Clean, drinkable water is a necessary part of our daily lives, but the path that water takes to get to our home faucets can be a long one. Safety and health are concerns everyone shares, and we’d all like to know that our water is free from contaminants. If you get your water from a municipal system, you can be sure it’s gone through a multistage process to render it clean and safe to drink.
Pre-Treatment
In its natural state, water is rarely perfectly clean and clear. Before water can be filtered, large particles must be removed from suspension in a step called sedimentation. If left to stand, the particles in the water naturally begin to settle out and fall to the bottom. This process can be sped up by the use of a flocculation agent, which draws these particles together and speeds up the process.
Filtration
Once large particles are removed from the water, it is then passed through some sort of filtration system. In large-scale operations like municipal water treatment facilities, this often takes the form of layers of sand, gravel and charcoal. As the water passes through this filter, smaller particles that survived the sedimentation phase are trapped by the various layers and removed from the water.
Activated Charcoal
The charcoal used in water filtration is known as “activated charcoal.” This is charcoal that has been broken down into tiny fragments, each covered in microscopic nooks and crannies. This increases the surface area of the particles and increases their ability to trap contaminants and other particulate matter. Eventually, activated charcoal must be replaced, as it becomes covered with contaminants and loses its effectiveness.
Purification
After filtration, the water is free from visible particles and most contaminants. However, only the most thorough filtration system can remove biological contaminants like viruses and bacteria. This is why municipal water treatment systems take the additional precaution of disinfecting the water, usually through the addition of a chemical disinfectant like chlorine. Ultraviolet light is another popular disinfection method, and in some cases multiple techniques are used to render the water as safe as possible.
Well Water
If you’re not on a municipal system but draw your own water from a well on your property, it’s up to you to ensure your water is filtered and safe. Many different types of commercial water filtration systems are available to help keep your water clear and pleasant-tasting, but you should perform regular tests as required by your county water department to ensure your family’s health and safety.
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