The quality of your local drinking water is often influenced by a range of factors, including modern agricultural practices and industrial waste. Public water treatment facilities follow stringent federal regulations to protect against harmful contaminants. Yet, while these regulations are designed to keep waterborne diseases in check, some disinfecting methods may introduce unexpected risks.

If you’re concerned about toxic byproducts in your drinking water, Hague Quality Water of Maryland is here to help. We provide professional water testing services and offer effective treatment solutions to ensure that your water is safe for your household.

Chlorine: The Double-Edged Sword of Water Disinfection

Chlorine is one of the most widely used disinfectants in public water systems. It’s added in small, regulated amounts to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause serious illnesses like cholera and typhoid. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when used correctly, chlorine is effective and generally safe for human consumption in low doses. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a chlorine concentration of 4 milligrams per liter or less in drinking water, which should not cause adverse health effects for most people.

However, chlorine does more than disinfect. When it reacts with organic compounds like naturally occurring phenols in water, it can create toxic byproducts. These byproducts, known as disinfection byproducts (DBPs), have raised concerns in recent years about their potential health impacts.

A Closer Look: New Research on Chlorination Risks

A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology led by Carsten Prasse of Johns Hopkins University, alongside researchers from UC Berkeley and Switzerland, explored the formation of toxic byproducts in chlorinated water. The study focused on phenols, which are common in drinking water, and the chemical reactions that occur when these compounds are exposed to chlorine.

Their research revealed two new byproducts, 2-butene-1,4-dial (BDA) and chloro-2-butene-1,4-dial, both of which are concerning. BDA, in particular, is a known carcinogen, though it had not previously been detected in drinking water. While the study did not test real-world drinking water samples, it highlighted the need for further investigation into the safety of chlorination and the possible health effects of its byproducts.

Prasse emphasized the limitations of current water testing technology, which makes it difficult to detect all the byproducts of chlorination. As a result, monitoring the levels of chlorine and its byproducts remains a challenge.

Alternatives to Chlorine: Safer Methods of Water Disinfection

While chlorine has been the go-to method for water disinfection in the U.S. for decades, other countries have successfully implemented alternative technologies to reduce the presence of harmful byproducts. These methods include:

• Ozone treatment: Ozone is a powerful oxidant that disinfects water without creating harmful byproducts.
• Ultraviolet (UV) light: UV disinfection kills pathogens using light rather than chemicals.
• Simple filtration: High-quality filtration systems can remove a variety of contaminants without the need for chemical additives.

These methods are gaining attention as potential alternatives to chlorination, but widespread adoption in the U.S. faces logistical and regulatory challenges.

Protect Your Family’s Water Quality

You don’t have to rely solely on public water treatment methods to ensure your tap water is safe. Hague Quality Water of Maryland offers advanced home water filtration systems that give you control over your water quality. Our systems are designed to remove contaminants, including chlorine, from your water, improving the taste and ensuring the health of your family.

Our WaterMax® BEQ system is one of our most popular options for residential use. It offers comprehensive benefits, including:

• Elimination of hard water that can cause buildup and affect appliances.
• Reduction of bottled water usage by providing clean, filtered water right from the tap.
• Removal of sediments, dirt, and contaminants, including chlorine and its byproducts.

The impact of cleaner water extends beyond taste. You’ll notice the difference in your skin, hair, and overall well-being when harmful chemicals are removed from your water supply.

To safeguard your drinking water, schedule a free water analysis with Hague Quality Water of Maryland today. Call our team at (410) 680-3375 or toll-free at 888-214-2419. We offer tailored solutions for your water quality needs, ensuring peace of mind and health for your household.

NOTE: Free water tests are for new customers to determine water quality and treatment solutions.