Arsenic’s lethal toxicity has been a hallmark of history. Arsenic is known for its deadly toxicity. It was used in poisonous ways in ancient times and as an ingredient in pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals. Arsenic-contaminated drinking water is a serious problem that should be addressed. Here are some tips on how to detect arsenic in your water and how to get rid of it.
What Is Arsenic?
Groundwater is contaminated by arsenic, a toxic metalloid. Groundwater can be contaminated with arsenic through inorganic deposits or other forms of pollution. For example, pesticides can settle and leach into groundwater. Inorganic arsenic is released by factories at high rates into the environment, and rainwater transports that arsenic to groundwater. Arsenic contamination is especially common in wells located near natural deposits, mining, and industrial production. California, Maine, and Arizona are the five states with the highest concentrations of arsenic in groundwater. Arsenic contamination is most common in the northeastern, western, and midwestern United States. The WHO states that countries with high levels of groundwater arsenic other than the United States include Mexico, Chile, and Argentina as well as India, China, India, Bangladesh, and China.
Do I Have A Chance Of Arsenic Poisoning In My Home?
Drinking water from a well can put you at risk of developing arsenic poisoning. While some city water may contain trace amounts of arsenic but the majority of arsenic poisoning resulting from drinking water from wells is from wells, Although you might not get acute arsenic poisoning by drinking tap water, long-term health issues can still be caused by arsenic-contaminated waters. Here you will find information about well-water arsenic and the appropriate levels for drinking and cooking.
Drinking-Water: Arsenic
Groundwater has been found to contain arsenic in all 48 states. Inorganic arsenic will likely be present in tap water, regardless of where you are located in the United States. The EPA requires that city water contain arsenic concentrations below 10 parts per billion (ppb) according to the EPA. For a lifetime, 10 ppb of arsenic is safe in drinking water. There is some controversy about the long-term effects of a low concentration of arsenic (10 ppb) or less. Studies have shown that even small amounts of arsenic can increase the risk of developing diabetes or cancer.
Arsenic in Cooking Water
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA), considers water used for cooking safe if it contains arsenic levels less than 50 ppb. Pasta and rice dishes should not be cooked with water containing more than 50 ppb of arsenic. This is because they absorb large amounts of water during cooking. Soups, stews, and other dishes containing arsenic are high-risk. The OHA considers safe water for swimming and bathing with concentrations below 500 ppb arsenic. Inorganic arsenic is not easy to absorb into the skin so it poses little risk if it is not consumed. When bathing or swimming, children may swallow water. Children should be watched for water that is not safe to ingest.
Well Water: Arsenic
Well, water contains the highest concentrations of arsenic. Private wells aren’t monitored by the government so well water could contain high levels of arsenic. Well, water can be contaminated by inorganic arsenic through industrial waste, natural deposits, and agricultural products like pesticides, herbicides, and industrial waste. Rainwater can carry arsenic down to the groundwater from areas where there is industrial pollution. Inorganic arsenic can also be leaked into groundwater by pesticides, fertilizers, and animal feed. It is important to know the chemical composition of your water well in order to live a healthy life. It is easy to test water for arsenic.
What Are The Safe Levels Of Arsenic For Drinking Water?
The EPA standard for arsenic levels in drinking water is 10 parts to billion (ppb). Even though this standard is strict, even a small amount of arsenic in water can cause long-term health problems. It may not be necessary to filter your water for arsenic at low enough levels. However, it is ideal that drinking water does not contain any arsenic. The EPA does not hold private well owners responsible for their water quality. Private well owners should install filter systems to ensure that all contaminants are eliminated, not just arsenic.
How Can I Test My Water For Arsenic In It?
Arsenic testing kits can be used to quickly and effectively test your water for arsenic. The test kits are simple to use and provide results within 12 minutes. You will first mix the water with a tartaric acid reagent. To remove hydrogen sulfide interference, you will next add an oxidizing agent to the mixture. To convert the arsine gas from inorganic arsenic, add zinc powder. The kit contains test strips that will measure the amount of arsenic in the water mixture. These tests can’t distinguish between arsenic IV and III.
This post was written by a specialist at One Green Filter. One Green Filter specializes in water softener installation in Tampa FL. One Green Filter is Tampa Bay’s top Water Softener, Purification & Filtration Expert. Our customers chose One Green FIlter because of our consistently high level of service and superior products we use to deliver pure, delicious water to their homes, businesses, and schools across the Tampa Bay area. To schedule a free appointment to test the quality of your water at your convenience contact us today.
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