Five Things That May Lurk In Your Drinking Water

Drinking water is something most of us take for granted daily, but you might be surprised at what is hiding in your water. Even water that looks perfectly clean and pure can be home to some unpleasant things. Some may be harmless, but others are not.

H2O Comply are your go-to expert in all things water hygiene, that’s why we have put together this comprehensive list of all the risks that may arise from improper water tank cleaning and maintenance.

1. E.Coli

Most people are aware of E.coli, thanks to the outbreaks that occur from time to time with fresh produce or in restaurants. What you may not realise is that this bacteria comes from faeces produced by humans and warm-blooded mammals. The bacteria can be introduced to the water you drink or it may appear on plants that have been contaminated with faecal matter. While most people will become ill with diarrhoea and nausea, some end up with kidney damage. Those with compromised immune systems may become very ill.

2. Faecal Coliform

Similar to E.coli (which is actually a form of faecal coliform), these bacteria can infect people who drink contaminated water. While most coliform bacteria aren’t likely to make you ill, there are a few that can be quite dangerous. Again, they grow from faecal matter that has contaminated the water and can make you ill with gastro symptoms and a fever, as well as stomach cramps.

3. Legionella

Unlike other potential water hazards, legionella doesn’t require drinking the contaminated water to infect you. Instead, it must be inhaled through one of the many water droplets that end up in the air while pouring or splashing water. It’s a bacterium that can cause pneumonia, as well as gastro issues, fevers, and nervous system problems. This may be deadly when someone with a lowered immune system ends up with the disease. The bacteria exists in regular drinking water, but multiplies rapidly once you add it to manmade machines, such as dehumidifiers.

4. Cryptosporidium

Crypto is a parasite that can make you quite ill with nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bad stomach cramps. The vast majority of cryptosporidium cases are the result of contaminated water, where faecal matter has entered the water supply. While it can be spread by eating contaminated food or even eating with hands that have touched infected sources, this parasite lives for quite some time in water. It’s also resistant to chlorine, making it much more difficult to get rid of than other parasites. The infestation of cryptosporidium can be fatal in those with pre-existing conditions.

5. Heavy Metals

Did you know that it’s possible for lead and other heavy metals to end up in your drinking water? Arsenic and lead have both been found in drinking water in the UK and these can both cause long term damage to those who ingest them.

Wondering what’s in your water? 

Contact H2O Comply today to find out.

Our team are able to identify bacteria present in water systems as well as offer solutions and services to remove and cleanse water tanks in your home and business, get in touch today to find out how we can help.