Chlorine is a disinfector which is very important as a treatment process in treating water to eradicate harmful microorganisms which include bacteria and pathogens to make drinking water safe. However, too much chlorine in tap water may cause unbecoming tastes or smells or health and plumbing troubles. Such signs must be understood when assessing the quality or ‘fitness’ of water and when appropriate measures should be taken.
What Makes Chlorine To Be Added To Tap Water
Cholera and typhoid have been with us for over a century, but thanks to chlorine tablets, which helped boom the markets long back, infections in water began to reduce to a greater extent. Although it is a few decades now since such diseases were rampant, water distribution companies make sure that the water is fit to drink at all times, which dictates that certain concentrations of chlorine are always present in the supply. Nonetheless, there are consequences when chlorine levels exceed guideline limits, generally 4 mg/l, recommended by the EPA and other agencies.
Key Signs Your Tap Water May Contain Excessive Chlorine
Recognizing the following signs can help you identify if your tap water contains excessive chlorine levels:
1. Strong Chemical Smell: Over-chlorinated water usually emits a strong smell like that of a swimming pool. This is due to the reaction of chlorine with organic materials in water, known as chloramines, which are said to have an aggressive smell.
2. Unpleasant Taste: Chlorine often leaves a bitter, metallic, or chemical-like taste in water when present in large quantities. This can make drinking tap water unpleasant and may deter you from staying hydrated.
3. Skin and Hair Irritation: Excessive chlorine in tap water can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin dry and itchy. Similarly, washing your hair in such water can make it dry, brittle, and prone to damage.
4. Red or Irritated Eyes: Excessive chlorine levels can make your eyes hurt, especially while you’re bathing or washing your face. People with sensitive skin or pre-existing eye issues are more likely to experience this irritation.
5. Pipe and Fixture Corrosion: Chlorinated water can hasten the rust and leaks that result from metal pipes corroding. Long-term contact to chlorinated water can also create discoloration or stains on faucets, sinks, and other fixtures.
6. Damage to Household Plants: Slow growth or wilting leaves are symptoms of damage to plants that are irrigated with excessively chlorinated water. This happens because too much chlorine might damage the soil’s beneficial microorganisms.
The Health Risks of High Chlorine Levels
When chlorine is used in regulated amounts, it is not harmful. However, some health problems may arise from excessive exposure. Individuals living with asthma or allergy problems might find that chlorine gas may be an irritant to their respiratory tract when bathing. Long term exposure to drinking water containing too much chlorine concentration may also cause symptoms such as Gas and Bloating feeling or cramps. In addition, the presence of chlorine in water combined with organic material produces byproducts called trihalomethanes (THMs) which have been shown abstract high adequate amounts and for many years tend to promote bladder and colorectal cancer illnesses.
How to Test Chlorine Levels in Tap Water
It is easy to check the quantities of chlorine found in tap water by testing it. There are adverts for home testing kits in the form of testing stripes or pond liquid, which are also available and are easy to use. This kits gives all the relevant information regarding the concentration of chlorine. If you would like to get a more detailed chlorine analysis, several professional water testing services can be hired to measure the amount of chlorine present in water, as well as a number of other suspected pollutants. Since it is also important to gauge the safety of one’s tap water, annual utility water quality reports are also provided for the benefit of the public.
How to Reduce Chlorine Levels in Tap Water
If you suspect your tap water has too much chlorine, there are several ways to address the issue:
1. Install a Water Filtration System: Activated carbon filters are effective at removing chlorine and its byproducts. These systems can be installed under your sink or as part of a whole-house water filtration setup.
2. Boil Water: Boiling water for about 15 minutes can reduce chlorine content. This method is simple but may not be practical for large volumes of water.
3. Let Water Sit in an Open Container: Chlorine naturally evaporates when water is exposed to air. Letting water sit in an open container for 24–48 hours can help reduce chlorine levels.
4. Red or Irritated Eyes: Excessive chlorine levels might result in eye irritation, particularly while bathing or washing your face. People who already have eye issues or sensitive skin are more likely to experience this irritation.
5. Corrosion of Fixtures and Pipes: Chlorinated water can hasten the rust and leaks caused by metal pipes corroding. On sinks, faucets, and other fixtures, you might also observe yellowing or spots brought on by extended exposure to chlorinated water.
6. Damage to Domestic Plants: When plants are irrigated with too chlorinated water, they may exhibit symptoms including withering leaves or sluggish growth. This happens as a result of too much chlorine damaging the soil’s helpful bacteria.
Preventing Chlorine-Related Problems
Recurring problems with water quality can be avoided with routine plumbing system maintenance. Making an appointment for regular inspections with a nearby plumber guarantees that fixtures and pipes are in good shape and do not contribute to contaminated water. By regulating the quantities of chlorine and other chemicals, purchasing a water softener or whole-house filtration system can also aid in maintaining constant water quality.
Monitoring water quality reports from your local municipality is another proactive step. These reports provide insights into chlorine concentrations and other potential contaminants, helping you address any concerns early.
Chlorine is essential for keeping drinking water safe and clean, but too much of it can cause a number of issues, such as bad tastes, skin irritation, and medical hazards. You can take the required actions to enhance the quality of your water by identifying the symptoms of over-chlorinated water, which include powerful smells, a bitter taste, or damaged fittings. Professional assistance may be necessary for persistent problems, but simple fixes like heating water, testing, or filtering can frequently fix small ones.
Speaking with a qualified plumber guarantees that your water supply and plumbing system stay dependable, safe, and chlorine-free. By taking preventative action, you can safeguard your home from possible dangers and enjoy clean, nutritious water.
