Heavy metals in drinking water are among the most dangerous and persistent contaminants affecting public health across the world—including in many parts of the United States. Unlike bacteria or temporary pollutants, heavy metals don’t break down or evaporate. Once they enter the water system, they remain unless actively removed by proper filtration methods. But what exactly are heavy metals? How do they end up in our water? And most importantly, what can they do to our health? This comprehensive guide explores these questions in depth, helping families, homeowners, and health-conscious individuals understand the hidden risks in their tap or well water—and how to stay safe. ⚙️ 1. What Are Heavy Metals? Heavy metals are elements with a high atomic weight and a density at least five times greater than water. Some are essential for life in small doses, like zinc and iron, but others are **toxic even at very low concentrations**. **Common toxic heavy metals found in water include:** 🧪 Lead (Pb) 🧪 Arsenic (As) 🧪 Mercury (Hg) 🧪 Cadmium (Cd) 🧪 Chromium (Cr-6) 🧪 Copper (Cu)* (in excess) 🧪 Nickel (Ni) These metals can exist in both municipal water and private wells, and they are **colorless, odorless, and tasteless**—making them especially dangerous because they go unnoticed. 🛠️ 2. How Do Heavy Metals Get Into Water? There are several pathways for heavy metals to enter your water supply: 🏚️ Corrosion of old plumbing: Lead and copper often leach from aging pipes, especially in homes built before 1986. 🏭 Industrial discharge: Factories may release mercury, cadmium, and other metals into rivers and groundwater. 🌾 Agricultural runoff: Pesticides and fertilizers may contain arsenic or cadmium. 🪨 Natural deposits: Some metals like arsenic or iron exist naturally in rocks and can seep into well water. ⛏️ Mining activities: Areas near current or abandoned mines often suffer from contaminated groundwater. 🚨 3. Health Risks of Heavy Metals in Drinking Water Heavy metals can accumulate in the body over time, leading to **chronic and often irreversible health problems**. The danger increases with long-term exposure, even at low levels. Lead: 🧠 Damages brain development in children 🩸 Causes anemia and developmental delays 📉 Associated with lower IQ and attention problems Arsenic: 🧬 Increases risk of skin, bladder, and lung cancer 🫀 Causes skin lesions and cardiovascular disease 🛡️ Impairs immune response Mercury: 🧠 Affects kidneys and nervous system 🤰 Dangerous for pregnant women and infants Cadmium: 🧽 Causes kidney damage and bone demineralization 🧬 Linked to cancer and reproductive harm Chromium-6: ☠️ Known carcinogen (as highlighted in the Erin Brockovich case) Copper (in high levels): 🤢 Causes stomach cramps, nausea, and liver damage 📏 4. How Much Is Too Much? EPA Guidelines The **U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)** sets Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for heavy metals in drinking water: | ⚠️ Metal | 💧 MCL (mg/L or ppm) | ---------- ---------------------------------------- | Lead | 0 (Action Level: 0.015) | | Arsenic | 0.010 | | Mercury | 0.002 | | Cadmium | 0.005 | | Chromium-6 | 0.100 (for total chromium) | | Copper | 1.3 (Action Level) | | Nickel | Not federally regulated (<0.1 guideline) | 📝 **Note**: For lead, there is **no safe level**. 🧍‍♀️ 5. Signs of Contamination and Symptoms Most people don’t realize they’re consuming heavy metals until symptoms appear, often months or years later. But there are early clues: In your home: 🧂 Discoloration or metallic taste in water 💧 Blue or green stains on sinks (copper) 🧰 Frequent pipe corrosion In your body: 😩 Fatigue and irritability 🤢 Digestive issues or nausea 🧖‍♀️ Skin rashes or hair loss 🧠 Neurological symptoms in children 🔍 6. How to Detect Heavy Metals in Water You can’t see or smell heavy metals, but you can detect them through: 🧪 Certified lab testing (recommended annually for homes with wells) 🧾 At-home test kits (basic screening only) 📄 Water utility reports (Consumer Confidence Report) 🎯 Important: Test for individual metals, not just TDS. 🧰 7. Filtration Methods That Work Not all filters remove heavy metals. Look for systems certified to remove the metals present in your area. Effective options include: 💧 Reverse osmosis (RO) 🧲 Activated alumina filters (especially for arsenic) 🔁 Distillation units ⚡ Ion exchange systems 🏠 Whole-house systems (if properly designed) 🔖 Check for NSF/ANSI certification. ❌ 8. Why TDS Meters Are Not Enough TDS meters only measure quantity—not content. They do not identify which metals are present. 📊 200 ppm could mean harmless minerals—or a dangerous mix of lead and arsenic. Always test for specifics. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 9. Who’s at Higher Risk? 👶 Babies and children 🤰 Pregnant women 👵 Elderly and immunocompromised individuals 🏡 Homes with private wells 🛡️ 10. Long-Term Prevention and Peace of Mind 🧪 Test water annually 🧼 Install proper filtration 🚰 Replace old plumbing 📚 Stay informed about local risks At TSS Water & Health, we offer science-based solutions to protect your family’s health. 💧 Water is life, but only if it’s clean, safe, and free from hidden threats like heavy metals. Take the steps today that your future self and your family will thank you for. 👍 Luis Zea

More than 43 million Americans rely on private wells for their household water supply, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Well water can be a sustainable, cost-effective source of clean water—but it also comes with unique challenges that homeowners must manage themselves. If you're considering well water or already using it, this guide will help you understand the true benefits and risks, backed by science and public health data. 1. What Is Well Water? Well water is groundwater that is accessed through a drilled or dug well. It comes directly from underground aquifers and is not treated by a public water system. There are three main types of wells: ✔️ Dug wells (shallow, easily contaminated) ✔️ Driven wells (narrower and slightly deeper) ✔️ Drilled wells (most common and deepest) 2. Pros of Using Well Water ✔️ Independence from Municipal Systems *No monthly water bills *Not affected by city outages or contamination events ✔️ Natural Mineral Content *Contains calcium, magnesium, and potassium *Often has a more pleasant taste than chlorinated city water ✔️ Sustainability *Using local aquifers helps reduce strain on centralized water infrastructure ✔️ Emergency Resilience *With a generator or manual pump, you still have access to water during power outages ✔️ Potential Property Value Increase *For rural areas, having a reliable private well can be a major selling point 3. Cons of Using Well Water ❌ No Government Regulation *Unlike public water, private wells are not regulated by the EPA *Homeowners are responsible for all water testing, safety, and treatment ❌ Risk of Contamination Well water can be contaminated by: *Agricultural runoff (nitrates, pesticides) *Septic tank leakage *Industrial chemicals *Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury) *Natural radioactivity (radon, uranium) EPA Tip: Test private wells at least once a year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, and other local concerns. ❌ Requires Regular Maintenance *Pump replacement every 10–15 years *Pressure tank servicing *Filter changes and water treatment upkeep ❌ Hard Water Issues *High levels of calcium and magnesium can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances *Stains on sinks and laundry ❌ Unpredictable Supply *Drought, overuse, or nearby construction can deplete your aquifer *You may need a backup water source 4. Common Contaminants in Well Water *According to the CDC and EPA, these are among the most common: *Nitrates (especially dangerous for infants) *Coliform bacteria and E. coli (from fecal contamination) *Arsenic (naturally occurring in rocks) *Lead and copper (from plumbing materials) *Iron and manganese (cause staining, not usually health risks) 5. Testing Well Water: What You Need to Know How often? *Annually for bacteria and nitrates *Every 3–5 years for heavy metals and other contaminants Where to test? *Use a state-certified lab—DIY kits are only screening tools What to test for? *Total coliforms *Nitrates/nitrites *pH, hardness, iron *Lead, arsenic, and other metals *Radon (in some areas) 6. How to Treat Well Water Effectively Treatment depends on the problem, but common systems include: *Water softeners (for hardness) *Reverse osmosis (RO) (for nitrates, arsenic, metals) *UV disinfection (for bacteria) *Sediment and carbon filters (for taste, odor, organics) *Iron filters (for iron/manganese) Look for NSF/ANSI-certified equipment and professional installation. 7. The Cost of Owning a Well Initial Drilling (if needed): * $3,000 to $15,000 depending on depth, geology, location Annual Maintenance: *Testing: $150–$500/year *Filter changes and servicing: $200–$800/year *Pump/equipment replacement every 10–20 years: $1,000–$3,000 Over time, well water is often cheaper—but only if properly maintained. 8. Myths and Misconceptions “Well water is always better than city water.” *False. It can be high-quality, but also more prone to contaminants. “If the water looks and smells fine, it’s safe.” *Not true. Many contaminants are invisible and odorless. “Boiling fixes everything.” *Boiling kills microbes but doesn’t remove metals, nitrates, or chemicals. 9. When to Choose Well Water and When to Avoid It Choose well water if: *You’re in a rural area without municipal access *You’re willing to test and treat your water regularly *You want more control over your water source Avoid relying solely on well water if: *Your area has known contamination risks (e.g., industrial or mining zones) *You cannot afford regular maintenance 10. Final Tips for Well Owners *Create a testing schedule and stick to it *Keep a log of repairs, filter changes, and water test results *Consider whole-house treatment if contaminants are widespread *Educate everyone in your household about water safety 💧 Closing Thought Well water can be a blessing—clean, affordable, and sustainable. But it requires responsibility, testing, and smart filtration to keep your family safe. If you own a well, take pride in it—and take care of it. 👍 Luis Zea

When you're a new mom, everything revolves around keeping your baby safe, healthy, and happy. From the diapers you choose to the water you use in their bottle—every detail matters. And while many parents assume that the tap water running through their homes is safe for everyday use, the truth is more complicated. Even if it meets municipal standards, tap water can contain contaminants that irritate your baby's digestive system, compromise immune function, or enter their body through the skin during baths. This blog aims to gently guide you—using real data and simple terms—through what you need to know about tap water and how it can affect your baby's sensitive tummy and body. 👶 Why Babies Are More Sensitive to Water Quality Babies are not just tiny adults. Their immune systems are still developing, and their organs, including their kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, are more vulnerable to toxins. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) : * Infants consume more water per pound of body weight than adults. * Their bodies are less efficient at filtering out harmful substances. * Contaminants like nitrates and lead pose greater risks to infants than to adults. That means the same water that seems “fine” to adults could be too harsh for your baby—especially when it’s used in formula preparation, food washing, or bath time. 🍼 Tap Water and Baby Formula: A Risky Mix? If you’re preparing powdered formula, you’re probably using tap water. But did you know: * The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using water with no more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of nitrate for mixing formula? * Some rural or agricultural areas in the U.S. have nitrate levels in water that exceed this limit. * Boiling water does NOT remove nitrates—in fact, it concentrates them. Also, municipal water may contain: * Chlorine or chloramine (used for disinfection) * Lead from old pipes * Fluoride, which is generally safe but can cause dental fluorosis if overused Real Case Example: In Iowa, where agricultural runoff is common, nitrate levels in drinking water have exceeded federal limits. A 2021 study from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that over 1,100 water systems in the U.S. had unsafe l evels of nitrates. 🍎 Washing Fruits and Cooking Baby Food: It Matters Too Even if your baby isn’t drinking plain tap water, you’re probably using it to wash fruits, vegetables, bottles, and cook baby food. Here’s what to consider: * Chlorine and chloramine can leave residues on food and alter the taste. * These disinfectants can also react with organic matter to create disinfection byproducts (DBPs), which have been linked to health risks. * Washing produce with contaminated water may reintroduce bacteria you thought you were washing away. Your baby’s gut is developing, and even low levels of contamination can lead to tummy trouble—gas, diarrhea, constipation, or fussiness. 🚿 Baths and Skin Absorption: Not as Harmless as You Think It’s easy to assume that since your baby isn’t drinking the bathwater, it doesn’t matter. But science shows otherwise. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a 2014 study in the Journal of Exposure Science, humans can absorb chemicals like chlorine and lead through the skin. Babies have thinner, more permeable skin than adults. In warm bathwater, their pores open, increasing absorption. They may also accidentally ingest small amounts while splashing. What might be present in tap water during bath time? * Chlorine * Lead (especially in homes with old pipes) * Copper * Bacteria (if municipal systems are not well maintained) * Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) Even a 10-minute bath in chlorinated water may expose your baby to more chlorine than drinking a glass of the same water. 🦠 Microbial Contaminants in Tap Water The EPA requires that public water systems meet safety standards for bacteria and viruses. However, contamination events still happen—especially after storms, floods, or pipe maintenance. Common microbial concerns include: * E. coli: Can cause severe stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in babies * Cryptosporidium: Resistant to chlorine and linked to long-lasting diarrhea * Giardia: Another common waterborne parasite Your water may test fine one week and be compromised the next. This is why some parents opt for whole-home water filtration or reverse osmosis systems. 🧪 What Can You Do to Make Tap Water Safer for Your Baby? Here are real-world solutions that don’t require panic—just informed choices: 1. Have your water tested (especially if you use a private well). * Ask for a certified lab to test for nitrates, lead, chlorine, bacteria, and heavy metals. 2. Install a water filtration system. * Point-of-use filters (e.g., under-sink reverse osmosis) can help. * Whole-home systems are best for overall protection (baths, cooking, laundry). 3. Use cold tap water and boil it when needed. *Hot tap water can dissolve more metals from pipes. 4. Avoid relying solely on bottled water. * It’s not always tested for the same contaminants. * It creates plastic waste and isn’t practical for all uses. 5. Stay informed about your municipal water quality. *Your city should publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). ❤️ Final Thoughts from a Place of Care If you're a new mom reading this, please don’t feel overwhelmed or scared. You’re already doing the most important thing: caring and asking questions. Tap water in the U.S. is among the safest in the world—but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect or ideal for a newborn’s sensitive body. Whether you’re mixing formula, bathing your baby, or preparing homemade purees, understanding what's in your water helps you make healthier choices. At TSS Water & Health, we’re here to help—not sell fear. Our mission is to empower families with facts, support, and effective water treatment solutions tailored to your home and local conditions. 👩‍🔬 Backed by Experts We’re not just technicians—we are **water quality engineers** certified in the science of clean, safe water. Our team can help you: * Interpret your local water report * Test your tap water for real risks * Choose a filtration system that meets your family’s needs 📘 Additional Resources: * CDC Safe Water for Baby Formula: cdc.gov/nutrition * EPA Tap Water Contaminants: epa.gov * Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database: ewg.org/tapwater 🩵Your baby’s future begins with the water they drink and bathe in. Let’s make sure it’s clean, gentle, and safe—together.😊 Michelle Quinteros

When it comes to drinking water, many people rely on TDS meters (Total Dissolved Solids) as a quick way to check water quality. While TDS can give a rough idea of how much dissolved material is present in the water, it does not guarantee that the water is safe to drink. At TSS, we believe that families deserve to know the full story behind the water they use every day. In this post, we’ll explain why TDS is only part of the picture—and what you really need to check to ensure your water is safe. 🧪 What Does TDS Actually Measure? TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) measures how many substances—like salts, minerals, and organic matter—are dissolved in your water. It is expressed in parts per million (ppm). While a low TDS is often linked to “clean” water, that number doesn’t tell you what’s actually in the water. For example: * 100 ppm of calcium and magnesium = generally safe * 100 ppm of nitrates or heavy metals like lead = highly toxic Yet a TDS meter would show the same number for both. TDS does not measure the identity of the dissolved solids, only their quantity. 📊 What Does the EPA Say About TDS Levels? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), TDS in drinking water falls under the category of Secondary Drinking Water Standards—which are non-enforceable guidelines for contaminants that may cause cosmetic or aesthetic effects (like taste, odor, or color). The EPA recommends a maximum TDS level of 500 ppm. However, water with higher levels may not necessarily be unsafe—it may just taste or smell unpleasant. That said, many households in the U.S. receive tap water with TDS levels between 250–800 ppm, especially in areas with hard water or mineral-rich aquifers. What’s important is that high TDS doesn’t always mean danger, and low TDS doesn’t always mean safety. A 2023 study from the National Ground Water Association found that over 25% of well water samples in the Midwest exceeded the recommended TDS levels—but only a small fraction contained harmful substances. On the flip side, water with TDS under 200 ppm was found to contain detectable levels of lead and arsenic in some urban areas. ⚠️ How Some Companies Mislead Customers Using TDS Unfortunately, some water treatment companies exploit the public's limited understanding of TDS to make misleading claims. Here are a few examples: * Telling customers that "high TDS means your water is dangerous", even if the water has safe levels of essential minerals. * Claiming that "low TDS means purity", even though water can have 0 TDS but still contain bacteria, pesticides, or chemical residues. * Using scare tactics to sell expensive systems by showing high TDS readings without explaining the source or nature of the solids. * Demonstrating TDS drops after using softeners or RO systems, without explaining what has actually been removed. This kind of marketing leads to uninformed decisions, wasted money, and in some cases, continued health risks because the real threats go undetected. At TSS, we believe in transparent education. We want our clients to understand not just the number on the meter—but what it truly means for their health. 🧴 Bottled Water and RO Systems: Why Does TDS Still Show Numbers? You might wonder: if I’m using a reverse osmosis (RO) system, why does my TDS meter still show values above zero? Here’s why: * RO membranes remove up to 95–99% of dissolved solids, but a small trace amount will usually remain. * Post-filters (like carbon or remineralization cartridges) may reintroduce healthy minerals such as calcium or magnesium, raising TDS slightly. * TDS meters also pick up harmless ions present in trace amounts. It’s completely normal for RO water to have a TDS reading between 5–50 ppm, depending on source water and filter quality. That does not mean the RO system is failing. In fact, a TDS of 10–30 ppm is generally a good sign of proper filtration in RO-treated water. ✅ What Does "Good Quality Water" Really Mean? True water quality is measured by what is and isn’t present in the water, including: * Microbiological safety: no presence of E. coli, coliforms, or viruses * Chemical safety: absence of heavy metals, nitrates, chlorine byproducts, PFAS * Balanced minerals: presence of essential minerals in safe concentrations * Pleasant characteristics: neutral pH, low turbidity, no strange odor or taste A well-balanced water sample might have a TDS of 200–400 ppm if it contains essential minerals and no contaminants. Similarly, ultra-low TDS water (under 50 ppm) might still be unsafe if microbial or chemical contamination exists. Some scientists argue that extremely low TDS levels (<50 ppm) can result in water that is too "aggressive"—meaning it may leach metals from plumbing if not properly balanced. 🔬 Tests That Truly Matter If you want to truly evaluate the quality of your drinking water, here’s what you should be testing: * Microbiological analysis (E. coli, coliform bacteria) * Chemical analysis (nitrates, arsenic, lead, fluoride, chlorine) * pH and turbidity * Hardness and alkalinity * Presence of VOCs and PFAS (forever chemicals) * Source evaluation (well, cistern, city water system) * Annual lab testing for homes with private wells or filtration systems TDS is useful, but only in context. Think of it as one puzzle piece—not the whole picture. 🧪 Real-World Case Studies Case 1: “Low TDS, High Risk”In 2022, a family in southern California had water with a TDS reading of just 72 ppm. However, a full test revealed unsafe levels of arsenic and nitrate. The water was coming from a shallow well near agricultural runoff. Case 2: “High TDS, No Danger”A household in El Paso, Texas, showed TDS levels around 680 ppm. After full testing, the water showed no microbiological or chemical contamination. The TDS came from calcium and magnesium, both of which were within healthy ranges and made the water "hard" but safe. These cases show how misleading it can be to judge water quality based on TDS alone. 📚 Frequently Asked Questions About TDS * Q: What TDS level should my drinking water have? A: Ideally between 50–500 ppm, depending on source. Above 500 ppm may taste bad but isn’t automatically unsafe. * Q: Does high TDS mean hard water? A: Often, yes. Calcium and magnesium raise TDS and make water hard—but not dangerous. * Q: Can I test for contaminants myself? A: Some DIY kits can detect chlorine, hardness, pH, or bacteria. But for full chemical safety, lab testing is best. * Q: Is zero TDS water safe? A: It can be, but water with extremely low TDS can taste flat and may leach metals from pipes if not balanced. * Q: Why does bottled water taste different from filtered tap water? A: Bottled water often has different TDS, mineral content, and pH. Some even have additives for flavor. ✨Final Thoughts A TDS meter is a helpful tool—but only as a complement, not a replacement for full water testing. Relying on TDS alone can give a false sense of security, or cause you to reject water that’s perfectly safe due to a harmless mineral content. The EPA, CDC, and WHO all recommend evaluating drinking water using microbial, chemical, and physical indicators—not just total solids. Safe water is about more than numbers—it’s about knowing what’s actually in it. 💡 Pro Tip If you use a filtration system, softener, or any home water treatment device, we recommend a professional water quality test at least once per year with a certified People. Clean water is not just a convenience—it’s a health decision for your entire family. 👩‍🔬 Backed by Water Quality Experts At TSS , we are proud to have a team of engineers specialized in water quality and certified in water treatment systems. This means our clients can count on professional support, accurate guidance, and reliable solutions tailored to their specific needs. 🩵 Your family’s water is in expert hands 👍 Luis Zea

Water is essential for life, but not all water is created equal. In Texas, where hard water is a common issue, many homeowners face challenges that go beyond just taste and odor. From clogged pipes to higher utility bills, the impact of poor water quality can be significant. In this guide, we’ll explore why water softeners are a must-have for Texas homes and how they can improve your daily life.