Go with the flow: do you need to filter US tap water?
Experts share best practices for considering water filters – whether you’re drinking municipally treated water or relying on a well
TL;DR
- Most municipal water in the US is well-treated and safe, but contaminants like PFAS, lead, and disinfection byproducts (THMs) can be issues.
- Private wells lack federal monitoring and may be vulnerable to agricultural chemicals and naturally occurring contaminants.
- Check your local Consumer Confidence Report and consider testing your tap water if you have concerns.
- Lead pipes, especially in homes built before the 1990s, pose a significant risk, and homeowners are responsible for replacement.
- Reverse osmosis filters are effective for removing PFAS, lead, and THMs; look for NSF certification.
- Filter effectiveness depends on correct usage and timely replacement, as filters have limited capacity.
- Running the tap briefly can reduce lead and contaminant buildup in stagnant water.
- Personal health conditions may necessitate specific filtration, even for contaminants not federally regulated.