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Cornwall family uses bottled water for months after finding debris and high pH levels in tap supply
Overview
A family in Par, Cornwall, has relied on bottled water for over four months following a drop in water pressure that revealed particulate debris and a high pH level of 10 in their mains supply from South West Water. While the water company stated that subsequent testing and pipe replacements confirmed satisfactory water quality, the homeowners have lost confidence in drinking the tap water.
Key points
- Annie and Phil Graham-Norgan from Par, Cornwall, discovered debris blocking their filtered taps and a sudden pressure drop in December.
- Tests revealed the water had a pH level of 10, exceeding the Drinking Water Inspectorate's standard range of 6.5 to 9.5.
- The family paid South West Water nearly £6,000 three years prior to connect to the mains supply.
- South West Water stated that slower-moving water in a section of pipe likely caused the elevated pH levels.
- The water firm replaced pipework, flushed the network, provided bottled water as a precaution, and confirmed subsequent sampling showed satisfactory water quality.
- The Drinking Water Inspectorate noted that while a pH exceedance does not automatically mean a health risk, companies have a duty to investigate breaches.