That bleachy taste and smell in city water comes from chlorine. Yech! It can take a toll on your hair and skin and can be even worse for your fish!
Why Cities Use Chlorine
Public water providers use chlorine to disinfect the water supply and prevent algae and bacteria build up in the pipes.
Chlorine has strong disinfectant qualities and is a dependable way to kill microorganisms found in water that can lead to sickness.
Although chlorine is easily detectable by our noses and taste buds and may seem strong, the concentration in city water is still very low; it is certainly safe to drink.
However, a growing number of cities are switching to chloramine. A more stable form of chlorine, chloramine does not break down quickly thus providing protection over a longer period of time.
At the levels found in tap water, chloramine is safe for drinking, bathing, cooking and all the every day uses for water. However, water users can have issues with this disinfectant too.
The Trouble with Chlorine/Chloramine
In addition to the bleachy smell and taste, chlorine can irritate your eyes, upper respiratory tract, and lungs. Your skin may feel dry and itchy. Blonde hair can turn green.
If you dislike the odor, taste or effects of chlorine in your water, removing chlorine from water is a fairly easy process. Chlorine is unstable and easily dissipates. Boiling the water, letting it sit for a day, specialized filters, or UV sterilizers are all options here to remove chlorine.
Chloraminated water often tastes better because it has less of a chlorine odor or taste. But it can also lead to red, itchy eyes, and irritated skin.
Chloramine is toxic to fish, reptiles, and amphibians, all cold-blooded animals. Chloramines are more difficult to filter out of your water. Chloramine is more persistent and does not dissipate from the water as easily; unlike with Chlorine, simply letting water sit overnight will not remove it. You will need to take extra steps to remove it.
If you’re unsure if there’s chlorine or chloramine in your water, you can check with your water provider.
Testing your Water for Chlorine and Chloramine
The best way to determine if you have water treated with chlorine or chloramine at your home, is, as always, to have it tested.
Remove Chlorine and Chloramine From Your Tap Water
If you are concerned about Chlorine and Chloramine in your drinking water, call Pure Water Solutions for a 100% FREE, no-obligation water analysis.
There are many types and variations of water filters. Pure Water Solutions can show you which filtration system will be right to help you remove chlorine and chloramines from your tap water.
Call Pure Water Solutions
We’ll test your water for chlorine and chloramines and other contaminants.
541-890-2751
No-Obligation Consultation
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