Most homeowners assume that the water coming from their tap is safe. While that is often the case, there are rare occasions where contaminants seep in through the ground, pipes, or other sources. These can impact your health or ability to properly clean and care for the home. You should know what contaminants to look out for and invest in a water purification system if necessary. Here are some common contaminants that could be in drinking water.

What Might Be Contaminating My Drinking Water?

1. Chloride

Chloride is a substance that often makes its way into water sources with sodium or calcium, forming a salt. These materials are naturally found in groundwater and are harmless in small doses. However, it can have a negative effect on the taste and be harmful to plants. Over time, it can also corrode the plumbing system. Water filters that use reverse osmosis or distillation can remove chlorides from the source.

2. Lead

Lead normally makes it into drinking water through the pipes or fittings that make up the plumbing system. It can lead to brain, kidney, and nervous system damage. Reverse osmosis, distillation, and solid block filters can all help remove lead. However, it often exists in more than one form, so multiple methods may be necessary.

3. Nitrates

Nitrates naturally occur in human and animal waste, so they often seep into the water supply through fertilizers or exposure to sewage. They mainly lead to health effects for babies and young children, but reverse osmosis and anion exchange filters can remove them.

4. Arsenic

Arsenic appears in metalloids in the earth’s crust and is used in a number of manufacturing and mining practices. It can seep into water sources through pollution or natural means, causing a higher risk of cancers, skin irritation, and nervous system problems. There are a number of water purification methods that can remove it, including activated alumina and distillation.

5. Bacteria & Viruses

Bacteria and viruses can make you sick if certain types get into the water supply. These microorganisms can get into the system if waste is disposed into streams or lakes. However, chlorination or UV treatment can remove the most harmful organisms to purify the liquid.

To ensure none of these contaminants impact the quality of your drinking water, contact the water purification team at The Water Source in Wappingers Falls, NY. The company has been helping both residential and commercial clients throughout Dutchess County improve water quality for more than 25 years. The skilled team uses all the latest water treatment technology, so the end product is safe to use. Call (845) 297-1600 or contact the team online to request service.