Main water quality parameters of interest:
- Microbiological contaminants (Total coliform and E. coli)
- Microbial community
- Microbial activity (ATP)
- Disinfection byproducts (trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids)
- Lead, copper, and other metals
- Organic carbon
- pH, hardness, alkalinity
- Turbidity
- Nitrates, nitrites, phosphate, sulfate, fluoride, chloride, bromide
Other concerns that may affect water quality:
- Corrosion can introduce metals from pipes into drinking water
- Low pressure events (pressure loss) in pipes can allow contaminants from the surrounding environment to enter the water supply
- Construction activities can cause water main breaks and potential contamination