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Can drinking water be safe in one area of a community water system and not in another area of the same community?

Last Updated: August 05, 2010

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All drinking water must meet the same federal and state requirements. In cities with a single source of water, everyone's water gets the same attention. Some communities have more than one source, so different parts of town get a different quality water, but all the water must be safe to drink. The condition of the pipes and the flow patterns of water may be different in different areas. This may cause some differences in water quality, although it does not affect water safety. A water utility will flush pipes periodically to keep the distribution system clean. This practice may cause a temporary change in water quality. If you notice a change in water quality, you should notify your water supplier immediately. An individual's home water system (pipes, tanks) could effect drinking water quality but would be the responsibility of the homeowner.

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