How to Remove Chlorine and Chloramine in Water Supply

Introduction

Are you concerned about the presence of chlorine and chloramine in your water supply? If so, you're not alone. Many homeowners are seeking ways to remove these chemicals from their tap water, as they can have negative effects on both the taste and smell of the water. In this article, we'll explore effective methods to remove chlorine and chloramine, allowing you to enjoy clean and fresh-tasting water at home.

What is Chlorine and Chloramine?

Before diving into the methods of removal, it's important to understand what chlorine and chloramine are and why they are added to our water supply in the first place.
Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant commonly used by water treatment plants to kill harmful bacteria and viruses present in the water. While chlorine is effective in keeping our drinking water safe, its residual presence can impart an unpleasant taste and odor, making it less enjoyable to consume.
Chloramine, on the other hand, is a combination of chlorine and ammonia. It is used as an alternative disinfectant by some water treatment facilities, as it has a longer-lasting effect compared to chlorine alone. Like chlorine, chloramine can also affect the taste and smell of water.

The Importance of Removing Chlorine and Chloramine

Although chlorine and chloramine serve a crucial purpose in water treatment, their presence in tap water can be undesirable for many reasons. Not only do they affect the quality of the water, but they can also have adverse effects on your health.
Exposure to chlorine and chloramine has been linked to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and the formation of harmful disinfection byproducts. Additionally, when chlorine and chloramine come into contact with organic material in water, such as leaf debris or bacteria, they can form potentially harmful compounds called trihalomethanes (THMs).

Methods to Remove Chlorine and Chloramine

1. Activated Catalytic Carbon Filtration

Activated catalytic carbon filters are a popular choice for removing chlorine and chloramine from tap water. These filters work by adsorbing and trapping the chemicals as the water passes through the carbon media. Activated catalytic carbon filters are available in various forms, including, countertop filters, and under-sink filters.

2. Dechlorination Tablets

Dechlorination tablets are a convenient method to remove chlorine from water. These tablets contain substances like sodium bisulfite or sodium metabisulfite, which react with the chlorine and neutralize it. Simply drop a tablet into a container of tap water and wait for the chlorine to dissipate before using the water.

3. Vitamin C Filtration

Vitamin C filters utilize a process known as chemical reduction to remove chlorine and chloramine. These filters contain ascorbic acid, which reacts with the chemicals and breaks them down into harmless substances. Vitamin C filters are commonly used in showerheads and handheld shower filters.

4. Boiling and Aeration

Boiling water and allowing it to cool naturally can help remove chlorine, as it evaporates at a lower temperature than water. This method is suitable for small quantities of water, such as for drinking or cooking. Aeration, or stirring the water vigorously, can also help speed up the chlorine evaporation process.

Conclusion

Having access to clean and great-tasting water is essential for our overall well-being. By utilizing methods such as activated catalytic carbon filtration, dechlorination tablets, vitamin C filtration, and boiling and aeration, you can effectively remove chlorine and chloramine from your water supply. Say goodbye to unpleasant tastes and odors, and enjoy the refreshing experience of clean, chlorine-free water in your home.