Whether your water comes from a public system or private well, it’s probably deemed safe for drinking, bathing and cooking. However, there are many sources of pollution that may alter the taste and smell of your water—and impact your health, as well. A quality water filter can help ensure the taste and clarity of your water—while preventing contact with dangerous contaminants and mineral pollutants like iron and sulfur.

Sources of Groundwater Contamination

• Pesticides and fertilizers: Seeping into rural water systems, common agricultural chemicals like nitrites and herbicides can taint groundwater sources with disease-causing pollutants.
• Landfills: As residents and commercial entities dispose of hazardous waste and mounds of garbage, rainfall carries soluble contaminants into groundwater systems below the dumping areas. Septic tank leaks may also endanger private and public water supplies.
• Microorganisms: In areas of high flooding and overwhelming wildlife populations, bacteria, fungi and parasites can cause groundwater pollution.
• Radon: A color and odor-free gas, radon is produced through the breakdown of uranium deposits. While small amounts of radon are present in many water sources, high levels may lead to increased cancer risks.
• Sulfur: Formed by the decay of plants and other organic materials, sulfur is not a known health hazard. It does, however, cause water to take on an unpleasant, “rotten” odor and taste. A water filter can prevent this undesirable effect.
• Iron: Leached into groundwater from rock formations and high-mineral soil, iron can also impact the taste of your water supply. While it doesn’t generally cause health problems, iron builds up on faucets, fixtures and tubs—leading to unsightly deposits that are hard to remove. When you invest in a water filter, water tastes better and kitchen/bathroom fixtures are easier to clean and maintain.

If your primary water source is a private well, it’s especially important to invest in a water filter and regularly test water for contaminants. And while public water systems have fairly diligent testing schedules, the potential for water contamination still exists. If you’re concerned about protecting your family from water pollutants and maintaining your water’s quality taste and smell, consider installing a proven water filter. A reputable filtration system can improve water quality, remove sulfur and iron, and prevent the chemical spread that may adversely affect your health and well-being.

Information paraphrased from Winnipeg.ca

Where does Winnipeg’s Drinking Water Come From?

We get our drinking water from Shoal Lake, which is located on the border between Manitoba and Ontario. Shoal Lake was chosen as the best source of water supply for our city in 1912, and that is still true today.

• Water flows from Shoal Lake to Winnipeg by gravity through a 135 kilometre long aqueduct (concrete pipe).
• The water is stored in Deacon Reservoir, a large reservoir that can hold 8.8 billion litres, enough water to supply Winnipeg for about 20 days.
• Water passes from Deacon Reservoir to three smaller reservoirs and pumping stations in different areas of the city.
• Each day, we deliver an average of 215 million litres of water to approximately 270,000 Winnipeg homes and businesses.

Is Winnipeg’s Drinking Water Safe?

The drinking water in Winnipeg isn’t any more unsafe than most areas – meaning it’s ok to drink.  However, it doesn’t always live up to guidelines for turbidity, odor, or Trihalomethanes. For a full report on Winnipeg’s drinking water quality – check out the full report.