Nitrate in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It
Nitrate is an inorganic chemical compound that can contaminate drinking water supplies. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for this substance. Due to its potential for acute health risks, monitoring and managing its levels is highly important.
Health Effects
Ingesting high levels of nitrate can cause a decrease in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. In infants, this reduced oxygen capacity can lead to a serious condition known as blue baby syndrome. It is crucial to address elevated levels promptly to protect vulnerable populations.
How Nitrate Gets Into Tap Water
Nitrate typically enters drinking water supplies from several agricultural and waste-related sources. Common origins include fertilizer runoff and septic tanks. Additionally, animal waste and effluent from sewage treatment facilities contribute to nitrate accumulation in water sources.
How to Remove Nitrate From Your Water
Several treatment methods can effectively remove nitrate from drinking water. These include ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and biological denitrification. Water treatment systems utilizing these technologies are commonly certified to reduce nitrate concentrations.
Should You Test Your Water?
You can check your local water utility's annual consumer confidence report or use the WaterQ search tool to see the nitrate levels in your area. For private well owners, regular testing is recommended to ensure concentrations do not exceed the EPA limit. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the Nitrate data page for reported levels in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nitrate dangerous in drinking water?
Yes, nitrate can be dangerous in drinking water, particularly for infants. It can cause a condition known as blue baby syndrome by decreasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Because of these acute health risks, keeping levels below the safety standard is highly critical.
How does Nitrate get into tap water?
Nitrate gets into tap water primarily through fertilizer runoff, septic tanks, animal waste, and discharges from sewage treatment plants.
How can I remove Nitrate from my water?
Nitrate can be removed from drinking water using treatment methods such as ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and biological denitrification.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.