Water is by nature a pure substance made of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. As it goes through various processes before making it to your home, it may become contaminated due to several elements. These include chemicals, organisms, manmade pollutants, and other minerals. Because of this, the water you eventually get might be filled with harmful microorganisms, which will make it unsafe for human consumption. Luckily, there are many solutions available for water purification.
A water softener in Provo properties, for instance, will get rid of the calcium and magnesium ions in hard water which may be harmful to you and cause damage to your appliances. Other than the softeners, there are agents which can be added to your water as it makes it way to your home to boost its purification. Here are some of these agents:
Chlorine
This is the standard water disinfectant. Hypochlorous acid or free chlorine comes as granules, tablets, and liquids containing different base agents, including sodium or calcium hypochlorite.
Chlorine will kill all types of cysts, viruses, and bacteria. Direct handling of chlorine tablets or exposure to its dust, however, can cause respiratory and skin irritation, and the tablets can explode when mixed with acids. Some people have an issue with the smell and taste of chlorine when used in drinking water, but with the right concentration, this will be minimized.
Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC)
This agent comes in the form of tablets which contain a specified dose of free chlorine. NaDCC is not chlorine. Instead, it reacts with your water molecules to generate free chlorine. Unlike chlorine tablets, NaDCC tablets are safe to handle and do not generate the traditional odor and taste of chlorine. The tablets are effective for getting rid of waterborne cysts, viruses, and bacteria and have no negative impact on your health.
Iodine
This is the oldest agent for water purification and is available as a tablet or disinfectant solution. Iodine is highly effective for killing waterborne cysts, viruses and bacteria, but your water should be clear before it is treated using this agent. When using iodine for your water’s purification, keep it in a dark bottle since it can be denatured by light. The primary challenge when using iodine for purification is the resultant taste, odor, and discoloration of your water. Luckily, there is a neutralizer tablet which can counteract these.
Chlorine Dioxide
This has traditionally been used as a gas for water purification but is now available as tablets and liquids. Though relatively new, chlorine dioxide has been proven efficient for water purification, provided you follow the instructions. When using chlorine dioxide as an agent for purification, the liquids should first be allowed to sit for some time before adding water.
Few people know about these agents for water purification. These, however, are effective and among the most inexpensive methods for proper water treatment. In most cases, the agents are used in conjunction with filtration, sedimentation, and distillation equipment. In different concentrations, the above agents will also change the PH level of your water depending on its composition.
