Houston gets much of its water supply from the winding rivers and local lakes nearby. Unfortunately, these waterways get polluted from industrial emissions, automobiles, residential and commercial wastewater, garbage, and contaminated stormwater runoff, creating health risks for people living in the city. Knowing the common contaminants in Houston drinking water enables you to take measures to clean and purify the water in your home.

Magnesium and Calcium in Hard Water

You may notice that these minerals are present in your water when there’s a residue left on your hands, shower, and even dishes. This hard water has many adverse effects, including leaving your skin feeling dry and itchy or staining sinks and bathtubs. You need to install a water softener system in your home to remove these minerals effectively.

Coliform Bacteria and E. coli

You can find coliform bacteria in the digestive systems of both animals and humans. While most coliforms are innocuous, certain E. coli strains can cause significant disease and even death. You can’t determine if your water contains disease-causing organisms by looking at it, tasting it, or smelling it, but you can get it tested.

Copper and Lead

Many homes, particularly older ones in the Houston area where pipes have significant corrosion, contain substantial amounts of lead and copper in their drinking water. Vomiting, stomach pains, nausea, diarrhea, liver damage, and renal illness can result from consuming too much copper in food or drink. Lead poisoning is particularly dangerous for children since it can result in significant and, in many cases, irreparable damage to their growing brains and neurological systems.

Disinfectants and Disinfectant Byproducts

Disinfectants are among the most common contaminants you commonly find in Houston water. While chemicals like chlorine and chloramine treat water against harmful bacteria and diseases, many people find that filtering the water once it reaches their homes can improve both the taste and the odor.

Carcinogens

Houston has significantly higher levels of arsenic in the water supply than average. It’s essential to take steps to remove arsenic from your tap water, as it can harm you and your family in high enough concentrations. It is a known carcinogen that can lead to cancer and cardiovascular health problems.

These are just a few examples of the many common contaminants in Houston drinking water. Alamo Water Softeners provides whole house water filtration systems in Houston to clean and purify your drinking water and keep your household free from these harmful pollutants. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about our services.