VOCs in Water

Source of VOCs: Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) are found in a wide range of commercial, industrial, and consumer products, including degreasers, solvents, paints, inks and dyes, gasoline, and some pesticides. VOC contamination of ground water often occurs where the chemical has been improperly poured onto the ground, leaking drums, landfills, industrial sites and chemical spills. Water supplies can be contaminated when VOCs leach into groundwater. VOC contamination usually occurs in private wells.

 

Health Effects of VOCs: Health risks are dependent on a variety of factors including the type of chemical contaminant, the concentration of the chemical in the water, sensitivity of the individual consuming the water and period of exposure (days, months, years) to the contaminated water supply. Many VOCs are suspected carcinogens.

 

How to Remove VOCs:  In most cases a whole-house activated carbon filter is the best Available Technology (BAT) for removal of VOCs. Another option is a WECO reverse osmosis filtration system. This complete 5-stage water purification system removes tastes and odors along with suspended particles like sand and grit, chlorine, chloramine, carcinogenic chemicals, pesticides, solvents, and heavy metals like lead, cadmium, copper and arsenic. WECO whole-house and commercial filtration systems are also available.