The most common contaminants found in drinking water

Aug 08, 2024By Dennys Damian

Common Contaminants in Drinking Water: What You Need to Know

Clean drinking water is essential for health. However, various contaminants can compromise its quality. Here are the most common ones:

Microorganisms

Bacteria, viruses, and parasites like E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium can be present in water. These can cause serious health issues.

water bacteria
agricultural runoff

byproducts. Consuming large quantities may be harmful.

Pesticides and Herbicides

Agricultural chemicals can seep into groundwater and surface water, leading to contamination.

groundwater contamination

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Industrial Chemicals

Substances like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can enter water from industrial activities.

industrial waste

uranium, can contaminate drinking water, especially in certain areas.

Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products

Trace amounts of medications and chemicals can enter water sources through wastewater and runoff.

wastewater runoff

Regular testing and monitoring are essential to identify and address these contaminants effectively.