In the 1800s, waterborne diseases were rampant due to contaminated drinking water sources. Diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery wreaked havoc on the local population.
Since the 1900s, chlorine has been the most commonly used disinfectant to kill disease-causing pathogens in public water supplies.
This blog discusses why municipal water is treated with chlorine and its effects on our health.
Why is Chlorine Added to Our Drinking Water?
Chlorine effectively kills harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. It is also added to public water systems as a continuous disinfectant.
A continuous disinfectant keeps water free of pathogens throughout its distribution network i.e. from public water supply to your home taps.
Learn more about all the tap water contaminants.
Is Chlorinated Water Safe?
Since chlorination of public water systems is a standard practice, it has proven to be generally safe.
However, exposure to high levels of chlorine or chloramines poses risks such as:
- eye/nose irritation
- stomach discomfort
- Anemia
You may have already experienced eye irritation when swimming in your local pool.
What About Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)?
Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs) are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in surface water sources such as lakes, rivers, streams, etc. Two of these byproduct chemicals which are commonly known are trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs).
According to the EPA, long-term exposure to DBPs poses serious health risks such as:
- Increased risk of cancer
- Liver, kidney, or central nervous system problems
- Anemia
- Nervous system effects in infants and young children
Generally, public water systems regularly test their treated water to measure levels of regulated DBPs. However, it should be noted the health risks of contaminated water outweigh the risks posed by DBPs.
While chlorination is highly effective, it is not without its drawbacks. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential health effects of chlorine and its byproducts, including:
- Reproductive and developmental disorders: Exposure to haloacetic acids (HAAs) has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Respiratory problems: Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions may experience aggravated symptoms upon exposure to chlorinated water vapours.
- Skin issues: Chlorinated water can cause dryness, itchiness, and rashes, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
- Gastrointestinal problems: High chlorine levels in drinking water may lead to digestive discomfort in some individuals.
That Chlorine Taste and Smell!
Over time, we get used to the taste and smell of chlorine in our drinking water. If you are bothered, these are a few ways to minimize the taste or smell of chlorine:
Let it breathe.
The chlorine smell goes away in a few hours. For this, refrigerate water in an uncovered jug or a pitcher.
Drink cold water
Cold water generally tastes and smells better. It is also less likely to absorb heavy metals like lead and copper from the pipes.
Filter it.
The best way to ensure cleaner, better-tasting water is to use water filtration systems. Here are some PureFlowz products to remove chlorine’s taste and smell from your water.
Safeguard Yourself From Chlorine With PureFlowz Filters
PureFlowz faucet filters are built with advanced water purification technology with a seven-stage filtration process, including activated carbon, ultra filtration (UF), and ceramic filters.
- Effectively filters 99% of chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities
- Ensures high-quality water for drinking, cooking, and other daily needs.
- Improves taste with added minerals and removes odor with active charcoal
Material Specifications:
- Intelligent Display: Shows filter cartridge’s lifespan.
- Filter Element: Diatomaceous ceramic + coconut shell activated carbon composite filter element.
- Food-grade Plastic Shell: Safe and non-toxic.
- Shell Material: Food-grade ABS + PC.
PureFlowz Water Filter Pitcher is engineered to provide clean, great-tasting water with its advanced filtration technology.
Its dual-stage filtration process includes PP cotton, activated carbon, and ion exchange resin, efficiently removing impurities while retaining essential minerals for a refreshing, balanced taste.
- Effectively removes chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants.
- Improves water taste by eliminating odors and impurities.
- Filter replacement indicator for timely maintenance.
- Available in customizable colors to match your kitchen style.
Material Specifications:
- Filter Element: PP cotton + activated carbon + ion exchange resin (PUROLITE) + PSU ultrafiltration membrane.
- Shell Material: BPA-free, food-grade plastic.
Other Ways to Disinfect Water
Chloramines may form lower levels of regulated DBPs than chlorine. However, it increases the risks of nitrate formation and corrosion in the distribution system.
Ozone is also effective and has no taste. However, it can create other DBPs and does not provide protection in the distribution system, so chloramines or chlorine must still be added.
Ultraviolet (UV) light is effective in clear water and does not form DBPs. But, like ozone, it does not provide protection in the distribution system. Chloramines or chlorine must still be added to ensure safe water reaches our homes.
What About Bathing and Showering?
Don’t worry, chlorine does not get into the body through your skin. There is limited information about the health risks of breathing or coming into contact with DBPs.
Worried about chlorine’s effects such as skin and eye irritation? Try PureFlowz Shower Filters and Pre-Filters.
Our advanced filtration systems reduce residual chlorine, impurities, and sediment. Multiple layers work together to remove a wide range of contaminants.
- Sediment filter captures larger particles like dirt, rust, and sand.
- KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) filter removes chlorine, reduces heavy metals, and blocks bacteria and algae growth.
- Activated Carbon absorbs chlorine, chemicals, and organic compounds to improve the taste of water.
- Ceramic Balls balance pH levels and soften the water, minimizing limescale issues.
Does Chlorination Affect Home Water Filters?
No. Since most water filters are designed to reduce chlorine levels and filter impurities, you should not be as concerned.
Conclusion
Chlorination has been essential in keeping our water safe from harmful bacteria and viruses.
However, chlorine and its byproducts can sometimes affect taste/smell, and even cause minor skin issues. Thankfully, PureFlowz water filters can remove the chlorine taste and smell, giving you cleaner, better-tasting water.
By using a filter, you can reduce your exposure to chlorine and enjoy fresher, safer water for drinking and bathing. Choosing filtered water is an easy way to improve water quality at home.
