We all know that water is essential to life, but what many people in Florida don’t know is that the water they drink may contain a variety of different substances. Some of these substances are necessary for our bodies to function properly, while others may be harmful. Therefore, it is important to be aware of what is in your Florida drinking water so that you can make informed decisions about your health.
Dissolved Solids
Dissolved solids are small particles that are suspended in water. They can come from a variety of sources, including rocks and minerals, decaying plants and animals, sewage, and industrial waste. While some dissolved solids are essential for our health, others can be harmful.
Minerals
Minerals are naturally-occurring elements that are found in the earth’s crust. They can be found in both solid and liquid forms, and they are necessary for our bodies to function properly. Common minerals found in water include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and iron.
Fluoride
Fluoride occurs naturally in many water sources, but the levels are usually too low to have any significant impact on dental health. By adding fluoride to the water supply, communities can help reduce cavities and tooth decay, especially in children.
While fluoride is considered safe and effective in preventing tooth decay, too much fluoride can be harmful. Children who drink water with too much fluoride can develop a condition called fluorosis, which causes white spots or streaks on the teeth.
You’ll need a water filtration system that can remove fluoride if your water contains too much of it.
Chlorine
Chlorine is one of the most common water contaminants. It’s added to the public water supply as a disinfectant to kill bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. Although chlorine is effective at killing these harmful organisms, it can also be detrimental to our health.
Lead
Lead is a heavy metal that can be found in water due to the erosion of lead pipes and solder. It can also enter the water supply through leaching from lead-based paint, soil, and industrial waste. Lead is a serious health hazard, especially for children, and it can cause a variety of health problems, including learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and anemia.
Arsenic
Arsenic is a naturally-occurring element that can be found in water due to the erosion of rocks and minerals. It can also enter the water supply through leaching from industrial waste. Arsenic is a known carcinogen, and it has been linked to a variety of health problems, including skin cancer, lung cancer, and bladder cancer.
Nitrates/Nitrites
Nitrates and nitrites are chemical compounds that can enter the water supply through agricultural runoff and sewage. They are also found naturally in some water sources. Nitrates can be harmful to infants and pregnant women, as they can cause a condition called methemoglobinemia, which reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Mercury
Mercury is a heavy metal that can enter the water supply through industrial waste and runoff from coal-fired power plants. It can also be released into the air and then deposited into water bodies through precipitation. Mercury is a known neurotoxin, and it has been linked to a variety of health problems, including learning disabilities, developmental delays, and brain damage.
Get Rainsoft Water Treatment
While some of the substances found in Florida drinking water are essential for our health, others can be harmful. It is important to get rid of contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and mercury to ensure the safety of your family.
A Rainsoft water treatment system from Coastal Energy Water and Air can remove these contaminants from your water in Fort Myers so that you can feel confident about what you’re drinking. Contact us today to learn more about our products.
