Arsenic in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It
Arsenic is an inorganic contaminant that can be found in drinking water. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 10 μg/L for this substance to protect public health. Understanding its risks and sources is essential for ensuring safe drinking water.
Health Effects
Exposure to arsenic in drinking water is associated with serious health concerns. Consuming contaminated water can lead to skin damage and circulatory system problems. Furthermore, exposure to this contaminant is linked to an increased risk of cancer.
How Arsenic Gets Into Tap Water
Arsenic can enter water supplies through natural processes or human industrial activities. It is found in natural underground deposits and can leach into water sources. Additionally, mining runoff, industrial discharge, and wood preservatives contribute to its presence in drinking water.
How to Remove Arsenic From Your Water
Various water treatment methods are capable of removing arsenic from water supplies. Effective options include ion exchange and reverse osmosis systems. Activated alumina filtration is also commonly used to reduce the concentration of this inorganic contaminant.
Should You Test Your Water?
If you are concerned about arsenic in your water, you can inspect your local water utility's annual water quality report or search WaterQ. Testing is particularly important for private well owners, who should have their water analyzed by a certified laboratory. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the Arsenic data page for reported levels in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arsenic dangerous in drinking water?
Yes, arsenic poses serious health risks when present in drinking water. Long-term ingestion can cause skin damage and circulatory system problems. It also carries an increased risk of developing cancer.
How does Arsenic get into tap water?
Arsenic enters tap water through natural deposits in the ground. It can also come from human activities like mining runoff, industrial discharge, and wood preservatives.
How can I remove Arsenic from my water?
Arsenic can be removed from water using specific treatment methods. These include ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and activated alumina systems.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.