If you live in Boston, you may be wondering about the safety of your tap water. With concerns about water quality making headlines across the country, it’s important to know what’s really in your water. 

In this article, we’ll explore the quality of Boston’s tap water, including what’s in it, where it comes from, and how you can ensure it’s safe for you and your family.

Can You Drink Boston Tap Water Today?

Yes, Boston tap water is generally considered safe to drink. The city follows strict regulations from both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to ensure the water meets safety standards. 

However, like any large city, there can be occasional issues that affect water quality, so it’s important to stay informed.

Where Does Boston’s Water Come From and Who Regulates It?

Boston’s water is sourced primarily from reservoirs and lakes in surrounding areas, including the Quabbin Reservoir and the Wachusett Reservoir, both located in central Massachusetts. These sources provide the majority of the city’s drinking water, which is treated at local water treatment plants.

The Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) oversees the delivery and safety of Boston’s tap water, and they work alongside the EPA and MassDEP to ensure compliance with federal and state water quality standards.

 

What’s in Boston Tap Water: Key Minerals, Contaminants & Risks

Boston’s tap water contains a mix of natural minerals, some of which are beneficial for your health, like calcium and magnesium. However, like most urban water systems, there are potential contaminants that may be present:

• Chlorine and Chloramine: These chemicals are used in the disinfection process and can affect the taste and odor of water.
• Lead: Lead can sometimes be found in older plumbing, particularly in homes built before the 1980s. However, the city works to minimize exposure to lead.
• Microplastics: These tiny plastic particles have been detected in water supplies nationwide, including Boston.
• Nitrates: These are primarily from agricultural runoff and can occasionally be found in trace amounts.

While the water is treated to meet safety standards, understanding what may still be in your water can help you make informed decisions.

 

Boston Water Quality Reports: Results, Trends & Compliance

Boston regularly publishes an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), which provides detailed information about the water quality. The report includes data on the presence of any contaminants, their levels, and how the water compares to national and state safety standards. 

The latest reports show that Boston’s tap water consistently meets federal and state standards for safe drinking water.

 

Common Water Issues in Boston: Lead, Chlorine, Microplastics & Discoloration

Some common water issues in Boston include:

• Lead: Older homes with lead pipes or plumbing can sometimes experience lead contamination, especially if the water has been sitting in the pipes for long periods. If you live in an older building, you may want to test your water for lead.
• Chlorine and Chloramine: While these disinfectants help keep the water safe, they can affect the taste and odor of your water.
• Microplastics: Recent studies have shown that microplastics have been found in drinking water sources, though they are not yet regulated by the EPA.
• Discoloration: On rare occasions, Boston residents may notice slight discoloration in their tap water, often caused by sediment or changes in the water system. These are usually temporary and not harmful.

Differences by Region: Inner City vs. Suburbs & Aging Infrastructure

Water quality can vary slightly depending on where you live in Boston. Inner-city areas may face more challenges with aging infrastructure, especially in older buildings with outdated plumbing. 

In contrast, newer suburban areas generally have more modern plumbing systems, which reduces the risk of contamination from old pipes.

 

How to Test Your Boston Tap Water at Home

If you’re concerned about your tap water quality, you can easily test it at home. There are a variety of water testing kits available online and in stores. These kits can check for common contaminants like lead, chlorine, pH levels, and other common water quality issues. 

If you suspect something unusual, you can also contact the BWSC for additional testing or professional advice.

 

Should You Filter Boston Tap Water? Best Options & Tips

Even though Boston’s tap water meets safety standards, many residents choose to filter their water to improve taste, remove chlorine, and ensure it’s as clean as possible. Here are some popular options for filtering your water:

• Activated Carbon Filters: These are effective at removing chlorine and improving taste and odor.
• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: These systems provide a high level of filtration, removing contaminants like lead, microplastics, and chemicals.
• Pitcher Filters: A convenient and cost-effective option for improving the taste of your tap water.

If you live in an older building or have concerns about lead or other contaminants, a reverse osmosis system may be a good choice for you.

 

Tap Water vs. Bottled Water in Boston: Which is Safer?

When it comes to safety, tap water in Boston is just as safe, if not safer, than bottled water. Bottled water is not regulated as strictly as tap water, and studies have shown that many bottled water brands contain similar contaminants found in tap water. 

Plus, bottled water is not environmentally friendly due to plastic waste. Filtering your tap water at home is often the more sustainable, cost-effective choice.

 

Drinking Water in Public Places & Restaurants: What to Expect

In restaurants and public places, tap water in Boston is typically safe to drink. However, you may notice that some establishments offer filtered water or bottled water to enhance taste. 

If you’re concerned about the water quality, you can always ask for a glass of filtered water or bring your own reusable water bottle with filtered water.

 

FAQ: Safety, Taste, Filtration & Boston Water Questions

1. Is Boston tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Boston’s tap water is safe to drink and meets all federal and state safety standards. However, if you live in an older home with lead pipes, you may want to test your water.

2. What are the most common contaminants in Boston tap water?
The most common contaminants include chlorine, lead (in older plumbing), microplastics, and occasionally nitrates.

3. Should I filter my tap water in Boston?
While Boston tap water is safe to drink, using a water filter can improve taste, remove chlorine, and address concerns about specific contaminants like lead.

In conclusion, Boston tap water is generally safe and meets regulatory standards, but if you’re looking to enhance the taste or remove specific contaminants, using a filter can offer extra peace of mind. 

Whether you choose to filter your water or enjoy it straight from the tap, it’s important to stay informed and make the best choice for your health.