply in order to increase the pH levels of the water and make it less corrosive to our plumbing systems.Â
Corrosion of plumbing systems can lead to higher quantities of lead in the water supply which can in turn affect your health if it is consumed. While the city does its best to prevent corrosion and routinely tests the water to check lead levels, homes with older plumbing and fixtures are advised to monitor their systems and get necessary services as needed. For homeowners concerned about the possible corrosion of their household plumbing, they can schedule an appointment with a plumbing company that offers services like pipe repair, water line repair, or sewer line inspections.Â
Trusted Plumbing & Heating are the number one plumbing company in Renton. Our plumbing team has over 35 years of experience and we offer full repiping services for homeowners looking to update or modernize their plumbing systems. Call us today to learn more about these services!