5 Signs You Need a Water Filtration System

The water quality in your home can be affected by various minerals, chemicals, and other impurities that alter its taste, smell, and appearance. You may also notice that you are spending more time cleaning and scrubbing your sinks, toilets, and plumbing fixtures. Some water conditions can even cause dry skin and hair. While some water conditions are unpleasant aesthetic issues, others indicate more severe water quality issues. Here are five signs your home needs a water filtration system.

Cloudy Water

Cloudy or murky water is often a sign that you need a water filtration system. When sediment, tannins, organic matter, fuel, and other pollutants leak into the soil, it can contaminate the groundwater giving it a cloudy, murky, or dark appearance. The darker the water, the more contaminants it may contain. It may also contain harmful bacteria or chemicals that make it unsafe to drink. A water filtration system that removes these contaminants will restore the water to its natural and clean condition to be safe to drink.

Water Smells or Tastes Bad

Water that is smelly or has a bad taste is another sign you need a water filtration system. The foul smell and taste are usually due to bacteria, chloramine, iron, and manganese, sulfur, or other impurities in the water. Some impurities are naturally present in the groundwater, while others are man-made pollutants or byproducts of chemical disinfection. Not all impurities in drinking water are harmful to your health, but some can cause serious health issues. If your water has a foul odor or taste, you should test your water and avoid drinking unfiltered tap water until your water quality has been restored.

Stains on Surfaces After Washing

Most groundwater sources are abundant in calcium carbonate, manganese, iron, and other heavy metals and minerals that increase water’s hardness. Degrading plumbing systems can also increase iron and copper levels in the water. Hard water causes white, reddish-orange, black, or white stains on practically everything it touches, including sinks, tubs, toilets, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. It even tarnishes laundry, dishes, glassware, and silverware. You will need a water softener and filtration system to reduce water hardness and protect your plumbing and appliances.

Your Skin and Hair are Always Dry

The same hard water minerals that stain your plumbing and surfaces also clog pores leaving your skin and hair dry. It also irritates the skin and scalp, especially in individuals with eczema and acne, resulting in more frequent breakouts. Other water conditions such as chlorine and chloramine used in municipal water treatment can also cause dry skin and hair. A water filtration system with a water softener can help re-balance your skin’s pH level leaving it more hydrated, cleaner, and more luxurious.

Frequent Stomach Problems

If family members have frequent stomach complaints, it could be due to waterborne bacteria. Even though your tap water may look clear, it can contain microbial bacteria and viruses that can cause stomach problems and other illnesses. A septic tank leak, livestock waste, or contaminated soil can expose nearby water wells to harmful bacteria and viruses. Water containing coliform bacteria, e. coli, or salmonella can cause nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some bacteria and viruses can also cause more severe illnesses. Installing a reverse osmosis water filtration system removes up to 99% of contaminants, including bacteria and viruses.