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Common Water Problems in San Diego, CA

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Common Water Problems


Southern California residents face significant challenges regarding our water supply, quality, and pressure. In fact, most of California has to deal with an ongoing water supply crisis, exacerbated by climate change and changes in critical water sources like the Colorado River and the State Water Project. This can lead to mandatory water supply cutbacks, restrictions, and contamination issues.

San Diego also has unique water issues. For instance, hard water in San Diego is a well-documented problem. Understanding the common issues of our city's water supply can help purify it for your household.

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Hard Water problem


San Diego's water is known for its hardness, which can cause several problems for homeowners. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, leading to skin irritation and dryness, stripping away natural oils and leaving skin itchy and prone to conditions like eczema. Hard water also affects hair, making it dry, brittle, and more susceptible to breakage and split ends. Additionally, soap and shampoo do not lather well in hard water, which can lead to bacterial buildup on the skin and scalp, contributing to acne and dandruff.

The mineral deposits from hard water can also accumulate in pipes and appliances, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. This buildup can cause clogs and reduce water flow, which may require costly repairs or replacements. To combat these issues, homeowners can install water softeners that remove the hardness minerals from the water. Regular maintenance and cleaning of fixtures and appliances can also help mitigate the negative effects of hard water, ensuring a healthier home environment.


Our Water Filtration System Services

Reverse Osmosis Logo

Reverse Osmosis is an effective and straightforward solution for purifying water and removing contaminants.

Water Conditioning Systems Logo

These systems soften hard water by passing it through several filters, removing minerals, and making water purer.

Toxin Reduction Logo

An affordable, reliable option for purifying your water and removing unwanted toxins and contaminants.

Salt-Free Options Logo

Salt-Free systems are designed to remove chlorine, chloramines, bromine, and more from your San Diego water while also removing hard water problems.

PFAS Contamination

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called "forever chemicals," are a major concern for San Diego homeowners. PFAS are persistent in the environment and can be found in water sources near industrial sites, airports, and areas where firefighting foams have been used. These chemicals are linked to serious health risks, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system disruptions. Due to their persistence and bioaccumulation in the human body, PFAS pose a long-term health risk.

To address PFAS contamination, homeowners should consider advanced water filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters, which can effectively remove these substances from drinking water. Regular water testing is also essential to monitor PFAS levels and ensure the safety of the household water supply. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, homeowners can significantly reduce their exposure to these harmful chemicals.

Water Pressure Issues

Varying water pressure is another common problem. High water pressure can cause damage to plumbing systems, leading to burst pipes and leaks. This can result in expensive repairs and potential water damage to the home. Conversely, low water pressure can make everyday tasks like showering and washing dishes difficult and time-consuming. Causes of low water pressure can include faulty regulators, shared water meters, and ongoing maintenance work on water mains.

Homeowners can address these issues by installing and regularly maintaining pressure regulators, which help control and stabilize water pressure throughout the home. It's also important to be aware of any local water main work that might temporarily affect water pressure. In cases of persistent low pressure, checking for leaks or blockages in the home's plumbing system can help identify and resolve the problem, ensuring a steady and adequate water flow.

13 Signs Your Water Supply Is Contaminated

  1. Unusual Taste or Odor: A metallic taste or rotten egg smell can indicate contaminants such as sulfur, chlorine, or heavy metals.
  2. Cloudy Water: Cloudy water can indicate the presence of air bubbles or particulate matter, often due to contamination or disturbances in the water supply.
  3. Water Smells Like Chlorine: A strong chlorine odor can be a sign of excessive chlorine levels, which can occur from over-treatment at the water plant.
  4. Smelly Water: Water with any unusual or foul smell can signal the presence of various contaminants, including bacteria or chemicals.
  5. Salty Taste in Water: A salty taste may indicate high levels of dissolved salts, possibly from seawater intrusion or industrial contamination. We offer a range of Salt-Free options specifically designed to eliminate chloramines, chlorine, and various contaminants from San Diego tap water.
  6. Metallic Tasting Water: A metallic taste often suggests the presence of iron, copper, or other metals leaching into the water from pipes.
  7. Smells Like Rotten Eggs: A rotten egg smell is usually due to hydrogen sulfide gas, which can result from the natural decay of organic material or bacterial activity.
  8. Discoloration: Cloudy, rusty, or unusually colored water suggests contamination, often from iron, manganese, or particulate matter.
  9. Sediment or Particles: The presence of sediment or particles can result from soil, rust, or other materials entering the water supply due to issues with water mains or plumbing.
  10. Health Symptoms: Unexplained gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes, or other illnesses may indicate waterborne contaminants like bacteria, viruses, or harmful chemicals.
  11. Staining on Fixtures and Laundry: Red or brown stains from iron and manganese or blue/green marks from copper can signify these minerals in your water.
  12. Low Water Pressure: Sudden drops in water pressure can be caused by leaks, blockages, or issues at the water treatment facility, potentially allowing contaminants to enter the supply.
  13. Presence of Foam or Bubbles: Persistent foam or bubbles can indicate organic compounds or chemical contamination from detergents, oils, or other substances in the water.
Get Your Free Water Testing

Ensure the safety and quality of your home's water with a free water testing service from San Diego Pure Water. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and receive expert analysis and solutions tailored to your needs. Protect your family's health and say goodbye to hard water.

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I was provided with the best customer service. The guys Mark, Jack, and Martin were the best. I was able to get what I wanted for a reasonable price. The day before my installation, Jack came by my house to assess where to properly place the system so there would be no surprise for the tech. A day later, Martin was able to install my water system professionally and without any problems. I would highly recommend San Diego Pure Water to anyone. - Myke M.
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We have been happy! The Install guy was super nice and professional. So far so good with the water. It tastes great and it’s so nice it’s good at every faucet!I recommend San Diego Pure Water. We had been renting a soft water system for 25 years. It’s insane how much we’ve spent. This is far more affordable and instead of soft water we have completely filtered drinking water from every spout. - Sooz G.
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My experience with San Diego Pure Water has been excellent. I reached out on their website as I was interested to have a whole house water purification system installed. One of their very experienced Sales rep called me promptly, captured my needs and advised me on the right product to get. He also made sure that I could benefit from a recent promo that had just expired which knocked the price down significantly. Their installers came in a couple of weeks later, hooked up the unit and it’s been working phenomenal since then. I get clean, drinkable and soft water without any chemicals and salt additions from all the taps in the house. Great customer experience overall and highly recommended! - Stephan B.
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They were efficient knowledgeable and quick. I would recommend them anytime and water tastes so natural after they installed my RO filtration. Their Tech Rudy did a fine job! - Alan M.
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