You expect your tap water to be safe. But in some cases, it is not just what is in the water, it is how you use it.

Earlier this year, a Texas woman tragically passed away after using untreated tap water from her RV to rinse her sinuses. According to the CDC, the cause was Naegleria fowleri, a rare but deadly brain-eating amoeba found in warm, untreated water.

It is a heartbreaking reminder that “clean” does not always mean sterile, and not all water is safe for all uses.

Why This Matters in Savannah, Hilton Head Island, and Beyond

Our region is no stranger to heat and humidity. Here in coastal communities like Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort, warm weather can create the perfect environment for bacteria and microorganisms to thrive in water systems. This is especially true in older plumbing, RVs, or untreated private wells.

Even treated city water in Savannah and surrounding areas can sometimes fall short for sensitive uses like sinus rinsing, wound cleaning, or humidifiers.

Tap Water: What Most People Do Not Know

Many people turn to Using Water to Combat Allergies during allergy season, but using the wrong water can introduce hidden risks.

Public tap water in the U.S. is held to safety standards, but that does not mean it is sterile. In fact, the CDC advises against using unboiled tap water for nasal irrigation or sinus rinses.

Certain microscopic organisms, like Naegleria fowleri, can survive in warm tap water that has not been treated for this specific threat. These infections are extremely rare but almost always fatal.

Is Your Water System Doing Enough?

Here in Savannah and throughout the Low Country, many households use filtered water for drinking but forget about other critical exposure points. Using the wrong water for sinus rinsing, brushing teeth while camping, or refilling a humidifier may put you at risk without even realizing it.

Culligan of the Low Country & Savannah offers advanced filtration systems that help remove harmful bacteria, sediment, and contaminants that other systems might miss. With solutions like reverse osmosis and UV purification, you can feel more confident using your water every day, whether you live in Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, or the surrounding areas.

Tips to Stay Safe When Using Tap Water

• Never use untreated tap water for sinus rinsing. Always boil it for at least 1 minute and let it cool, or use distilled or filtered water that meets CDC standards.
• Clean and sanitize RV and seasonal water systems before and after storage.
• Install a certified water filtration system that removes bacteria, cysts, and parasites, especially if you are using well water or older plumbing.
• Flush stagnant water in showers and sinks after returning from trips or extended disuse.
• Replace filters on time. A neglected filter can be worse than no filter at all.

Do Not Take Water Quality for Granted

Tap water is part of your daily life. You use it for cooking, bathing, and brushing your teeth. But when it comes to certain uses, like nasal rinsing or travel setups, the risks can be serious.

At Culligan of the Low Country & Savannah, we believe peace of mind starts at home and at the tap.

Whether you live in Savannah, Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, or nearby, we are here to help you take the guesswork out of your water quality.

Schedule your free water test today to make sure your water is clean, safe, and ready for whatever you need it for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Naegleria fowleri and how does it get into tap water?
It is a microscopic amoeba found in warm freshwater. It can enter the body through the nose during rinsing or swimming. It is extremely rare in treated municipal water but can still be present in private systems or stagnant lines.

Is it safe to use tap water in a neti pot?
Not unless it has been boiled, distilled, or filtered to meet CDC guidelines. Tap water may look clean but can still carry organisms that are dangerous when introduced into the sinuses.

Can Culligan systems remove organisms like Naegleria?
Culligan’s reverse osmosis and UV purification systems are designed to significantly reduce microbial contaminants, offering an extra level of protection beyond basic filtration.

How do I know if my tap water is safe for all uses?
The safest option is to have your water tested. Culligan of the Low Country & Savannah offers free in-home water assessments to identify any issues, whether chemical, bacterial, or structural.

What is the best water treatment option for RVs or seasonal use?
Culligan of the Low Country & Savannah provides compact filtration systems for RVs, boats, and cabins. These systems are easy to maintain and help ensure the water you use is safe for all purposes, especially in high-risk environments.