Plain English for everything on the water report.
Arsenic
Naturally-occurring metalloid found in Arizona groundwater. Reduced primarily by reverse osmosis. EWG flags Phoenix levels above the health guideline.
Backwash
The reverse-flow cycle a media filter or softener runs to flush captured particulate and regenerate resin. Typically 12-25 gallons per cycle.
Carbon block
Activated carbon pressed into a solid block. Used in pre-filters and whole-home stacks to strip chlorine, chloramine, taste, and odor.
Chloramine
Combination of chlorine and ammonia used by Phoenix as a residual disinfectant. Harder to remove than free chlorine. Requires catalytic carbon.
EWG
Environmental Working Group. Independent nonprofit publishing water-quality guidelines based on current research, often stricter than EPA legal limits.
GPG (grains per gallon)
Unit of water hardness. Phoenix runs 12-22 gpg. Anything above 7 gpg is considered hard.
HAA5
Five regulated haloacetic acids, disinfection byproducts that form when chlorine reacts with organics. Phoenix levels run above EWG guideline.
Ion exchange
The mechanism softeners use. Resin beads swap calcium and magnesium ions for sodium ions on the inflow.
Membrane (RO)
Semi-permeable film that water is forced through under pressure. Rejects 90-99% of dissolved solids. Lasts 3-5 years in Phoenix conditions.
PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Manufactured forever-chemicals now detected in Phoenix water. Reduced by certified carbon and RO.
PPM (parts per million)
Concentration unit for dissolved substances. Phoenix tap typically runs 550-700 ppm TDS.
TDS (total dissolved solids)
Sum of everything dissolved in water, minerals, salts, metals. Measured in ppm. Bottled-water grade sits below 50.
Turbidity
Cloudiness or haziness in water caused by suspended particles. Pre-sediment filters reduce turbidity so UV can be effective downstream.
UV (ultraviolet) disinfection
254-nm light that inactivates bacteria, viruses, and protozoan cysts. Standard on well-water installs, optional on city builds.
WQA Certified
Water Quality Association credential. Independent confirmation that a product or technician meets industry standards.
Book your free in-home water test.
A certified technician comes to your house, tests your water on the spot, and walks you through every number. About forty-five minutes. No pressure.