Tap water quality in New South Memphis, Tennessee? Is it safe to drink?

The Tap Water Quality in New South Memphis, Tennessee is a topic of significant concern for local residents, and the local water utility that serves this area is Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW).

Water Quality Problems:

1. Source: The water in New South Memphis comes from both surface water sources, including the Mississippi River, and groundwater extracted from the Memphis Sand Aquifer.
2. Testing and Standards: Memphis Light, Gas and Water conducts regular water quality testing. They follow standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). Despite rigorous testing, certain contaminants have been detected in the water at levels that can be concerning to residents.
3. Water Hardness: The water in New South Memphis is considered to be soft to moderately hard. It contains lower levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium compared to other regions. This can be beneficial as it reduces the risk of mineral buildup in plumbing systems.
4. Common Concerns: Residents often report issues such as the presence of chlorine taste and odor, and occasionally notice discoloration in their tap water. There have also been concerns raised about the potential contamination from industrial pollutants and aging infrastructure, which can affect water safety over time.

Residents in New South Memphis are encouraged to use water purifiers and water softeners to protect themselves from potential contaminants and to improve the taste and quality of their tap water. Employing such measures can help ensure safer, cleaner water for a variety of household uses.