Clean water is essential for health, yet many households unknowingly consume water containing harmful contaminants. Even treated tap water can carry pollutants that affect taste, smell, and safety. Water filters play a vital role in reducing these substances, but not all filters remove the same contaminants. Understanding what water filters target can help you choose the right system for your home.
Water contaminants fall into two main categories: organic and inorganic pollutants. Organic pollutants come from natural sources, agriculture, and industrial waste, while inorganic pollutants include heavy metals and minerals that can be hazardous when consumed in high amounts. A quality filtration system can significantly improve water quality by reducing these harmful substances.
1. Bacteria and Viruses
Microorganisms in water can cause serious health issues, including gastrointestinal infections. Bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Legionella thrive in untreated or poorly treated water. Viruses such as norovirus and rotavirus can also be present, leading to severe illness. Some filtration methods, like reverse osmosis and ultraviolet (UV) purification, effectively remove these pathogens, making water safer for drinking and cooking.
2. Chlorine and Chloramine
Municipal water treatment plants add chlorine or chloramine to disinfect water and kill harmful microorganisms. While these chemicals help prevent disease, they can also produce byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), which have been linked to health concerns. Activated carbon filters can reduce chlorine and its byproducts, improving water taste and odor while lowering potential health risks.
3. Heavy Metals
Lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium are some of the most dangerous inorganic pollutants found in water. Lead contamination, often caused by aging pipes, poses a significant risk, especially to children. Arsenic, naturally occurring in some groundwater sources, has been associated with long-term health problems. Reverse osmosis and activated alumina filters are effective in reducing heavy metal levels, and protecting families from potential toxicity.
4. Pesticides and Herbicides
Agricultural runoff introduces harmful chemicals like pesticides and herbicides into water supplies. These substances can remain in water sources for long periods, potentially affecting human health. Exposure to certain pesticides has been linked to hormone disruption and nervous system damage. Carbon block filters and reverse osmosis systems can effectively reduce these contaminants, ensuring safer drinking water.
5. Nitrates and Nitrites
Nitrates and nitrites come from fertilizers, sewage, and industrial waste. High levels in drinking water can cause serious health problems, particularly for infants, leading to a condition known as methemoglobinemia or “blue baby syndrome.” Reverse osmosis filters are among the most effective solutions for removing nitrates and nitrites, helping to prevent these health risks.
6. Sediments and Rust
Dirt, sand, rust, and other sediments can enter water supplies due to pipe corrosion and natural erosion. While these particles may not always be harmful, they affect water clarity and can clog appliances. Sediment filters, such as pleated and spun polypropylene filters, trap these particles, improving water quality and protecting plumbing systems from buildup.
Water filters remove a wide range of contaminants, from bacteria and heavy metals to chlorine and pesticides. Choosing the right filtration system depends on the specific pollutants present in your water supply. Regular testing can help identify potential risks and ensure you have the best protection for your household. Nova Water provides advanced filtration solutions designed to improve water quality and safety. Contact us today to find the right system for your home.