Descriptions of some common treatment methods are included in the publication, as is a list of more than 80 contaminants, their sources, and amount of each allowed in drinking water. Learn more, including what you can do in your home to further improve the safety and taste of your drinking water, with Water on Tap . When you write or call, you'll also receive a free copy of the Consumer Information Catalog , a listing of more than 200 free and low-cost federal publications on a variety of consumer topics. One hundred gallons. That's how much water the average American uses each day.
Water is an abundant and renewable resource, but it's also a fragile one.
As our population continues to grow, and more land is developed on and around water sources, the threat of contamination also increases. That means we must be more careful with water before it reaches our homes, taking steps to ensure it's safe to use. Water on Tap , a free publication from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, provides a behind the scenes look at how our drinking water is kept clean through testing and treatment. You can also order this publication from the Health section using our online ordering system . When you write or call, you'll also receive a free copy of the Consumer Information Catalog , a listing of more than 200 free and low-cost federal publications on a variety of consumer topics.