You might not realize it, but the water you are drinking could be putting you at risk. Water contaminants are invisible, you cannot see, smell, or even taste most of them. But they are there, lurking around in your drinking water, whether it is from the city or your own well.
Using water filters can eliminate the problem.
Children and the elderly are always at higher risk when contaminants are in your drinking water. For children, their immune system isn’t fully developed. And in the case of the elderly, their immune system is declining. The use of water filters and water filtration systems will greatly reduce the levels of contaminants in your water supply and can prevent health issues for the younger and older members of your family.
Having a water filtration system installed will put your mind at ease knowing that those harmful components have been removed. Here are a few of the contaminants that are commonly found in water.
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Nitrates
Nitrates are chemical compounds found in fertilizers and manures. Overexposure is even greater if you are using well water for your drinking water supply. The risk of nitrates entering freshwater supplies increases in areas prone to flooding.
The complications from exposure to high levels of nitrates are pretty severe, especially to infants and women who are pregnant. It is the main cause of the “blue-baby” syndrome. This condition happens when your child’s ability to carry oxygen in their blood is diminished. For infants, this condition can be fatal.
Overexposure to nitrates can also increase the risk of heart disease in adults.
A study done by the EPA estimates that 9% of Florida’s groundwater has high levels of nitrate concentrations. These levels are above what is deemed safe to drink. The CDC advises having your water checked annually and using water filters to combat this problem.
2. Lead
Lead is a dangerous substance, even at low levels. It is a toxic metal that can great bodily harm. The Flint, Michigan water crisis is a perfect example of how bad it can get.
The Mayo Clinic says that exposure to lead in water supplies can cause the following medical complications for adults:
- High blood pressure
- Joint and muscle pain
- Difficulties in memory and concentration
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Mood disorders
For infants and children, the risks are even greater. The complications from lead poisoning can include:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Developmental delay
- Brain damage
- Learning difficulties
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
There is also the risk of death associated with high concentrations of lead. Using a carbon-based water filter in your home can remove this harmful toxic substance.
3. Mercury
This liquid metal is a naturally occurring element in deposits that can erode and enter drinking water supplies. They are commonly discharged from refineries, factories, and landfill runoff as well.
It can affect your nervous, digestive, and immune systems. Mercury can also cause damage to your eyes, skin, lungs, and kidneys.
4. Aluminum
Without the use of water filters, aluminum is unavoidable. It is the third most common element on earth. It easily finds its way into our South Florida homes through our water supply. Because of this aluminum can be found in many homes throughout South Florida.
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Bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms
All water contains these elements. It is when they are present in high concentrations that they become dangerous. When pathogens become prevalent, only the use of water filters can guarantee your drinking water is safe.
Depending on the type of pathogens present in your water, the physical can include:
- Weakened immune systems (especially in infants and the elderly)
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Death
South Florida residents have plenty of things to keep them busy every day. Worrying about the water you are drinking and bathing in shouldn’t be one of them. Put your mind at ease and keep your family safe by installing a water filtration system in your home.
Coastal Energy Water & Air has the best drinking water and air purification systems for your home or business. We are a proud dealer of RainSoft products and would love to stop by and give you a FREE water test.
For the best Water & Air Purification Systems, contact us or give us a call at (954) 333-3336
