Clean Water Tips

If you work in a childcare facility or visit any type of office, chances are you drink from a bubbler-style water cooler. You know the kind: the big five-gallon bottle of water perched atop a cooler-dispenser unit found in many offices and businesses. Many homeowners also use them and have water delivered on a regular basis. These water coolers provide safe, clean drinking water, right?

Water Bubblers

Brace yourself for a surprise: recent research reveals that such water bubblers can harbor high levels of bacteria known to cause diarrhea and nausea in some people. According to the Tufts University Diet and Nutrition Letter, 10 out of 10 water coolers tested in Boston had bacterial counts much higher than the government-recommended limit. It seems that the problem is not the water itself. When the water delivered in those large, clear containers was poured directly into a glass, the bacterial count was low. But when it was dispensed through the cooling unit, the bacterial count skyrocketed.

Here is what happens. A few unavoidable bacteria from each new bottle of water stick to the bubbler's reservoir, or the well that the bottle sits in. Bacteria also adhere to the hot and cold water spigots. Over time--especially with coolers that are used frequently--a few bacteria become many. How? Because the more water you use, the more often you change the bottle, and the placement of each new bottle introduces more bacteria. Then, any water passing through the system en route to your glass becomes laced with a bacterial dose. While the average person is unlikely to get ill from downing a glass or two, young children, the elderly, and anyone whose immune system is compromised are more susceptible.

Water Pitchers

Other water coolers, such as the filtered pitchers that you place in your refrigerator should be cleaned regularly, too. These can be cleaned by running them through a dishwasher or dipping them in a solution of l/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water solution after washing (without the filter). Make a habit of cleaning them every time you change the filter, or every one-three months.

Bottled Water Regulations

Bottled water is strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and by most states. Water quality of bottled water is consistent as the water is inspected and monitored by federal and private laboratories. Taste is the major reason people prefer bottled water versus tap water--the taste of bottled water is consistent as chlorine, used to disinfect tap water, can leave an after taste. Bottled water is safe to use indefinitely and should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from chemicals such as household cleaning products and other toxic materials.

So, what is a thirsty, but health-conscious person to do? The solution is simple. First, do not stop drinking water. It is good for you. Next, clean your bubbler once every month by running a cup of household bleach through the reservoirs and spigots. Then, remove all bleach residue by rinsing the unit with three or more gallons of tap water. Next, take a huge, refreshing sip, and enjoy!

Resources

The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), 1700 Diagonal Rd., Ste. 650, Alexandria, VA 22314; 800-WATER-11; www.bottledwater.org

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