Determining the best water source for your household depends on your location, budget, and family needs. Both city water and well water have a variety of benefits as well as disadvantages. There’s no clear winner between them, making it a personal choice based on your preferences and safety concerns. Here’s what you need to know about city water and well water.
Pros of City Water
Homes that use city water are connected to the city’s main water line. This option charges you a monthly utility cost based on your meter reading. City water is treated at large public water treatment plants that then transport the water via underground pipelines. This water is treated with fluoride, chlorine, and other chemicals to minimize the spread of bacteria and contamination. Nutrient-rich minerals removed during the filtering process are also added back to benefit your health.
City water is available in most places in the country. It is regularly tested to uphold the safety standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The quantity and quality of this type of water is the responsibility of your city or state. City water testing is completed regularly, with results made available to the public. Users are even welcome to ask the city to test the water more frequently if there are safety concerns.
Homeowners often prefer city water as it tends to be more predictable than well water. You don’t have to worry much about unsafe chemicals making their way into your plumbing.
Cons of City Water
While city water is convenient, it’s not the freshest option. This type of water is collected from surface water sources and runoff, meaning it has typically been in contact with more contaminants than well water. It’s run through extensive filtration systems, which take time to process and further lessen the water’s freshness.
City water is typically the more expensive option. Cities can raise the cost depending on local quantity and the overall expense of the filtration process. Human beings need water to survive, making it one of the most important and valued resources available.
While city water is strictly filtered per EPA standards, it’s still possible to experience large-scale contamination. Natural disasters like floods or chemical leaks can dramatically compromise an area’s water supply, causing damage to pipes, water treatment facilities, and other equipment. You may be advised to restrict your water use or boil all water before consumption. Your city may even need to shut off your water for emergency treatment or due to low water reserves. This can leave you without water for hours if not days or weeks in some circumstances.
Pros of Well Water
On a monthly basis, well water requires significantly fewer costs than city water. After calling in an expert to dig the underground aquifer, water will be pumped into your home on command. These systems can be used alongside private septic systems or connected to city sewer lines. Some insurance packages even include wells and will help pay when they dry up or are damaged.
You’re not charged when you use water from your well. You’ll also enjoy fresher and more natural water full of nutrients and minerals. This water hasn’t been processed or changed on its way into your home. Water high in minerals also often tastes better than filtered city water and is healthier for your body.
Well water systems are usually protected from widespread disasters that impact city water lines. They’re dug far enough down that only substantial emergencies can affect them. This ensures your drinking water supply stays safe.
Cons of Well Water
If you’re interested in well water, you need to be prepared to schedule regular water quality testing. The quality and quantity of your well water are entirely your responsibility. Since your well is privately owned, you’re also responsible for all professional maintenance and repair needs. You’ll have to call for professional service or additional drillings with your local plumbing company when necessary.
Just like with city water, well water can also become contaminated. Animal waste, fertilizer storage, petroleum tanks, and more can leak into your aquifer and impact its overall safety. Chemicals, radiation, and sewage are common issues that may contaminate your well water and make it unsafe to drink. Industrial runoff can leak iron, lead, arsenic, and radon into your well. Frequent bacterial infections may indicate service is needed immediately to correct any internal damage or leaks.
It’s also important to note that modern well systems require electricity to pump the water out. If you lose power during a natural disaster, your water may be safe, but you won’t be able to access it. Consider having alternative power supplies like solar panels or generators nearby.
Finally, well water systems can run out of water during local droughts or due to underground changes. One of the best ways to restore your well is to dig deeper. This process will come with additional labor and supply costs. Relying on an expert plumbing team to install your well ensures its depth doesn’t become a problem in the future.
Water Safety Options
Both city water and well water are susceptible to contamination and an overabundance of minerals. Hard water issues can create problems with your plumbing over time, making more frequent repairs and cleanings necessary.
No matter what type of water you have, you can install filtration systems to boost your water’s safety and quality. Water softeners can be used to minimize damage throughout your home. Whole-home filtration systems will remove excess minerals and sediment, ensuring your household is safe. There are even filtration systems unique to well water systems that will ensure your water is always safe to drink and use.
It’s never too late to start improving your home’s water quality. Direct all your questions concerning city water or well water options to your local plumbing company. Experienced plumbers know how to evaluate your property and determine the best water option based on your location and needs. They’ll also be able to offer water quality services that protect your health and daily convenience.
Superior Indianapolis Plumbing Team
Cooper’s Water is the best plumbing service company in Indianapolis, IN and the surrounding communities. We’ve offered helpful plumbing solutions to local families since 1980. Our team strives to provide the best results possible through honest and efficient work. We’re also a trusted member of the Water Quality Association and uphold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. All of our plumbers are extensively experienced and have access to ongoing training to continually improve their skills.
Let Cooper’s Water service your water heater, clean your drains, or inspect your septic system. We’re ready to repair or install your water softener, conveniently deliver softener salt, and provide water filtration systems. Our plumbing team works as quickly as possible to determine the issue and provide cost-efficient solutions. We also have experience improving hard water issues that are so common in Indiana homes. Rely on us to offer free estimates and informative water analysis. Call Cooper’s Water today to take advantage of our exceptional plumbing expertise in Indianapolis.
