Water is essential to life. From quenching our thirst to cooking and cleaning, we rely on it every day. But have you ever wondered about the quality of your tap water?
Unfiltered water can contain a surprising number of contaminants, some of which pose serious health risks. In this article, we’ll explore the most common water contaminants and how you can prevent them using a water filtration system.
We’ll also discuss why unfiltered water could potentially be dangerous and how a whole-house water filtration system can protect you and your family.
Why Unfiltered Water Could Potentially Be Dangerous
You might think the water from your tap is clean and safe, but that’s not always the case. Various pollutants can sneak into our water supply, making it hazardous to drink.
Over 73 different kinds of pesticides have been found in U.S. groundwater that eventually ends up in our drinking water unless it’s adequately filtered, according to the National Library of Medicine. Moreover, in the U.S., there are 7.15 million cases of waterborne diseases a year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These facts highlight the importance of addressing water contamination issues.
Most Common Water Contaminants
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common contaminants found in tap water.
Chlorine
Chlorine is often added to municipal water to kill bacteria. While it does a good job of disinfecting, it can leave your water with an unpleasant taste and smell. Long-term exposure to chlorine can also have negative health effects.
Lead
Lead can enter drinking water through corroded pipes and fixtures. Even small amounts of lead can be harmful, especially to children and pregnant women, causing developmental issues and other health problems.
Pesticides
Pesticides used in agriculture can seep into groundwater, contaminating your water supply. These chemicals can cause various health issues, including cancer and hormone disruption.
Bacteria and Viruses
Microorganisms like bacteria and viruses can contaminate water, leading to illnesses such as gastrointestinal infections. This is a significant concern in areas with inadequate water treatment facilities.
Nitrates
Nitrates from fertilizers and sewage can contaminate water sources. High nitrate levels can cause serious health issues, particularly for infants, leading to conditions like “blue baby syndrome.”
Heavy Metals
Metals such as arsenic, mercury, and cadmium can be present in water due to industrial pollution and natural deposits. These metals are toxic and can cause long-term health problems.
Sediments
Sediments like dirt, rust, and silt can make your water cloudy and affect its taste. While not always harmful, they can harbor other contaminants and damage your plumbing and appliances.
How Whole-House Water Filtration Systems Can Prevent Water Contaminants
So, how can you protect your household from these contaminants? A whole-house water filtration system is the answer. These systems are designed to filter all the water entering your home, ensuring every tap delivers clean, safe water. Here’s how they work:
Multiple Filtration Stages
Whole-house systems often use multiple stages of filtration to remove different types of contaminants. For example, an initial sediment filter removes large particles, while subsequent stages may include activated carbon to remove chlorine and other chemicals, and reverse osmosis membranes to tackle heavy metals and bacteria.
Activated Carbon Filters
These filters are highly effective at removing chlorine, pesticides, and other organic chemicals. They also improve the taste and odor of your water, making it more pleasant to drink and use.
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide range of contaminants, including lead, nitrates, and heavy metals. This process ensures that only pure water molecules pass through, leaving contaminants behind.
UV Purification
Some whole-house systems include UV purification, which uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. This method is highly effective at disinfecting water without adding any chemicals.
Water Softening
Hard water, filled with minerals like calcium and magnesium, can be softened by water filtration systems. This not only protects your plumbing and appliances from scale buildup but also makes your water gentler on your skin and hair.
Conclusion
Unfiltered water can pose significant health risks due to the presence of various contaminants. By installing a whole-house water filtration system, you can ensure that every drop of water in your home is clean and safe to use. These systems effectively remove chlorine, lead, pesticides, bacteria, nitrates, and heavy metals, providing you with peace of mind and healthier water.
At Apollo Plumbing, we understand the importance of clean water for your home. Our ready-right-now plumbers are here to help you choose and install the perfect water filtration system for your needs. With our expertise and commitment to quality, you can trust us to enhance your water quality and, by extension, your quality of life. Contact Apollo Plumbing today to get started on improving your home’s water quality.
