Contaminants – Hydroz

Contaminants

Learn more about the common and/or harmful contaminants found in drinking water across Michigan and the United States

Where does iron come from?

Naturally-occurring mineral
Makes up 5% of Earth’s crust
Enters drinking water through old, rusty pipes
In high concentrations, makes sinks and toilets look orange

What are the health impacts of iron?

Our bodies need iron. Typically obtained through the food we eat
Too much iron can cause; Diabetes, Iron Overload (Hemochromatosis), Stomach problems, Nausea & Vomiting

Where does calcium come from?

Naturally-occurring mineral
Limestone is primarily composed of calcium carbonate
5th most abundant element in Earth’s crust
Typically the main cause of “hard” water
“Hard” water significantly reduces the life of water-using appliances

What are the health impacts of calcium?

Calcium is an essential element for our bodies
Crucial for strong bones and healthy teeth
Too much calcium can cause:
- Kidney stones
- Renal failure
- Calcification of the arteries

Where does lead come from?

Naturally-occurring mineral
Enters drinking water through lead or galvanized pipes
Safe Drinking Water Act of 1986 prohibits the use of lead or galvanized piping
Homes/businesses built/remodeled before 1986 have a high risk of lead-based piping

What are the health impacts of lead?

Infants and children
- Lower IQ (Intelligence)
- Hyperactivity
- Developmentally delayed
Adults
- Hypertension
- Decreased kidney function
- Reproductive complications

Where does arsenic come from?

Naturally-occurring mineral
Typically used in the production of pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides
Found in soil along with sulfur, and dated plumbing
Homes with well water are at higher risk of exposure

What are the health impacts of arsenic?

All forms of arsenic harmful to humans according to the EPA
Classified as a Group-A carcinogen
Can also cause skin lesions, heart disease, and diabetes

Where does chromium-6 come from?

Heavily used in manufacturing and in common products
Found in anti-corrosion products, fabric dyes, wood preservatives, etc
Known as the “Erin Brockovich” compound Learn More >

What are the health impacts of chromium-6?

Highly toxic compound
Causes cancer in humans based on how it is exposed
Also causes asthma, skin damage, kidney damage, teeth erosion, etc. Learn More >

Where does PFAS come from?

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Man-made chemicals and compounds designed to repel water and oils
Enters drinking water sources through contaminated soil
Used in water resistant clothing, fire retardants, food packaging, etc.
PFAS compounds cannot be broken down in nature or the body

What are the health impacts of PFAS?

PFAS compounds accumulate in the body until a “critical mass” is reached
Known to cause cancer, compromise immune systems, reproductive issues, etc.
Currently plaguing communities across Michigan near certain types of manufacturing facilities, military bases, and airports Learn More >