Whether your water comes from a public system or private well, it’s probably deemed safe for drinking, bathing and cooking. However, there are many sources of pollution that may alter the taste and smell of your water—and impact your health, as well. A quality water filter can help ensure the taste and clarity of your water—while preventing contact with dangerous contaminants and mineral pollutants like iron and sulfur.

Sources of Groundwater Contamination

• Pesticides and fertilizers: Seeping into rural water systems, common agricultural chemicals like nitrites and herbicides can taint groundwater sources with disease-causing pollutants.
• Landfills: As residents and commercial entities dispose of hazardous waste and mounds of garbage, rainfall carries soluble contaminants into groundwater systems below the dumping areas. Septic tank leaks may also endanger private and public water supplies.
• Microorganisms: In areas of high flooding and overwhelming wildlife populations, bacteria, fungi and parasites can cause groundwater pollution.
• Radon: A color and odor-free gas, radon is produced through the breakdown of uranium deposits. While small amounts of radon are present in many water sources, high levels may lead to increased cancer risks.
• Sulfur: Formed by the decay of plants and other organic materials, sulfur is not a known health hazard. It does, however, cause water to take on an unpleasant, “rotten” odor and taste. A water filter can prevent this undesirable effect.
• Iron: Leached into groundwater from rock formations and high-mineral soil, iron can also impact the taste of your water supply. While it doesn’t generally cause health problems, iron builds up on faucets, fixtures and tubs—leading to unsightly deposits that are hard to remove. When you invest in a water filter, water tastes better and kitchen/bathroom fixtures are easier to clean and maintain.

If your primary water source is a private well, it’s especially important to invest in a water filter and regularly test water for contaminants. And while public water systems have fairly diligent testing schedules, the potential for water contamination still exists. If you’re concerned about protecting your family from water pollutants and maintaining your water’s quality taste and smell, consider installing a proven water filter. A reputable filtration system can improve water quality, remove sulfur and iron, and prevent the chemical spread that may adversely affect your health and well-being.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, a common herbicide atrazine has been found at three times the recommended level for safety.

From the Iowa Independent Article:

The study included data from two Iowa watersheds — the Nishnabotna River in western Iowa, where 82 percent of samples taken contained atrazine, and Wolf Creek in Black Hawk and Grundy counties where 96 percent of samples taken contained atrazine. In Wolf Creek samples, the maximum peak atrazine concentration was 10 parts per billion (ppb), more than three times the EPA standard atrazine level for drinking water.

The study also looked at 12 public water systems in southern Iowa. The highest concentration of atrazine in raw water was found at the Winterset Water Treatment Plant in Madison County, where the maximum concentration was 47.5 ppb. This system serves approximately 4,768 people and uses water from Cedar Lake.

Atrazine has been shown to cause problems with the development of reproductive organs.  Exposure to this chemical in your local Iowa tap water is preventable.  Your local Iowa Culligan Dealer can help you put together a package to help filter your water and keep you safe from contaminants.

Many cities add flouride to their drinking water. Several experts have started raising questions as to whether or not this is safe, particularly for the elderly and for young children.

A new DVD by the flouride action network features several scientists discussing the issue of flouride in your drinking water.

Proudly Serving Iowa and Johnson Counties in Iowa with water treatment systems, water filtration systems, and bottled water – Vetter’s Culligan has joined other dealers at our site to help share even more information about the quality Culligan products available to consumers.

You can view more information about Iowa City Culligan here.