The Harmful Health Effects of Having Iron in Your Drinking Water

Even if the water coming out of your tap looks crystal clear, it could be loaded with heavy metals and other contaminants, including ferrous iron. Many of our customers are surprised when their water filters are changed for the first time and they realize just how loaded their water was with iron, clay, and other contaminants.  

The Maryland government has found that iron is relatively common in many of the state’s groundwater sources. While the local water treatment plant may try to remove iron with traditional methods, including raising the pH levels of the water and passing the water through sand, iron often remains.

Even if the water is leaving the treatment plant clean, iron from pipes could seep into the water. This often occurs when the pipes are exposed to oxygen, which produces rust and frees up iron particles. These iron particles are then absorbed by the water.

Fortunately, Hague Quality Water of MD’s high-quality 2510AI0 Iron Removal filters and other filtration systems can remove iron from your water. And given that high-levels of iron can pose a health risk, filtering your water is highly advisable. 

Wondering what the health risks are? Let’s look at some of the adverse health effects of iron in your drinking water.

The-Harmful-Health-Effects-of-Having-Iron-in-Your-Drinking-Water

 

Iron May Allow Bacteria to Grow

For many bacteria, a tiny piece of iron makes for a great home to grow and thrive. Small particles of iron can host bacteria, some of which are dangerous to humans. Once in your body, these bacteria could spread, making you sick.

Iron Has Been Linked to Acne and Other Skin Conditions

If your skin is exposed to water with high iron content, your risks of suffering acne and other skin conditions may increase. Iron could potentially clog up pores, resulting in breakouts. The iron particles could also damage the skin cells themselves.

If you or someone in your family is regularly suffering from skin conditions, the culprit might be iron. While medications may help, you might ultimately need to remove the iron from your water to see your skin clear up permanently.

Iron Can Damage Your Internal Organs

The body needs iron for certain biological processes, such as transporting oxygen in your blood. However, if your iron levels are too high, it could damage your internal organs. The body often stores iron in organs, including the heart, pancreas, and liver. If too much iron is being stored, it can cause a whole host of problems, including iron poisoning.  

Common symptoms of iron poisoning include:

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Joint Pain
  • Abdominal Pain

Overexposure to iron could lead to diabetes, result in a loss of sex drive, and potentially even lead to impotence. High iron levels could also cause heart or liver failure. Obviously, these are extremely serious conditions.

Don’t Accept the Health Risks of Iron in Your Drinking Water

Iron in tap water is a common problem in Prince George’s and Montgomery County and across the rest of Maryland. However, while the risk is real, you don’t have to accept it. 

Hague Quality Water of MD offers a powerful and effective 2510AIO Iron Removal filter. The filter works by mixing oxygen in with water to oxidize ferrous iron. The water is then filtered through a special bed that raises pH levels, thus creating a barrier that blocks the iron.

This way, you and your family can enjoy safe, filtered water straight from the tap.

 

Call us or request a FREE WATER TEST today! 

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