What Dallas Residents Should Know
Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) provides water to approximately 1.3 million residents, drawing primarily from surface water reservoirs including Ray Hubbard, Lewisville, Grapevine, and Tawakoni. These sources provide generally good quality water, but as surface reservoirs, they are susceptible to seasonal variations and environmental factors.
The city's water treatment facilities meet all federal and state standards, but Dallas faces three main water quality challenges. First, seasonal algal blooms in reservoirs can cause temporary taste and odor issues, though these are typically aesthetic rather than health concerns. Second, like many major cities, Dallas has aging infrastructure with approximately 70,000 lead service lines, primarily in neighborhoods built before 1986. Third, recurring drought conditions can concentrate contaminants in source waters, requiring adjustments to treatment processes.
Recent testing shows that lead levels remain below EPA action limits in most areas, though some older neighborhoods have reported higher concentrations. Additionally, disinfection byproducts like trihalomethanes (TTHMs) form when chlorine reacts with organic matter, and these levels can fluctuate seasonally, occasionally approaching regulatory limits.
Key Contaminants Found
These substances have been detected in Dallas'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
Dallas Levels: Average 5.4 ppb (90th percentile), with approximately 6% of samples exceeding the EPA action level
EPA Limit: Action level 15 ppb, but no safe level exists
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
Near Limit SeasonallySource: 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
Dallas Levels: 50-72 ppb, varying by season and location, higher during summer months
EPA Limit: 80 ppb
Hard Water Minerals
Not a Health ConcernSource: Natural mineral content in surface water reservoirs
Health Effects: No direct health concerns, but can cause dry skin, hair issues, and appliance/plumbing damage
Dallas Levels: 10.5 grains per gallon (180 mg/L), considered "hard"
EPA Limit: Not regulated (aesthetic concern only)
Geosmin & MIB
Taste/Odor OnlySource: Naturally occurring compounds produced by algae and bacteria in reservoirs
Health Effects: No health concerns, but causes earthy/musty taste and odor in water
Dallas Levels: Seasonally variable, typically higher in summer and early fall
EPA Limit: Not regulated (aesthetic concern only)
Neighborhood Variations
Water quality can vary across Dallas neighborhoods, primarily due to differences in infrastructure age, pipe materials, and distance from treatment facilities.
Water Quality by Area
| Neighborhood/Area | Risk Level | Primary Treatment Plant | Buildings Pre-1986 | Notable Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oak Cliff | High | Elm Fork | 75% | Lead, Aging Infrastructure |
| South Dallas | High | East Side | 72% | Lead, TTHMs |
| East Dallas | Medium | East Side | 65% | Lead, TTHMs, Hard Water |
| Downtown/Uptown | Medium | Elm Fork | 58% | Lead, Hard Water |
| North Dallas | Medium | Elm Fork | 45% | TTHMs, Seasonal Taste/Odor |
| Far North Dallas/Addison | Low | Elm Fork | 18% | Hard Water, Seasonal Taste/Odor |
Data based on Dallas Water Utilities sampling and U.S. Census housing statistics.
Recommended Action Steps
Based on Dallas's water quality data, we recommend these actions to protect yourself and your family.
Test Your Water If in an Older Neighborhood
If you live in a pre-1986 home, especially in Oak Cliff, South Dallas, or East Dallas, consider testing your water for lead and other contaminants. Dallas Water Utilities offers testing services for residents.
Dallas Water Testing InfoRun Cold Water Before Use
If your water has been sitting for several hours, run cold water for 30-60 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking. For buildings with lead service lines, run water for 2-3 minutes to flush stagnant water from your pipes.
Use a Carbon Filter for Taste and Odor
For seasonal taste and odor issues caused by algal compounds, a simple activated carbon filter (pitcher or faucet-mounted) can be very effective. These filters also help reduce chlorine taste and some disinfection byproducts.
Consider a Water Softener
To address Dallas's hard water issues, a water softener can protect appliances, improve soap efficiency, and prevent scale buildup on fixtures. This is an optional step primarily for home comfort and appliance longevity.
Check Your Home's Age and Plumbing
If your home was built before 1986, it may have lead solder or components in the plumbing. Consider having a licensed plumber inspect your system, particularly if you have children in the home.
Lead InformationStay Informed During Summer Months
Pay attention to water quality notices during summer months when algal blooms and higher temperatures can affect disinfection byproduct levels. Follow any recommendations from Dallas Water Utilities for your specific area.
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