If tap water has a slight bleach-like taste or smell, it is because of chlorine. To kill some harmful organisms that cause waterborne diseases, the water treatment plants add chlorine to water. Though an effective disinfectant, chlorine does affect the taste and odor of water. Although chlorine levels in drinking water are regulated by the EPA and WHO, several people prefer chlorine-free water. Well, if that is your case, then Rooter Man Plumbing has got your back. In this article, we will show you how chlorine finds its way into your water and the best ways to remove it.
How Chlorine Gets Into Your Water Supply
Municipal water treatment plants generally use chlorine as a disinfectant in the water to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, chlorine can legally remain in your tap water up to levels of 4 milligrams per liter (4 mg/L or 4 parts per million); this is considered safe. Even within this range of safety, chlorine will make drinking water taste and smell differently. Overexposure to chlorine, even at safe levels, may cause skin irritants or gastrointestinal problems.
Three Ways to Get Rid of Chlorine in Your Drinking Water
1. Evaporation
This is one of the easiest ways to remove chlorine from tap water. Since chlorine is a volatile gas, it will over time naturally evaporate from water. All you need do is leave your water container uncovered, allowing the chlorine to disappear into the air. Although inexpensive, this method is relatively slow compared to other options. Evaporation is ideal for those who only need a small amount of chlorine-free water and are willing to wait.
2. Boil Your Water
Boiling tap water is much quicker and much more effective at removing chlorine. Heat the water for 15-20 minutes, wherein chlorine evaporates as a gas along with steam. After that, this water can be used when it cools. But on the other hand, boiling water will not help to remove chloramine-a related chemical compound with chlorine because this too adversely affects the quality of water.
3. Water Filtration Systems
A water filtration system is the best possible remedy to remove chlorine from your tap water. These systems can filter most types of contaminants, such as chlorine, which will improve the taste and odor of your water. Here are three types of water filtration systems to consider:
Reverse Osmosis Filtration System: This is a very effective system that removes not only chlorine but also other impurities like heavy metals and chemicals.
Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are particularly effective against chlorine and organic compounds that give taste to water.
Ultraviolet Water Purifiers: UV systems kill bacteria and viruses by using light, but this system has low effectiveness against chemicals like chlorine.
Each system has its benefits, and a professional plumber can help you decide which system is best for your household. Not sure which filtration system is best for you? Consult with an experienced plumbing service, and take the guesswork out to make your best decision for your needs.
Let Rooter-Man Plumbing Help You Maintain Water Quality
If you’re worried about the amount of chlorine or other contaminants in your water, be sure to ask Rooter Man Plumbing for professional installation of a water filtration system. Our expert plumbers will be able to execute water testing and suggest the most effective solution to give you cleaner water quality. From filtration systems to the installation of a water softener, we can provide top-quality services aimed at ensuring that you have clean and safe drinking water with your family.
Call Rooter Man Plumbing for all your plumbing needs today!