Healthy Home Water Systems
(847) 748-9220
Causes & Symptoms of Poor Quality City Water
Dry, itchy skin
Hard city water, which contains a high level of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can contribute to skin problems in several ways: Dryness: Hard water can strip the skin of its natural oils. The minerals in the water interact with soap, forming a residue that can leave the skin feeling dry and tight. This can lead to irritation or exacerbate conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Increased Sensitivity: The mineral build-up from hard water can create a film or residue on the skin, making it more sensitive and prone to reactions. This can lead to itching, redness, or irritation, especially for people with more sensitive skin types. Clogged Pores: The minerals can also contribute to clogged pores. The soap residue left on the skin can trap dirt and oils, leading to acne or breakouts, particularly on the face or back. Disrupted Skin Barrier: The dryness and irritation caused by hard water can compromise the skin's protective barrier, making it more susceptible to infections, environmental damage, and further dehydration.
Brittle hair
City water often contains chlorine, chloramines, and other disinfectants used to kill bacteria and keep the water safe for drinking. These chemicals strip natural oils from your hair, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. Other factors that contribute to brittle hair from city water include: Hard Water (Mineral Buildup) – Many city water supplies contain high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals build up on hair, making it dry, dull, and prone to breakage. Chlorine and Chloramines – These disinfectants break down the natural protective layer of your hair, causing it to become dry and brittle over time. pH Imbalance – City water is often more alkaline, which can disrupt your hair's natural pH balance, leading to cuticle damage and moisture loss. Heavy Metals – Some city water supplies contain trace amounts of heavy metals like copper and iron, which can contribute to oxidative stress, weakening the hair structure.
Yucky water
City water can taste bad for several reasons, depending on where you live and how the water is treated. Here are some common reasons: Chlorine or Chloramine – Cities add disinfectants like chlorine or chloramine to kill bacteria, but they can leave a chemical taste or smell. Old Pipes – Aging infrastructure can introduce metallic flavors, especially if there are lead or iron pipes in the system. Algae and Organic Matter – Natural compounds from algae (like geosmin) can create an earthy or musty taste, especially in warm months. High Mineral Content – Some city water sources have high levels of minerals like calcium, magnesium, or sulfur, which can make the water taste metallic or even rotten-egg-like. Local Source Issues – If the water comes from a lake or river with pollution concerns, even after treatment, trace contaminants can affect taste. Fluoride Additives – Some cities add fluoride for dental health, which can slightly alter the taste. Water Stagnation – If water sits in pipes for too long, it can develop a flat or stale taste.
Appliances don't last, dull laundry and cloudy glass
City water can cause damage to your home and appliances depending on its quality. Here are some potential issues: Hard Water (Mineral Buildup) – High levels of calcium and magnesium can lead to scale buildup in pipes, water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines, reducing efficiency and lifespan. Laundry: - Makes detergents less effective, leading to dingy, stiff clothes. - Causes mineral buildup in fabrics, making them feel rough. - Leaves white or grayish stains on dark clothing. Glass: - Hard Water Stains If the water has high levels of calcium and magnesium (hard water), it can leave mineral deposits or "water spots" on glass surfaces. Over time, these deposits can become difficult to remove. - Etching and Corrosion Some city water supplies contain chlorine, fluoride, or other chemicals that can cause glass etching—a permanent, cloudy appearance. - Acidic water (low pH) can also slowly corrode glass surfaces, making them appear dull or rough. - Soap Scum Build-up When hard water mixes with soap, it can create soap scum, which clings to glass shower doors, windows, and drinking glasses. - Film and Cloudiness on Glassware If the water has high silica content, it can leave behind a white, foggy film on drinking glasses, especially after dishwashing. Some dishwashers use city water softeners that add salt, which can also leave a residue. Chlorine & Chemicals – Chlorine and other disinfectants in municipal water can corrode metal pipes and damage rubber seals in appliances over time. Sediment & Debris – Rust, sand, or other particles can clog aerators, reduce water flow, and damage appliances with filters (like refrigerators and dishwashers). Acidic or Alkaline Water – If the pH is too low (acidic), it can corrode copper pipes; if too high (alkaline), it can cause scaling. Contaminants – Some city water contains trace levels of heavy metals, lead (from old pipes), or bacteria, which can be harmful to both plumbing and health. How to Protect Your Home: Install a water softener if you have hard water. Use a whole-house water filter to reduce chlorine, sediment, and contaminants. Flush your water heater regularly to remove sediment buildup. Inspect pipes and appliances for leaks or corrosion.
Toxins, contaminants and PFA's lead to serious health risks
City water can contain toxins, contaminants, and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), but the levels vary depending on the source, treatment process, and regulations in place. Common Contaminants in City Water PFAS (Forever Chemicals) – Found in firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, and industrial waste, these chemicals persist in the environment and have been linked to health issues. Chlorine & Chloramine – Used for disinfection but can react with organic matter to form harmful byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs). Lead – Can leach from old pipes and fixtures, especially in cities with aging infrastructure. Fluoride – Often added for dental health but remains controversial due to potential risks in high concentrations. Pesticides & Herbicides – Agricultural runoff can introduce chemicals like atrazine into water supplies. Pharmaceuticals & Hormones – Trace amounts from medications and personal care products can enter water sources. Heavy Metals (Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium, etc.) – Can come from natural deposits, industrial waste, or corrosion of pipes. How Safe Is City Water? The EPA regulates many of these contaminants and sets limits for safety, but enforcement varies. Water treatment facilities filter and disinfect water, but some contaminants may still remain. Testing results are usually available in annual water quality reports (Consumer Confidence Reports). How to Reduce Contaminants in Your Water Use a high-quality filter (e.g., activated carbon, reverse osmosis) to reduce PFAS, lead, chlorine, and other toxins. Check your city’s water report to know what’s in your supply. Consider bottled or spring water if your tap water is of concern.
Advanced Solutions - Proudly Made in the USA
Master Pur 50
Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System
Best tasting water - fresh & pure Great tasting coffee and tea - just ask Starbucks! Pure water for healthy cooking: vegetables, pasta, rice, soups & more Tested and certified to NSF standards to reduce 82 toxins and contaminants
Master Soft Plus
Softens Water & Removes Chlorine From The Entire Home
Helps prevent brittle hair & dry skin; calms exzema & psoriasis Clothes and laundry stay brighter and softer Protects appliances, water heater and plumbing; extends life by 30% 15 year warranty!
Master Flo CRF
Whole Home Contaminant Reduction Filter
Removes toxins & contaminates Filters forever chemicals (PFA's) linked to kidney, liver & breast cancer Removes chlorine Prevents hard water scaling Perfect for homes with finished basements, townhouses or condos with limited space for water treatment systems No drains or electric needed
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