Category: In The News

Michigan’s EGLE has announced a significant investment of $267 million through the MI Clean Water grants to revamp the state’s water infrastructure. This funding aims to bolster dozens of local governments and water systems, enhancing public health and environmental protection. Key projects include new storm sewers and green infrastructure in Oakland County, lead water service line replacements in Marquette, and water main upgrades in South Haven.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the commitment to ensuring every resident has access to clean, safe water and highlighted the extensive measures taken to replace lead pipes and enhance sewer systems to mitigate flooding. This latest grant initiative extends across Michigan, impacting communities from the rural Upper Peninsula to urban centers in the lower state.

The MI Clean Water Plan is set to address both legacy and emerging water system challenges, such as aging infrastructure and contaminants like PFAS. Supported by funds from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, Clean Water State Revolving Fund, and the American Rescue Plan Act, this initiative promises to fortify community water systems, reduce costs for residents, and support over 57,000 jobs.

Furthermore, technical, managerial, and financial assistance will continue, with recent grants aiding eight water systems in preparing for lead service line replacements, including necessary soil excavation and restoration efforts. This comprehensive strategy underscores Michigan’s dedication to revitalizing its water infrastructure and safeguarding its environmental resources and public health.

View the press release for grants awarded through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) here.

For quality drinking water you can depend on, contact Reynolds Water Conditioning.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Redford Township has issued a public advisory following the detection of elevated lead levels in the drinking water during routine tests. The township’s water samples from 60 homes showed a 90th percentile lead level of 16 parts per billion (ppb), surpassing the Action Level of 15 ppb. This issue is a continuation of a similar exceedance from 2023. The advisory emphasizes the need for further investigation and resident education on lead contamination.

Residents are advised to check for lead service lines and use certified lead-reducing filters, especially in homes with lead plumbing or fittings sold before 2014. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is offering free filters to eligible households. Tips for reducing lead exposure include running water to flush out lead, using cold water for consumption, and cleaning faucet aerators. Boiling water is ineffective in reducing lead levels.

Guidelines for Minimizing Lead Exposure:

• Determine if your home has a lead service line, as these can increase the risk of high lead levels in your water.

• To clear out lead, flush your taps:
• Without a lead service line, run the water for 30 seconds to two minutes, until it cools or stabilizes in temperature.
• With a lead service line, flush for at least five minutes to clear the plumbing and service line.

• MDHHS advises using a certified lead-reducing filter for homes with potential lead sources, such as:
• Lead or galvanized plumbing.
• Lead service lines.
• Copper plumbing with lead solder installed before 1988.
• Faucets and fittings installed before 2014.

• Continue using the filter until all potential lead sources in home plumbing are removed or replaced, such as:
• Updating faucets installed before 2014.
• Conducting a lead inspection and replacing necessary plumbing components.

• Ensure that filters are certified according to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction and Standard 42 for particulate reduction (Class I). Reynolds Water provides the Reynolds PureStream Ultra Water Purification System, designed to remove heavy metals such as lead, pathogens, and other contaminants. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use.

• Only use cold water for drinking, food preparation, and cooking, including making baby formula.

• Boiling water does not remove lead; avoid this as a method for reducing lead concentration.

• Regularly clean your faucet’s aerator to eliminate accumulated debris.

Obtaining a Free Water Filter:

MDHHS provides free certified lead-reducing filters and replacement cartridges to Redford Township residents who meet the following criteria:

• Possess or are uncertain about having:
• Lead or galvanized plumbing.
• A lead service line connecting their home to the municipal water supply.
• Faucets and fittings installed before 2014.

• Have a household member who is either a Medicaid-enrolled child under 19 or a Medicaid-enrolled pregnant individual.

Eligible residents can collect a faucet water filter or pitcher filter from the Leo Snage Public Services Building, located at 12200 Beech Daly Road, Redford, MI, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, contact the MDHHS Drinking Water Hotline at 844-934-1315 or visit the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

As reported in Fox 2 Detroit News.

Learn more about how Reynolds Water can help you remove lead from the drinking water in your home or office.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

New research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has discovered a link between certain “forever chemicals,” specifically per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in postmenopausal women. These chemicals, common in nonstick pans, waterproof clothing, and various other consumer products, persist in the environment and accumulate in the body, particularly after menopause when women’s natural expulsion mechanisms, like menstruation, cease.

The study focused on understanding the biological mechanisms by which PFAS contribute to cardiovascular diseases during the menopausal transition, an area previously not well explored. By analyzing blood samples from 70 postmenopausal women in Turkey, researchers identified that different PFAS chemicals, such as PFOS and PFOA, are associated with different types of heart diseases, linked through their interaction with inflammatory pathways in the body.

The findings highlighted that PFOS is closely related to coronary artery disease, whereas PFOA is more predictive of coronary microvascular disease. Interestingly, these chemicals affected the levels of certain amino acids and inflammatory proteins differently, suggesting that not all PFAS chemicals behave identically within the body.

This study underscores the broader implications of PFAS exposure on heart health in older women and stresses the importance of minimizing exposure to these chemicals. The researchers advocate for increased public education and regulatory measures to reduce PFAS contamination in the environment. They plan to continue exploring the specific impacts of PFAS on women’s health to better understand and potentially mitigate these risks.

Comprehensive Water Testing

Reynolds Water Conditioning is committed to ensuring the safety and purity of your water. With growing concerns about ‘forever chemicals’ and their impact on health, particularly for older women, it’s crucial to identify and mitigate these contaminants in your home water supply. Our expert team provides comprehensive water testing to detect the presence of PFAS and other harmful substances. Based on the results, we offer customized filtration solutions designed to effectively remove these chemicals, ensuring that your water is clean and safe.

Protect your family’s health by purifying your water right at the source; contact Reynolds Water Conditioning to learn how.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Iron in irrigation water is a common problem faced by homeowners and businesses alike. High iron content can lead to unsightly stains on driveways, sidewalks, and buildings, as well as clogging and damage to irrigation systems. At Reynolds Water Conditioning Company, we offer a range of solutions to effectively remove iron from your irrigation water, ensuring that your landscape remains beautiful and your equipment functions efficiently.

Understanding Iron in Irrigation Water

Iron in water exists in two primary forms: soluble ferrous iron (clear water iron) and insoluble ferric iron (red water iron). When iron is exposed to air, it oxidizes and transforms into the insoluble form, which causes the familiar reddish-brown stains. The presence of iron bacteria can further complicate the issue, creating a sludge that clogs pipes and sprinklers.

The Impact of Iron on Irrigation Systems

• Staining: Iron stains can discolor sidewalks, driveways, and buildings, creating an unsightly appearance.
• Clogging: Iron deposits can clog sprinkler heads, drip lines, and filters, reducing the efficiency of your irrigation system.
• Damage: Over time, iron buildup can cause damage to pipes and other components of the irrigation system, leading to costly repairs and replacements.

Solutions for Removing Iron from Irrigation Water

At Reynolds Water Conditioning Company, we offer several effective solutions for removing iron from your irrigation water:

1. Filtration Systems

Filtration systems are designed to physically remove iron particles from water. These systems can range from simple sediment filters to more advanced multi-stage filtration units. Sediment filters capture larger iron particles, while finer filters can remove smaller particles and suspended solids. For areas with high iron concentrations, a combination of filters may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

2. Oxidation and Filtration

This method involves oxidizing the soluble ferrous iron to convert it into its insoluble ferric form, which can then be filtered out. Oxidation can be achieved through the use of chemical oxidants (such as chlorine or potassium permanganate) or aeration. After oxidation, the ferric iron particles are removed using a filtration system.

3. Water Softeners

Water softeners are commonly used to remove hardness-causing minerals like calcium and magnesium, but they can also be effective in reducing iron levels. Water softeners use ion exchange resin to capture iron ions and replace them with sodium ions. This method is particularly effective for removing low to moderate levels of iron.

4. Iron-Specific Filters

Iron-specific filters, such as Reynolds ClearStream Iron-Rust-Odor Filter, are designed specifically to target iron removal. Manganese greensand filters use a coating of manganese oxide to oxidize and filter out iron. Birm filters use a similar principle but do not require chemical regeneration, making them a low-maintenance option.

5. Chemical Treatment

In some cases, chemical treatment may be necessary to address severe iron contamination. This can involve the addition of sequestrants to keep iron in solution or the use of chemical oxidants to convert soluble iron into an insoluble form for filtration. Chemical treatment should be carefully managed to avoid adverse effects on plants and soil.

Choosing the Right Water Solution

Selecting the right solution for iron removal depends on several factors, including the concentration of iron in your water, the size of your irrigation system, and your budget. At Reynolds Water, our experts can conduct a thorough water analysis and recommend the most effective and efficient solution tailored to your specific needs.

Dealing with iron in irrigation water doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right treatment solutions, you can protect your landscape, maintain the efficiency of your irrigation system, and prevent costly damage. Contact Reynolds Water Conditioning Company today to learn more about our iron removal options and how we can help you achieve clear, iron-free irrigation water.

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Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The Biden Administration, continuing its proactive approach to environmental health, has introduced the first-ever national drinking water standards aimed at reducing PFAS contamination, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’. This landmark regulation, finalized on April 10th, is designed to protect against health risks associated with PFAS, including various cancers and liver and immune system damage, benefiting around 100 million people.

Key Highlights of the New Regulation:

• Legally Enforceable Standards: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set specific limits for five PFAS compounds (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA) and a collective threshold for any combination of four specific PFAS types. These measures are expected to mitigate thousands of deaths and prevent tens of thousands of serious health conditions.

• Extensive Funding for Clean Water Initiatives: As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly $1 billion in funding is now available to assist state and local efforts to monitor, test, and treat PFAS in public water systems and private wells. This initiative is part of a broader $21 billion investment aimed at enhancing the nation’s water infrastructure.

Impact on Communities:

The new standards mark a significant advancement in public health protections, particularly for communities that have been heavily impacted by PFAS due to industrial contamination. The administration’s focused efforts include not only stringent regulations but also financial support to ensure that all American communities have access to safe and clean drinking water.

Government-Wide Strategy on PFAS:

The announcement aligns with the Biden Administration’s environmental strategy to tackle PFAS pollution. This includes a series of upcoming webinars by the EPA to educate communities and water utilities about the new regulations and available resources. Additionally, the administration’s approach includes community engagement and partnerships with state and local entities to enforce these new standards effectively.

This decisive action by the Biden-Harris Administration underscores its commitment to addressing environmental and public health challenges, ensuring a safer, healthier future for all. By establishing these rigorous PFAS limits and supporting them with unprecedented funding for water quality improvements, the administration is not only fulfilling its promise of environmental stewardship but also enhancing the quality of life for millions of Americans.

If the water coming out of your tap lacks the quality you desire, contact Reynolds’ Water Conditioning Company today!

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The Biden administration recently unveiled a significant investment of $5.8 billion to rejuvenate the United States’ deteriorating drinking water infrastructure, a move aimed at mitigating the health risks faced by millions of Americans. This financial boost is designated for every state and territory, earmarked for critical water infrastructure improvements, including efforts to eliminate hazardous lead pipes. Vice President Kamala Harris, along with Michael Regan, administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency, underscored the initiative’s goal during an event in Pittsburgh, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to ensuring access to safe drinking water nationwide.

This funding allocation stems from bipartisan legislation passed in 2021, which allocated a total of $50 billion towards water infrastructure enhancements. The initiative targets a range of projects, such as those in Pittsburgh focused on lead pipe removal, aimed at securing safer drinking water systems and more reliable wastewater infrastructures across the country. Vice President Harris highlighted the endeavor’s urgency in addressing lead contamination, asserting that clean water is a fundamental right for all Americans, regardless of their financial standing or geographical location.

Despite the ambitious federal push, the challenge of overhauling the nation’s water infrastructure is daunting. The American Society of Civil Engineers’ recent assessments reveal a system in distress, with drinking water infrastructure receiving a C- rating and wastewater management a D+. The investments are a response to the extensive need for upgrades, exemplified by the crisis in Flint, Michigan, where lead-contaminated water exposed the dangers of inadequate water system maintenance. The allocation includes significant funds for replacing lead service lines, though experts warn that the costs and logistical challenges of such replacements are substantial, with some estimates running as high as $25,000 per service line.

Moreover, the initiative extends beyond lead issues, addressing the pervasive contamination of drinking water with PFAS chemicals, known for their enduring presence in the environment and potential health risks. Almost half of the U.S. tap water is believed to be contaminated with these substances. While the federal funding represents a critical step forward, experts argue that it constitutes just a fraction of the investment required to fully upgrade the nation’s water infrastructure. The need for continued and increased federal involvement and investment is clear, as the endeavor to provide clean, safe water for all Americans continues to face significant challenges and demands.

Concerned about your drinking water? Contact Reynolds Water Conditioning to schedule testing, maintenance or repair of water systems, and more. Our top priority is ensuring that you have access to good, safe drinking water.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

A water softener is a valuable tool for homes affected by varying levels of hard water, offering a multitude of benefits. It works by removing minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are primarily responsible for hard water issues. The use of a water softener helps avoid problems like mineral deposits, scale buildup that can lead to leaky faucets and clogged pipes, damage to appliances using water, residues on dishes cleaned in dishwashers, dry skin and hair post-showering, and the fading of clothes washed in hard water.

By eliminating these heavy minerals, softened water enhances the quality of life in several ways:

• improved skin and hair health
• brighter and softer laundry
• cleaner dishes and glasses
• reduced cleaning effort
• long-term cost savings
• improved taste and clarity of drinking water.

How a Water Softener Works

The core technology behind most water softeners is the ion exchange process, which replaces hard minerals with sodium (or sometimes potassium). This process occurs as water flows through a tank filled with resin beads that are pre-saturated with sodium. The hard minerals swap places with sodium ions, which then dissolve into the water, leaving it softened. Eventually, the resin beads get saturated with the removed minerals and need to be regenerated with sodium-rich water to restore their softening capability, allowing the system to continue providing softened water to the household.

Types of Water Softeners

Water softeners are designed to address hard water issues through two primary methods: ion exchange, which removes heavy minerals from the water, and neutralization, which prevents these minerals from clustering and keeps them dissolved in the water. The two main categories of water softeners, each functioning differently, include:

• Salt-based systems, which may also include dual-tank configurations
• Salt-free systems, which include magnetic variants

Salt-Based Water Softeners

Salt-based water softeners are widely used for their effectiveness in removing minerals like calcium and magnesium from water and exchanging them for sodium. This process turns hard water soft, making it healthier for use. Despite their efficiency, these systems require weekly salt recharges and are larger, which may not suit smaller spaces. However, portable versions are available, ideal for RVs, boats, and small homes, offering an affordable solution for on-the-go soft water needs. These portable softeners are less expensive but need frequent recharging. While salt-based softeners slightly increase the water’s sodium content, they remain within a safe range for most people, though those on low-sodium diets might prefer alternatives.

Dual-Tank Water Softeners

Dual-tank water softeners feature two resin tanks, ensuring a constant supply of soft water, even during one tank’s regeneration phase. They’re especially beneficial for well water, capable of filtering heavy minerals more effectively. However, dual-tank systems are larger, more expensive, and not necessary for most households, but they excel in high-demand situations without the risk of running out of softened water.

Salt-Free Water Softeners

Salt-free water softeners, unlike their salt-based counterparts, do not remove hard minerals from water but instead, condition the water to prevent these minerals from forming scale on fixtures and appliances. They are an initial costlier option that operates without salt or electricity, suitable for small to large homes. However, they may not perform as well in areas with extremely hard water or high water usage.

Electromagnetic and Magnetic

Electromagnetic and magnetic water softeners are compact, making them ideal for small spaces. They work by altering the charge of mineral ions with a magnetic field, preventing them from sticking to surfaces. Electromagnetic models require an electrical outlet, while magnetic ones do not, offering a maintenance-free solution albeit with limited effectiveness for smaller homes.

Polyphosphates

Polyphosphate softeners use a filtration cartridge to condition water, preventing scale formation, and are commonly used in commercial settings to protect equipment. Full filtration systems not only prevent scaling but also remove a wide range of contaminants, making water safer but requiring periodic and costly filter replacements.

Full Filtration

Full filtration systems offer a dual benefit: they soften water and eliminate a variety of drinking water contaminants. Operating without salt, these systems utilize a filtration process that transforms minerals into a crystalline form to prevent scale buildup on pipes and appliances. Additionally, they effectively filter out harmful substances such as herbicides, bacteria, viruses, pesticides, and chlorine. While offering significant advantages, the filters in these systems come with a higher cost and need replacement approximately every six months to a year.

It’s crucial to recognize the distinction between water softeners and purifiers. Water softeners are safe for treating water with hardening minerals, either by removing or neutralizing them to prevent them from causing scale. However, they do not function as water filters and are incapable of eliminating other harmful substances from the water. Therefore, their use should be limited to softening water. For concerns about the overall safety of your drinking water, especially regarding contaminants other than hardening minerals, it’s advisable to consult your local health department, conduct personal tests, or have the water professionally analyzed.

Not sure what’s right for your home or business? Contact the experts at Reynolds Water Conditioning; we’ll walk you through the process to determine the best solution for your water type.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

As winter envelops many parts of the world, the familiar sight of trucks scattering salt on icy roads becomes a common occurrence. This practice, aimed at ensuring safer driving conditions, uses sodium chloride, a compound similar to table salt, for deicing roadways. While the immediate benefits of this method are clear, its long-term environmental impact, especially on our water systems, is a growing concern.

The Scale of Road Salt Usage

The use of road salt, or sodium chloride, has become an integral part of winter road maintenance in cold climates. According to research from The University of Toledo, approximately 25 million metric tons of this deicing salt are applied annually across various regions. The quantity varies by state but can range from 3 to 18 pounds per square meter, roughly the area of a small kitchen table.

The Dual-Edged Sword of Road Deicing

The primary goal of road deicing is to prevent vehicle accidents during snowy conditions. Indeed, studies show that road deicers can reduce car accidents by over 78%. However, the environmental trade-off of this safety measure is significant, particularly regarding the salinity of freshwater sources.

Rising Salinity in Freshwater Sources

Research titled “Road Salts, Human Safety and the Rising Salinity of Our Fresh Waters” highlights a worrying trend: an increase in the salinity of freshwater bodies due to road salt. This phenomenon leads to the contamination of local drinking water supplies, pushing the salt concentration levels in some local streams to be 20 to 30 times higher than the chronic chloride threshold set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Ripple Effect on Water Quality

The impact of sodium chloride goes beyond just increasing salinity. It can mobilize harmful chemicals like radon, mercury, and lead, contaminating water supplies. A notable example of this was observed in Flint, Michigan, where excessive road salt use increased chloride levels, resulting in lead contamination from water pipes.

The Inadequacy of Current Safeguards

Current EPA guidelines on salt pollution appear to be insufficient in protecting water supplies. Researchers, including Bill Hintz from The University of Toledo, argue that the impacts of deicing salts can be lethal, even at current threshold levels, and call for a revision of these standards.

Exploring Alternative Solutions to Road Salt

To combat the negative effects of road salt, experts propose several strategies. These include creating covered salt storage facilities to prevent runoff, utilizing anti-icing liquids before storms to reduce salt dependency, and employing more efficient snowplows that conform better to road surfaces. Additionally, there is a call for public awareness and a shift in expectations regarding winter weather management to lessen the ecological footprint.

Balancing Safety and Environmental Health

As we navigate the challenges of maintaining safe roads in winter, it’s crucial to balance human safety with environmental responsibility. Understanding the consequences of road salt on our waterways is the first step toward adopting more sustainable deicing methods. It’s a delicate balance, but one that is essential for the health of our planet and future generations.

If you’re concerned about chemicals in your drinking water, contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today for testing and viable treatment solutions.  

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com