When you turn on the tap in your Northern Kentucky or Cincinnati home, you expect clean, safe water. And while our region’s water utilities meet federal and state safety standards, that doesn’t always mean the water coming from your faucet is free from concerns. Between aging infrastructure, hard water minerals, and emerging contaminants, many local families wonder if their tap water is truly as safe and healthy as it should be.
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Where Our Water Comes From
Residents in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky rely primarily on the Ohio River, the Great Miami Aquifer, and the Licking River for their water supply. These sources are treated by utilities like Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) and the Northern Kentucky Water District (NKWD), which run extensive treatment and testing programs to keep water safe.
According to the 2022 Cincinnati Water Quality Report and NKWD’s data, both agencies consistently meet EPA standards for regulated contaminants. However, that doesn’t mean our water is free from challenges that can affect taste, safety, and long-term health.
Common Water Quality Concerns in NKY and Cincinnati
1. Disinfection Byproducts
To kill bacteria and viruses, water utilities add disinfectants like chlorine. While necessary, these can react with organic material in the water to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs), such as trihalomethanes (THMs).
Long-term exposure to high levels of DBPs has been linked to health risks, which is why utilities monitor them closely. Even when levels meet federal standards, some residents are sensitive to chlorine taste, odor, or skin irritation.
2. “Forever Chemicals” (PFAS)
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” are an emerging concern across the U.S. These chemicals don’t break down easily and have been found in rivers, groundwater, and even treated water supplies.
Cincinnati Water Works has begun monitoring PFAS levels, and while they are generally low, there’s growing evidence that even small amounts may pose long-term health risks. Since PFAS aren’t yet fully regulated nationwide, many homeowners opt for additional filtration for peace of mind.
3. Hard Water
Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati are known for hard water, caused by high levels of calcium and magnesium in the water supply. While not harmful to health, hard water can:
- Leave scale buildup inside pipes and water heaters.
- Shorten the lifespan of appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.
- Cause spotty dishes and stiff laundry.
- Dry out skin and hair after bathing.
Installing a water softener or conditioner is often the most effective solution for homeowners frustrated by hard water problems.
4. Lead Service Lines in Older Homes
One of the most serious risks comes from lead plumbing in older properties. While utilities treat water to reduce corrosion, lead can still leach into drinking water if your home has lead service lines, solder, or fixtures.
Both GCWW and NKWD provide resources for identifying lead service lines, but the responsibility for replacement often falls on the homeowner. Testing your water is the only way to confirm if lead is present in your tap supply.
What Homeowners Can Do
While local utilities do their part, many homeowners choose extra protection to ensure their water is as safe and high-quality as possible. Options include:
- Whole-home water treatment systems to reduce chlorine, PFAS, and other contaminants.
- Water softeners to eliminate scale buildup and improve taste, comfort, and appliance efficiency.
- Point-of-use filters for drinking and cooking water.
- Professional plumbing inspections to check for lead service lines or corrosion risks.
Protect Your Family with A+ Services
At A+ Services, we’ve helped homeowners across Covington, Florence, Independence, and Cincinnati improve their water quality with expert plumbing and water treatment solutions. From installing water softeners to recommending filtration systems, we provide honest advice tailored to your home’s needs.
Don’t leave your family’s water safety to chance. Schedule your water quality consultation today with A+ Services and enjoy clean, safe, great-tasting water all year long.
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