Types of Problems
To effectively treat problem water, some basic information is required, such as a thorough and recent water analysis of the water supply, estimated volume to be used and the desired quality of water after the treatment process.
Ecowater Spokane Solutions
EcoWater has designed and engineered a broad spectrum of state-of-the-art filters considered to be the best on the market to deal with households that experience water contamination issues such as:
Arsenic enters the ground water when water percolates downward from the surface and contacts dissolved minerals containing arsenic. Although arsenic is historically known as a notorious poison, in trace amounts it has also been linked to cancer.
Cryptosporidium occurs in the feces of infected animals or humans from contaminated food or water. It is environmentally resistant and may survive outside the body for long periods. Cryptosporidiosis became a reportable illness in Washington in 2001. Bottled water may be a reasonable alternative to tap water, but depending on origin can still be contaminated. Cryptosporidium has been causing human illnesses for a long time, but overlooked due to testing and diagnosis difficulties.
Hydrogen sulfide is a gas with an offensive “rotten egg” odor. In deep wells it is commonly associated with oil and gas fields. In shallow wells it is generally caused by decaying vegetation associated with swampy areas that feed an aquifer.
Iron, and to a lesser extent manganese, frequently occur in the rock and soil of the earth’s crust. Aquifers often contain appreciable amounts of iron. The reddish brown iron stains on sinks, toilets and freshly laundered clothes are caused by iron. Manganese causes similar stains, but they are generally black or dark gray.
Nitrates originate from fertilizers, animal wastes, septic systems and industrial wastes. A serious health issue, they affect the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. Infants under 6 months old are particularly susceptible to a life-threatening condition known as “blue baby syndrome.”
Sulfates are often found in agricultural regions and also occur in soils and rock where they are susceptible to dissolution into groundwater. Sulfates and nitrates often occur together in groundwater and respond similarly to treatment practices. Unlike nitrates, sulfates do not cause any serious health problems; diarrhea is normally the worst concern.
Silt / Sediment
Many wells contain silt or sediment. The simple evidence of brownish, discolored water identifies the problem. Although silt and sediment in household water frustrate homeowners, they do not impact health.
Tannins are a byproduct of decayed vegetation which produces humic acid in shallow, swampy water. Cedar swamps, cyprus swamps, and cattail swamps all harbor tannins. Tannin water stains laundry and may cause undesirable odor.
If you have questions or are concerned about your water supply, contact EcoWater Spokane to perform a water analysis.