Colorado Springs Water Report: What’s Really in Your Tap Water?

Is Colorado Springs Tap Water Really Safe to Drink?

Like many residents in Colorado Springs, you may assume your tap water is safe—after all, it’s treated by the city and meets federal standards. But what if we told you that Colorado Springs tap water may still contain substances you don’t want in your body or home?

At Rocky Mountain Plumbing Services, we regularly test and treat water across El Paso County. What we’ve found is that water quality varies from neighborhood to neighborhood—and in many cases, so do the contaminants. This blog takes a closer look at the local water supply, the most common concerns, and what you can do to protect your family’s health and home.

A faucet pours discolored water into a sink, highlighting potential water quality issues.

Understanding Colorado Springs Water Quality

The City of Colorado Springs sources its drinking water from a mix of mountain streams, reservoirs, and groundwater. While the treatment process removes many harmful bacteria and particulates, trace levels of contaminants often remain—and the effects may not be visible or immediate.

According to recent annual water quality reports, our municipal water contains small but measurable amounts of:

• Chlorine & Chloramine (used as disinfectants)

• Trihalomethanes (THMs) (byproducts of chlorine that may be linked to cancer)

• Lead & Copper (from aging pipes and plumbing systems)

• Nitrates (especially common in agricultural or rural areas)

• PFAS (known as "forever chemicals," often used in industrial and household products)

These substances may be present in low concentrations, but long-term exposure—even at federally "acceptable" levels—can have health consequences.

Top Colorado Springs Water Contaminants to Watch For

1. Chlorine and Chloramine

Both are disinfectants used in the treatment process, but they can cause skin irritation, dry hair, and bad taste or odor in your water. When combined with organic matter, they can form THMs.

2. Trihalomethanes (THMs)

Formed when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter in water, THMs are considered a potential carcinogen with long-term exposure. They're especially concerning for those with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions.

3. Lead and Copper

While the city doesn’t add lead to your water, it can leach in through older pipes and solder joints, especially in homes built before 1986. Lead exposure is particularly dangerous for children, affecting brain development and learning abilities.

4. PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")

These synthetic compounds, used in non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and stain-resistant fabrics, are incredibly hard to break down and have been linked to thyroid issues, hormonal disruption, and certain cancers. Several areas across Colorado have tested above recommended health levels.

What This Means for Your Home and Health

Even if your water meets basic federal standards, that doesn’t mean it’s the best for your home or your body. Colorado Springs water contaminants can:

• Affect the taste and smell of your water

• Cause mineral buildup in your appliances

• Trigger dry skin and brittle hair

• Contribute to health concerns over time

This is where a professional Colorado Springs water filtration system comes into play.

Colorado Springs Water Filtration: Your First Line of Defense

Installing a whole-house water filtration system or an under-sink filter is one of the most effective ways to improve the quality, taste, and safety of your water.

At Rocky Mountain Plumbing Services, we offer tailored water filtration solutions to match the exact needs of your home based on:

• Your water source (municipal or well water)

• Type of contaminants present

• Family size and water usage

• Budget and maintenance preferences

Our systems target the most common Colorado Springs water contaminants, including:

• Sediment

• Chlorine and byproducts

• Heavy metals

• PFAS

• Bacteria and viruses (with optional UV purification)

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How We Help at Rocky Mountain Plumbing Services

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our process includes:

1. Water Quality Testing – We’ll test your home’s water for chlorine, hardness, metals, and other concerns.

2. Custom Recommendations – We help you choose the best filtration option: whole-house systems, reverse osmosis filters, or under-sink units.

3. Professional Installation – Our licensed team installs your system quickly and cleanly, ensuring full functionality and long-term protection.

4. Ongoing Support – We provide filter replacement, maintenance, and upgrades as your water needs evolve.

   
   

Protect Your Family and Your Home—Get Your Water Tested Today

If you’ve been wondering whether your Colorado Springs tap water is truly safe or you’re tired of strange odors and hard water residue—it’s time to take control. A professionally installed Colorado Springs water filtration system is one of the best long-term investments you can make in your family’s health and comfort.

Contact Rocky Mountain Plumbing Services today to schedule a free in-home water consultation. We’ll help you uncover what’s in your tap and recommend the right system to keep your home safe, clean, and worry-free.