Potential Water Contaminants
Alkalinity
Source: Alkalinity is caused by the presence of bicarbonates, carbonates, and hydroxides in the water.
Additional Information: Alkalinity moderates or buffers pH change. Excessive alkalinity produces a “soda” taste and it has a drying effect on the skin. No U.S Federal limit:
- Low Alkalinity < 30 mg/l
- High Alkalinity > 300 mg/l
Treatment Systems
Whole House Systems:
- pH/Alkalinity Reducer
- ROMaster™ 2200 (2,200 gpd Whole House RO w/ Adjustable Recovery)
Arsenic
Source: Discharge from semiconductor manufacturing; smelters; glass; petroleum refining; wood preservatives; animal feed additives; herbicides; erosion of natural deposits.
Recommended Test Kits
- PurTest Arsenic Water Test Kit
- Arsenic Speciation Test Kit – As(III) and As(V)
Additional Information; Arsenic sometimes occurs naturally in water and can be found in public and private water supplies. Arsenic is a semi-metal element in the periodic table that is odorless and tasteless. It enters drinking water supplies from natural deposits in the earth or from agricultural and industrial practices. It is a poison that can pose a health risk for people and animals. Arsenic contamination of water can result from mining operations, semiconductor manufacturing, use of wood preservers, and pesticide application.
Arsenic is often found in ground water or mineral water at levels over 100 times the safe drinking water limits as established by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Arsenic has been linked to lung and skin cancer, and in some cases, to death. Non-cancer effects can include thickening and discoloration of the skin, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; diarrhea; numbness in hands and feet; partial paralysis; and blindness. Arsenic has been linked to cancer of the bladder, lungs, skin, kidney, nasal passages, liver, and prostate. Consequently, anyone who has a private well should test their water for arsenic at least annually.
The World Health Organization safe standard for arsenic is 10 parts per billion (ppb).The EPA has set the arsenic standard for drinking water at .010 parts per million (10 parts per billion) to protect consumers. Possible health effects include skin damage, circulatory system problems, and increased risk of cancer. Maximum Contamination Level (MCL) = 0.01 mg/L or ppm.
Treatment Systems
Whole House Systems:
- Arsenic Treatment System
- Arsenic-V Master™ Whole House Water Filtration System
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