Harmful Chemicals

What Harmful Chemicals are Found in Water?

Many different chemicals can be found in water, and the specific chemicals present can vary depending on the source of the water and any treatment or processing it has undergone. Some common water toxins that may be found in water include:
• PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls): These industrial chemicals were once widely used in various products, including electrical equipment and hydraulic fluids. PCBs are known to have harmful effects on human health and can be found in water due to the release of PCB-containing products or the disposal of PCB-containing waste.

• MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether): This is a chemical that is used as a fuel additive to improve the performance of gasoline. MTBE can be found in water due to spills or leaks from fuel storage tanks or gasoline use in vehicles.

• TCE (trichloroethylene): This is a chemical that is used as a solvent in a variety of industries, including the aerospace and automotive industries. TCE can be found in water due to the release of TCE-containing products or the disposal of TCE-containing waste.

• THMs (trihalomethanes): These are chemicals that are formed as a result of the disinfection process and can be found in water that has been treated with disinfectants. THMs are formed when disinfectants react with organic matter in the water and can include a range of chemicals, such as chloroform and bromodichloromethane. It's important to note that some of these chemicals in water can have adverse effects on human health, and it is important to regularly test the water to ensure that it meets safety standards. If the water contains harmful chemicals, appropriate treatment methods should be implemented to remove or inactivate the chemicals and make the water safe for use.

Symptoms of Harmful Chemicals

The symptoms of exposure to water toxins can vary depending on the specific chemical and the level of exposure. Some common symptoms that may be caused by exposure to water toxins include:

• Skin irritation
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Long-term exposure to high levels of some water toxins can increase the risk of cancer and cause liver and kidney damage. It's important to note that the presence of these chemicals in water does not always result in illness or disease, but it is important to regularly test the water to ensure that it is safe for use. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and suspect that the contamination of your water may be the cause, it's important to seek medical attention and have the water tested. If the water contains harmful chemicals, appropriate treatment methods should be implemented to remove or inactivate the chemicals and make the water safe for use.

Treatment of
Harmful Chemicals

Several methods can be used to treat water contaminated with chemicals, including:

• Granular activated carbon (GAC): This method involves passing water through a bed of activated carbon, a highly porous material that can adsorb many chemicals from the water. GAC effectively removes various chemicals, including organic chemicals, metals, and inorganic ones. However, it's important to note that GAC can become a breeding ground for bacteria if it is not properly maintained and treated, so it is often used in conjunction with other treatment methods, such as ultraviolet (UV) disinfection or quantum disinfection, to kill any bacteria that may be present.

• Reverse osmosis: This method involves passing water through a membrane that can remove many contaminants, including chemicals, metals, and microorganisms. Reverse osmosis is a highly effective treatment method that can remove a wide range of contaminants from water. Still, it is generally more expensive and requires more maintenance than other treatment methods.

It's important to note that each treatment method has advantages and disadvantages. The best method for treating water contaminated with chemicals will depend on the specific circumstances and the types of chemicals present.
Penguin Water Systems certified water specialists can help you determine the most effective method for removing PCBs, MTBE, TCE, and THM from your water. These specialists have the knowledge and expertise to assess your water's specific characteristics and recommend the most appropriate treatment method based on your unique needs. They can help you identify the best method for removing these chemicals from your water and ensure that it is safe and high-quality. By working with a certified water specialist, you can be confident that you are making an informed decision about your water treatment and that you are taking the necessary steps to address any water quality issues you may have.

Harmful Chemicals