We’ve all seen our fair share of water contamination news stories in recent years. Actually, water contaminations have been occurring as long as we’ve been alive. But only recently are they getting much media attention.
And that’s why we also hear a lot more about water filters than we used to. Even our modern refrigerators come with purification systems these days. Although those filters don’t seem to last too long.
But how much do you know about the filter in or on your fridge? Are you aware of which contaminants it supposedly removes? And how effectively it does so? Are those contaminants the same ones known to be lurking in your local drinking water supply?
That’s what I want to discuss today. Perhaps it’s time to look into a more effective way of filtering out contaminants that can make you and your family sick. Or worse.
Clearer doesn’t always mean cleaner
The issue of water contamination has become more publicized over the past couple of decades. And a number of filters have become available in your local stores.
Some of them use a process called reverse-osmosis. Their two-tiered pitchers have a carbon and resin filter the water goes through. They usually get rid of the odor and taste of chlorine. This improves the taste.
They also focus on certain contaminants. Such as copper, zinc, mercury, and cadmium. But making water look clearer and taste cleaner does not necessarily equate with removing contaminants that can damage our bodies.
A study from the University of Berkeley in California found that filters which are not designed to kill enough bacteria can actually lead to providing a breeding ground for microorganisms. This is especially true when filters are not changed as often as they should be.
Don’t settle for half measures
Eliminating some bacteria is not the same thing as eliminating 99+ % of bacteria. That’s what you should aim for in a water purifier. As well as a filter that lasts a long time.
There’s another problem with popular but not necessarily effective water filters on the market today. It’s their inability to eliminate fungus and viruses.
Among the bacteria, fungus, and viruses found in disturbing amounts in some water systems are legionella, bromates, and barium.
Each of them can cause major health concerns. And if a filter has a shorter life than it should, even the few issues it does take care of will become problems again until that filter is changed.
Choose a filter that will fight for you
The reality is that we should be purifying our tap water before we use it for drinking, cooking, cleaning, etc.
And unless you’re 100% certain your water filter is doing a much better job than most others on the market, you should be skeptical of that water as well.
When you select a water purifier for your home, make sure it gets rid of a huge percentage of bacteria, viruses, pharmaceuticals, and VOCs (volatile organic chemicals). As well as pesticides and herbicides. Plus heavy metals including lead and mercy, and arsenic, chlorine, and much more.
Then you can rest easy and enjoy that cool, crisp, and cleaner glass of water any time you want to.
One final note – You may not know which water contaminants are most prevalent in your area. To find out, contact your water supplier directly. Or check the Environmental Protection Agency’s website regarding local drinking water information.
