At first, we might be alarmed with the idea that there could be a health hazard regarding carbonated beverage dispensers. Children and adults alike drink soft drinks from such dispensers. When combined, the water and CO 2 form carbonic acid. When everything works as it should, all is well. The problem arises when the carbonic acid migrates into the water supply piping and reacts with the pipe material, usually copper.
Carbon dioxide is a gas, so it can be compressed and stored under pressure.
Typically, the pressure is much greater than the pressure at which water is supplied to most water customers. The water and CO 2 are introduced into a mixing chamber where the carbonic acid is formed. A period of time may pass between demands for beverages. If the inlet control valve on the water supply connection leaks, carbonic acid can seep into the copper water supply pipe. Here, the carbonic acid attacks the copper pipe, causing the copper to dissolve and be absorbed into the watery mix.