The Great Boston Water Debate: From Questionable Quaff to Award-Winning Aqua?
Ah, Boston. City of baked beans, boisterous crowds at Fenway, and... questionable tap water? Fear not, fellow traveler, for we shall dive headfirst (or perhaps more appropriately, straw first) into the murky (hopefully not!) depths of Boston's H2O.
Is it Safe to Drink? Don't Make Me Laugh (Unless You Spill Your Water)
Generally speaking, yes, Boston's tap water is safe to drink according to those fancy Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) folks. They have more standards than a Harvard applicant, so that's a good sign. In fact, Boston's tap water even won a national taste test in 2014, beating out New York City (cue dramatic gasp from Yankee Doodle land). So there you have it, folks. Boston water: Award-winning and (supposedly) delicious.
But Wait! There's More to the Story Than Meets the (Rusty) Pipe
Now, there are a few caveats. If your building is older than, say, Methuselah, there's a chance lead pipes could be lurking in the walls, leaching that not-so-friendly metal into your water. Not ideal for your health or your party tricks (don't even think about levitating).
Also, some folks find the taste a tad... metallic. Think "freshly minted pennies" rather than "crystal mountain stream." But hey, maybe that's your thing? No judgement here.
So, to Filter or Not to Filter, That is the Question
Ultimately, the decision is yours. If you're in a modern building and don't mind the taste, crack open the tap and guzzle away! But if you're worried about lead or just want a smoother sip, a water filter might be your best bud.
Bonus tip: Keep a reusable water bottle on hand. It's good for the environment, and let's be honest, it'll make you feel way cooler than clutching a disposable plastic bottle.
FAQ: Your Boston Tap Water Troubleshoot
How to find out if my building has lead pipes?
Contact your landlord or building manager. They should have information on the plumbing.
How to test my tap water for lead?
The City of Boston offers free lead testing kits. Check out their website for details.
How to choose a water filter?
There are many options out there! Do some research and consider your budget and needs.
How to convince my roommate that tap water is safe?
Show them this very informative (and hilarious) article!
How toCELEBRATE Boston's award-winning tap water?
Raise a glass (filled with tap water, of course) and shout a hearty "Huzzah!" Just be careful not to spill on your Red Sox jersey.
