The Problem of an Aging Water Infrastructure
Unlike many things like fine wine, good cheese, and superb art, water infrastructure does not improve with age. While an older water infrastructure may not be at the top of the current issues in the United States today, maybe it should be. Safe, clean drinking water is a precious resource and should not be taken for granted. Unfortunately, the state of a water system can compromise the quality of drinking water. 
The Extent of the Issue:
According to an article published on mercurynews.com, 850 billion gallons of wastewater finds its way into public drinking water supplies each year. The reason for this massive breach is because of inadequate or aging water systems. This amount is the equivalent of 13.6 trillion glasses. According to the EPA, the United States water systems require $500 billion for maintenance and new capital investment before 2020. With this extent of an issue, it is inevitable that some of this contaminated water will end up in our taps.
Last year, CNN published news that an average of 700 breaks in water mains occur nationwide each year. The report warned that this was an obvious symptom of an aging water infrastructure, which results in inconvenience, property loss and public health threats. According to Eric Goldstein from the National Resources Defense Council, any time the seal of the system carrying water into your home is broken, there is a risk of contamination from viruses and bacteria.
What Can Be Done?
There are several programs in place such as the Aging Water Infrastructure program, which promotes the development of new technologies and promising techniques and research to lower the cost of wastewater collection and increase its effectiveness. Obviously such a massive problem will require a great deal of investment, which will take time. Fortunately, there are certain steps homeowners can take to ensure that their water supply is safe and clean. These measures include installing a domestic water treatment system. These systems filter drinking water to remove contaminants and eliminate harmful bacteria. A good system can turn potentially contaminated tap water into clean, fresh water, safe for the whole family to drink. Although this may seem like an extravagant expense, with the frequent boil water alerts being issued around the country and concerns about water quality, this type of system can provide reassurance that you and your family are protected from the potential health hazards associated with contaminated water. These health issues can vary from gastrointestinal issues through to an increased risk of developing serious illnesses such as cancer.
If you are concerned about the immediate threat to you and your family, you should ask yourself if you are prepared to wait for the government to prioritize the immense expense needed to fix municipal systems and the aging water infrastructure throughout the country. In the current economic climate, it may not be possible for the government to completely or adequately improve the infrastructure as promptly as it is needed. So, rather than waiting around and consuming potentially harmful contaminants and toxins, you may wish to consider invest in a good quality water treatment solution.
About The Author:
Greg Scott is President of Valparaiso based Miracle/EcoWater Systems, the premier water conditioning company in Northwest Indiana serving the Lake, Porter and LaPorte County areas. A 3rd generation water treatment professional, Greg grew up in the family owned business started by his grandfather in the late fifties. He has made water treatment his life and under his direction and high-standards, the company’s water treatment experience, knowledge, and products are unrivaled in region.
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