Purifying Tap Water: Home Methods To Reduce Pollutants

Clean drinking water is a luxury that many people in the United States take for granted, but it may not be as safe as you think. Water pollution poses a hazard to everyone on the planet, and human activity contributes to almost all aquatic environmental pollution. While individual actions might seem insignificant, small, everyday changes can create a ripple effect with a monumental impact. This article will discuss ways to reduce pollutants in tap water at home, including simple changes like using less plastic, boiling water, and investing in water filters.

Use a water filter

Water filters are an effective way to ensure you are drinking clean water. While you can always buy bottled water, filtering your own water is more cost-effective and eco-friendly.

There are many types of water filters available, and the best one for you will depend on your budget, environment, and the amount of effort you want to put in.

Carbon Filters

Carbon filters are a great option for removing common contaminants such as lead and disinfection byproducts. They are available in various forms, including countertop pitchers, faucet-mounted filters, undersink filters, and whole-house filters. Carbon filters are generally effective at improving the taste and smell of water by reducing typical compounds found in municipal water, such as chlorine, chlorine byproducts, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like pesticides and herbicides.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse osmosis systems are highly effective at removing water contaminants, especially when combined with a carbon filter. This process forces water through a membrane that filters out molecules larger than water molecules, such as minerals. However, reverse osmosis is not effective for removing chlorine or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) commonly found in municipal tap water. These systems are also quite expensive and inefficient, wasting one to three gallons of water for every gallon they filter.

Water Softeners

Whole-house water softeners, combined with an ion exchange filter, can reduce water hardness and lower the levels of certain contaminants. Ion exchange units remove minerals like calcium and magnesium, which make water hard, and in some cases, radium and barium. However, they are ineffective if the water contains oxidized iron or iron bacteria, as the resin will become coated or clogged.

Ultraviolet (UV) Treatment

UV treatment is a unique approach that uses UV light to kill germs in the water. It is the only treatment certified by the National Sanitation Foundation International to reduce bacteria.

Faucet-Mounted Filters

Faucet-mounted filters are screwed directly onto your faucet, requiring minimal installation. They allow you to easily switch between filtered and unfiltered water but may slow down the water flow. They are relatively inexpensive but don't work with all faucets.

Countertop Filters

Countertop filters are ideal for filtering large quantities of water without modifying your plumbing. They are less likely to clog than carafe or faucet-mounted filters but can take up countertop space. They may not be compatible with all faucet types.

Under-Sink Filtration Systems

Under-sink filtration systems are installed under the sink, sending water through a pipe to the filter's own faucet. They can filter large amounts of water without taking up countertop space but are often expensive and may require plumbing modifications.

Whole-House Water Treatment

Whole-house water treatment devices treat all the water entering your home, not just the drinking water. They are ideal for addressing hard water and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) but are usually expensive and may require plumbing modifications and professional maintenance. Additionally, filtering out chlorine could increase the growth of germs in your pipes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Filter

When selecting a water filter, consider your specific needs and goals. Determine what contaminants you want to remove, whether you want to improve taste and odour, and how much water you need to filter. Also, check the maintenance requirements, cost, and ease of installation. Remember that no single filter removes all contaminants, so read labels carefully and verify the manufacturer's claims through independent sources.

Combining Methods

For optimal results, consider combining two or more filtration methods. For example, you could use a DIY water filter or sieve and then treat the water with boiling, activated charcoal, or UV treatment as a second step. This approach ensures the removal of both physical debris and microscopic contaminants.

Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain

Pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain is a common misconception that can lead to plumbing issues and contribute to "fatbergs" in the sewer system. Here are some reasons why you should avoid this practice and alternative methods for disposing of these substances:

Problems with Pouring Grease Down the Drain

Even a small amount of grease or cooking oil can cause plumbing problems. Despite the common belief that running hot water and dish soap after pouring grease down the drain is sufficient, it is important to understand that grease will eventually cool and solidify somewhere in your plumbing. This can create a sticky mess along the pipe walls, trapping other debris and leading to clogs over time.

Impact on Municipal Sewer Systems

Even if the grease passes through your home's plumbing system, it continues to cause issues in the municipal sewer system. Many cities spend a significant amount of money each year addressing damaged sewer systems and clearing solid waste obstructions, including "fatbergs." These fatbergs are named for the cooking oil and grease that hold the blockages together. By refraining from pouring grease down the drain, you can play a part in preventing clogs and plumbing problems in your community.

Alternative Methods for Grease Disposal

Instead of pouring grease down the drain, opt for mess-free and environmentally friendly disposal methods. Here are some recommended alternatives:

• Container Disposal: Pour the grease into an empty jar, can, or container with a lid. Once the grease has cooled and hardened, simply throw the container into the trash.
• Wipe and Dispose: Allow the grease to solidify in the pan, then use paper towels to wipe it out. Dispose of the paper towels in the trash, and remember to empty your garbage can soon after to prevent unpleasant odours.
• Reuse and Recycling: If you use a significant amount of oil, consider reusing it. Pour the cooled oil into a glass container with a lid for future cooking. If you don't plan to reuse it, pour the oil into a disposable container, such as a soda bottle, and throw it away when it's full.
• Solidify and Remove: Let the grease in the pan cool down and solidify. Then, use a spatula to remove the grease and discard it in the trash. Use paper towels to absorb any remaining oil or fat in the pan before washing.
• Hot Grease Container: If you have a large volume of hot grease, pour it into a heat-safe container, such as an empty coffee can. Once it has cooled, seal the container and dispose of it in the trash.

Don't flush household chemicals or medications

Flushing household chemicals or medications down the drain is a common practice that can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. When flushed, these substances can enter our lakes, streams, and drinking water, contaminating water sources and harming aquatic life. For instance, antibiotics in water bodies can lead to antibiotic resistance in bacteria, while hormones and antidepressants can disrupt the reproduction and growth of aquatic species.

Additionally, wastewater treatment plants are often ill-equipped to remove pharmaceuticals from wastewater, leading to potential risks to the environment and public health. Instead of flushing, it is recommended to dispose of medications responsibly through take-back programs, drug collection events, or by sealing and concealing them before throwing them in the trash.

Furthermore, flushing medications can also impact household safety, especially if there are children or pets around. Accidental ingestion of discarded medicines can have harmful consequences. It is crucial to keep medications out of the reach of teenagers as prescription drugs are commonly abused by this age group.

To safely dispose of unwanted medications, individuals can utilize take-back programs offered by pharmacies or law enforcement agencies. These programs ensure proper disposal methods, such as incineration, to prevent environmental contamination. Alternatively, mixing medicines with used coffee grounds or cat litter before disposing of them in the trash can also be an effective method.

Overall, by refraining from flushing household chemicals or medications, individuals can play a crucial role in protecting their health, the environment, and the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Reduce use of pesticides and herbicides

Reducing the use of pesticides and herbicides is an important step in decreasing water pollution at home. These chemicals can contaminate water supplies with toxic residues, impacting both the environment and human health. Here are some detailed suggestions to reduce their use:

Firstly, identify the underlying issues that attract pests. Instead of reaching for pesticides or herbicides, address the root cause of the problem. For example, if you have a pest problem, identify what attracted the pests in the first place and remove whatever it is they need to thrive. This could be as simple as planting your crops at a different time of year or using natural barriers, such as a ring of sawdust, to deter pests.

Secondly, opt for eco-friendly alternatives. There are many non-chemical pest control methods that are simple and effective. For example, apps like iNaturalist can help you identify pests, and your state Cooperative Extension office can provide eco-friendly management solutions. Additionally, consider using natural pesticides like diatomaceous earth, neem oil, or organic weed killers. These alternatives are safer for the environment and can often be just as effective as their chemical counterparts.

Thirdly, be mindful of the potential harm to beneficial insects and wildlife. Most insects are beneficial, with less than 2% considered pests. However, insecticides cannot distinguish between the two. By spraying insecticides, you risk killing natural enemies of pests, such as predators or parasites, or insects that are a vital food source for other animals, such as songbirds. Therefore, only use pesticides when necessary and try to minimize their impact on non-target species.

Finally, be aware of the potential for pesticides to leach into groundwater. Pesticides are mobile and can find their way into drinking water, rainwater, and even remote ecosystems. Some pesticides have labels warning that they have "properties and characteristics associated with chemicals detected in groundwater." Choose pesticides carefully and consider the geology and depth of the groundwater in your area. Implementing an Integrated Pest Management plan, which favors cultural, mechanical, and biological pest controls, can also help reduce the use of pesticides.

Pick up pet waste

Pet waste is a significant source of pollution, and it is important to dispose of it properly. Here are some tips to help you pick up pet waste and reduce water pollution:

Firstly, always pick up after your pets, whether you are at home, in your yard, on the street, or in a park. Leaving pet waste unattended can have negative consequences for the environment and human health. Pet waste contains pathogens, bacteria, and viruses that can be harmful. For example, dog waste contains fecal coliform, a disease-causing bacteria, and can also transmit parasites such as toxocariasis to humans.

Secondly, use a bag to pick up the waste. Biodegradable bags are the best option as they are environmentally friendly. Dispose of the sealed bag in a trash can. Avoid flushing the bag down the toilet, as it can clog pipes and sewers. Only flush pet waste without the bag, and use toilet paper for proper disposal.

Additionally, you can consider using pet waste disposal systems. These systems are environmentally friendly, sanitary, and easy to use. They are installed in-ground and function as miniature septic tanks, using enzymes and bacteria to turn pet waste into a harmless liquid that is absorbed into the ground. These systems are beneficial for the environment as they limit harmful runoff that can contaminate nearby water sources.

Another option is to bury the pet waste. Dig a hole at least six inches deep, away from gardens and water sources, and bury the waste. You can also compost pet waste using commercially available pet waste composters.

By properly disposing of pet waste, you can help reduce water pollution and protect the health of people, pets, and the environment.

Frequently asked questions