Does “city water” mean “safe water”? Here’s what homeowners need to know!
Bacteria in Your Water
Is there bacteria in your water? And if yes, what water treatment systems can disinfect it and make it safe for you & your family?
Bacteria, Viruses, and other Microbes in Water
You can rarely detect microbes such as bacteria, viruses, cysts, amoebas, protozoans and parasites in water through sight, smell or taste. Consequently many people go years before realizing they have a problem in their water.
Most waterborne microbes are harmless, however others like E. coli, Giardia and Cryptosporidium can cause stomach cramps or pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, gas, fever, flu-like symptoms and dehydration.
If your water comes from a well the EPA recommends that you test it once a year.
However it is wise to test it more often if:
- A baby, child, pregnant woman or an elderly person lives in your home
- Someone in your home has recurring gastrointestinal problems
- Someone in your home has a compromised immune system
- You have recently installed a new well or pump
- You have repaired or replaced an old well or pipe
- You have recently purchased a new home
- You want to find out if your existing water treatment system is working
- Your water has had a change in color, odor, or cloudiness
To Disinfect Water with Microbes, Use One of the Following Types of Water Treatment Equipment:
Ultraviolet (UV) Light
Ultraviolet does not involve chemicals. It kills bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoans and cysts that may be present in water by exposing water to light at just the right wavelength for killing microbes. The light source must be kept clean and the UV lamp, pre and post filters, and replace periodically. However, UV light cannot remove gases, heavy metals or particulates. If these are present in your water additional filtration such as Granular Activated Carbon may be necessary.
Chlorination-Dechlorination
In this disinfection method, add chlorine water to kill microbes and break down manganese, hydrogen sulfide and iron. However, chlorine will not typically kill Giardia or cryptosporidium in their cyst form. A Chlorination System is a cost effective method that yields clearer, better tasting water.
Some people object to chlorine’s taste, odor and the harmful disinfection byproducts created when chlorine is mixed with naturally occurring compounds in the water. These byproducts (THM’s) are known to cause health issues, though you can remove it with a Carbon Filter.
Contact us today to learn more about your water and the water treatment equipment that will protect the health of your family and give you the best water that you deserve. Tel/text (352) 372-2707
