How to Check the Quality of Your Drinking Water: Ensuring that your tap water is safe to drink is essential for maintaining good health. Clean drinking water should be clear and free from any unusual smell. If you notice any changes in the appearance, taste, or odor of your water, it’s important to take action. This article will guide you on how to check your water quality, where to seek advice, and what to do if you face issues with your water supply.
How to Identify Unsafe Drinking Water
Your drinking water should be:
✔ Clear and free from particles or cloudiness
✔ Odorless or with a mild chlorine smell (common in treated water)
✔ Free from an unpleasant or unusual taste
If your water appears discolored, has a strong smell, or tastes strange, it could indicate contamination. In such cases, you should immediately report the issue.
Where to Get Water Quality Advice
Sometimes, changes in water taste or smell are harmless, but they can also indicate a problem. The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) provides guidelines on water quality and offers advice to consumers. You can visit their website for detailed information and download leaflets that explain different water-related issues.
If you are worried about your tap water, follow these steps:
- Check if your neighbors are experiencing the same issue.
- Run the tap for a few minutes to see if the problem clears.
- Contact your water supplier for further assistance.
Reporting Problems with Your Water
If you suspect a problem with your drinking water, you should report it immediately. Here’s how you can do it:
For Homes with a Public Water Supply
- Find your water company’s contact details on your water bill.
- Check online for the customer service number of your water provider.
- If it’s an emergency, look under the “Water” section in your telephone directory for immediate assistance.
For Homes with a Private Water Supply
If you get water from a private source, such as a well, borehole, or spring, you should report any water quality concerns to your local council’s environmental health department. You can find contact details for your local council online.
How to File a Complaint Against Your Water Company
If you have reported an issue to your water company but are unsatisfied with their response, you can escalate the complaint.
Steps to Complain About Your Water Supplier
- Contact the Water Company Again – Sometimes, issues take time to resolve, and following up can help.
- Reach Out to the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) – If your complaint is not resolved, contact the DWI, which oversees drinking water standards in the UK. They can investigate water quality concerns and advise on further actions.
- Seek Help from Consumer Organizations – In some cases, organizations like Citizens Advice or Ofwat (the water industry regulator) can assist if the issue is related to billing or customer service.
Drinking clean water is crucial for your health. If your tap water looks cloudy, smells odd, or tastes unusual, don’t ignore it—contact your water provider immediately. For private water supplies, report concerns to your local council. If you’re not satisfied with the response from your water company, you have the right to escalate your complaint to the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Ensuring safe drinking water is a shared responsibility, so always stay informed and take action when needed.
FAQ
How can I tell if my tap water is safe to drink?
If your water is clear, odor-free, and tastes normal, it’s likely safe. If you notice discoloration, a bad smell, or an unusual taste, report it to your water provider.
Who should I contact if my tap water looks dirty?
For public water supply issues, contact your water company. If you have a private supply (well, borehole, or spring), report it to your local council.
What should I do if my tap water smells bad?
Run the tap for a few minutes to see if the smell clears. If the problem continues, contact your water supplier for assistance.
Can I complain if my water company does not resolve the issue?
Yes, if your water company does not resolve the issue, you can escalate the complaint to the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI).
Is bottled water safer than tap water?
In most areas, tap water is as safe as bottled water. However, if you are concerned about your water quality, you can use a filter or opt for bottled water temporarily.