Common Water Contaminants &
How to Remove Them
Water Quality Issues in Greater Boston
Whether your home relies on a private well or municipal water supply, chances are your water contains more than just H₂O. Invisible contaminants — from hard minerals and iron to bacteria, chlorine, and even emerging pollutants like PFAS — can negatively impact your water’s taste, safety, and long-term effects on plumbing and appliances.
At Clear Water, we believe that all Greater Boston should have access to clean water. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand what contaminants might be in your water and what water treatment systems are best for removing each type.
Why Water Contaminants Are a Big Deal
Many contaminants aren’t visible to the naked eye, and some — like hard water minerals — may not pose health risks but can cause serious long-term damage to your plumbing, fixtures, and water-using appliances. Others, such as bacteria, nitrates, or PFAS, can directly affect your health.
Water quality also affects:
- How your soap and detergents perform
- The taste and smell of your water
- Your skin, hair, and laundry softness
- Your family’s overall peace of mind
Common Residential Water Contaminants in Greater Boston
Here are the concerns we deal with the most often in Greater Boston water supplies, along with the signs to watch for and how each one is typically treated.
Testing Your Water is the First Step
This not only ensures you avoid overpaying for unnecessary equipment — it also ensures that the treatment system you choose is effective at addressing the contaminants that are in your water.
Our team handles the water testing process and reviews the results with you. From there, we help you navigate your available solutions and make a choice that works for your home and your budget.
