Water Quality Q and A

What is pure water?

Pure water means different things to different people. We know that all life is dependent on water and that water exists in nature in many forms. However, strictly speaking, pure water does not exist for any appreciable time in nature. Even while falling as rain, water picks up small amounts of gases, ions, dust, and particulate matter from the atmosphere. Then, as it flows over or through the surface layers of the earth, it dissolves and carries with it some of almost everything it touches, including that which is dumped into it.

These added substances may be classified as biological, chemical (organic and inorganic), physical and radiological impurities. They may include industrial and commercial solvents, metal and acid salts, sediments, pesticides, herbicides, plant nutrients, radioactive material, road salts, decaying animal and vegetable matter, and living organisms such as algae, bacteria, and viruses. Many of these impurities are removed or rendered harmless during the water treatment process in potable drinking water plants.

One means for establishing and assuring the purity and safety of water is to set a standard for various contaminants. A drinking water standard is a definite rule, principle, or measurement which establishes safety by a governmental authority.

Is my water safe to drink?

In this context, “safe” is a relative term that must be considered based on each individual’s health and overall well being. Drinking water can reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some impurities. As long as those contaminants are at levels no higher than those set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or NY Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) drinking water standards, the water is considered safe to drink for healthy people. People with severely weakened immune systems or other specific health conditions should consult with their personal physicians to discuss their drinking water needs. The water served by Long Island American Water meets all applicable primary Federal and New York State drinking water standards, and as such, is classified as being "potable" (suitable for consumption).

How do I determine the quality of my water?

At Long Island American Water, we routinely sample and analyze our source water, water quality throughout our treatment process and throughout our distribution system to deliver water service that meets all the drinking water standards established by the state and federal regulations. Summaries of our test results are distributed to our customers annually in our water quality report. Customers who wish to have further testing may opt to pay to have their water tested by a state-certified laboratory.

Does Long Island American Water add fluoride to my water?

Long Island American Water does not fluoridate the public drinking water supply. We are neutral on the issue of fluoridation and consider it to be a community-based or health department-based decision. 

Is there lead in my drinking water?

Long Island American Water regularly tests for lead in your drinking water and has taken steps to minimize levels through improvements in corrosion control. Although these tests indicate that lead is not present in our treated water, lead and/or copper levels in some homes and businesses may be detected due to customer use of lead pipes, lead solder and molded metal faucets in household plumbing. For more information, view our lead fact sheet.

For more information

Contact Long Island American Water’s Customer Service Center at 1-877-426-6999.