If you're a consumer with a question about a specific water conditioning product, what the product does, and if it's the right choice for you, the MWQA office may have the answer.

What should I do if I suspect a problem with my water?

Have your water tested. A professional, such as a Water Quality Association Certified Water Specialist, can analyze your water for aesthetic problems, including taste, odor and hardness. A state-certified or other laboratory will test your water for health-related contaminants, such as lead, nitrates, bacteria or radon.

How do I know which water treatment products to purchase?

Be an educated consumer. Research which water quality improvement products you need before you buy. Check the products' capabilities, warranties, maintenance provisions and general operational instructions. Investigate which contaminants each product reduces and to what level. Brochures are available from the MWQA that list various types of treatment systems and what each system can do.

How can I tell which products are the best?

If you're purchasing equipment to remove health-related contaminants, make sure the equipment has been independently tested for removal of those contaminants or tested to NSF International Standards. Look for the WQA Gold Seal on the product, which indicates that a prototype unit was tested and met industry performance standards. Don't let price be your only criterion. Capacity, special features or company services are other factors you may need to consider in making the right choice.

If you have questions or concerns before purchasing or renting a system, contact the MWQA at (763) 754-2123 and we'll assist you with information to help you make an informed decision.

This information was reprinted from a brochure provided by the national Water Quality Association.