To Filter or Not to Filter: The Great NYC Tap Water Debate
New York City. The concrete jungle where dreams are made of and rent is enough to make you weep. But what about the water that comes out of your tap? Is it really the elixir of life or a chemical cocktail waiting to happen? Let's dive in!
NYC Tap Water: The Champagne of Waters?
They say NYC tap water is like champagne - except without the bubbles and the price tag. It’s true, the city boasts a sophisticated water treatment system that rivals some of the world's finest distilleries. But let's be real, this isn't a glass of bubbly you're sipping. It's hydration, plain and simple.
So, should you filter it? Well, that depends on how much you trust the city's infrastructure and how paranoid you are.
The Case for Filtering
- Old Pipes, New Worries: NYC has a love affair with old buildings. Unfortunately, these charming old structures often come with equally charming old pipes. Lead poisoning, anyone? While the city is working to replace these water-carrying dinosaurs, it's a slow process. A filter can help to remove lead and other nasties that might be lurking in your pipes.
- Taste is King: Even if your water is chemically sound, it might taste like a chlorine party. A filter can help to improve the taste and odor of your water, making it more enjoyable to drink.
- Microplastics: The Invisible Threat: Microplastics are those tiny plastic particles that are basically everywhere. They've been found in our oceans, our food, and, you guessed it, our water. While the long-term effects of microplastic consumption are still being studied, some people prefer to err on the side of caution and filter their water.
The Case Against Filtering
- Cost: Filters can be expensive, both in terms of the initial purchase and the ongoing replacement of cartridges.
- Environmental Impact: While filters can remove contaminants, they also generate waste in the form of used cartridges.
- NYC Water is Actually Pretty Good: The city conducts rigorous testing of its water and meets or exceeds federal and state drinking water standards.
Ultimately, the decision to filter your NYC tap water is a personal one. If you're concerned about lead, taste, or microplastics, a filter might be a good investment. But if you're happy with the taste of your water and trust the city's treatment process, you might be perfectly fine without one.
How to...
- How to choose a water filter: Consider your budget, the type of contaminants you want to remove, and the filter's flow rate.
- How to install a water filter: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Most filters are relatively easy to install.
- How to maintain a water filter: Replace filter cartridges according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- How to know if your water filter is working: Test your water quality before and after installing the filter to see if there's a difference.
- How to save money on water filters: Look for generic or reusable filter options.
