Each year, residents of Bristol, Tennessee receive an Annual Water Quality Report that outlines the condition of their municipal water supply. The 2024 report confirms that Bristol’s water meets the safety standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). But here’s what you need to know: “meeting standards” doesn’t necessarily mean optimal health protection.
Several contaminants were found in this year’s report. Though each remains within legal limits, ongoing exposure—even at low levels—can pose health risks. That’s why more Bristol homeowners are turning to reverse osmosis (RO) filtration systems from Collins Water Purification, a trusted leader in advanced home water solutions.
Let’s break down the report and explore how an RO system can elevate your home’s water quality.
1. Turbidity – 0.11 NTU
What Is Turbidity?
Turbidity refers to the clarity of water and measures suspended particles such as silt, clay, or microorganisms. While it’s not a health hazard on its own, it can signal the presence of harmful bacteria or viruses.
Reported Level in Bristol: 0.11 NTU
Why It Matters:
High turbidity can reduce the effectiveness of disinfection and shelter dangerous microorganisms. Vulnerable populations—children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals—are especially at risk.
How RO Helps:
Reverse osmosis systems use sediment pre-filters to trap particles that cause turbidity, providing water that’s not only safer but also visibly clearer.
2. Fluoride – 0.75 ppm
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is added to municipal water systems to help reduce cavities. While beneficial in small doses, overexposure can cause serious health concerns.
Reported Level in Bristol: 0.75 ppm
Why It Matters:
This level is within legal limits but still warrants caution. Prolonged fluoride exposure has been linked to:
- Dental and skeletal fluorosis
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Possible neurodevelopmental effects
How RO Helps:
Most standard filters don’t remove fluoride. RO systems, however, are designed to eliminate it from your drinking and cooking water—giving you the control to keep the benefits without ingesting it unnecessarily.
3. Haloacetic Acids – 32 ppb
What Are Haloacetic Acids?
HAA5 are disinfection byproducts that form when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter.
Reported Level in Bristol: 32 ppb
Why It Matters:
While within the EPA limit, Haloacetic Acid has been associated with:
- Increased cancer risk
- Liver and kidney damage
- Developmental and reproductive problems
How RO Helps:
Reverse osmosis removes these and other chemical byproducts of chlorination, minimizing your long-term exposure.
4. TTHMs (Total Trihalomethanes) – 47 ppb
What Are TTHMs?
TTHMs are another group of chlorination byproducts, including chloroform and similar compounds linked to cancer.
Reported Level in Bristol: 47 ppb
Why It Matters:
Even though the EPA allows up to 80 ppb, studies show that exposure to TTHMs over time can:
- Increase cancer risks (especially bladder and liver)
- Harm reproductive health
- Weaken the immune system
How RO Helps:
By removing both chlorine and the organic matter it reacts with, RO systems reduce the formation of TTHMs before they ever reach your glass.
5. Sodium – 37.9 ppm
What Is Sodium?
Sodium can enter water from natural sources or as a result of water treatment and road salt runoff. It’s not regulated but can be harmful in high amounts.
Reported Level in Bristol: 37.9 ppm
Why It Matters:
This level may be concerning for individuals with:
- High blood pressure
- Heart conditions
- Kidney disorders
How RO Helps:
Reverse osmosis systems significantly reduce sodium levels, making them ideal for health-conscious households.
6. Total Organic Carbon (TOC) – 1.4 ppm
What Is TOC?
TOC measures the amount of carbon in organic compounds in water. Though not dangerous by itself, TOC can lead to the formation of harmful byproducts during disinfection.
Reported Level in Bristol: 1.4 ppm
Why It Matters:
More organic carbon = more potential for the creation of HAA5 and TTHMs when chlorine is added. It’s a key indicator of a water system’s vulnerability to byproduct formation.
How RO Helps:
RO filtration reduces TOC, decreasing the chance of harmful chemical reactions and improving water taste and safety.
7. Chlorine – 0.87 ppm
What Is Chlorine?
Chlorine is used to disinfect water, but it can leave behind taste, odor, and unwanted byproducts.
Reported Level in Bristol: 0.87 ppm
Why It Matters:
Even at legal levels, chlorine can cause:
- Skin and eye irritation
- Bad taste and smell
- Long-term exposure to toxic byproducts
How RO Helps:
An RO system combines activated carbon and membrane filtration to eliminate chlorine and its unpleasant effects—leaving your water clean and fresh.
Why Reverse Osmosis Is a Smart Investment for Bristol Homes
Bristol’s municipal water may be compliant, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely free from risk. A reverse osmosis filtration system from Collins Water Purification can take your water from “legally safe” to truly healthy.
Here’s What Makes RO the Gold Standard:
✅ Exceptional Contaminant Removal
Eliminates up to 99% of fluoride, chlorine, sodium, lead, arsenic, and other contaminants.
💧 Improved Taste & Odor
No more chemical taste—just crisp, refreshing water.
❤️ Healthier Water for the Whole Family
Minimize your family’s exposure to toxins linked to long-term health issues.
🌿 Eco-Friendly & Budget-Friendly
Reduce reliance on bottled water and save money in the long run.
🧘♂️ Peace of Mind
Know exactly what’s in (and not in) your drinking water.
👶 Perfect for Daily Use
Ideal for drinking, cooking, baby formula, and more.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Settle for “Good Enough”
The 2024 Bristol Annual Water Report proves that the water is legally safe—but “legally safe” isn’t the same as healthy, clean, and worry-free. Contaminants like fluoride, chlorine, and byproducts may still pose risks to your long-term wellness.
Make the proactive choice for your family’s health. Install a reverse osmosis water system from Collins Water Purification and enjoy the clean, high-quality water you deserve.
Contact Collins Water Purification Today
Proudly serving Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, and surrounding communities, we offer:
- Water testing
- Personalized recommendations
- Professional RO system installation
📞 Call us today at 276-623-9093 to get a free instant quote by phone and start enjoying pure, great-tasting water—right from your tap.
