Quick Answers to Common Questions

• Calcium and Magnesium: These are the primary contributors to hard water, which is common across Alberta.
• • Hardness levels range from 7 to 17 grains per gallon (gpg) or higher, depending on the city.
  • Effects: Scale buildup, cloudy glassware, dry skin, reduced appliance efficiency.

• Chlorine or Chloramine: Used for disinfection in municipal systems.
• • May cause taste or odor issues.
  • Can react with organic matter to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs).

• Lead, Iron, Copper: Often from aging infrastructure or corroded pipes.
• • Symptoms: Metallic taste, staining, rusty water.

• E. coli and Coliform Bacteria: Especially a concern in private wells or during water advisories.
• • Can cause serious health issues if untreated.

• Nitrates, Pesticides, Herbicides: More common in rural areas.
• • Risk to infants and long-term health concerns.

• Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Persistent industrial chemicals found in some Alberta water sources.
• • Linked to cancer and other health risks at high exposure levels.

• Includes minerals, salts, and organic matter.
• • High TDS can affect taste and may indicate other contaminants.

• Municipal Water: Regularly tested and regulated under Alberta’s Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and Health Canada’s Drinking Water Guidelines.
• Private Wells: Should be tested for bacteria, nitrates, metals, and pH at least once a year.

• Bacteria like E. coli or coliform
• Nitrates from fertilizers or septic systems
• Heavy metals like lead or arsenic
• Hard water minerals and sediment
• Chemical contaminants from agriculture or industry

• Bacteria (Total Coliform & E. coli): Twice per year
• • These tests check for harmful microorganisms that can cause illness.
• Chemical & Trace Metals (e.g., arsenic, lead, nitrates): Every 2 to 3 years
• • These contaminants can be naturally occurring or result from human activity.
• General Water Quality (e.g., pH, hardness, iron, chloride): Every 2 years

• Annually, as a preventative measure to control bacterial growth and biofilm.
• After flooding or heavy rain events, there may be surface contaminants.
• After repairs to the well, pump, or plumbing system.
• If water tests show bacteria or other contamination.
• When water smells bad or tastes off, such as a sulfur or metallic odor.

• Deep wells are less likely to be contaminated, but still require testing and maintenance.
• Shocking is not a cure-all — if contamination keeps returning, you may need to address structural issues or biofilm buildup in the well casing.
• Use proper safety gear (gloves, goggles, ventilation) and avoid draining chlorinated water into your septic system.
• Consult a licensed well contractor if you're unsure or if it's your first time.

• Residential Systems: Typically require annual servicing, including filter changes, system inspections, and water quality testing.
• Commercial Systems: May need quarterly or biannual servicing, depending on usage volume, system complexity, and regulatory requirements.

• Ensures consistent water quality and safety.
• Prevents the buildup of contaminants like iron, sediment, and bacteria.
• Extends the lifespan of your equipment.
• Helps comply with Alberta’s water safety standards.

• Maintain water quality in accordance with Health Canada’s Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
• Use certified operators for system maintenance when applicable.
• Keep records of system performance and maintenance activities. 

Wildcat Water Solutions Tip:

• Symptoms: Scale buildup, dry skin, soap not lathering well.
• Solution: Water Softener
• • Removes hardness minerals through ion exchange.
  • Ideal for homes with well or municipal water.

• Symptoms: Rust stains, metallic taste, rotten egg smell.
• Solution: Iron/Sulfur Filters, Air Injection Systems, or Continuous Chemical Injection Systems
• • Oxidizes and filters out iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide.

• Symptoms: Cloudy water, particles in water.
• Solution: Sediment Filtration System
• • Removes sand, silt, and other particulates.

• Symptoms: Health concerns, especially with well or surface water.
• Solution: UV Disinfection System
• • Kills bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens without chemicals.

• Symptoms: Unpleasant taste or smell.
• Solution: Activated Carbon Filter
• • Removes chlorine, VOCs, and improves taste and odor.

• Symptoms: Health risks, especially for infants and pregnant women.
• Solution: Reverse Osmosis (RO) System
• • Provides high-purity drinking water by removing dissolved solids.

Wildcat Water Solutions Tip:

• Removes harmful contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, lead, and chlorine.
• Ensures clean, safe drinking water for your family.
• Reduces risk of waterborne illnesses, especially in well or cistern systems.

• Eliminates unpleasant tastes and smells caused by chlorine, sulfur, or iron.
• Makes water more enjoyable for drinking and cooking.

• Prevents scale buildup from hard water, extending the life of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines.
• Reduces corrosion and staining in pipes and fixtures.

• Reduces the need for bottled water.
• Lowers maintenance and replacement costs for appliances and plumbing.
• Improves the energy efficiency of water-using appliances.

• Minimizes plastic waste from bottled water.
• Reduces chemical use in cleaning and laundry.

• Soft water is gentler on skin and hair.
• Helps reduce dryness, irritation, and soap residue.

Wildcat Water Solutions Tip: