What will happen if you drink hot tap water?

While drinking moderately hot tap water is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks and consequences to be aware of:

1. Scalding: Hot tap water can reach temperatures high enough to cause scalding injuries to your mouth, throat, and esophagus. These injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.

2. Mineral Content: Depending on your water source and plumbing system, hot tap water can dissolve minerals like copper and lead from your pipes. Excessive consumption of these metals over time can cause various health problems, such as copper toxicity and lead poisoning.

3. Bacterial Growth: Hot tap water can provide a favorable environment for certain bacteria to grow and multiply. If the water is not heated to a sufficiently high temperature (above 60 degrees Celsius or 140 degrees Fahrenheit), bacteria like Legionella may thrive and cause respiratory illnesses such as Legionnaires' disease.

4. Damage to Pipes and Plumbing: Prolonged exposure to hot water can potentially damage pipes and plumbing fixtures, leading to leaks and malfunctions.

5. Loss of Nutrients: Boiling tap water for an extended period can lead to the loss of certain minerals and nutrients that may be present in the water.

Recommendations for Safe Water Consumption:

- To ensure the safety of drinking hot tap water, it's recommended to use a reliable filtration system or a quality water filter to remove any potential contaminants.

- If you are concerned about the mineral content of your tap water, consider getting it tested by a reputable water quality testing facility.

- For peace of mind, you may want to boil your hot tap water for a short time (about a minute) before drinking to eliminate any potential harmful bacteria.

- Regularly inspect your plumbing system for leaks and potential damage caused by hot water.

It's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a water quality expert if you have specific health concerns or doubts about the safety of drinking hot tap water in your particular area.