Water Filtration Solutions
The following discusses potential water quality issues or concerns as well as water filtration or water softening options for residents of Brookline, Massachusetts.
The Brookline water supply is supplied by the Water Division (see link at Brookline Water & Sewer ), which originates from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The latest available Annual Water Quality Report can be viewed at the following link MWRA Annual Report. While water quality is generally pretty good from MWRA, there are issues that may occur causing various types of staining in the home’s sinks, bathtubs, toilets, showers and other plumbing fixtures. Additionally, you may experience taste and odor issues that are commonly associated with chloramine (a chlorine, ammonia compound), which is used to disinfect the water and control bacterial growth. There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” publication provided by MWRA that reviews what you may encounter. See the link at FAQs MWRA Water.
Dissolved Iron Staining
WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS & WATER SOFTENERS
Water filtration systems can be installed for the removal of any of the potential causes of symptoms you may be experiencing. Water softeners are typically installed to remove hardness minerals, dissolved iron or manganese from the water through a technology called Ion Exchange.
Water Softener with Sediment Filtration
For drinking water purification, a reverse osmosis system is a good choice. This technology is used by major water bottlers (Aquafina, Dasani) to take tap water and turn it into a very pure, clean great tasting water. It’s like having your own mini bottled water factory.
Reverse Osmosis System
Any water filtration system or water softener recommendation should start with a water test before an informed decision can be made. To determine what type of water testing to have performed and how to take a proper sample, call a water treatment professional or a state certified laboratory.
BAD TASTES & ODORS, SEDIMENT 
In addition to the above systems, there are many other types of systems to remove bad tastes & odors, sediment and many other objectionable minerals and contaminants in the water. Starting with a water test will dictate the right approach. For more information on common bad odors & tastes in New England water supplies, see the link at https://h2ocare.com/bad-odor-taste/.
In summary, controlling your home’s water quality is attainable through proper water testing and equipment specification with today’s available water filtration technologies at a reasonable price. Proper on-going maintenance is also critical to maintain a consistent level of great water quality.
H2O Care is an established, Massachusetts based water filtration and testing firm, formed in 1989 with offices in Middleton and Hudson, Mass. Articles published by the Company can be seen in Water Technology Magazines at http://www.h2ocare.com/pub. Contact us at [email protected] or 800-539-1100.