In the United States, people typically consider water clean as that which is safe to drink, meaning that it is free of viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants.
Water contamination can be divided into three different sectors. The first is microbiota. These are pathogenic microbes that cause disease. Salmonella and E. coli are well-known examples of microbes that cause illness and disease, explains Green Water Technologies.
The next type of contamination is due to chemicals. This is often leached into water from toxins initiated at sources such as industrial plants. Green Water Technologies notes that some chemicals, like calcium and sodium, are also considered contamination, although these may not always cause a direct risk to human health. In some cases, these contaminants may even be helpful.
While the above forms of contamination are often microscopic, physical contamination is easy to see and comes from particles of soil, algae, and other visible items in the water. Cloudy, murky water with suspended mud is an example. Water that is passed through old pipes and runs brown from a water faucet is also contaminated with visible pollutants.
According to Green Water Technologies, all three sources of contamination can alter the way that water tastes, feels, and functions. For example, high levels of the mineral calcium can cause dry skin and make it difficult to wash clothing. This and other impurities can be removed by home water filtration.
For more information on the GE Pro Elite, contact Green Water Technologies. A water quality expert can discuss your concerns and find a solution that best meets your needs and budget.