According to an investigation done a few years ago, as many as 63 million people (nearly a fifth of the United States) from California to the boroughs of New York City, were exposed to potentially unsafe water more than once during the past decade.
Tap water in the United States is generally safe for consumption, but it can sometimes have an unusual color, or taste due to contaminants like chlorine, sulfur, iron, and manganese. Here are just some of the many unwanted substances that could be in your water:
- Microbial pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
- Pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.
- Toxic metals like arsenic, barium, chromium, lead, and mercury.
- Fluoride, chlorine, and chlorine byproducts are formed when chlorine in treated drinking water combines with naturally occurring organic matter.
Chlorine and chlorine byproducts found in tap water are known to cause a variety of health issues, including rectal cancer, bladder cancer, and colon cancer. Several bacteria, like giardia and cryptosporidium, are commonly found in many home drinking water supplies that can cause gastrointestinal illness.
Luckily, many water filtration systems can filter out these contaminants.
Tap and Under-Sink Water Filters
One of the easiest ways to filter water in your home is through tap and under-sink water filters. Tap filters are cheap and easy to install and great for drinking water. Under-sink water filters are a bit more expensive, but can remain hidden under the sink and will not divert from the look of your kitchen.
Shower Water Filters
Bathing and showering in contaminated water are just as bad as drinking it. Studies at the University of Pittsburgh have found that on average, absorption through the skin is responsible for 64 percent of waterborne contaminants that enter the human body. Fluoride and chlorine in the water can also aggravate skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Shower filters can be readily found at your local hardware store and just as easy to install as changing your shower head. They are designed with replaceable filters that remove undesirable contaminants.
Whole House Water Filters
The most effective way to get pure, clean water from all taps in your house is by installing Whole House Water Filters. While more expensive than the other options, you can rest assured that every drop of water throughout the house, including shower, dishwasher, and toilet flush, is safe and clean for use. They also help reduce waste from plastic water bottles.
Read More: Are Whole House Water Filters Worth It?
Many people take water for granted and fail to consider its overall quality. By the time a problem arises, it's a significant issue. By adding a whole-house water filter to your home, you will never have to worry about your water supply again. Contact us today and we'll install your new water filter as efficiently as possible.