Even though Nashville, Tennessee is consistently named one of the best places to live in the United States, it has its problems just like every other city.
According to a report by Hydroviv, there are several problems in regards to Nashville’s drinking water. Here is a closer look at what’s happening in Music City, U.S.A.
To understand what’s going on, you first need to know the source of Nashville drinking water. The city’s drinking water supply comes from the Cumberland River, which ensures a steady flow of water for the two primary filtration plants in the area: Omohundro and K.R. Harrington.
Is There Lead in Nashville Drinking Water?
Lead is entering both tap and drinking water through lead containing plumbing and lead service pipes throughout the area.
At this time, 10 percent of samples analyzed for lead are in excess of one part per billion. Although this is in compliance with current CDC and EPA standards, it doesn’t mean it’s safe.
What about Chromium 6?
As if lead isn’t bad enough, Nashville also has a problem with Chromium 6. Despite its high toxicity, the EPA does not yet regulate Chromium 6.
On average, Nashville’s water has 80 parts per trillion for chromium 6. To better understand this number, it’s roughly eight times higher than the amount of Chromium 6 known to result in a higher risk of cancer.
Disinfection Byproducts are a Problem
Disinfection byproducts, also known as DBPs, come about when chlorine-based disinfectants come into contact with naturally-occurring organic matter.
Despite a lack of regulation, the EPA understands that consuming water with DBPs increases the risk of many types of cancer, such as kidney, bladder, and liver.
Over the past few years, Nashville’s waster has tested positive for many types of DBPs, including bromodichloromethane and chloroform.
Final Thoughts
If you live in Nashville, you may have more questions than ever before about the quality of the water entering your home.
Just the same, if you live in another part of the country, you may now realize that your water may not be as safe as it should be.
If you have additional questions or concerns in regard to metro water services, learn more about the action you can take and the many ways to improve the quality of the water that enters your home.
