Yes, BOROUX filters trihalomethanes to less than 4.4ug/L. See the test results!
What are Trihalomethanes?
Trihalomethanes (THMs) are a group of chemical compounds that contain three halogen atoms bonded to a single carbon atom. These halogens are typically chlorine, bromine, or a combination of both, giving rise to various types of THMs. They are by-products of the disinfection process used to treat drinking water, specifically when chlorine or other disinfectants are added to water containing natural organic matter like decaying vegetation, algae, or soil components.
The four most common THMs found in treated water supplies are:
- Chloroform (CHCl₃): The most prevalent type of trihalomethane, often used in small quantities in industrial applications but potentially harmful when ingested over long periods.
- Bromoform (CHBr₃): Less common but still a significant by-product, especially in areas where water has higher levels of bromide.
- Bromodichloromethane (CHBrCl₂): Formed when both chlorine and bromine are present during the disinfection process, and considered a potential carcinogen.
- Dibromochloromethane (CHBr₂Cl): This THM results from reactions involving bromide in water and chlorine-based disinfectants, also raising health concerns when consumed at high levels.
These chemicals are colorless and volatile, meaning they can evaporate into the air and be inhaled, in addition to being consumed through drinking water. Due to their potential health risks, many regulatory agencies worldwide, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), set strict limits on THM concentrations in public water supplies.
How do Trihalomethanes Get into Tap Water?
Trihalomethanes can enter tap water as a by-product of the water disinfection process, which is critical for ensuring that our water is free from harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Water treatment plants commonly use disinfectants like chlorine, chloramine, or bromine to make water safe for consumption. However, when these chemicals react with organic materials naturally present in water sources—such as decayed leaves, algae, and even animal waste—THMs are formed as unwanted by-products.
This process can be explained in more detail as follows:
- Chlorination: When chlorine or chlorine-based disinfectants are added to water, they react with naturally occurring organic matter in the water, leading to the formation of THMs. Chlorine is highly reactive, and while it is effective at neutralizing harmful microbes, it also triggers chemical reactions with organic compounds, resulting in THMs and other disinfection by-products (DBPs).
- Natural Organic Matter (NOM): Lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and other freshwater sources contain varying amounts of organic matter, which may come from decomposing plant material, soil erosion, or agricultural runoff. The presence of this organic matter increases the likelihood of THM formation when it interacts with disinfectants.
- Water Storage and Distribution: Even after water has been treated and disinfected, THMs can continue to form in water as it moves through the distribution system to households. The longer water remains in the system or sits in storage tanks, the higher the potential for increased THM levels.
- Bromide in Water: In coastal areas or regions with high salinity in the water sources, bromide ions may be present. When bromide reacts with chlorine during disinfection, brominated THMs such as bromoform and bromodichloromethane are produced, which pose additional health risks.
Efforts to reduce THMs in drinking water include improving filtration processes to remove organic material before chlorination, using alternative disinfectants like ozone or ultraviolet (UV) light, and optimizing water storage and distribution systems to limit the time water is exposed to disinfectants.
Why Trihalomethanes Should Be Filtered
Filtering trihalomethanes from tap water is essential to minimize potential health risks associated with their consumption. Long-term exposure to THMs has been linked to various health issues, making their effective removal crucial for maintaining a safe water supply.
Health Risks
- Cancer Risk: Long-term exposure to THMs may increase the risk of cancer, particularly bladder and colorectal cancers.
- Reproductive and Developmental Issues: Some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to THMs may be associated with reproductive problems and developmental delays in infants.
- Liver, Kidney, and Central Nervous System Effects: Elevated levels of THMs could potentially impact the liver, kidneys, and the central nervous system, causing adverse effects.
How BOROUX Filters Trihalomethanes
BOROUX water filtration systems employ a combination of effective filtration techniques to remove trihalomethanes from tap water. The filtration process involves multiple stages to ensure comprehensive removal of these potentially harmful compounds. Activated carbon filtration plays a vital role, effectively adsorbing and trapping THMs, preventing their passage through the filter. Additionally, ion exchange and mechanical filtration mechanisms are employed to enhance the removal of THMs from the water. BOROUX water filtration systems are designed to provide cleaner and safer drinking water by effectively reducing the levels of trihalomethanes, mitigating their potential health risks and ensuring a reliable source of water for consumers.
