Vancouver Island, BC Water Problems
Common water issues on Vancouver Island, and how to fix them
Comox Lake provides a large portion of the water supply for eastern Vancouver, while a reservoir system helps provide areas around Victoria with fresh drinking water. In addition to the Sooke Reservoir, the island also utilizes a handful of other lakes and surface water resources to maintain a consistent supply. As a result, Vancouver Islanders struggle with some water issues common to supplies sourced from surface water. The city also uses chloramines to treat its water, which can be harsher than chlorine on plumbing and fixtures.
Hard Water
Lake and other surface water sources are often consistent, reliable sources of water. However, they can come with their own set of filtration and usability challenges. For those on the island, hard water from dissolved minerals can present a variety of issues in and around the home, including:
- Climbing utility bills
- Dry, itchy skin
- Early appliance burnout
- Scratchy, stiff laundry
- Water discolouration
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Chlorine and Sulphur Odours
A common additive used to disinfect municipal water, both in British Columbia and greater Canada, excess amounts of chlorine make drinking and using tap water unappealing. Too much can also aggravate skin allergies and sometimes cause stomach upset. Residents in the mid-island region also often notice sulphur smells, caused by dissolved hydrogen sulphide that can be easily filtered out by a Sulfur-Cleer® system.
Dry, Itchy Skin
Hard, chemically treated water tends to be harsh on skin, as it helps water remove your body’s naturally moisturizing oils. Especially noticeable for those with existing skin sensitivities, it can also aggravate conditions like eczema and dandruff.
Tips From the Culligan Water Expert
Whole-home carbon systems can help abate problems caused by treatment chemicals like chloramine.
Did You Know?
The main health risks associated with consumption of improperly treated surface water in BC are from bacteria, viruses, or parasites