What Columbus Residents Should Know
Columbus relies primarily on surface water from the Scioto River, Big Walnut Creek, and Alum Creek, supplemented by groundwater from the South Wellfield. These sources provide water to over 1.2 million people in the Columbus metropolitan area through three water treatment plants: Dublin Road, Hap Cremean, and Parsons Avenue.
While Columbus water generally meets federal and state standards, the city faces several water quality challenges. Agricultural runoff into the Scioto River watershed periodically causes elevated nitrate levels, occasionally requiring the city to issue advisories for vulnerable populations. The city's many historic neighborhoods also contain lead service lines and lead plumbing components in homes built before 1986.
Additionally, seasonal algal blooms in source waters can lead to taste and odor issues, particularly during summer months. The Columbus Department of Public Utilities has implemented advanced treatment processes to address these challenges, but some neighborhoods, particularly those with older infrastructure, may still experience water quality issues.
Key Contaminants Found
These substances have been detected in Columbus's water supply at levels that may be concerning for some residents.
Lead
Near Limit in Some AreasSource: Lead service lines, lead solder in plumbing, and older fixtures in pre-1986 buildings
Health Effects: Developmental delays in children, learning disabilities, reduced IQ, kidney problems, high blood pressure
Columbus Levels: Average 7.3 ppb (90th percentile), with approximately 8% of samples exceeding the EPA action level
EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no safe level exists
Nitrates
Near Limit SeasonallySource: Agricultural runoff, fertilizers, and natural deposits in the Scioto River watershed
Health Effects: Can reduce oxygen in blood (methemoglobinemia), particularly dangerous for infants and pregnant women
Columbus Levels: 3.5-8.4 mg/L, varying seasonally, higher after heavy rainfall
EPA Limit: 10 mg/L
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
Below Limit, But PresentSource: Byproducts formed when chlorine used to disinfect water reacts with organic matter
Health Effects: Potential increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure, liver and kidney problems
Columbus Levels: 40-60 ppb, varying by location and season
EPA Limit: 80 ppb
Geosmin & MIB (Algal Compounds)
Taste/Odor OnlySource: Compounds produced by blue-green algae during summer blooms in reservoirs
Health Effects: No health concerns, but causes earthy/musty taste and odor in water
Columbus Levels: Seasonally variable, typically higher in summer months
EPA Limit: Not regulated (aesthetic concern only)
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary significantly across Columbus's diverse neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in water source, infrastructure age, and pipe materials.
Water Quality by Area
| Neighborhood/Area | Risk Level | Treatment Plant | Buildings Pre-1986 | Notable Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| German Village/Brewery District | High | Dublin Road WTP | 85% | Lead, Aging Infrastructure |
| Franklinton/Hilltop | High | Dublin Road WTP | 78% | Lead, TTHMs |
| Clintonville/University District | Medium | Hap Cremean WTP | 70% | Lead, Seasonal Taste/Odor |
| Downtown/Short North | Medium | Dublin Road WTP | 65% | Lead, TTHMs |
| South Columbus | Medium | Parsons Avenue WTP | 52% | Nitrates, TTHMs |
| Northwest/Polaris | Low | Dublin Road WTP | 15% | Seasonal Taste/Odor |
Data based on Columbus Department of Public Utilities sampling and U.S. Census housing statistics.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on Columbus's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water If in an Older Home
If you live in a pre-1986 home, especially in German Village, Brewery District, Franklinton, or Hilltop, consider testing your water for lead and other contaminants. The Columbus Department of Public Utilities offers testing services for residents.
Lead Testing ResourcesUse Cold Water for Consumption
Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water can contain higher levels of lead and other contaminants as it dissolves them more readily from pipes. Run cold water for 1-2 minutes before using it, especially first thing in the morning.
Monitor Nitrate Advisories
Be especially vigilant about nitrate advisories if you have infants under 6 months old, are pregnant, or have certain medical conditions. Sign up for alerts from the Columbus Department of Public Utilities to receive notifications when nitrate levels approach advisory thresholds.
Water Quality AlertsConsider a Multi-Stage Filter
For comprehensive protection, consider a multi-stage filtration system that addresses Columbus's specific water challenges: activated carbon for taste/odor issues and TTHMs, NSF-certified lead reduction for older homes, and a reverse osmosis component if you're concerned about nitrates.
Check Your Service Line Material
Columbus has been documenting lead service lines throughout the city. Use the city's Lead Service Line Map to determine if your property has a lead service line, and learn about replacement programs available through the Department of Public Utilities.
Lead Service Line MapBe Prepared for Seasonal Changes
Columbus water quality can vary seasonally, with algal taste and odor issues more common in summer months and nitrate concerns more frequent during spring after heavy rainfall. Consider adjusting your filtration approach during these seasonal changes.
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