The Benefits of Installing a Whole House Nitrate System
Water quality is essential for maintaining good health. Minerals, pollutants, and contaminants can significantly impact the safety and taste of your home's water. One lesser-known harmful substance that may exist in your water supply is nitrate. A solution to effectively remove these hazardous chemicals is installing a Whole House Nitrate System. This article delves into the nitty-gritty of nitrates, the importance of their removal, and the benefits of a Whole House Nitrate System.
Understanding Nitrates: An Overview Nitrates are a common class of chemical compounds. They're naturally occurring in some foods and are used as a synthetic fertilizer. However, nitrates can become a significant health concern when they infiltrate our water supply.
When we think about nitrates, it's essential to understand their composition. At their basic level, nitrates are molecules composed of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms. They are naturally present in many types of food and often added to processed meats like hot dogs and lunch meats. Nitrates themselves are not harmful; however, they can convert into nitrites, which pose potential health hazards.
Now, let's delve into the sources of nitrates in household water. Nitrates can find their way into your household water supply in several ways. The primary source is through agricultural runoff. Fertilizers rich in nitrates can seep into the water supply when it rains or when irrigation is used. As a result, the nitrates from these fertilizers can contaminate the water we rely on for drinking, cooking, and other daily activities.
Aside from agricultural runoff, there are other potential sources of nitrates in household water. Leaking septic tanks can release nitrates into the groundwater, which may then find its way into your tap water. Additionally, decaying plant debris can contribute to nitrate contamination, especially in areas with high vegetation. Furthermore, municipal wastewater treatment systems that don't adequately remove nitrates can also be a source of concern.
Understanding the health risks associated with nitrates is crucial for protecting ourselves and our loved ones. Long-term exposure to high levels of nitrates in drinking water can lead to serious health effects. One of these is methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome." This condition affects infants and causes decreased oxygen in the blood, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
Moreover, there is ongoing research exploring the potential link between nitrates and certain types of cancers. While the evidence is not yet conclusive, it highlights the importance of addressing nitrate contamination in our water supply. Additionally, studies suggest that nitrates may have adverse developmental effects in fetuses during pregnancy, emphasizing the need for pregnant individuals to be mindful of their nitrate intake.
In conclusion, the presence of nitrates in our water supply is a multifaceted issue. From their composition and sources to the potential health risks they pose, understanding nitrates is essential for safeguarding our well-being. By raising awareness and implementing effective measures to reduce nitrate contamination, we can ensure the safety and quality of our drinking water for generations to come.
The Importance of Nitrate Removal Given the potential health risks associated with nitrates, their removal from water supplies is of critical importance.
Nitrates, chemical compounds made up of nitrogen and oxygen, are naturally occurring in the environment. However, excessive levels of nitrates in drinking water can pose serious health threats. The primary concern is the conversion of nitrates to nitrites in the body, which can lead to the formation of harmful compounds called nitrosamines. These nitrosamines have been linked to various cancers, including stomach, ovarian, and bladder cancer.
Furthermore, high nitrate levels in drinking water can have detrimental effects on the gastrointestinal system. Consumption of water with elevated nitrate concentrations can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition commonly known as "blue baby syndrome." This condition reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to oxygen deprivation in infants and potentially fatal consequences.
Protecting Your Health Eliminating nitrates from your water can reduce your risk of significant health issues, including cancers and gastrointestinal disorders. Nitrate-free water is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations such as infants, pregnant women, and those with specific health conditions.
Infants, in particular, are highly susceptible to the harmful effects of nitrates. Their developing immune systems and immature digestive systems make them more vulnerable to nitrate-induced methemoglobinemia. By ensuring that your water is free from nitrates, you are taking a proactive step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of your family, especially the youngest members.
Pregnant women also need to be cautious about their nitrate intake. High nitrate levels in drinking water have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight. By investing in nitrate removal systems, pregnant women can minimize these risks and ensure a healthier environment for themselves and their unborn babies.
Preserving Your Plumbing Beyond health concerns, removing nitrates can also maintain the longevity and efficiency of your home's plumbing systems. High nitrate levels can corrode pipes over time, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
When nitrates react with certain metals commonly found in plumbing materials, such as copper and brass, they can cause corrosion. This corrosion can weaken the pipes, leading to leaks, burst pipes, and reduced water pressure. By implementing a nitrate removal system, you not only protect your health but also ensure the durability and functionality of your plumbing infrastructure.
Enhancing Water Taste and Quality Nitrates can affect not only the safety but also the taste and odor of your water. A nitrate removal system can enhance your water's overall quality, leaving it smelling, tasting, and looking better.
Water with high nitrate levels often has a distinct metallic taste and an unpleasant odor. These characteristics can make it unappealing to drink or use for cooking and can affect the flavor of beverages and food. By removing nitrates, you can enjoy water that is not only safe but also more refreshing and enjoyable.
Additionally, the presence of nitrates in water can lead to the growth of bacteria and algae, further compromising the quality and aesthetics of your water. By investing in a nitrate removal system, you can ensure that your water remains clear, clean, and free from any unwanted contaminants.
What is a Whole House Nitrate System? A Whole House Nitrate System is a comprehensive solution designed to remove nitrates from your water supply before it reaches any of your home's outlets.
Nitrates are a common contaminant found in drinking water, particularly in agricultural areas where fertilizers are used. High levels of nitrates in drinking water can be harmful to human health, especially for infants and pregnant women. Therefore, having a whole house nitrate system installed is crucial to ensure the safety and quality of your water.
These systems are typically installed at the point of entry, where the main water line enters your home. By treating the water at this stage, every tap, shower, and appliance that uses water in your home will have nitrate-free water.
Components of a Nitrate Removal System The main component of a nitrate removal system is a nitrate-selective resin. This resin is specially designed to attract and remove nitrate ions from the water. As the water passes through the resin bed, the nitrate ions are exchanged with chloride ions, effectively reducing the nitrate concentration.
In addition to the nitrate-selective resin, a whole house nitrate system may also include pre and post-filters. These filters help to remove any sediment, chlorine, or other impurities that may be present in the water. By removing these impurities, the nitrate removal system can operate more efficiently and extend the lifespan of the resin bed.
Some advanced nitrate removal systems also incorporate disinfection units, such as ultraviolet (UV) sterilizers. These units use UV light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that may be present in the water. By combining nitrate removal with disinfection, these systems provide an extra layer of protection for your water supply.
In certain cases, a brine tank may be included as part of the nitrate removal system. This tank is used for the regeneration process of the resin bed. During regeneration, a brine solution is used to flush out the accumulated nitrates and recharge the resin bed, ensuring its continued effectiveness.
How Does a Nitrate System Work? The nitrate system works using a process known as ion exchange. As water flows through the system, the nitrate ions in your water are attracted to the resin. The resin has a higher affinity for nitrate ions than chloride ions, so it pulls the nitrate ions out of the water and replaces them with chloride ions.
This ion exchange process continues until the resin bed becomes saturated with nitrates. At this point, the resin needs to be regenerated to restore its nitrate-removing capacity. The regeneration process involves flushing the resin bed with a brine solution, which displaces the nitrates and recharges the resin with chloride ions.
Once the resin bed is regenerated, the nitrate removal system is ready to continue removing nitrates from your water supply. The frequency of regeneration depends on the water usage and the concentration of nitrates in the water. Most systems are designed to regenerate automatically based on these factors.
By effectively removing nitrates from your water supply, a whole house nitrate system ensures that you and your family have access to clean and safe drinking water. It provides peace of mind knowing that every glass of water, every shower, and every load of laundry is free from harmful nitrates.
Benefits of a Whole House Nitrate System A Whole House Nitrate System can offer several tangible benefits for homeowners. Let's explore these benefits in more detail:
Improved Water Quality The immediate and most noticeable benefit of installing a Whole House Nitrate System is improved water quality. Nitrates are commonly found in groundwater, and their presence can affect the taste, odor, appearance, and overall purity of your water. With the removal of nitrates through the system, you can enjoy water that is cleaner, fresher, and more pleasant to drink and use.
Furthermore, the reduction of nitrates in your water can also have a positive impact on the lifespan of your appliances and plumbing fixtures. Nitrates can corrode pipes and cause damage over time, leading to costly repairs or replacements. By investing in a Whole House Nitrate System, you are not only improving the quality of your water but also protecting your plumbing system.
Health Benefits By removing nitrates from your water supply, you can significantly reduce the risk of various health issues. High levels of nitrates in drinking water have been linked to a condition called methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome." This condition affects infants and can cause a decrease in the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences.
In addition to methemoglobinemia, long-term exposure to nitrates has also been associated with developmental issues in children and certain types of cancers in adults. By investing in a Whole House Nitrate System, you are taking proactive steps to protect the health and well-being of your family.
Moreover, having safe, clean water readily available in your home can provide peace of mind. Whether you are using water for drinking, cooking, or bathing, knowing that it is free from harmful contaminants like nitrates can alleviate concerns and ensure the health and safety of your loved ones.
Long-term Cost Savings Though there is an upfront cost to installing a Nitrate Removal System, the extensive health benefits and preserving your plumbing can lead to significant long-term savings. By preventing damage to your pipes and appliances, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Furthermore, the health benefits associated with removing nitrates from your water can also lead to potential cost savings. Medical treatments for conditions related to nitrate exposure can be expensive, and by reducing the risk of these health issues, you are potentially saving yourself from substantial medical costs in the future.
Investing in the safety of your household's water supply today can have long-lasting benefits for years to come. Don't wait until it's too late to address the issue of nitrates in your water. Take action now and enjoy the peace of mind and cost savings that come with a Whole House Nitrate System.
Understanding Nitrates: An Overview Nitrates are a common class of chemical compounds. They're naturally occurring in some foods and are used as a synthetic fertilizer. However, nitrates can become a significant health concern when they infiltrate our water supply.
When we think about nitrates, it's essential to understand their composition. At their basic level, nitrates are molecules composed of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms. They are naturally present in many types of food and often added to processed meats like hot dogs and lunch meats. Nitrates themselves are not harmful; however, they can convert into nitrites, which pose potential health hazards.
Now, let's delve into the sources of nitrates in household water. Nitrates can find their way into your household water supply in several ways. The primary source is through agricultural runoff. Fertilizers rich in nitrates can seep into the water supply when it rains or when irrigation is used. As a result, the nitrates from these fertilizers can contaminate the water we rely on for drinking, cooking, and other daily activities.
Aside from agricultural runoff, there are other potential sources of nitrates in household water. Leaking septic tanks can release nitrates into the groundwater, which may then find its way into your tap water. Additionally, decaying plant debris can contribute to nitrate contamination, especially in areas with high vegetation. Furthermore, municipal wastewater treatment systems that don't adequately remove nitrates can also be a source of concern.
Understanding the health risks associated with nitrates is crucial for protecting ourselves and our loved ones. Long-term exposure to high levels of nitrates in drinking water can lead to serious health effects. One of these is methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome." This condition affects infants and causes decreased oxygen in the blood, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
Moreover, there is ongoing research exploring the potential link between nitrates and certain types of cancers. While the evidence is not yet conclusive, it highlights the importance of addressing nitrate contamination in our water supply. Additionally, studies suggest that nitrates may have adverse developmental effects in fetuses during pregnancy, emphasizing the need for pregnant individuals to be mindful of their nitrate intake.
In conclusion, the presence of nitrates in our water supply is a multifaceted issue. From their composition and sources to the potential health risks they pose, understanding nitrates is essential for safeguarding our well-being. By raising awareness and implementing effective measures to reduce nitrate contamination, we can ensure the safety and quality of our drinking water for generations to come.
The Importance of Nitrate Removal Given the potential health risks associated with nitrates, their removal from water supplies is of critical importance.
Nitrates, chemical compounds made up of nitrogen and oxygen, are naturally occurring in the environment. However, excessive levels of nitrates in drinking water can pose serious health threats. The primary concern is the conversion of nitrates to nitrites in the body, which can lead to the formation of harmful compounds called nitrosamines. These nitrosamines have been linked to various cancers, including stomach, ovarian, and bladder cancer.
Furthermore, high nitrate levels in drinking water can have detrimental effects on the gastrointestinal system. Consumption of water with elevated nitrate concentrations can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition commonly known as "blue baby syndrome." This condition reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to oxygen deprivation in infants and potentially fatal consequences.
Protecting Your Health Eliminating nitrates from your water can reduce your risk of significant health issues, including cancers and gastrointestinal disorders. Nitrate-free water is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations such as infants, pregnant women, and those with specific health conditions.
Infants, in particular, are highly susceptible to the harmful effects of nitrates. Their developing immune systems and immature digestive systems make them more vulnerable to nitrate-induced methemoglobinemia. By ensuring that your water is free from nitrates, you are taking a proactive step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of your family, especially the youngest members.
Pregnant women also need to be cautious about their nitrate intake. High nitrate levels in drinking water have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight. By investing in nitrate removal systems, pregnant women can minimize these risks and ensure a healthier environment for themselves and their unborn babies.
Preserving Your Plumbing Beyond health concerns, removing nitrates can also maintain the longevity and efficiency of your home's plumbing systems. High nitrate levels can corrode pipes over time, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
When nitrates react with certain metals commonly found in plumbing materials, such as copper and brass, they can cause corrosion. This corrosion can weaken the pipes, leading to leaks, burst pipes, and reduced water pressure. By implementing a nitrate removal system, you not only protect your health but also ensure the durability and functionality of your plumbing infrastructure.
Enhancing Water Taste and Quality Nitrates can affect not only the safety but also the taste and odor of your water. A nitrate removal system can enhance your water's overall quality, leaving it smelling, tasting, and looking better.
Water with high nitrate levels often has a distinct metallic taste and an unpleasant odor. These characteristics can make it unappealing to drink or use for cooking and can affect the flavor of beverages and food. By removing nitrates, you can enjoy water that is not only safe but also more refreshing and enjoyable.
Additionally, the presence of nitrates in water can lead to the growth of bacteria and algae, further compromising the quality and aesthetics of your water. By investing in a nitrate removal system, you can ensure that your water remains clear, clean, and free from any unwanted contaminants.
What is a Whole House Nitrate System? A Whole House Nitrate System is a comprehensive solution designed to remove nitrates from your water supply before it reaches any of your home's outlets.
Nitrates are a common contaminant found in drinking water, particularly in agricultural areas where fertilizers are used. High levels of nitrates in drinking water can be harmful to human health, especially for infants and pregnant women. Therefore, having a whole house nitrate system installed is crucial to ensure the safety and quality of your water.
These systems are typically installed at the point of entry, where the main water line enters your home. By treating the water at this stage, every tap, shower, and appliance that uses water in your home will have nitrate-free water.
Components of a Nitrate Removal System The main component of a nitrate removal system is a nitrate-selective resin. This resin is specially designed to attract and remove nitrate ions from the water. As the water passes through the resin bed, the nitrate ions are exchanged with chloride ions, effectively reducing the nitrate concentration.
In addition to the nitrate-selective resin, a whole house nitrate system may also include pre and post-filters. These filters help to remove any sediment, chlorine, or other impurities that may be present in the water. By removing these impurities, the nitrate removal system can operate more efficiently and extend the lifespan of the resin bed.
Some advanced nitrate removal systems also incorporate disinfection units, such as ultraviolet (UV) sterilizers. These units use UV light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that may be present in the water. By combining nitrate removal with disinfection, these systems provide an extra layer of protection for your water supply.
In certain cases, a brine tank may be included as part of the nitrate removal system. This tank is used for the regeneration process of the resin bed. During regeneration, a brine solution is used to flush out the accumulated nitrates and recharge the resin bed, ensuring its continued effectiveness.
How Does a Nitrate System Work? The nitrate system works using a process known as ion exchange. As water flows through the system, the nitrate ions in your water are attracted to the resin. The resin has a higher affinity for nitrate ions than chloride ions, so it pulls the nitrate ions out of the water and replaces them with chloride ions.
This ion exchange process continues until the resin bed becomes saturated with nitrates. At this point, the resin needs to be regenerated to restore its nitrate-removing capacity. The regeneration process involves flushing the resin bed with a brine solution, which displaces the nitrates and recharges the resin with chloride ions.
Once the resin bed is regenerated, the nitrate removal system is ready to continue removing nitrates from your water supply. The frequency of regeneration depends on the water usage and the concentration of nitrates in the water. Most systems are designed to regenerate automatically based on these factors.
By effectively removing nitrates from your water supply, a whole house nitrate system ensures that you and your family have access to clean and safe drinking water. It provides peace of mind knowing that every glass of water, every shower, and every load of laundry is free from harmful nitrates.
Benefits of a Whole House Nitrate System A Whole House Nitrate System can offer several tangible benefits for homeowners. Let's explore these benefits in more detail:
Improved Water Quality The immediate and most noticeable benefit of installing a Whole House Nitrate System is improved water quality. Nitrates are commonly found in groundwater, and their presence can affect the taste, odor, appearance, and overall purity of your water. With the removal of nitrates through the system, you can enjoy water that is cleaner, fresher, and more pleasant to drink and use.
Furthermore, the reduction of nitrates in your water can also have a positive impact on the lifespan of your appliances and plumbing fixtures. Nitrates can corrode pipes and cause damage over time, leading to costly repairs or replacements. By investing in a Whole House Nitrate System, you are not only improving the quality of your water but also protecting your plumbing system.
Health Benefits By removing nitrates from your water supply, you can significantly reduce the risk of various health issues. High levels of nitrates in drinking water have been linked to a condition called methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome." This condition affects infants and can cause a decrease in the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences.
In addition to methemoglobinemia, long-term exposure to nitrates has also been associated with developmental issues in children and certain types of cancers in adults. By investing in a Whole House Nitrate System, you are taking proactive steps to protect the health and well-being of your family.
Moreover, having safe, clean water readily available in your home can provide peace of mind. Whether you are using water for drinking, cooking, or bathing, knowing that it is free from harmful contaminants like nitrates can alleviate concerns and ensure the health and safety of your loved ones.
Long-term Cost Savings Though there is an upfront cost to installing a Nitrate Removal System, the extensive health benefits and preserving your plumbing can lead to significant long-term savings. By preventing damage to your pipes and appliances, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Furthermore, the health benefits associated with removing nitrates from your water can also lead to potential cost savings. Medical treatments for conditions related to nitrate exposure can be expensive, and by reducing the risk of these health issues, you are potentially saving yourself from substantial medical costs in the future.
Investing in the safety of your household's water supply today can have long-lasting benefits for years to come. Don't wait until it's too late to address the issue of nitrates in your water. Take action now and enjoy the peace of mind and cost savings that come with a Whole House Nitrate System.
2. Ion Exchange
The next step in our purification process is the removal of various metallic elements through a process known as ion exchange. Sometimes referred to as water “softening,” ion exchange utilizes a large tank which is filled with a special, negatively-charged resin. The resin beads serve as bases or sites for the ion exchange to actually take place.
As water passes through the ion exchange resin, metallic ions, which carry a strong positive charge, displace the more weakly charged sodium and potassium ions. The metallic ions are thus trapped via electromagnetic attraction to the resin particles. The ion exchange beds are then automatically cleansed and regenerated at prescribed intervals based on water volume. The regeneration process involves flooding the bed with a super saturated saline solution that effectively sweeps away the metallic ions from the resin sites.
Ion exchange provides highly effective removal of the metals responsible for pipe scaling and deposits. The process also removes various heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, iron, and cadmium, which have been associated with well-publicized health concerns.
From Acme Water’s perspective, it is important to remove metals early in the purification process to protect the more sensitive technology used in later steps, since high levels of metals can damage this equipment.
The next step in our purification process is the removal of various metallic elements through a process known as ion exchange. Sometimes referred to as water “softening,” ion exchange utilizes a large tank which is filled with a special, negatively-charged resin. The resin beads serve as bases or sites for the ion exchange to actually take place.
As water passes through the ion exchange resin, metallic ions, which carry a strong positive charge, displace the more weakly charged sodium and potassium ions. The metallic ions are thus trapped via electromagnetic attraction to the resin particles. The ion exchange beds are then automatically cleansed and regenerated at prescribed intervals based on water volume. The regeneration process involves flooding the bed with a super saturated saline solution that effectively sweeps away the metallic ions from the resin sites.
Ion exchange provides highly effective removal of the metals responsible for pipe scaling and deposits. The process also removes various heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, iron, and cadmium, which have been associated with well-publicized health concerns.
From Acme Water’s perspective, it is important to remove metals early in the purification process to protect the more sensitive technology used in later steps, since high levels of metals can damage this equipment.
3. Activated Carbon Towers
Once the water passes through the ion exchange system, it moves into over-sized granular activated carbon beds. Carbon filtration (also known as charcoal filtration), which utilizes a process known as adsorption, is a particularly effective technique for chlorine removal. Pesticides, herbicides, and other organic contaminants (especially volatile organics) are also removed at this stage.
Carbon also does an excellent job of removing trihalomethanes (THMs) from the water. THMs are a class of chlorinated chemicals which result from the interaction of chlorine and decaying organic matter in the public water supply. These chemicals are known carcinogens, and the high levels found in local water supplies have been a cause for concern in recent years.Our Carbon Adsorption Towers are in series – meaning water has to pass through both towers before moving on to the next step. We routinely change out all of the carbon in each of the tanks on an annual basis.
Many will recognize the term “granular activated carbon” as it is the most common technology used in home filter systems, refrigerator filters and ice maker filters. The technology is designed primarily to remove the chlorine taste found in tap water. Unfortunately, these home systems are often poorly maintained and neglected. They will work for a while but then what happens next can be kinda scary. If the filter isn’t changed at the appropriate interval, the effectiveness of the chlorine removal will decrease and, in some cases, the contaminants in an over-loaded filter actually begin to discharge back into the water. That’s not good. And furthermore, there have been numerous instances of bacterial contamination associated with poorly maintained home filter systems. Once the chlorine is gone – there’s the risk of bacteriological growth downstream of the filter.
At Acme Water, our carbon filters are routinely back washed to prevent channeling and the carbon is completely replaced every year. Maintenance and filter replacements are carried out by trained engineers in accordance with a predetermined schedules.
Once the water passes through the ion exchange system, it moves into over-sized granular activated carbon beds. Carbon filtration (also known as charcoal filtration), which utilizes a process known as adsorption, is a particularly effective technique for chlorine removal. Pesticides, herbicides, and other organic contaminants (especially volatile organics) are also removed at this stage.
Carbon also does an excellent job of removing trihalomethanes (THMs) from the water. THMs are a class of chlorinated chemicals which result from the interaction of chlorine and decaying organic matter in the public water supply. These chemicals are known carcinogens, and the high levels found in local water supplies have been a cause for concern in recent years.Our Carbon Adsorption Towers are in series – meaning water has to pass through both towers before moving on to the next step. We routinely change out all of the carbon in each of the tanks on an annual basis.
Many will recognize the term “granular activated carbon” as it is the most common technology used in home filter systems, refrigerator filters and ice maker filters. The technology is designed primarily to remove the chlorine taste found in tap water. Unfortunately, these home systems are often poorly maintained and neglected. They will work for a while but then what happens next can be kinda scary. If the filter isn’t changed at the appropriate interval, the effectiveness of the chlorine removal will decrease and, in some cases, the contaminants in an over-loaded filter actually begin to discharge back into the water. That’s not good. And furthermore, there have been numerous instances of bacterial contamination associated with poorly maintained home filter systems. Once the chlorine is gone – there’s the risk of bacteriological growth downstream of the filter.
At Acme Water, our carbon filters are routinely back washed to prevent channeling and the carbon is completely replaced every year. Maintenance and filter replacements are carried out by trained engineers in accordance with a predetermined schedules.
4. Ultraviolet Light #1
Since the Acme Water process removes all chlorine from the water, two forms of chemical-free disinfection technology are employed to ensure that the purified water remains absolutely and completely free from any sort of microbiological contamination. Ultraviolet disinfection is the first of these technologies.
At this step in the process, the water passes through a special chamber which houses a large ultraviolet light source. This ultraviolet light acts as a powerful sterilizing agent. If any bacteria, viruses, or other microbiological contaminants are present in the water, the ultraviolet light at this particular wavelength destroys the genetic material within these organisms, eliminating the possibility of bacterial or viral reproduction and proliferation. The organisms quickly die and are captured and removed during the prefiltering before the reverse osmosis purification process.
Our process has extensive control technologies throughout. For example, over time the efficiency of the ultraviolet lamp gradually deteriorates. We have a UV lamp monitoring device which measures the intensity of the actual UV lamp. When the bulb is new (it’s changed every year), the monitor reads 100% – meaning that’s the baseline. When the monitor declines to 95%, an alarm will sound indicating that the bulb needs replacement.
Since the Acme Water process removes all chlorine from the water, two forms of chemical-free disinfection technology are employed to ensure that the purified water remains absolutely and completely free from any sort of microbiological contamination. Ultraviolet disinfection is the first of these technologies.
At this step in the process, the water passes through a special chamber which houses a large ultraviolet light source. This ultraviolet light acts as a powerful sterilizing agent. If any bacteria, viruses, or other microbiological contaminants are present in the water, the ultraviolet light at this particular wavelength destroys the genetic material within these organisms, eliminating the possibility of bacterial or viral reproduction and proliferation. The organisms quickly die and are captured and removed during the prefiltering before the reverse osmosis purification process.
Our process has extensive control technologies throughout. For example, over time the efficiency of the ultraviolet lamp gradually deteriorates. We have a UV lamp monitoring device which measures the intensity of the actual UV lamp. When the bulb is new (it’s changed every year), the monitor reads 100% – meaning that’s the baseline. When the monitor declines to 95%, an alarm will sound indicating that the bulb needs replacement.
5. One Micron Pre-Filter
Once through the ultraviolet light, our water then passes through another set of absolute filters – these being of the 1-Micron pore size – meaning that nothing larger than 1 Micron will pass through. So, if anything is killed by the ultraviolet light, it would be picked up by the absolute filters. A 1 Micron filter is capable of removing viruses, bacteria, cryptosporidium and various other deleterious bugs.
Once through the ultraviolet light, our water then passes through another set of absolute filters – these being of the 1-Micron pore size – meaning that nothing larger than 1 Micron will pass through. So, if anything is killed by the ultraviolet light, it would be picked up by the absolute filters. A 1 Micron filter is capable of removing viruses, bacteria, cryptosporidium and various other deleterious bugs.