Is there a potential horror hiding in your water? From nuclear waste to agricultural runoff, there’s an alarming list of toxins found in drinking water across the country. Luckily, there are plenty of safe, easy solutions, but more on that later… For now, let’s keep scaring you with these 20 terrible toxins that will surely send shivers down your spine.
Barium, a dense and highly-reactive metal, has the potential to infiltrate the water supply through various channels such as mineral deposits, drilling waste disposals, copper smelting, and the manufacturing of motor vehicle parts.
If you’ve ever had X-rays taken of your digestive system, you might recall the white liquid the doctor instructed you to swallow—this is barium. But wait here's the question: why would your doctor give you something that’s so toxic?
Interestingly, barium is only considered toxic when in water-soluble forms. Barium compounds that do not dissolve in water, such as those used for X-rays, are not harmful.
However, water-soluble barium compounds are dangerous tap water contaminants with nasty side effects, including:
- Difficulty breathing
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeats
- Upset stomach
- Muscle weakness
- Brain swelling
- Damage to the liver, kidneys, heart, and spleen
For example, recent animal studies have highlighted that "Although the barium-induced increase in the blood pressure of rats was modest, comparable mild hypertension in humans would have major health implications."
Based on animal studies, and under the authority of the Safe Water Drinking Act, the EPA has set the maximum limit for barium in drinking water to 2.0 mg/L. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) holds a different stance, advocating for a more conservative maximum level of only 0.7 mg/L—less than half of the EPA's recommendation.
This discrepancy prompts a crucial question: who do you trust? The EPA, the WHO, or you?
The best treatment methods for removing barium from drinking water are:
- Reverse osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Distillation
- Activated Alumina
- Activated Carbon Filtration
Ion exchange resins efficiently eliminate barium and soften water by substituting calcium and magnesium with sodium. Want to learn more about the comprehensive systems involved in ensuring your family receives clean, safe, and healthy drinking water through an in-home water filter? Take a look at our Ultimate Guide to Water Filtration Systems.
If your filtration system removes calcium and magnesium, consider including a remineralization filter in your filtration system for an effective way to reintroduce a healthy dose of essential calcium and magnesium back into the water.
5. Cadmium
Cadmium is naturally released during volcanic activity, often accompanied by lead, zinc, and copper. Under normal circumstances, cadmium poses no significant threat to the water supply. However, the risk arises when mining and industrial waste contribute to elevated levels in surface waters.
Common sources of cadmium in the water supply include:
- Mining operations
- Erosion of natural deposits
- Discharge from metal refineries
- Corrosion of galvanized pipes
- Contamination from certain fertilizers
- Runoff from battery waste and paint manufacturing
Cadmium Health Risks
Cadmium consumption may result in various short-term health issues, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle cramps
- Convulsions
- Liver, kidney, blood and bone damage
However, regular exposure to cadmium has the potential to cause long-term harm to the liver, kidneys, blood, and bones. It's important to note that significant side effects typically occur when cadmium levels surpass the maximum allowable limit.
So, where exactly does the government draw the line?
Cadmium Regulations
The EPA sets the acceptable limits for cadmium concentration in drinking water at 0.005 mg/L. No adverse health effects have been reported at levels of 0.01 mg/kg/day or lower, which significantly exceeds the legal limit. Drinking water levels are generally deemed safe for short-term consumption at 0.04 mg/L and for long-term exposure at 0.005 mg/L.
While it seems that the government is exercising caution with a limit of 0.005 mg/L, the potential carcinogenic effects of lifelong exposure remain unknown. Given the severity of short-term side effects associated with cadmium, it is advisable to avoid exposure to this toxic mineral.
Cadmium Treatment Methods
The most effective methods for removing cadmium from drinking water are:
- Reverse osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Distillation
- Coagulation/filtration
- Lime softening
- Activated Carbon Filtration
- Chelation
Reverse osmosis systems can significantly reduce cadmium ions by 92-98%. However, complete removal of cadmium requires a combination of various treatments. Fortunately, Aquasure's Reverse Osmosis Systems integrate all these highly effective methods for comprehensive cadmium removal.
6. Chlorine & Chloramine
Chlorine and chloramine are intentionally introduced into the water supply by the government to eliminate harmful microorganisms. While the EPA has established limits for these potentially hazardous chemicals, some municipal water supplies have opted for chloramine as an alternative in order to get around these limits.
Current studies suggest that drinking small amounts of chloramine does not cause harmful side effects, but the long-term effects over decades remain unknown.
Chlorine, on the other hand, is proven to have adverse effects on health. When present in water, chlorine reacts with organic materials, forming byproducts known as trihalomethanes (THMs). Researchers believe that these harmful byproducts are responsible to most of chlorine's side effects. Long-term exposure to THMs have been linked to an elevated risk of cancer and complications during childbirth.
In fact, THMs may be responsible for as much as 2-17% of bladder cancer cases in the United States. Additionally, if THMs infiltrate the dialysis water used by kidney failure patients, it can result in severe blood complications.
The EPA has set the maximum allowable limit for chlorine byproducts at 0.08 mg/L.
As for chloramine, the acceptable range for drinking water falls between 1.0 mg/L and 4.0 mg/L. Approximately 1 in 5 Americans use tap water containing chloramine contaminants.
Chloramines are difficult to remove with reverse osmosis, distillation and ion exchange resins.
Fortunately, activated carbon works wonders. Carbon filtration not only guards against potential health risks but also enhances the taste and odor of your water.
7. Chromium
Chromium, an element abundant in the Earth's crust, can potentially find its way into your tap water through various industrial processes. While natural sources contribute to chromium presence, human activities such as electroplating, leather tanning, and textile manufacturing can elevate chromium levels in water. This introduces a cause for concern as excessive exposure to certain forms of chromium, particularly hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), is associated with adverse health effects.
Chromium Health Risks
Chronic exposure to elevated levels of hexavalent chromium in drinking water has been linked to health risks such as:
- Lung cancer
- Respiratory issues
- Gastrointestinal effects
- Reproductive problems
It's essential to be vigilant about chromium contamination, as prolonged exposure may lead to severe health complications.
Chromium Regulations
To address chromium concerns, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total chromium in drinking water at 0.1 mg/L. This regulatory standard aims to ensure that water systems maintain chromium levels below this threshold.
Chromium Treatment Methods
Thankfully, several effective methods can help remove chromium from your drinking water:
- Reverse osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Activated alumina
These treatment options can significantly reduce chromium levels, ensuring that your water meets the recommended standards for safe consumption.
8. Copper
Copper, a metallic element, is beneficial in small quantities but can be detrimental in larger amounts. In industrial settings, copper is utilized in the production of electrical wires, and it may enter your water through discharges from industrial processes. Additionally, copper salts are often used to control algae in reservoirs. However, the real problem is that copper is a common plumbing material and corroded pipes have the potential to release copper into the water supply.
Adults typically require around 2 mg of copper daily to strengthen connective tissues, and repair damage to the heart and arteries. However, under no circumstances should you ingest more than 12 mg/day for men and 10 mg/day for women. Doses this high can cause copper poisoning.
Symptoms of copper poisoning include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Abdominal muscle pain
Severe cases may result in anemia, liver toxicity, and kidney failure. Concentrations ranging from 2.8 mg/L to 7.8 mg/L can induce vomiting and diarrhea.
In general, young children are more sensitive to copper than adults. If your baby experiences diarrhea or vomiting shortly after drinking their formula, it could be a sign of high copper levels in the water.
There is also a rare genetic disorder called Wilson’s Disease that affects roughly 30,000 people worldwide. Wilson's Disease causes copper accumulation in organs like the liver and brain, leading to hepatitis and severe neurological problems.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) documented several copper outbreaks in the 1990s, including one in Florida where 37 people became ill after drinking smoothies made with contaminated tap water. During this incident, copper levels in the pipes measured 3.6 mg/L.
The EPA has set a maximum limit of 1.3 mg/L for copper in drinking water. Municipal utilities are obligated to ensure that at least 90% of the homes they service do not exceed this limit, otherwise, they have to notify the public.
The best ways to remove copper contaminants from your tap water include:
- Reverse osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Distillation
- Activated Carbon Filtration
- Coagulation/Filtration
Ion exchange resins not only soften the water but also efficiently remove copper and other heavy metals.
When copper contamination comes from corroded pipes, there's also a possibility of lead poisoning. In that case, incorporating reverse osmosis becomes essential to eliminate both lead and copper.
Aquasure's Reverse Osmosis Systems uses reverse osmosis to remove all heavy metals, including lead and copper.
9. Fluoride
Fluoride is not just in your toothpaste; it's also present in your drinking water.
For the past 40+ years, fluoride exposure has been increasing. Why?
Because the government adds it to the municipal water supply in the form of hydrofluosilicic acid, sodium silicofluoride, or sodium fluoride. Unfortunately, there are instances where excessive fluoride enters the water due to equipment malfunctions or poor monitoring.
While low levels of fluoride have demonstrated effectiveness in preventing cavities, moderate-to-high concentrations can result in undesirable side effects.
The negative side effects of fluoride start to kick in at concentrations of approximately 2 mg/L. At this level, fluoride can lead to discoloration and deformation of children's teeth, sometimes turning into a chalky white color.
At 4 mg/L, long-term fluoride consumption can result in skeletal fluorosis, a condition characterized by extremely dense, hard, and brittle bones—commonly referred to as "marble bones." In severe cases, this disease can be crippling.
Worst of all, studies show that fluoride exposure may contribute to memory deficits and other cognitive delays in young children.
According to the EPA, the safe daily limit of fluoride in drinking water is 0.08 mg/day per kilogram of body weight. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, federal regulations set the maximum allowable limit of 4.0 mg/L for fluoride in drinking water. However, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), responsible for the national fluoridation program, recommends a concentration of 0.7 mg/L to effectively prevent tooth decay.
Given the varying perspectives in fluoride regulations, taking control of your water treatment might be a prudent step to ensure the quality you desire.
The most effective treatment methods for fluoride removal include:
- Reverse osmosis
- Distillation
- Activated alumina absorption
- Anion exchange
- Bone charcoal
Alumina absorption is used for large municipal treatment systems, but when it comes to at-home water treatment, reverse osmosis (RO) is the most effective choice. Thankfully, with top-notch RO systems, you can eliminate up to 95% of fluoride from your water.
Additionally, methods like bone charcoal and ion exchange prove to be effective in removing any remaining traces of fluoride.
10. Lead
Lead.
Poisoning.
Lead, a notoriously hazardous substance, may be present in your water at this very moment. The primary source of lead toxins in drinking water often come from corroded pipes, service lines, and brass fixtures.
This is exactly what happened in Flint, Michigan when corroded lead pipes exposed 140,000 individuals resulting in an estimated 6,000 to 12,000 cases of lead poisoning. The incident also triggered a Legionnaires' disease outbreak that killed 12 people.
Lead exposure can result in various side effects, including:
- Irritability
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Coma
- Convulsions
- Brain damage
- Impaired hearing
- Reduce intelligence
- Decreased bone growth in children
- Damage to the kidneys, bone marrow and red blood cells
Children, the most vulnerable to nervous system effects, face risks at blood levels as low as 10 micrograms per deciliter (g/dL). Shockingly, children can lose up to 2 IQ points at this level of lead exposure, a significant concern considering that they can absorb up to 75% of ingested lead, compared to the 11% absorbed by adults.
Lead exposure often happens without early warning signs, quietly undermining health over time.
The EPA maintains a stringent maximum limit for lead in drinking water, set at zero. Additionally, the Safe Drinking Water Act mandates the use of lead-free plumbing in all new constructions. However, there is a caveat...
Some plumbing components labeled as "lead-free" may still contain up to 0.2% lead. Prior to 2013, pipes and fittings with up to 8% lead were deemed "lead-free." The most concerning, though, are pipes installed before 1986, notorious for containing a staggering 50% lead. This highlights the complexity and potential risks associated with lead exposure despite regulatory efforts.
Some of the most effective treatment methods for removing lead from water are:
- Reverse osmosis
- Cation exchange
- Precoat adsorption filters
- Distillation
- Activated Carbon Filtration
- Chelation
- Electrochemical Treatment
- Phosphate Treatment
In order to remove lead completely, you need to hit it with everything you’ve got. Yes, you heard it right—every method! Lead that’s dissolved in water can be removed through reverse osmosis, ion exchange, adsorption, and distillation, and lead that’s in sediment can be removed with fine filtration and adsorption. Reverse osmosis is particularly effective because it removes up to 95% of soluble lead and also acts as a barrier against lead that’s trapped in sediment.
Mercury is an OG on the contaminant scene. In nature, it combines with carbon to make several different mercury compounds, including methyl mercury. Methyl mercury is found in soil and fish, mercuric salt compounds are found in water, and metallic mercury is a vapor that travels through the air.
Mercury is used to make light bulbs, batteries, thermometers and dental fillings, as well as some antiseptic creams and ointments.
The earth’s crust naturally releases up to 150,000 tons of mercury a year, but an extra 20 tons are released through industrial runoff and fossil fuels. Mercury can quickly travel through the atmosphere, across oceans, and around the globe, eventually ending up in lakes, rivers, and drinking water supplies.
The most common reasons for mercury exposure are dental fillings and other medical procedures. Direct water contamination is also a significant health issue that should not be ignored. Inhaling mercury vapors is the most dangerous form of exposure because it travels straight to the brain.
However, the biggest concern is mercury poisoning in fish. As mercury passes through the food chain, it becomes more concentrated.
By the time it reaches your body, mercury can cause severe side effects, including:
- Irritability
- Shyness
- Tremors
- Kidney damage
- Memory problems
- Permanent brain damage
- Vision and hearing impairment
- Damage to babies in the womb
Even short-term exposure to low levels of mercury toxins in drinking water can cause kidney damage, but not enough evidence exists to link mercury to cancer.
The EPA has set the maximum limit for mercury in drinking water at 0.002 mg/L. When mercury levels rise above this line, it can increase the risk of kidney damage.
Mercury levels can be reduced by:
- Reverse osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Distillation
- Activated carbon
The combination of reverse osmosis and activated carbon can remove up to 97% of the mercury in water, and specialty types of ion exchange resins can take care of the rest. Our Reverse Osmosis Systems incorporate all three of these treatment methods for maximum mercury removal.
12. Microplastics
Microplastics—tiny, pervasive, and potentially harmful. These minuscule plastic particles, often less than 5 millimeters in size, infiltrate the environment and water supplies due to the breakdown of larger plastic items, industrial processes, and even the shedding of synthetic fibers from clothes.
Microplastics Health Risks
- Respiratory Irritation
- Gastrointestinal Effects
- Potential Transfer of Chemicals
- Unknown Long-Term Health Effects
- Endocrine Disruption
- Immunological Impact
- Genotoxicity
- Developmental and Reproductive Health Concerns
- Accumulation of Microplastics in Tissues
Microplastics can absorb and carry contaminants, potentially introducing them into the food chain when consumed by aquatic organisms. Additionally, their presence in drinking water raises questions about the long-term consequences for human health.
Microplastics Regulations
Microplastics Treatment Methods
Removing microplastic contamination in water requires innovative and comprehensive approaches:
- Reverse Osmosis
- Activated Carbon Filtration
- Nanotechnology
- Source Reduction
In an era dominated by plastics, it's not surprising that microplastics have found their way into water sources. These tiny plastic particles, often less than 5 millimeters in size, result from the breakdown of larger plastic items or are intentionally manufactured for specific purposes like exfoliants in personal care products. Microplastics are pervasive, contaminating rivers, lakes, and even tap water.
Removing microplastics from water sources poses a unique challenge due to their small size. While traditional water treatment methods may not be designed to capture microplastics effectively, advancements in filtration technologies and research into specialized removal techniques are underway. Investing in cutting-edge filtration systems may offer enhanced protection against microplastic contamination in your drinking water.
Nitrates and nitrites stand out as the most common inorganic man-made water pollutants. The main sources of nitrates and nitrites in the water supply are human sewage and livestock manure. Common fertilizers like potassium nitrate and ammonium nitrate are another major source of contamination.
Can you take a guess at what part of the country has it the worst? And the answer is…
Nebraska!
This agricultural state faces the highest rates of groundwater contamination by a long shot. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that any area with extensive agricultural operations can be at risk.
Wonder what happens to your body when the s**t hits the fan?
Babies face the highest vulnerability when it comes to nitrate contamination. Exposure to nitrate toxins in drinking water can lead to methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder in infants commonly referred to as “blue baby syndrome.” This condition causes affected infants to turn blue due to nitrates interfering with the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.
The good news is that this condition is easily reversible. Cases predominantly occur in children under 6 months old. While adults generally face lower risks, extremely high nitrate levels have been associated with central nervous disorders.
The EPA has established a maximum limit of 10.0 mg/L for nitrates and nitrites in drinking water. Below this threshold, you shouldn’t have to worry about methemoglobinemia in infants and nervous system disorders in adults.
The most effective methods for removing nitrates from drinking water include:
- Reverse osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Distillation
- Electrodialysis
Out of these methods, reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and distillation are the most effective for in-home use. Pump-driven reverse osmosis systems, in particular, can reduce nitrates by up to 95%, while nitrate-selective ion exchange cartridges serve as effective nitrate polishers. The best part is, Aquasure's Reverse Osmosis Systems has you covered on all fronts.
14. Perchlorate
Perchlorate, an escalating concern in water contamination, often infiltrates water supplies through various sources such as industrial discharges, fireworks, and the improper disposal of rocket propellants. This chemical, primarily used in the production of fireworks and explosives, can have detrimental effects on human health.
Exposure to perchlorate can lead to several health risks, including:
- Disruption of thyroid function
- Interference with iodine uptake
- Impaired hormone production
- Adverse effects on fetal development
Certain populations, such as pregnant women and infants, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of perchlorate.
The EPA has established a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for perchlorate in drinking water, set at 0.056 mg/L. Compliance with this regulation is crucial to prevent adverse health effects associated with perchlorate exposure.
To effectively remove perchlorate from your water, consider the following methods:
- Ion exchange
- Reverse osmosis
- Biological treatment
Combining these methods can provide a comprehensive approach to reducing perchlorate levels and ensuring the safety of your drinking water.
15. Pesticides
Pesticides, commonly used in agriculture to control pests and enhance crop yield, can find their way into water sources through runoff and leaching. The presence of pesticides in drinking water raises concerns about potential health implications.
Exposure to pesticides through contaminated water can result in various health risks, including:
- Increased risk of cancer
- Disruption of the endocrine system
- Developmental and reproductive issues
- Neurological effects
Pregnant women, children, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of experiencing adverse effects.
The EPA has established MCLs for specific pesticides to protect public health. Adhering to these regulations is crucial to minimize the risks associated with pesticide exposure in drinking water.
Effective methods for removing pesticides from drinking water include:
- Activated carbon filtration
- Reverse osmosis
- Biological treatment
- Advanced oxidation processes
Implementing a combination of these treatment techniques can significantly reduce pesticide levels and ensure the safety of your water supply. At Aquasure, our water treatment systems utilize a combination of effective methods to significantly reduce pesticide levels, providing you with water that meets the highest safety standards.
16. Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceuticals, including prescription and over-the-counter medications like antibiotics, hormones, mood stabilizers, and other drugs can enter water sources through the disposal of unused drugs or through excretion by individuals. The presence of pharmaceuticals in drinking water has raised concerns about potential long-term health effects.
Pharmaceuticals Health Risks
Exposure to pharmaceuticals in drinking water may pose various health risks, including:
- Endocrine disruption
- Antibiotic resistance
- Developmental issues
- Hormonal imbalances
The long-term effects of chronic exposure to low concentrations of pharmaceuticals are still an area of ongoing research.
The regulation of pharmaceuticals in drinking water is an evolving field, with ongoing efforts to establish guidelines and standards. Regular monitoring and updates on pharmaceuticals in water quality standards are essential.
Pharmaceuticals Treatment Methods
To address the presence of pharmaceuticals in drinking water, consider the following treatment methods:
- Advanced oxidation processes
- Activated carbon filtration
- Reverse osmosis
- UV radiation
Combining these treatment methods can contribute to the effective removal of pharmaceutical residues and ensure the safety of your drinking water. Our water filtration bundles combines carbon filtration, UV and RO to deliver a comprehensive solution, offering you water that not only meets but exceeds safety standards.
17. Uranium
Uranium, a naturally occurring radioactive substance present in rocks, soil, air, and water, has the potential to infiltrate the water supply through leaching from the surrounding soil and rocks. However, the primary and more concerning source of contamination is nuclear waste. But what does this mean for your health?
Long-term exposure to uranium can cause severe health risks, including kidney damage and an increased risk of cancer. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, human and animal studies show that uranium exposure can lead to respiratory diseases like fibrosis and emphysema. However,iIt's important to note that the majority of individuals affected by these respiratory issues are those employed in uranium mining and milling occupations.
The EPA has established a maximum limit for uranium in drinking water, at 0.030 mg/L. Exceeding this threshold may lead to severe side effects, including kidney toxicity and risk of cancer.
Effective treatment methods for reducing uranium from drinking water include:
- Reverse Osmosis
- Anion exchange resins
- Distillation
These proven treatment techniques have the capability to bring uranium levels below the EPA's established legal limit of 0.030 mg/L, ensuring that your drinking water meets the required safety standards.
18. Radium
Radium, a byproduct of the radioactive decay of uranium and thorium, is naturally present in rocks and soil. However, the primary source to radium in drinking water is often associated with nuclear power plants. Interestingly, deep water wells tend to have higher concentrations of radium in comparison to surface water sources.
Radium emits energy in the form of gamma rays and alpha particles, posing potential health risks such as:
- Cancer
- Kidney damage
- Birth defects
In fact, radium is so cancerous that it’s the second-leading cause of lung cancer, following closely behind cigarettes.
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the maximum contaminant limit goal is zero.
Radium Treatment Methods
Effective treatment methods for eliminating radium contaminants from tap water include:
- Reverse osmosis
- Distillation
- Cation exchange softening
- Lime softening
Ion exchange methods can remove radium along with other minerals like calcium and magnesium. Reverse osmosis and distillation are also effective methods for radium removal. The good news is that numerous reverse osmosis devices, including Aquasure's Reverse Osmosis Systems, undergo rigorous third-party testing to ensure reliable radium removal and deliver safe drinking water.
19. Selenium
Selenium, when administered in right doses, acts as a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent cancer. However, excessive amounts can lead to several negative side effects.
Selenium compounds, commonly used in devices such as photocopiers and other electronics, became a concern in Utah from 1987 to 1993 when large amounts of selenium were released into the water supply from to copper smelting operations.
Selenium, a vital antioxidant found in foods like Brazil nuts, plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidation and inflammation. However, human beings are only designed to process small amounts of selenium. When large quantities leach into drinking water, excessive intake can have detrimental effects for your health.
Common side effects of selenium toxicity include:
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Nervous system damage
- Damage to the hair and fingernails
Prolonged exposure to high selenium levels can cause kidney, liver, and circulatory problems. It's essential to maintain a balanced intake of selenium for overall well-being.
The EPA has established the maximum limit for selenium in drinking water at 0.05 mg/L. If selenium levels surpass this limit, your water supplier is must notify you.
The World Health Organization, however, suggests a slightly lower limit of 0.04 mg/L. Indications of selenium toxicity may manifest at doses of 0.7 mg or more per day.
The most effective treatment methods for removing selenium from drinking water include:
- Reverse osmosis
- Activated alumina adsorption
- Anion exchange
- Distillation
Anion exchange and alumina adsorption can remove up to 95% of selenium, while distillation can remove up to 98%, and reverse osmosis up to 90%.
20. Silver
When ingested or absorbed through the skin, silver can turn your organs, skin, and hair a metallic grey color. So, if you don’t want to start looking like the Tin Man from the Wizard of OZ, then it's best to avoid consuming silver. Fortunately, this discoloration is merely a cosmetic issue and doesn't impair organ function.
Silver Regulations
As silver doesn't pose any serious health risks other than discoloration, the EPA hasn't established any enforceable limits for drinking water. However, they do recommend that levels be kept below 0.10 mg/L. Exceeding this threshold may lead to skin, hair, and organ discoloration.
The best treatment methods for removing silver from drinking water include:
- Reverse osmosis
- Distillation
- Cation exchange
Reverse osmosis can reduce silver concentration by up to 90%, while distillation can achieve a reduction of up to 98%. These methods ensure the elimination of silver contaminants, providing you with cleaner and safer drinking water.
Approximately 20% of the lakes and reservoirs in the United States contain high levels of pollutants that exceed the EPA’s guidelines, with Texas and California ranking among the worst states. Shockingly, around 170 million Americans consume contaminated water every day.
The good news is that at-home water filtration systems are highly effective in removing a wide range of concerning contaminants from your water supply.
To determine if your drinking water contains high levels of certain toxins and pollutants, visit the Natural Resources Defence Council (NRDC) website. Alternatively, you can also call the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hotline for more information. Ensuring the safety of your drinking water is a crucial step toward a healthier lifestyle.
