When water testing returns problematic results, the area where you live may be subject to a boil water advisory. While an advisory is often taken as a precautionary step, it's important to follow all relevant guidelines to keep your family safe and healthy. Here are a few details to keep in mind if there's an active boil water recommendation where you live. 

How to Boil Water Safely & Effectively

You can consume tap water during advisories, but you must take the proper steps to sanitize it first. Take a large pot from your kitchen and fill it with water from the tap. Place the pot on the stovetop and heat the water. It must reach a rolling boil, which means the water will be bubbling and churning in the pot. This usually takes between six and 12 minutes, depending on how much water you're boiling. 

Once you notice a lot of activity in the pot, continue heating the water for one more minute. After a minute has passed, turn off the burner and allow the water to cool completely. When the water is cool, store it in a container and place it in your refrigerator for later use.   

What You Can and Can't Do During Boil Water Advisories

Once water is boiled, it can be used for drinking, cooking, and washing. If water isn't boiled, you must proceed with caution during daily activities. For example, you can wash your hands with water right out of the tap, but you should be careful when showering. Don't swallow any water, and try not to get it in your eyes. 

When using the dishwasher, make sure it reaches at least 150 degrees during the final rinse to sanitize the dishes fully. If you don't have a dishwasher or aren't sure if yours reaches the appropriate temperature, you can allow dishes to soak in a special solution to sanitize them. Mix one gallon of water with one teaspoon of bleach and place the dishes in the mixture after washing in the sink. Let them sit for one minute before letting them completely air-dry. 

Even if you're not currently under a boil water advisory, water testing from AquaSource in Bloomfield, NY, is crucial. This business tests for a wide range of contaminants, which allows them to offer the best purification solution for your needs. They offer a variety of water treatment systems that use the latest technology to ensure clean, fresh water in your home at all times. Call (585) 229-2500 to schedule water testing at your home. Learn more about their purification systems online.