What is Chlorine/Bleach and why is added to our drinking water supplies

Chlorine in its gas form has a greenish yellow colour. It is part of the halogen group of elements.  Most people associate chlorine with the strong smell from swimming pools or metallic aftertaste we get from drinking mains tap water. As a gas chlorine can cause respiratory irritation and in liquid form it will burn skin. At only 3.5 parts per million in our water supplies humans will be able to smell chlorine  At concentrations of 1000 parts per million or more Chlorine gas can be fatal if inhaled.

Advantages of using Chlorine to disinfect our water

The main reason why Chlorine is added to our public water supplies is because it is a highly effective disinfectant which helps to kill disease causing bacteria such as cholera that would otherwise be transported through our pipe network. Chlorine attacks microorganisms and bacteria in the water, killing the cells and leaving them harmless.
Many house hold cleaners contain chlorine bleach which is used to kill germs, whiten clothes and even sanitise wells.

Disadvantages of using Chlorine to disinfect our water supply

When Chlorine reacts with other naturally occurring elements in our water supplies it forms a toxin called Trihalomethanes which have been linked to a wide range of human health issues such as heart disease, eczema and asthma.
Over exposure to high levels of chlorine (IE swimming pools and showering in chlorinated water) can cause dry, porous hair and skin. Hair that has been previously coloured or lightened is especially vulnerable and more likely to absorb chemicals and discoloration as a result.

How do I remove Chlorine from my tap water?

The easiest way to remove Chlorine from your drinking water is to install an activated carbon filter which generally come with a separate tap and can be fitted underneath your kitchen sink. If you are concerned about bathing in chlorinated water you can put a larger activated carbon vessel on your incoming mains supply. Activated carbon has strong attraction forces and will absorb excess chlorine in water supplies.  EWT recommend the G1 filter for the removal of chlorine from drinking water.
For more information on water treatment visit www.ewtechnologies.ie