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What’s In Your Downey Water?
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Frequently Asked Questions for Water in Downey, California
Is Downey tap water safe to drink?
Downey’s water comes from the Central Groundwater Basin and is treated to meet federal and state standards. While it is considered safe to drink, recent testing has detected contaminants such as arsenic, chromium (hexavalent), nitrates, and uranium, as well as PFAS chemicals (PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFBS, and others) at levels exceeding Environmental Working Group (EWG) guidelines. Many residents use water filters or reverse osmosis systems for additional protection.
Is Downey’s water hard?
Yes, Downey has moderately hard water with an average hardness of 15.7 grains per gallon (gpg). This hardness level can lead to limescale buildup, dry skin, and decreased efficiency of water-using appliances.
Does Downey’s water contain PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)?
Yes. PFAS substances such as PFOA (12.3 ppt), PFOS (29.5 ppt), and PFBS (6.8 ppt) were detected in Downey’s tap water. While these levels do not currently violate federal or state limits, they exceed the much stricter health guidelines set by the EWG. PFAS are persistent chemicals linked to various health risks, including immune system effects and potential cancer risks.
Does Downey add fluoride to its water?
Yes. Downey’s water contains fluoride at an average of 0.31 ppm, which is within both federal and state guidelines.
What other contaminants are in Downey’s water?
The 2024 water quality report detected multiple contaminants, including:
- Arsenic (up to 2.5 ppb)
- Chromium (Hexavalent) (0.39–1.00 ppb)
- Uranium (up to 2.7 pCi/L)
- Nitrates (up to 4.90 ppm)
- Chloride (91 ppm)
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) (491 ppm)
Although these levels meet federal safety standards, they may exceed stricter public health recommendations.
Where does Downey get its water?
Downey’s drinking water comes primarily from 20 groundwater wells in the Central Groundwater Basin, which is replenished by local runoff and imported water sources.
What is the pH level of Downey water?
Downey’s water has a pH range of 7.0 to 7.8, which is considered neutral to slightly alkaline.
Should I use a water filter or softener in Downey?
Yes. Given the presence of PFAS, heavy metals, and high hardness, a whole-home water filtration system combined with a water softener is recommended for many households. These systems help protect plumbing, improve water taste, and reduce health concerns from contaminants.
Does Downey water have a high total dissolved solids (TDS) level?
Downey’s water has a TDS level of 270 ppm, which is within California’s standard but may affect water taste and quality. Reverse osmosis systems are commonly used to reduce TDS.
Where Can I Get A Local Water Quality Report?
You can access the most recent Downey’s Tap Water Quality Report here.
The Proof
Why Do Downey
Homeowners LOVE Us?
We have used Culligan for years and have been very pleased. Very nice to deal with!
Worth every penny, I have been a customer for over 30 years in four home in the USA and one in Spain.
These guys really know their water treatment inside and out. Had a reverse osmosis water system installed under my sink and a water softener put in as well. My wife and I have never had better skin or hair as a result of showering with soft water.
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