Since water is such an important part of
our lives, many people are becoming more and more concerned with using only the
best for drinking and food preparation. Water quality is commonly defined by
its physical, chemical, biological and aesthetic (appearance and smell)
characteristics. Unfortunately, the water you drink daily may be causing you
more harm than good.There are a number of problems that can affect the quality
of the water you drink.
Possible contaminants in drinking water :
Biological Impurities: Bacteria, Viruses,
and Parasites.
Microorganisms originating from human and
animal faeces, or other sources, can cause waterborne diseases.
Organic Impurities: Tastes, and Odors
The likely cause for disagreeable tastes or
odours comes from decaying vegetation or organic chemicals.
Inorganic Impurities: Dirt and Sediment, or
Turbidity
Most water contains suspended particles of
fine sand, clay, silt, and precipitated salts. Turbidity can be a source of
food and lodging for bacteria and interfere with effective disinfection and
purification of water.
Toxic Metals or Heavy Metals
The presence of toxic metals in drinking
water is one of the greatest threats to human health. The major culprits
include lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and silver.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds are the most
prevalent chemicals found in drinking water.
Chlorine
Chlorine is part of the solution and part of
the problem. In 1974 it was discovered that VOCs known as trihalome thanes
(THMs) are formed when the chlorine added to water to kill bacteria and viruses
reacts with other organic substances in the water. Chlorinated water has been linked cancer,
high blood pressure, and anemia.
Pesticides and Herbicides
The increased use of pesticides and
herbicides can cause great harm and
has a profound effect on water quality.
