5 Common Chemical Contaminants in Drinking Water

Ensuring clean drinking water is essential for health, but certain chemical contaminants can sometimes find their way into water sources. Here are five common contaminants, their sources, and their potential impacts on health.

5 Common Chemical Contaminants In Drinking Water

1. Lead

Lead contamination often stems from old pipes and plumbing fixtures. As water travels through these materials, lead particles can leach into them, especially if the water is acidic. Lead is harmful to health, particularly for children, as it can impair development, damage the nervous system, and cause cognitive issues.

2. Chlorine and Chloramine

These chemicals are widely used as disinfectants to kill bacteria and viruses in drinking water. While necessary for sanitizing purposes, high levels of chlorine or chloramine can produce harmful byproducts, irritate skin and eyes, and impact taste. Long-term exposure has also been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.

3. Nitrates

Often found in agricultural areas, nitrates enter water supplies through fertilizers, septic systems, and animal waste. High nitrate levels in drinking water are particularly dangerous for infants, as they can cause “blue baby syndrome,” a condition that reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen.

4. Fluoride

Though added to water supplies to promote dental health, excessive fluoride can be harmful. Long-term exposure to high levels of fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis (tooth discoloration) and skeletal fluorosis, affecting bone strength and flexibility.

5. Arsenic

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in soil and groundwater, but it can also be introduced through industrial processes. Prolonged exposure to arsenic can cause severe health issues, including cancer, skin lesions, and cardiovascular disease.

Protect Your Health With Our Water Treatment Solutions

Worried about these contaminants in your drinking water? Our water treatment solutions at RainSoft of NE Iowa are designed to reduce or eliminate harmful chemicals, giving you peace of mind and clean, safe water at home. Contact us at (319) 233-2038 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help safeguard your water quality.