Can Drinking Water from Old Pipes Make You Sick?

The idea of drinking water from old pipes may raise concerns about potential health risks. However, scientific evidence suggests that the water from old pipes is unlikely to cause serious illness. Most of the concerns about old water are based on misunderstandings or misinformation.

Understanding Old Water

Water on our planet has been recirculated for billions of years, making it old by most measures. When we talk about 'old' water, we often mean water that has been stored for a long time, or water that has traveled through aging pipes. The safety of this water depends on various factors such as how it is stored, treated, and the type of materials it makes contact with.

Common Myths and Misunderstandings

One common myth is that drinking water from old pipes or bottles can make you sick. While it’s true that water from old pipes can sometimes taste stale and unpleasant, it is highly unlikely to cause illness in the sense of making you seriously ill. The water is not likely to contain harmful bacteria or chemicals that would cause severe health issues.

Another myth is that bottles left outside or in an area with high humidity levels could become contaminated with harmful bacteria. However, research shows that most bottles left in such conditions are more likely to become encrusted with saliva bacteria, mildew, or mold, which are less concerning than pathogens that could cause illness.

Scientific Evidence

Studies have shown that a burial experiment conducted from 1998 to 2019 involving an aluminum flask containing water did not change the taste or quality of the water in any way. The conclusion was that the water was still as good, if not better, compared to bottled water stored in plastic.

Another piece of evidence comes from personal experiences. Dusty Flat, a person sharing a similar anecdote, mentioned drinking water that tasted stale and dusty without suffering any health issues. Hence, while it may taste unpleasant, it is unlikely to cause significant health risks.

Chemical Leaching and Safety Concerns

While water from old pipes is unlikely to cause illness, certain types of plastic used for water storage can leach chemicals into water over time. Many bottles have a triangular symbol at the bottom that indicates the type of plastic. Research has shown that certain types of plastic, such as polycarbonate (PC) and bisphenol A (BPA), can release chemicals that are unsafe for long-term storage.

For safe and long-term water storage, choose food-grade plastic or metal containers. Stainless steel and glass are also excellent options as they do not leach harmful chemicals into the water. It is crucial to check online resources or consult with plastic experts to identify safe storage solutions.

Practical Tips for Water Storage

Regardless of the type of water source, there are practical steps you can take to ensure its safety:

Rotate stored water regularly, ideally every few months, to prevent bacterial growth. Store water in clean, treated containers that are specifically designed for water storage. Use appropriate treatment methods such as boiling, filtering, or adding purification chemicals for emergency situations. Monitor water quality regularly, especially if stored in untreated tap water.

While water from old pipes or long-term storage may taste off, it is unlikely to cause significant health issues. However, taking precautions and using safe storage methods can help ensure the water remains a safe and healthy drinking option.

Stay healthy and informed about water safety.