Copper contamination in drinking water is more common than you might think, especially in areas with older plumbing systems. While copper is an essential mineral that our bodies need for various functions, too much of it can lead to significant health risks. So, how can you enjoy the health benefits of copper while ensuring that excess levels don't harm you or your family?
In this article, we'll dive into understanding copper contamination, its health risks, and the best methods for removing it from your water supply.
Understanding Copper Contamination
Copper is both a friend and a foe. In the right amounts, copper is a vital mineral for human health, helping with the formation of red blood cells, the absorption of iron, and the maintenance of healthy nerves. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends a daily intake of about 900 micrograms of copper for adults. This is typically obtained through food sources such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains. But, while copper is necessary for bodily functions, it becomes dangerous when concentrations in drinking water exceed the EPA's maximum limit of 1.3 milligrams per liter.
Copper contamination in drinking water often occurs when water comes into contact with aging copper pipes, causing the metal to leach into the water. This is especially common in homes with older plumbing systems, or when water has a low pH (acidic), which speeds up the corrosion of copper pipes. Other sources of copper contamination can include industrial waste and agricultural runoff.
Testing for Copper in Drinking Water
Before jumping into solutions, the first step is knowing whether your water is contaminated with copper – and to what extent. Testing for copper in drinking water can be done using a copper water test kit, which gives you an accurate way to determine copper levels at home. The test kit provides lab accurate results and indicates whether the copper concentration in your water exceeds safe limits.
According to the EPA, any level of copper above 1.3 milligrams per liter in tap water could be harmful, and action should be taken to reduce it. If your water is over this threshold, it’s essential to start considering treatment options.
Health Risks Associated with High Copper Levels
Copper may be beneficial in small amounts, but when consumed in excess, it can lead to various health problems. In the short term, ingesting water with high copper content can cause stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when someone is exposed to very high levels of copper for a short time, usually through contaminated water, it can lead to acute copper poisoning!
Long-term exposure to elevated copper levels can have more severe effects. Over time, excessive copper intake can lead to liver and kidney damage. People with genetic conditions like Wilson’s Disease are especially vulnerable, as their bodies cannot properly process copper. You can learn more about health risks related to high copper levels here.
Treatment Methods for Copper Removal
Once you've determined that your drinking water has high levels of copper, the next step is finding an effective method to remove it or to stop the contamination. There are several treatment options available, and the choice depends on the severity of the contamination and the household’s specific needs.
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Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems:
One of the most reliable methods for removing copper is a Reverse Osmosis (RO) system. RO systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants like copper, lead, and other heavy metals. Additionally, home under-sink RO systems like Home Master can safely destroy or inactivate 99.99% of microorganisms, viruses, bacteria, and fungi, making it a highly effective option for households. These systems are compact and can be easily installed under your kitchen sink to provide clean drinking water directly at the tap. -
Activated Carbon Filters:
Activated carbon filters can help reduce copper levels, but they may not be as effective as RO systems. These filters work by adsorbing contaminants, including copper, but are better suited for smaller concentrations. For households where copper levels aren't excessively high, a copper water filter system with activated carbon might suffice. -
Whole House Water Filtration Systems:
For households dealing with a private well with low (acidic) < 7 pH, a whole-house water filtration system with an acid-neutralizing cartridge could be necessary to prevent the copper contamination from occurring in the first place. The Home Master KDF85 and catalytic carbon filter is great for removing copper and can be used in conjunction with the acid-neutralizing cartridge. Put them all together in the Create Your Own CYO 3-stage whole house filter. It is designed to remove multiple contaminants, including copper, from all water sources in the home. These systems ensure that every faucet delivers purified water, not just the kitchen sink. -
Water Softeners:
In cases where copper contamination is combined with hard water, a water softener can help remove both. Water softeners are primarily used to reduce calcium and magnesium but can also help in lowering copper levels by using ion exchange technology. -
Flushing Pipes:
While not a permanent solution, flushing your pipes can help temporarily reduce copper levels in your water. Running cold water for a few minutes before using it for drinking or cooking can clear out any copper that has leached from the pipes. However, this is only a stop-gap measure and doesn’t address the root of the problem.
Conclusion
Copper is a vital element, but like many things in life, too much can become harmful. Elevated copper levels in drinking water can lead to various health risks, particularly affecting the liver and kidneys over time. Regularly testing your water with a copper water test kit is essential for identifying any issues early on. If high copper levels are detected, an under-sink RO system or a copper water filter system are highly effective solutions to ensure your water remains safe to drink.
At Perfect Water Technologies, we believe in providing innovative water purification products designed to tackle issues like copper contamination, ensuring that every sip of water you take is safe, clean, and beneficial for your health.