Cold Weather, Cold Water — But What’s Really in It?
Winter in Western New York brings snow, salt, and freezing temperatures — but did you know it can also affect your drinking water quality? Many homes in Niagara and Erie County rely on municipal water that’s heavily treated to keep it “safe.” Unfortunately, those same treatments can create new water concerns once temperatures drop.
❄️ Increased Chlorine and Disinfection Byproducts
During colder months, water treatment plants often boost chlorine levels to prevent bacterial growth in long distribution lines. While chlorine is effective for sanitation, high chlorine exposure can dry out skin, irritate eyes, and create a strong chemical taste and odor in your tap water. Even worse, chlorine reacts with organic matter to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs), some of which have been linked to long-term health concerns.
🧪 According to an EPA study, exposure to certain DBPs like trihalomethanes (THMs) may pose health risks with continued use. (Source: EPA.gov)
đźšż Mineral Build-Up from Hard Water
Cold weather also makes your plumbing system work harder. As temperatures drop, hard minerals such as calcium and magnesium can cling to your pipes and fixtures, leading to white scale buildup, cloudy dishes, and dull laundry. Over time, this can reduce water pressure and shorten the lifespan of appliances like your water heater or dishwasher.
đź’§ Winter Taste and Odor Changes
You might notice that your water tastes “metallic” or smells different in the winter. This can happen when cold temperatures cause changes in your local water source or when pipes contract, releasing small amounts of sediment or metal ions into your tap water. The result? Unpleasant taste, cloudiness, and inconsistent quality — even if the water is technically “safe.”
🏠How Panda Water Systems Can Help
Panda Water Systems offers whole-home filtration solutions that remove chlorine, disinfection byproducts, and hard minerals — giving you clean, fresh-tasting water no matter the season. With professional installation and long-term system care, you can protect your family’s health and your home’s plumbing year-round.
🎯 Don’t Let Winter Take a Toll on Your Water
Now’s the perfect time to prepare your home for winter. Schedule your free in-home water test today and discover how a Kenai Pro Series Whole-House System can keep your water clean, safe, and worry-free this season.
👉 Book Your Free Water Test
Whether you live in Niagara Falls, Buffalo, or anywhere across Western New York, your water quality can change dramatically with the seasons.