Advanced Water Purification Methods
Chlorination is considered an important advancement in water purification technology. But, other methods of water purification are necessary to remove the chlorine and its by-products. This step can only be performed in the home or at the “point-of-use”. In case you are unaware, let me briefly run through the dangers of chlorine and THMs. Consuming chlorinated water can lead to stomach problems and many people are allergic. Studies indicate that consuming five glasses or more of chlorinated tap-water per day increases the miscarriage rate among pregnant women.
Activated carbon is wonderful at removing chlorine. A process called adsorption can be used to remove THMs. The best methods of water purification remove more than 99% of both. You have to shop around for them and read product performance data, but a system for kitchen sink can be purchased for less than $125. Showerhead filters cost even less, but why would you need one? THMs can be absorbed through the skin. This idea is supported by a recent study that shows a swimmer’s risk of cancer, due to THM exposure, is greater than that of a non-swimmer. Obviously, swimmers are not drinking cups of pool-water.
Today’s water purification technology allows you to shower and bathe in something that feels like it came from a mountain spring. You won’t believe the difference in the way your hair and skin feel and smell. Other methods of water purification that are available include ion exchange. This step removes lead and copper. Lead is a toxic heavy metal that leaks in as the waters flow through city and county pipes. Until recently, it was common to line the pipes with lead and lead was used at the solder joints. This is particularly a problem in older homes.
One of the methods of water purification that can be used to remove lead is reverse osmosis, but that is older water purification technology and not practical for most homeowners. There are many other things that you could learn, if you have the time. This is just a bit to get you started.
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