Water quality is crucial for every home
Americans enjoy one of the best supplies of drinking water in the world, due in large part to strict regulations and standards.
Even so, a water system may meet all of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) safe water standards and still have problems consumers might find objectionable.
Some homes may suffer from a type of correctable water problem that is not regulated. Each problem can bring its own unpleasant effects into a home. Rusting and corroded pipes, clothing stains, bad-tasting and smelling water, and higher water heating bills are a few of the possible results of problem water.
Many consumers do not realize that water problems can be solved in their home at the point of use or point of entry. Point of use (POU) refers to water quality improvement equipment which can be installed in water faucets or in pitchers/ containers filled with water, usually for drinking and cooking. Point-of-entry (POE), often called “whole house” treatment, refers to water quality improvement equipment that can be installed where the water enters the home or business. Finding the solution for a drinking water problem or discovering the ideal water quality “fit” for personal needs can be simple with the proper information. Reputable water purification businesses can assist, but it is also important to avoid scams. If you have any reason to suspect your water supply is contaminated, first contact your state officials. They have the most direct enforcement authority over water systems. Calling the EPA Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or visiting www.epa.gov/ safewater/dwinfo.htm can get you state program contact information.
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas also offers the following information to avoid water filter fraud. A red flag should go up any time a salesperson or telemarketer suggests any of the following:
• The water in your area is contaminated. Some unscrupulous dealers or salespeople may suggest that water in your area contains dangerous impurities such as lead or pesticides. If you do have any reason to suspect that your local water supply is dangerous, first call the EPA’s safe drinking water hotline at 800-4264791.
• Their water-filtration products are certified or recommended by the U.S. government. Fraudulent sellers use many sales techniques. Some claim certain government agencies require widespread use of purification systems. Others claim the government has approved a particular method for in-home water testing. Still others claim the government has approved or licensed a particular water treatment unit or purification system.
• An offer for an in-home test to check the safety of your water. In-home water tests can often be used to create a false impression that you must purchase a water filter to protect your and your family’s health.
• Their company’s water filter doesn’t require maintenance. All water filtration devices require some form of maintenance, although it may be as simple as the occasional filter change.
• Their water filters remove all known contaminants. No water purification device can take out every contaminant known to man.
• You have won a prize but you have not entered any contest. Some sellers will suggest that you have won a free gift or a prize, and that you must buy a water filter in order to be eligible to redeem the prize. After inquiring about your prize, you may find that the water filtration device costs hundreds or thousands of dollars, while the prize you “won” may be worth very little.
If you are a victim of a water-filter scam, you may file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau at BBBHouston.org or the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov. Also, check out any company first with the Better Business Bureau to read complaints and customer reviews before you hire them.