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Pipes

BWS FAQ's and Resources

Helpful answers to questions we hear the most.

Water Quality

Is your water coloured or smelly? Learn the differences and treatments for optimal quality.

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Reverse Osmosis

Reverse Osmosis effectively reduces dissolved solids, chlorine, lead, and other impurities. 

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Cartridge Filters

Filters are commonly used in whole-house filtration systems, well water treatment, and under-sink drinking water systems.

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Water Tests

Testing your water will help determine the quality of your water and whether treatment is necessary. Learn what to look for.

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  • How do I remove iron from my water?
    Treatment depends on the type and concentration of iron. Options include iron filters, water softeners (for low levels of iron), or chemical oxidation systems. A water test can determine the best solution
  • Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?
    A rotten egg smell is typically caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, which can come from decaying organic material in well water or from sulfur bacteria in your plumbing system.
  • How do I know if I have hard water?
    Common signs include white scale buildup on faucets, soap scum in sinks and tubs, and difficulty lathering soap. A simple water test can confirm hardness levels.
  • Why does my water smell like chlorine?
    Municipal water is often treated with chlorine to disinfect it. If the smell is too strong, a carbon filter or reverse osmosis system can help reduce chlorine levels.
  • How do I get rid of the smell of rotten eggs in my water?
    Solutions include activated carbon filtration, aeration, or chemical injection systems (such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide). The best method depends on the source and concentration of the odor.
  • Why does my water have a reddish or brown tint?
    This discoloration is usually caused by iron in the water. Iron can stain fixtures, laundry, and appliances and may also contribute to an unpleasant metallic taste.
  • What is hard water?
    Hard water contains high levels of dissolved calcium and magnesium, which can cause scale buildup in pipes, appliances, and fixtures. It can also make soaps less effective and leave spots on dishes and glassware.
  • How do I fix hard water?
    A water softener is the most effective solution. It removes calcium and magnesium through an ion exchange process, preventing scale buildup and improving soap efficiency.
  • What is reverse osmosis?
    Reverse osmosis (RO) is a filtration process that removes contaminants by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane. It effectively reduces dissolved solids, chlorine, lead, and other impurities.
  • How often do I need to change the filters on my RO system?
    Most RO systems require pre-filters to be changed every 6–12 months and the RO membrane every 2–3 years, depending on usage and water quality.
  • Is reverse osmosis water safe to drink?
    Yes! RO systems remove many harmful contaminants, making your water safe and great-tasting. However, if you have very acidic water, it may need remineralization after RO filtration.
  • What do cartridge filters do?
    Cartridge filters remove sediment, chlorine, and other particles from water. They are commonly used in whole-house filtration systems, well water treatment, and under-sink drinking water systems.
  • Can I clean and reuse my water filter cartridge?
    Some sediment filters are washable and reusable, but most carbon and specialty filters should be replaced as recommended to ensure proper filtration.
  • How often should I replace my water filter cartridge?
    It depends on water quality and usage, but typically every 3–6 months for sediment filters and 6–12 months for carbon filters. Some systems have indicators to signal when a change is needed.
Water Purifier & Glass

Understanding Water Test Results

How do I interpret my water test results?

 

Water test results help determine the quality of your water and whether treatment is necessary. See the breakdown of key parameters.

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We can do onsite testing for hardness, manganese, iron and PH. For a full analysis, including bacteria and additional minerals, lab testing may be required. Contact us for details on professional testing services.

Hardness: Measures calcium and magnesium levels in grains per gallon (gpg). Hardness categories:

  • Soft: 0-3.5 gpg

  • Moderately Hard: 3.5-7 gpg

  • Hard: 7-10.5 gpg

  • Very Hard: Over 10.5 gpg (treatment recommended)

Iron: Measured in mg/L (same as ppm).

  • Excessive iron can cause reddish staining and metallic taste. Above 0.5 ppm may require treatment.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Represents dissolved solids, minerals, salts, and metals in ppm.

  • 0-50 ppm: Very pure water

  • 50-150 ppm: Excellent drinking water

  • 150-300 ppm: Common in municipal water

  • 300-500 ppm: Acceptable

Manganese & pH:

  • Manganese can cause black staining and must be treated if above 0.05 ppm. pH levels should be between 6.5-8.5 for safe drinking water.

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