
Debunking 5 Common Water Myths: The Truth About Drinking Water Contaminants
Water is essential for life, and access to clean, safe drinking water is a fundamental human right. However, concerns about water quality and the presence of contaminants have led to a flood of information, sometimes conflicting, about what’s in our tap water. Read on as we delve into the truth about drinking water contaminants, dispelling common myths and presenting the facts to help you make informed decisions about your water sources.
Myth #1: Tap Water Is Always Safe to Drink
Fact: While many developed countries have strict regulations governing tap water quality, it’s not a universal guarantee of safety. Aging infrastructure, industrial pollution, and natural contaminants can still affect the quality of tap water. Contaminants in drinking water can also pose significant health risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exposure to contaminants in drinking water can lead to various health issues, including gastrointestinal illnesses, developmental problems in children, and even certain types of cancer. Therefore, understanding and addressing these contaminants is crucial for safeguarding your health and well-being.
Tip: Regular water quality testing is essential to ensure that your tap water meets safety standards.
Myth #2: Bottled Water Is Safer Than Tap Water
Fact: Bottled water is not inherently safer than tap water. In fact, some studies have found that bottled water may contain contaminants like microplastics. These tiny plastic particles can leach from the plastic bottles themselves and have been detected in various bottled water brands. When ingested over time, microplastics can potentially pose health risks.
Tip: Using reusable bottles helps reduce the 50 billion plastic water bottles sold in the US every year.
Myth #3: Boiling Water Removes All Contaminants
Fact: Boiling water can kill most harmful bacteria and pathogens, making it safer to drink in emergencies. However, it does not remove chemical contaminants or heavy metals and in some cases, boiling water can even concentrate these contaminants, making the water more toxic. If there are concerns about chemical contaminants or heavy metals in the water supply, additional treatment methods, such as using activated carbon filters or chemical purification, may be necessary to ensure the water’s safety for consumption.
Tip: The CDC recommends boiling water for at least one minute (or three minutes at higher altitudes) to ensure it’s safe to drink.
Myth #4: Filtration Systems Are 100% Effective

Fact: Water filtration systems vary in their effectiveness and the types of contaminants they can remove. For example, basic carbon filters are effective at improving taste and odor by removing common impurities like chlorine, but they are not sufficient to eliminate heavier contaminants such as lead, mercury, or certain chemical pollutants that can be present in your water supply. It’s essential to choose a filtration system based on the specific contaminants present in your water and to regularly replace filters as recommended.
Tip: RO (Reverse Osmosis) systems are typically the best option for removing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved salts, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and certain chemical pollutants, from your drinking water. Learn more about different water filtration systems in this Goettl Homeowner Tip on YouTube:
Myth #5: Water Contaminants Are a Third-World Problem
Fact: Water contamination is a global issue with wide-ranging implications for public health and the environment. While developed countries often boast more robust water treatment infrastructure, they are not immune to challenges. For example, in the United States, much of the water infrastructure is reaching the end of its useful life, with some pipes dating back a century. This aging infrastructure can lead to issues like leaks and water main breaks, potentially introducing contaminants into the water supply.
According to the Environmental Defense Fund, emerging contaminants, including PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also pose an ongoing challenge worldwide. PFAs—also known as “Forever Chemicals”—are synthetic compounds found all over the environment that don’t break down easily. A recent study found that more than 200 million Americans are exposed to PFAs in their tap water.
Tip: A reverse osmosis water filtration system is the most effective tool for removing PFAs, according to Goettl Master Plumber Gary Eisenhauer. To access information about your public water system, such as system characteristics, sampling data, violations, and enforcement, utilize tools like the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) Federal Reporting Services.
Safeguarding Our Water Supply
Access to clean, safe drinking water is a vital part of public health, and understanding the truth about water contaminants is crucial. While many myths persist, it’s essential to rely on scientific facts and regularly monitor your water source’s quality. Whether you use tap water, bottled water, or natural sources, being informed and taking appropriate precautions can help ensure that your drinking water is safe for you and your family. Water is life, and it’s our responsibility to safeguard it.
GET SAFER DRINKING WATER IN YOUR HOME
Goettl experts can help you make the switch to a whole-home water purification system. Contact us today to provide you and your loved ones with pure and clean drinking water that’s easy to access. Contact Goettl today for expert advice and professional installation services.
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say About Us








The Service Manager reached out and we spoke, he explained the reason for the high cost of the repair and offered to credit our account with a substantial amount,
This is a company that stand to what they advertise and their workmanship is above what they promise.
I would recommend this company to all my neighbors.
I also enrolled into their monthly membership to come out twice a year and check everything out.
Thank you for standing behind your work….
Have been trying to speak to a Service Manager since Sunday the 26th of October, it is now October 29th called every day but no answer.
I was billed $270 for 50 minutes of a copper pipe repair, and over $600 for a close to 18 inch pipe with a fitting.
The repairman man was cordial,, it’s the company Goertl that is not a good customer friendly company. When I called to dispute the charge I was told that they are the most expensive company around. Shame. shame, also it’s a veterans owned company and they only gave a 5% discount to us because of my husband being a veteran.
Our dispute is on the cost of material, hence the hole where pipe need repair was pre prepped.
All main valves were shut off and pit was dried.

We are confident that our system will be amazing , are thankful that Mike provided us a good experience.















Great service!
ML








What really stood out was his deep knowledge and attention to detail — he didn’t just do the job, he made sure we understood what was causing the issue and how to help prevent future problems. It’s rare to find someone so thorough, respectful, and genuinely dedicated to doing the job right.
Rodell represented Goettl with true professionalism, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the service. Highly recommend both Rodell and Goettl for anyone needing expert, trustworthy plumbing service!




Regards & Thanks again
James & Debbie Terrazas
7003 Mill Wheel






-Kathleen







Anyone who receives Max as the technician on their call should consider themselves lucky, as should his supervisors at Goettl. He is the consummate pro through and through. I highly recommend Max & Goettl and we will be utilizing their services in the future. Thanks again to Max for his considerable help.

Daniel came out for a new issue and got it all handled in one visit. Love this company and their techs!



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Cameran took the time to thoroughly explain the differences between replacing with a traditional tank water heater versus opting for a tankless model. He laid out the pricing and options in a very transparent manner, answering all my questions patiently and ensuring I understood the benefits and costs of each option. This level of transparency was refreshing and much appreciated, as it helped me feel confident in making an informed decision.
Overall, Cameran provided a fantastic experience. His professionalism, knowledge, and genuine approach were exceptional, making what could have been a stressful situation both easy and informative. I highly recommend Cameran to anyone in need of water heater services. Thank you, Cameran, for your outstanding service!






Caleb was professional and clear. He showed me what he found and told me how I could proceed. Thank you Goettl 😊 and thank you Caleb!





Thermostat. Stopped working on Monday night 10/20 /2025. GOETTL Tech. Kevin Andrew text to notify me of his ETA. Was very punctual. Explain what the problem was, he checked it out , went up to attic and found the problem. Explain to me the issues that was causing the A/C Thermostat to turn off. Went into detail explaining to me what was causing the A/C Thermostat to turn off. He was very professionalc and ourteous.
Thank you Kevin... Blessings








He explained, while he saw no immediate problems. what we might expect going forward, given the furnace's age and condition. After I asked about major component vs. whole-unit replacement, he provided a thorough explanation, and pricing, of options for us to consider.
Very good experience with Jef! Highly recommend!


His experience led us to a solution for our pipes, which saved us thousands and thousands of dollars.
He’s a good man to have on your side


The service was perfect. The technician Julian Bray was pleasant, knowledgeable and completed the install quickly. The area was left cleaner than when he arrived.




Jesus was are tec came in check everything let me know what would need to be done or taken care of came in respectfully with a great attitude
Highly exceptional service we definitely will be requesting him if possible great experience today





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Sally



















This past week our service technician was Andrew Morgan and he is such a friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled technician. He spent time making sure the job was done correctly and he explained it in terms that I could understand. Not only is our unit functioning even better than before, I also gained knowledge of how the system works.













I highly recommend Goettl as this is the second time l've used them in less than a year. (2 seperate issues)... and I highly recommend them..anytime and anyday.
They have exceeded to top any expectations I could have ever had with any company.


Jerry also noticed our water pressure was low after flushing toilet then trying to wash hands in bathroom sink which were so he suggested a new pressure regulator as we have had a new better water conditioning system installed. We now have the best water pressure even when using a shower and kitchen sink faucet at the same time. Also Jerry is a master plumber and we appreciate his knowledge and experience. Will definitely call Goettl again when a plumber is needed.
Ralph & Kathy Lesmeister



Darean Guerra today. He arrived on time and took the time to explain what he was going to do. He was very knowledgeable which helped me trust what he was doing. He left his work area clean. I am very pleased with his work.




Now we have a new flange, installed correctly, and ready for the new toilet!








The company is installing a tankless heater and the customer service is outstanding.
I recommend Geottl to all!


They made sure my carpet was covered and when they were all through they cleaned up perfectly
I would recommend your company to anyone looking to put in a new air conditioner.
Thank you so much for all you did for me.
Sincerely, June Jones

And I would highly recommend the company and the quality technicians like Jarod.
Jarod is the go to if you want excellent
Customer service and communication for any AC related issues. He is very knowledgeable, personable and trustworthy. I am grateful and satisfied.







They listened to my issue, were very through, checked for leaks, etc. I’ve lived in Lakeway for 30 years, used MANY local plumbers - but Goettl will definitely get all my business moving forward. HIGHLY recommend!
Ty, Wil & Adrian!

Everyone from the Goettl sales representative Christian, Tech / Advisor Josias recommended a HVAC A/C and Heating system replacement. Technicians team Veronica and her partner.


Jeremy Canchola serviced our mini-split today with the usual Goettl efficiency and professionalism.
Highly recommended!


Hopefully, we will get Jack for our next service call.







Robert, Tyler, Adrian & Luis, Thank you all so much.

