Tap water pipes are generally clean and continuously sanitized, but they are not sterile. Water utilities add low levels of chlorine or chloramines to kill bacteria, and maintain constant pressure to keep contaminants out. However, as water sits in your home's plumbing, it can pick up metals or accumulate bacteria.
Tap water is not germ-free
These germs are generally at levels that are safe to drink, but may not be safe for other uses, like nasal rinsing. Germs can sometimes enter the water pipes in your home when the flow of water gets disrupted, like when water pipes break or your utility makes repairs to the water system.
There is no single state with universally the "worst" tap water, as quality varies by utility. However, based on high contaminant counts, EPA violations, and population exposure, Texas and New Jersey consistently rank at the bottom.
For most people, tap water is just as safe as bottled water—and often even safer. Tap water is strictly regulated by the EPA, which requires continuous testing and public reporting. Bottled water is regulated by the FDA, which tests for fewer contaminants and does not require public water quality reports.
Copper pipes are popular for both hot and cold water pipes because they are heat resistant, resist corrosion, and have natural anti-microbial properties. They are more expensive than plastic pipe options.
PMRs for malignancies of the stomach, kidney, brain, and lymphopoietic system were also elevated, especially among plumbers. Chronic rheumatic heart disease, emphysema, liver cirrhosis, and all external causes of death were the major non-cancer causes with significantly elevated PMRs.
Leaks and Fittings Issues
PEX plumbing uses fittings and connectors that are typically made of plastic or metal. Over time, these fittings can loosen, leading to leaks. Problems can arise with crimp rings, as improper use of a crimping tool can weaken the joints.
Cardiologists warn against drinking from plastic bottled water primarily due to microplastics, nanoplastics, and chemical additives. These contaminants are shed from the bottles themselves and can directly impact your cardiovascular health.
For the safest bottled water, look for distilled or heavily reverse-osmosis (RO) purified waters (such as Glaceau Smartwater) or brands packed in glass or aluminum rather than plastic. These options reduce the risk of chemical leaching (like PFAS and microplastics) associated with traditional single-use plastic bottles.
Filtered Tap Water: Drink it, cook with it.
Carbon filters (pitcher or tap-mounted) are affordable and reduce many common water contaminants, like lead and byproducts of the disinfection process used to treat municipal tap water.
Tap water quality varies significantly across the U.S. based on industrial runoff, aging infrastructure, and chemical treatments. Cities with the worst tap water often feature high levels of contaminants like PFAS, lead, or radioactive byproducts.
Boiling is the most effective way to kill waterborne parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (or 3 minutes if you are above 6,500 feet).
No U.S. state completely bans or prohibits drinking tap water. However, all tap water contains varying levels of contaminants. Several states face significant water safety or quality concerns—ranging from aging lead pipes to agricultural runoff—making certain municipal or rural supplies unsafe or unpalatable without filtration.
The 10-gulp rule is a hydration habit designed to help you easily meet your daily water intake goals. The rule is simple: Every time your water bottle or glass touches your lips, take exactly 10 large gulps before putting it down.
The most bacteria in a house is found in the kitchen, not the bathroom. The combination of moisture, food particles, and frequent hand contact makes this area the ideal breeding ground for germs, regularly harboring more bacteria than a toilet seat.
3 Plumbing Pipe Materials You Don't Want In Your Home
The top 5 bottled waters include:
Leading Brands Offering Microplastic-Free Options
While tap water is generally safe to drink, it may contain trace amounts of chlorine, fluoride, and other substances that can affect its taste and odor. Aquafina, on the other hand, undergoes a rigorous purification process that removes these impurities, resulting in water that is consistently pure and refreshing.
The #1 worst drinks for your heart are sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), such as regular sodas, sweetened fruit juices, sports drinks, and energy drinks. Cardiologists and medical bodies consistently rank these highest in danger due to their ability to drive up inflammation, blood pressure, triglycerides, and heart disease risk factors.
Bottled Water Can be Contaminated
Most bottled water is likely safe. However, the bottled water industry does not have a perfect track record. An article from CBS.com states there have been more than 100 recalls of bottled water. The article lists common water contaminants like algae, types of bacteria, and chlorine.
Cardiologists consistently advise avoiding processed meats (bacon, sausage, hot dogs), sugary drinks (soda, sweetened coffee), and fried foods (french fries, fast food) to protect heart health. These items are high in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars, which elevate blood pressure, raise bad cholesterol (LDL), and promote inflammation.
Did you know that PEX piping is used in about 60% of new construction projects to date? This makes it a prevalent material used in new buildings.
In plumbing, the "135-degree rule" is a code standard that dictates how much a horizontal drain pipe can bend or change direction. It limits the total cumulative angle of pipe fittings before a system requires an access point (cleanout) or must be vented, ensuring proper flow and preventing chronic clogs.
Effects on Metal and PVC Pipes
While harmless for most metal and PVC pipes, prolonged exposure to the acidic nature of vinegar might corrode certain metals, like copper. PVC pipes, on the other hand, can withstand these substances without damage.