Common Water Contaminants
Do you know the health effects of common water contaminants? While there are myriad contaminants that can affect your water quality, these are the most common.
Contact Hague Quality Water of Maryland for a water test today to find out what’s in your water. Our systems can remove most contaminants to provide you with the best tasting and healthiest water. Call (410) 757-2992 today.
Arsenic
Source: erosion of natural deposits, agricultural and industrial runoff
Health Effects: digestion problems, circulatory system problems, cancer
Chloramimes
Source: water additive used to control microbes
Health Effects: eye/nose irritation, stomach discomfort, anemia
Chlorine
Source: water additive used to kill bacteria and microbes
Health Effects: eye/nose irritation, stomach discomfort
Chromium
Source: erosion, industrial runoff, improper waste removal
Health Effects: cancer, fertility, child development delays
Cryptosporidium
Source: human and animal fecal waste
Health Effects: gastrointestinal Illnesses
Iron
Source: erosion and deposits, industrial waste
Health Effects: gastrointestinal Illnesses
Fluoride
Source: water additive that promotes strong teeth
Health Effects: bone disease, mottled teeth in children
Lead
Source: corrosion of household plumbing systems, erosion of natural deposits
Health Effects: delayed child development, kidney problems, high blood pressure
Legionella
Source: found naturally in water; multiplies in heating systems
Health Effects: legionnaire’s Disease, a type of pneumonia
Mercury
Source: erosion of natural deposits; discharge from refineries and factories; runoff from landfills and cropland
Health Effects: kidney damage
Nitrates
Source: runoff from fertilizer use, leaking from septic tanks, sewage, erosion of natural deposits
Health Effects: heart rate and blood pressure, headaches, vomiting, cancer
PFAS
Source: cleaning agents, nonstick cookware, stain-repellent fabrics, and firefighting foams
Health Effects: hormonal disruption, fertility, cholesterol, cancer, child development disruptions
Radium
Source: Groundwater, industrial and nuclear runoff
Health Effects: anemia, cataracts, cancer
