Common Water Quality Concerns
The most common water quality concerns are addressed below; however, if you have additional questions, please contact our Water Quality Assurance Lab (WQAL) at 614-645-7691 (8am - 4pm, Monday - Friday) or WaterQuality@columbus.gov.
Water Quality Assurance
The WQAL performs water quality monitoring and treatment research to ensure that Columbus drinking water meets or is better than all federally mandated Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) standards.
Consumer Confidence Water Quality Report - CCR
Public Utilities' customers can consume their water with confidence, knowing it meets all of the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
These human-made chemicals are applied to many products to make them waterproof, stain resistant, or nonstick. Although not required, Columbus has been testing for PFAS compounds in your drinking water to be proactive and protective of public health.
Lead in Drinking Water
The lead concentration in the drinking water leaving our treatment plants is below the level of detection. However, lead can enter the water from household plumbing and fixtures when water resides in plumbing for more than 6 hours. View FAQs, a presentation(PDF, 981KB), or a brochure "Reducing Exposure to Lead in Water(PDF, 718KB)"
Algae in Drinking Water
Algae has been a growing concern in some of Ohio’s lakes and waterways, and we want to inform our customers about the many efforts undertaken by the Columbus Division of Water to ensure water quality. Included are some frequently asked questions about Algae blooms.
Rusty Water
Rusty-brown, orange or light yellow water is normally not a health concern but one of aesthetic quality and can be caused by a variety of reasons.
Fluoride
Fluoride is added to Columbus' drinking water as required by the State of Ohio. The fluoride concentration in Columbus water has averaged 0.9 part per million (ppm), which is below the the Environmental Protection Agency's allowed limit of 4 ppm.
Cloudy Water
Cloudy water is very common in the winter & can last for quite a long time. It is usually caused by temperature changes and poses no health risks.
Water Hardness
For optimal corrosion control, Columbus softens its water on average to 120 parts per million (ppm), or approximately 7 grains per gallon.
White Particles
White or grayish particles in your water can often be be attributed to two different sources, both of which pertain to the condition of the hot water tank - there is no known health risk associated with either situation.
Pink or Dark Stains in the Toilet or on Fixtures
Airborne organisms are usually the cause. They can be reduced or eliminated with regular cleaning & proper ventilation.
Chlorinous Taste & Odor
Chlorine content is checked throughout the city daily to insure the highest quality control. Without it, the city’s entire water distribution system would become vulnerable to bacteriological organisms.
Sulfurous Taste & Odor
A rotten egg-like odor, while most unpleasant, is normally not a health concern.
Salty Taste
A salty, briny or soapy taste and/or slippery texture are commonly noted in the winter when large quantities of deicing salts are applied to roads and walkways.
Musty Taste & Odor
Occasionally Columbus water has an earthy, musty or fishy taste and odor, which may be objectionable, but poses no health concern.
Elevated Nitrate Levels
With added treatment systems in place, elevated nitrate is expected to be a thing of the past. Historically only 1 of our 3 treatment plants is potentially susceptible and elevated nitrate was an infrequent occurrence, which tends to be limited to April through July. It last occurred in June 2016 and 2015 and prior to that in May 2006. Only infants less than 6 months of age are affected by elevated levels.
Be Informed about Home Water Treatment Devices
If you choose to purchase a home treatment device, independently research the product to make sure it does what you intend it to do.
Employees Wear Photo ID Badges
If someone identifies themselves as a city employee and asks to enter your home or provide a water sample, please ask to see their employee identification. Our employees wear a photo ID badge, a city-issued uniform or shirt and would also be driving a city vehicle.