Iron is an essential mineral that’s needed to help transport oxygen throughout the body. It’s found in various vegetables, cereals, meats, and in some cases, drinking water. Though it is necessary for your health, too much iron in your water can have adverse effects. Here, the professionals at McAleer Water Conditioning, Inc. in Anamosa, IA, share some helpful information about this mineral and its impact. 

The Importance of Iron Filters for Drinking Water

How Does Iron Affect Water?

Excessive amounts of iron can create an unpleasant metallic taste in water. When iron-rich water is used to make drinks like coffee, the bitter taste is strong enough to be noticeable. In addition to affecting the taste of beverages, the water can also alter the taste of foods and cause them to blacken while cooking. The mineral will also leave a reddish residue on anything that comes in contact with the water, including glassware, sinks, bathtubs, clothing, and toilets. 

How Does Iron-Rich Drinking Water Affect the Body?

Though your body needs small amounts of iron to function, it shouldn’t be in your drinking water. In fact, it’s classified as a type of contaminant because it may contain harmful bacteria. Too much iron in your system could lead to health conditions like iron overload, which can cause pancreatic, heart, and liver damage over time. Some short-term effects include nausea and vomiting. 

What Can You Do to Eliminate Iron From Water?

One of the things you can do to get rid of iron from your drinking water is to use a water softener, carbon filters, sediment filters, or an iron removal system. In addition to keeping you from getting iron-related illnesses, iron water filters will significantly improve the taste of your drinking water and prevent unattractive stains on your sinks, dishes, and laundry. This type of filtration system also prevents iron from clogging up plumbing and appliances like water heaters, which will make them more efficient and save you money on costly repairs. 

The team at McAleer Water Conditioning, Inc. understands that quality drinking water is crucial to one’s health, which is why their staff is dedicated to meeting their clients’ water softening and filtration needs. For over 40 years, they have provided effective water treatment solutions to residents throughout Linn, Jones, Dubuque, Delaware, and Jackson counties. For more information about their iron removal systems, call (800) 397-1995 today or visit them online to learn more.