Why Remove Chlorine From Our Whole House-
Why is it crucial to consider eliminating chlorine from every nook and cranny of our living spaces? Let’s explore this question together as we adopt an inquisitive and analytical lens.
Chlorine has long been the go-to chemical for purifying drinking water, eradicating diseases transmitted through water for several decades. Its prowess in eliminating pathogens and ailments is unmatched, making it a popular choice due to its low cost and ease of use. Chlorine effectively preserves a residual presence within the water distribution system, continually safeguarding our drinking water from bacterial proliferation. This is why chlorine stands out as one of the premier disinfecting agents. However, despite its efficiency and budget-friendly nature in treating water, chlorination is not without its drawbacks.
Are private well owners choosing to disinfect their water with chlorine, or are they opting for alternative methods? Meanwhile, urban residents have no say in the matter, as chlorine is predominantly used in municipal water treatment. What are the implications of this? When chlorine is introduced into water treatment, it reacts with the water’s organic matter, yielding toxic byproduct compounds known as Trihalomethanes (THMs). These substances pose severe health risks when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Studies on the impact of chlorinated drinking water on health have revealed various toxicological concerns. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has acknowledged evidence suggesting a possible link between prolonged exposure to elevated levels of THMs and an increased risk of bladder cancer, as well as hints of a connection with colon and rectal cancers. The Environmental Research Foundation also references studies that associate the consumption of chlorinated tap water, particularly by pregnant women, with higher rates of miscarriage and birth defects. While water disinfection is vital for eliminating bacteria and viruses, there are alternative methods that do not generate such toxic byproducts.
How are we exposed to chlorine, and what does it mean for our daily lives? The presence of chlorine in water is not just a matter of taste and odor; it affects the flavor of beverages like coffee and tea and can leave our hair and skin feeling dry after a shower. The issue extends beyond drinking water to include bathing water as well. In fact, we may be exposed to more chlorine through showering than by drinking water containing its byproducts. When showering, chlorine is absorbed through the skin and also vaporizes, allowing it to be inhaled into our lungs. This indicates that a significant portion of our daily chlorine exposure occurs during our showers. Given chlorine’s pervasive presence in our water fixtures, it’s imperative to remove it from our entire water supply.
What are the options for removing chlorine from our water? Carbon filtration systems effectively absorb chlorine without adversely affecting the water supply. This process happens as the water comes into contact with the carbon filter, which then removes chlorine, taste, odor, and organic compounds, providing clean, filtered water throughout the home. There are two primary types of systems designed to eliminate chlorine: heavy-duty carbon filtration systems and standard capacity contact water cartridges. The former uses a large volume of filter media for optimal performance, offering chlorine-free water for 5-8 years before media replacement is needed. The latter, more affordable option, employs carbon filters for chlorine adsorption and requires annual replacement of filters.
For comprehensive protection, is a Reverse Osmosis system the answer? To ensure the purest drinking water, it’s recommended to install a Reverse Osmosis drinking water system in the kitchen. This system employs a 5-stage filtration process that removes up to 99% of all contaminants, including three carbon filters for enhanced chlorine protection and two additional filters to eliminate heavy metals, pesticides, and other contaminants that may have escaped the whole house filter. With both a whole house filter and a reverse osmosis system in place, one can enjoy bottled-quality drinking water and chlorine-free showers and baths.