Understanding Water Quality in Des Moines and Practical Steps for Healthier Home Water

Steps for Healthier Home Water

For most residents of Des Moines, turning on the tap brings clean, treated water suitable for everyday use. The public water system, managed by Des Moines Water Works, draws water primarily from the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers and subjects it to a rigorous treatment and testing process before it reaches homes and businesses. On average, the system delivers around 54 million gallons of high-quality drinking water each day to about 600,000 central Iowans, and it consistently meets all state and federal regulatory requirements for safe drinking water. Urbandale Water Utility

Despite these standards, understanding the nature of local water quality and how municipal treatment intersects with household experience can help homeowners make informed decisions about water use and filtration.

What You Should Know About Des Moines Water Quality

Des Moines’ water utility regularly tests drinking water and reports results through consumer confidence and quality reports. In recent assessments, all regulated contaminants remained within federal limits, and there were no active violations for water quality under EPA standards. InTheTap

However, data from independent analyses shows that while the water meets legal requirements, some contaminants can still be present at levels that exceed health-based guidelines. For example, trace amounts of disinfection byproducts such as bromodichloromethane and dichloroacetic acid can sometimes be detected in the tap water. These byproducts form when chlorine used in the disinfection process reacts with natural organic material in source water. Tap Water Data

Another ongoing concern in central Iowa relates to agricultural runoff. Nitrates, which originate largely from fertilizer use and manure, are often elevated in the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers. These nitrates must be removed during treatment to meet safety standards, and the region has even experienced water restrictions during periods of exceptionally high levels. Iowa Public Radio. This highlights the connection between land use practices in the watershed and what ultimately arrives at the tap.

Why Water Quality Matters at Home

Municipal treatment does a great deal of heavy lifting, but it does not address every individual concern that homeowners might have. Common issues experienced in residential plumbing include:

  • Chlorine taste or odor, a byproduct of disinfection.
  • Hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can affect appliances and fixtures.
  • Trace contaminants that, while within legal limits, may still be unwanted in daily use.

Addressing these concerns often requires in-home water quality solutions tailored to a household’s specific needs.

Water Filtration Options That Make a Difference

Whole-home water filtration systems provide an added layer of protection to complement municipal treatment. These systems can reduce the presence of chlorine, improve water taste, and filter out certain dissolved solids and trace contaminants. For homes with hard water, combining a water softener with a filtration system can be particularly effective. On average, advanced filtration technology today performs multiple functions efficiently without the large footprint and water waste associated with older multi-tank systems. Advanced Plumbing

For homeowners considering upgrades early in the year, Advanced Plumbing plans to offer a February promotion that provides additional value when pairing these water quality solutions. While the focus remains on helping residents achieve healthier water throughout their homes, this seasonal opportunity can make it even more accessible to invest in both a whole-home water softener and a reverse osmosis system tailored to your household’s needs.

A Practical Approach to Better Water

Good water quality starts with a clear understanding of what’s in your supply and how it affects your home. Even though Des Moines’ drinking water meets compliance standards, individual household conditions and concerns can vary. Testing your water and discussing filtration options with a trusted professional can ensure you and your family enjoy water that tastes better, performs well with your plumbing and appliances, and aligns with your health priorities.

If you are interested in exploring water quality options or have questions about your specific water needs, consider scheduling a water quality assessment with a knowledgeable provider. In conjunction with seasonal offerings, thoughtful updates to your home’s filtration system can support better water quality all year long.