Iron in Water
Effects of Iron in Water
Although iron is a critical mineral for our bodies, excessive amounts can pose a health risk. Luckily, iron is rarely present in more than trace amounts in drinking water, thanks to secondary regulations set forth by the EPA. That being said, even small amounts of iron in your home’s drinking supply can cause other issues, both cosmetic and mechanical. Read our article to learn more about the effects of iron in water and solutions to purify your home supply.
Iron Effects in Water as a Nuisance Chemical
The EPA classifies iron as a “nuisance chemical,” making it subject to secondary regulations. Unlike primary guidelines, these regulations are not enforceable, but highly recommended for optimal drinking water. Nuisance chemicals do not pose a serious health risk, but they can have other undesirable effects when present in the home water supply. There are three categories of “nuisance” caused by such chemicals:
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Aesthetic:List Item 1
iron and other nuisance chemicals can cause unpleasant tastes or odors in your water
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Cosmetic:List Item 2
iron can cause irritation or other physical effects that are unwanted, but not harmful
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Technical:List Item 3
iron can interfere with the efficiency of home appliances and other mechanical systems within the home, including other water equipment
How Iron Does Iron Get In Water?
Iron is an abundant natural resource, present in around 5 percent of the Earth’s crust. Rain and other water sources naturally pick up iron present in rock and soil and carry it into groundwater or freshwater lakes and reservoirs.
Iron in water is typically present in two forms: soluble and insoluble. The insoluble form, ferrous acid, dissolves uniformly within water and does not result in discoloration. Once water containing ferrous acid comes into contact with oxygen, such as within a well tank, the ferrous acid is oxidized into ferric acid. Ferric acid is not soluble in water, and these undissolved particles are largely responsible for the discoloration, build-up, off-taste, and other undesirable effects of iron-contaminated water.
Signs and Effects of Iron in Water Supply
Again, iron in the home water supply does not typically exert any negative health effects. Nonetheless, there are plenty of other unpleasant outcomes related to iron in water. These include:
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Clouding or Discoloration:List Item 1
oxidized iron can impart a reddish or cloudy color to your water. Undissolved particles may present as sediment in your glass that settles to the bottom.
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Metallic Smell and Taste:List Item 2
iron has a distinct metallic odor and flavor that you may notice when you drink from the tap or take a shower. This off-taste can make beverages like coffee and tea taste off as well. Even vegetables or pasta prepared in boiled water containing iron can taste strange or metallic.
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Skin Irritation:List Item 3
as with hard water in general, iron in the water can cause skin irritation and itching due to its effect on soap’s ability to lather. This can also cause soap scum and buildup in the tub and shower.
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Staining:List Item 4
Staining: oxidized iron is red or brown. This can stain your toilets, sinks, clothing, and anything else that comes in contact with it-even your teeth!
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Pipe Build-Up and Clogging:
iron sediment can build up in your pipes, affecting proper water flow and drainage. In severe cases, the pipe might even begin to leak-a costly repair that may not be covered by homeowners insurance.
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Bacteria:
certain bacteria are drawn to the presence of iron in water. Their presence is usually indicated by a reddish slime or rust. These iron-loving organisms are not typically harmful to humans; that being said, other studies have linked iron in water to an increased potential for E. coli: a bacteria known to exert myriad adverse health effects in humans.
How to Avoid Effects of Iron in Water
