How nasty Ohio River water becomes clean, safe Cincinnati drinking water
- Tim Friedrich
- 18 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Ohio River ranks as one of the most polluted rivers in the country. And yet, millions of people in our region rely on that same water for drinking, cooking, and bathing. How is that even possible?
The answer lies in a multi-step treatment process that’s far more sophisticated than most people realize. Here’s how it works, and why your tap water is safer than you might think.
The Ohio River ranks as one of the most polluted rivers in the country. And yet, millions of people in our region rely on that same water for drinking, cooking, and bathing. How is that even possible?
The answer lies in a multi-step treatment process that’s far more sophisticated than most people realize. Here’s how it works, and why your tap water is safer than you might think.
So, how does nasty Ohio River water become clean, safe Cincinnati drinking water
Step 1: Water Intake and Source Monitoring
Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) as well as Northern Kentucky Water District (NKWD) regularly sample the river before it ever enters the treatment plant.
If contaminant levels spike because of an industrial spill, weather event, or upstream release, intake valves can be temporarily closed. That prevents polluted water from entering the system in the first place.
Step 2: Coagulation and Flocculation
Once river water enters a treatment facility, it goes through something called coagulation and flocculation. This process removes suspended particles including dirt, silt, and organic matter.
Coagulants are then added to bind tiny particles together. Those particles form larger clusters called floc that becomes heavy enough to sink. This step removes much of the visible “muddiness” associated with river water.
Step 3: Sedimentation
The water flows into large basins where the floc settles to the bottom. This process allows sediment to separate naturally. The clear water at the top moves on to the next stage.
Step 4: Filtration
The water passes through layers of sand, anthracite, and sometimes granular activated carbon. These filters remove bacteria, microplastics, Parasites, chemicals, and any other fine particles.
Step 5: Advanced Treatment for PFAS and Other Chemicals
Both GCWW and NKWD use additional treatment processes including activated carbon and ion exchange to reduce these chemicals to below EPA advisory levels.
Step 6: Disinfection
Utilities use disinfectants such as chlorine or UV light to neutralize harmful bacteria and viruses. This is to make sure water remains safe as it travels through miles of pipes to your home.
Step 7: Testing, Testing… and More Testing
Finished water is tested hundreds of times a day for dozens of contaminants. GCWW must meet or exceed EPA standards, and their annual water quality reports are publicly available.
So, is it safe to drink Cincinnati tap water?
Yes. The tristate consistently ranks among the cities with the highest-quality tap water in the nation. Even in the event of a major spill, there are emergency protocols in place to make sure your drinking water is clean and safe.
If you notice problems with your water when you turn of the faucet – whether it’s discolored, cloudy, or has a strange odor – the issue probably isn’t the river, but rather your home’s plumbing. Allied Reddi-Rooter can help.
