Residents in Wallan, Broadford, and surrounding areas are concerned about the high pH levels of their tap water.
With one resident recording a pH of 9 in Broadford, and another recording 10.2 in Wallan late last month, locals took to Facebook to discuss.
Australian Drinking Water Guidelines state that the pH for tap water must be between 6.5 and 8.5. Levels less than 7 are classified as acidic and can be corrosive, while levels above 7 are classified as alkaline and can have a slippery feel and bitter taste. While drinking acidic water is not recommended, drinking low levels of alkaline water has not been proven to be harmful. In fact, some studies suggest the opposite, with many believing that drinking alkaline water can be beneficial – though this remains yet to be confirmed.
However, alkaline water presents the possibility of copper pipe corrosion, and ingesting high levels of copper can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and headaches.
On the post, one Facebook user stated that the high alkaline levels were likely due to the lime in old pipes leeching into the water.
A spokesperson for Goulburn Valley Water (GVW) supported the suggestion, stating that pH levels can be affected by the surrounding environment.
“Changes in water pH levels can potentially occur throughout the water distribution network once it leaves the treatment plant, for example where there are concrete-lined pipes which can affect alkalinity levels,” they said.
“In these situations, water quality monitoring has demonstrated that the water remains safe to drink.”
The spokesperson stated that while GVW did not supply water to Wallan, data from the Broadford Water Treatment Plant showed pH levels ranged between 6.5 and 7.5, with tests carried out in Broadford on June 24 showing pH readings remained within the guideline range.
“Goulburn Valley Water comprehensively tests its drinking water with pH analysis part of its testing program,” they said.
“We have a 24/7 monitoring system that immediately detects pH not within the set range, and a water quality specialist will investigate if an alarm is triggered. Continuous extreme levels of pH – for example, above 11 or below 4 – can be associated with irritated skin or eyes. If customers notice changes in their water or sewer services, we encourage them to call our 24/7 Customer Service Centre on 1800 454 500 for more information or advice.”
