How to Avoid Water Contaminants

 Water contamination happens when substances pollute the water making it unusable or unsafe for drinking, cooking, and other uses. Harmful substances, such as chemicals and microorganisms, enter a water source from industrial chemicals, agriculture, and overflowing sewers. However, there are several ways to prevent contamination of water sources or mediums.

Water disinfection kills off harmful microbes. It can be achieved by boiling the water, introducing chemicals like iodine or chlorine, exposing water to ultraviolet (UV) light, or exposure to ozone generated by high-voltage currents. In particular, ozone exposure effectively removes mineral, chemical, and biological contaminants. However, the procedure is only available at water treatment plants.

In reverse osmosis, pressurized water is forced through a fine membrane. In this process, up to 90 percent of contaminants are left behind. Reverse osmosis units are frequently used alongside mechanical filtration to remove larger particles. The system can remove harmful chemicals from household tap water before they get into the body through either ingestion or inhaling particles in water.

While pricey, these filtration units are suitable for home installation, often under the kitchen sink, on the main water line, or on the tap. The units can also be installed in the bathroom to eliminate bad smells in showers or faucets. There are different types of filters at various price points.

Lead leaching is a major cause of water contamination. In particular, homes constructed before the mid-1980s are most likely to contain lead pipes as the water medium. Even today, despite upgrades and renovations, many homes across the country still use lead-leaching pipes.

If a home has lead pipes and it’s impossible to replace them, the Center for Disease Control recommends running cold water through the taps or showers for at least one or two minutes before using it. It may be prudent to call the local water department if unsure whether the house has lead pipes. It’s also important to note that lead has no known safe limit, and all precautions should be taken to avoid water-based lead poisoning.

If a well is the water source, it’s important to ensure that the well cover is in good shape. Also, the well cap should be functional to avoid contaminants from getting through. Hazardous chemicals like fertilizer, pesticides, motor oil, and gasoline should be kept away from the well. Also, household chemicals and detergents should be disposed of safely and never left lying in the yard lest rainwater drains them into the well. Keep the well area free of debris.

In addition, the well walls should be checked regularly for visible signs of corrosion or cracking. To avoid cross-contamination through leaching, have the septic system checked regularly and pumped at least every 3 to 5 years.

Finally, remember to test well water at least once a year. Look for certified laboratories to test your water for harmful content. These can be accessed at epa.gov. Alternatively, contact the nation’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Also, schedule additional testing if the area recently experienced floods or the water tastes and looks different. It’s also possible to contact the county health department or the State Certification Officer for a list of certified water testing laboratories.