Have you ever turned on the tap and wondered what’s really in your water? We all know that familiar smell of chlorine, but have you ever stopped to think why it’s there in the first place? Water filtration expert, Suzanne Dodds, joined Jo to dive into the topic of tap water and explore the role of chlorine in keeping our water safe.
Chlorine’s Impact on Water Safety
“Chlorine is used because it’s cheap and effective,” Suzanne explained. This method has been used for a long time, and although it might be outdated, it’s still prevalent because utilities are set up to use chlorine. It’s efficient at killing biological matter such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites, which can be detrimental to public health.
Suzanne shared a personal anecdote to illustrate the importance of chlorine. Her daughter contracted giardia, a parasite, from drinking lake water while they were in Italy. This illness can be severe, highlighting the necessity of disinfecting water to prevent such health issues. “Chlorine plays a crucial role in killing harmful organisms,” Suzanne emphasised.
The Downside of Chlorine
However, chlorine is not without its downsides. It produces chlorination byproducts known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including trihalomethanes and chloroform. “These byproducts have been linked to various health issues, including certain cancers and skin conditions like dermatitis and eczema,” Suzanne noted. While chlorine effectively kills harmful organisms, it also creates compounds that can pose long-term health risks.
Many people are concerned about the health implications of consuming chlorinated water. Suzanne reassured us that the water coming out of our taps is compliant with Australian drinking water guidelines. These guidelines set maximum thresholds for various chemicals, including chlorine, to ensure safety for a typical adult. However, these standards might not be as reassuring for children or individuals who weigh less than 70 kilograms.
Alternatives to Chlorination
Several cities and towns have transitioned from chlorination to other methods. For example, the Netherlands phased out chlorination in 2005, using a combination of UV and ozone to disinfect water. Paris also uses this method with minimal chlorine. These alternatives are effective in making water microbiologically safe without relying heavily on chlorine.
Suzanne clarified that simple physical filters, like those used in swimming pools, are not effective against bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Technologies like ozone and UV are more effective. Ozone over-oxygenates the water, keeping it clean, while UV chambers kill bacteria as water passes through them.
Removing Chlorine from Tap Water
Removing chlorine from tap water is relatively easy. “A good activated carbon filter will remove chlorine,” Suzanne said. She advised using certified filters from reputable companies. The main issue isn’t just chlorine itself but also the disinfection byproducts. High-grade carbon filters can help remove these harmful compounds. For households, Suzanne recommended a complete home filtration system installed at the point of entry. This system removes chlorine and other harmful chemicals before the water enters the home. This way, all water used for drinking, cooking, bathing, and other purposes is filtered and safer.
Looking ahead, Suzanne is optimistic about the future of water treatment. “People are becoming more aware and educated about water quality,” she said. The internet has empowered individuals to learn about and seek better water treatment options. As more people become conscious of the chemicals in their water, there will likely be a shift towards safer, more effective water treatment methods.
Listen to the conversation below.