Key Takeaways:

• CCR = Consumer Confidence Report: Every water utility must publish this annually by July 1st.
• MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level): The highest level of a contaminant allowed by law. If a number is below this, it's "legal," but not necessarily "pure."
• Hardness is Hidden: Hardness is often not listed in the main safety table because it's not a "health risk." Look for a separate section on "Secondary Constituents."
• Look for "Range": The report shows averages. The "Range" column tells you the worst-case scenario (e.g., chlorine spikes) that hit your home that year.

Every year, your water provider sends you a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). It looks like a boring spreadsheet, but it's a report card for your tap water.

1. Find the Hardness

They often hide this. Look for "Calcium," "Magnesium," or "Total Hardness." It is usually reported in ppm (parts per million). Remember to divide by 17.1 to get Grains Per Gallon (GPG).

• Example: 200 ppm / 17.1 = 11.6 GPG (Very Hard).

2. Check the Disinfectant

Look for "Chloramines" or "Total Chlorine Residual." You will see a range (e.g., 0.5 to 4.0 ppm). The high end of that range is what you are tasting in your shower.

3. Understanding "Violations"

If your city had a violation (e.g., TTHMs - disinfection byproducts), it means they exceeded the EPA safety limit. While they usually fix it quickly, a whole-home filter and Reverse Osmosis system are your personal insurance policy against these fluctuations.

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Reviewed by Sai Akash Tumu, TCEQ Licensed Water Treatment Specialist (#WT0007448). Our approach is to educate first. For a personalized assessment, contact us for a free consultation.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Water conditions vary, and we recommend a professional on-site water test for an accurate solution. This is not medical advice. Read full disclaimer >