Chlorine has been used to disinfect drinking water for over 100 years. It's great at killing bacteria and viruses, making our water safer. But while it’s good at its job, chlorine can also pose some hidden risks.
The Downsides of Chlorine
Chlorine is added to water to kill harmful microorganisms that cause diseases like cholera and typhoid. But its use comes with some drawbacks:
- Formation of Harmful Byproducts: When chlorine reacts with organic matter in water, it creates disinfection byproducts (DBPs) like trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). These chemicals are linked to higher cancer risks and other health issues.
- Residual Chlorine: After water is treated, some chlorine can remain. Drinking water with high chlorine levels over time can irritate your skin and eyes and potentially cause other health problems.
- Taste and Odor: Chlorine can make water taste and smell bad, which might cause people drink less water and not stay properly hydrated.
How to Make Your Water Safer
Luckily, there are ways to get rid of chlorine and other contaminants in your drinking water, making it both safer and better-tasting.
- Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are great at removing chlorine, THMs, HAAs, and other organic contaminants. They work by trapping the contaminants on the surface of the carbon, leaving your water clean and fresh. Carbon filters can be installed in your kitchen to purify the water you drink and cook with, or at the point-of-entry to your home, removing chlorine from your entire household.
- Shower Filters: If you find your skin is getting irritated, you can easily install a shower filter to remove chlorine from the water you're bathing in.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection: UV systems use light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms without chemicals like chlorine. They’re safe, environmentally friendly, and highly effective at purifying water.
While chlorine is crucial for safe drinking water, but it's important to be aware of the risks. By using a water purification system, you can remove chlorine and other harmful substances, ensuring your water is pure, safe, and great-tasting. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your drinking water is clean and healthy.
