PRESTIGE H2O / WATER, UNDERSTOOD
City water or private well?
Municipal water and private wells call for different starting evidence. For city water, identify the supplying utility and read the relevant Consumer Confidence Report with its reporting year and limitations. For a private well, use source-specific testing and local guidance. Neither a regional report nor a neighbor's result is a test of your tap.
If you receive utility water
Find the report for the utility serving your actual address. Check its reporting year and service boundaries. A regional report cannot tell you everything about water at a particular tap.
If you have a private well
Use a qualified laboratory and local guidance to choose appropriate tests. Keep results with the well and treatment records.
If you are unsure
Check your water bill, property records or utility account. If you are still not sure, say so when you request your analysis; it is better than guessing.
Questions and answers
Where can I find a city-water report?
Start with the actual water supplier shown on your bill or account. EPA's Consumer Confidence Report resource can help locate public-supply reports.
Is a utility report enough to size a softener?
It can provide context, but system selection also needs relevant current measurements, household demand and equipment requirements. Confirm any hardness value and its units before using it.
Can neighboring homes have different sources?
Yes, an address may be served by a different utility or a private well. Verify the source for the particular home instead of relying on a city or neighborhood label.