A water filtration system is a system designed to remove impurities and unwanted substances from the water in your home. They work by filtering water through various filtration mediums to improve the taste, appearance, and overall quality of the water. They are important devices as they can remove harmful particles leaving the water cleaner and safer to drink or for other household uses.
This article will discuss the nature of water quality, the source of water contaminants, and the negative effects on health that contaminated water causes. We will see the root causes of contamination and review the reasons why a filtration system may be needed. The different types of systems will be briefly explained and a review of the benefits of installing a filtration system will be discussed. Let’s take a look at what is meant by water quality.
Water Quality Explained
Water quality is an elusive term but can best be explained using three parameters: physical, chemical, and biological. Physical parameters measure the changes in water and are related to color, taste, total dissolved solids, and other indicators. Chemical parameters measure pH, acidity, alkalinity, hardness, amounts of chlorine present, and dissolved oxygen. The last parameter deals with bacteria, algae, nutrients, and viruses found in the water.
The treatment of water using a filtration system begins by evaluating the varying quality parameters in your water to determine which system would best correct any negative influences present. Too much chlorine or water that tastes strange can be corrected by matching specific systems to the problems that exist.
Water Contaminants
There are various ways contaminants seep into our water supply. Some are naturally found in the ground while others are the result of human ‘advancements’. Here is a look at the possible contaminants that may be present in your water:
- Man-made chemicals used in the production of cleaning products, paints, food packaging, and other conveniences we use every day.
- Agricultural pollutants such as pesticides and insecticides are commonly found in water runoff.
- Heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and mercury can often be found in water samples.
- A vast array of pharmaceuticals are present in drinking water supplies including over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
- Sewer overflow from sewer lines
- Stormwater
- Cracks in pipes or problems within the water distribution system
Drinking or using water that has been contaminated can lead to various waterborne illnesses. Some are related to bacteria and viruses while others are produced by toxins from manufacturing facilities, agricultural practices, or human endeavors but unfortunately, almost all contaminants are invisible to the eye.
Health-Related Water Quality Concerns
There are many health issues related to contaminated water. Some common ones include salmonellosis, hepatitis A, cholera, diarrhea, and lead poisoning. Many of these illnesses can be reduced by properly disposing of sewage and practicing better hygiene habits but the best solution is by using and drinking purified water. Next, we will learn how a filtration system can improve water quality.
Signs Of Poor Water Quality
Filtration systems are designed to produce different results so what is in your water will determine which type of system might be needed. Water testing is essential and will report the level of contaminants in your water but there are other signs you may need a filtration system. Finding dirt and sediment particles or discoloration are signs your water needs attention. Foul-smelling or strange-tasting water can also be indicators and may be a result of increased chlorine or other unwanted chemicals. That have found their way into your water supply.
Benefits Of Installing A Filtration System
Plastic water bottles have replaced tap water for many Americans. This increase in plastic bottle production has created unimaginable pollution problems affecting wildlife as plastic is the #1 pollutant in the ocean today. Eliminating the production, packaging, and transporting of plastic bottled water reduces the amount of fossil fuel usage further saving our environment.
Cost is another benefit as individuals no longer need to purchase bottled water but can instead feel safe drinking from the tap.
Finally, the unwanted particles in water are the main source of plumbing emergencies. Mineral buildup in hard water is responsible for low water pressure, burst pipes, clogged plumbing, and hot water heater explosions to name a few.
Types Of Filtration Systems
Mechanical: This type of system removes large and small particles using a filter barrier. The filters range from 5 microns for larger pathogens to 0.5 for the smallest particles.
Absorption: The filters in this type of system remove contaminants by capturing them in multiple nooks and crannies within a carbon filter. Most of these have granulated activated carbon which also removes odors and strange tastes from the water.
Sequestration: This system is effective in reducing scaling inside plumbing pipes and fixtures. It does not remove unwanted minerals but keeps them from settling and forming scale on the surfaces they come in contact with.
Ion Exchange: This is the typical water softening system that does remove unwanted minerals such as calcium and magnesium and replaces them with sodium or hydrogen ions. This also reduces the formation of destructive limescale.
Reverse Osmosis: This system removes dissolved inorganic solids by forcing the water through a semipermeable membrane. This system is often used in tandem with other filtration systems to achieve maximum results.
In addition to whole-home filtration systems, faucet or under-the-sink models are also available for clean fresh drinking water.
Call Us Today For A Water Quality Evaluation!
Fresh, clean water for drinking and other uses is essential for good health and a safe home. Drinking or using contaminated water can lead to a host of waterborne illnesses but can be lessened by choosing the proper filtration system or combination of systems to clean your water of harmful particles.
If you experience any of the signs of poor water quality or your annual water test reveals your water contains contaminants, it is time to take action. Eliminate your dependency on pollution-creating plastic water bottles and install a well-designed water filtration system. Healthy water is good for the environment and good for you!
We offer water filtration system installation in Vista, Escondido, Rancho Santa Fe, Oceanside, and the surrounding North County areas. Contact us today to schedule a no-cost evaluation!
