What CDC says to do
- Use bottled water, or bring tap water to a full rolling boil for 1 minute, then let it cool.
- Boil tap water even if you filter it — pitchers and home filters don't replace boiling.
- Don't use ice or water from a refrigerator connected to your water line.
- Use bottled or boiled water to prepare food, drinks, and baby formula.
- Give pets bottled or boiled water that has cooled.
What boiling does — and doesn't
CDC says boiling is the surest way to kill germs like viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It does not remove chemicals — and it does not remove lead. Boil orders are about germs.
After the advisory is lifted
Run your cold taps to flush the pipes, and follow any flushing instructions from the City of Palos Heights. If you use a home filter, check the manufacturer's instructions for what to do after a boil water advisory.
Quick questions
How long should I boil water?
CDC says to bring water to a full rolling boil for 1 minute (3 minutes above 6,500 feet), then let it cool.
Does my filter make boiling unnecessary?
No. CDC says to boil tap water even if it has gone through a home filter or pitcher.
Sources
- Drinking Water Advisories: An Overview — CDC
- Preventing Crypto at Home During a Boil Water Advisory — CDC
- Infant Formula Preparation and Storage — CDC
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Palos Heights Water Filtration is an independent business and is not affiliated with the City of Palos Heights. Product certifications are model-specific and can change; check the current listing before you buy.
