If you recently had your water tested, and results show elevated levels of arsenic, what should you do? The only way to remove arsenic is through proper treatment. Heating your water or using pitcher-style filters will not remove arsenic from your water.
Don’t panic. There are several techniques for removing arsenic from your home’s water.
Point-of-use arsenic removal systems
The simplest and most cost-effective solution for long-term treatment of arsenic in drinking water is a point-of-use system. This is typically installed under your kitchen or bathroom sink, where water is frequently used, and the device filters water at the source. Make sure your solution is certified by the Water Quality Association or another reputable source for arsenic removal.
- Many homeowners prefer reverse osmosis filters for their point-of-use treatment because it removes many other impurities in addition to arsenic. The process pushes water through a semipermeable membrane under pressure, leaving the contaminants behind. The impurities are disposed to your septic system, and the clean water is stored in a small pressure tank and dispensed at the tap.
- Another method involves water passing through a granular material called adsorptive media. Contaminants “stick” to the surface of the media by adsorption, and the treated water passes through. Most adsorptive media systems require backwashing to remove the accumulate particles of sediment; the backwash can then be discharged into the septic system.
Point-of-entry arsenic removal systems
Some people prefer to treat arsenic at additional locations where water is used in the home. These may include bathroom sinks, baths, and showers. In this case, a point-of-entry (or whole-house) treatment system may be recommended.
With whole-house treatment, the system is located near the well pressure tank, where the water enters the home. All water is treated before use. Some people prefer the peace of mind that this offers, but the trade-off is that costs are higher because the system is also used for functions where arsenic is not a concern, such as toilet flushing and clothes washing.
Technologies for whole –house treatment include adsorption onto specialty media and removal through ion exchange, with a water-softener-like system.
SecondWind Water Systems knows water
We can arrange for arsenic testing, we can interpret your results for you, and we can sit down across the kitchen table and help you choose your treatment approach. Many system configurations are available to you. Contact a certified water treatment professional to discuss your options.
