The Hidden Dangers of Arsenic in Your Drinking Water

washing a guava with tap water in texas

The importance of clean drinking water here in the Rio Grande Valley cannot be emphasized enough. Drinking water is essential for human survival and crucial for good health. However, for thousands of people here in our community, access to safe drinking water is a serious challenge. Even if you live in an area where you can get your water directly from a tap, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe to drink.

One of the most toxic chemicals that can be found in our drinking water is arsenic, a known carcinogen. In this blog post, Aqua Clear Water Solutions explores the dangers of arsenic in your drinking water, how it can affect your health, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

Sources of McAllen, TX, Drinking Water

McAllen, TX, primarily sources its drinking water from the Rio Grande River and local groundwater aquifers. The river water is treated at the McAllen North and South Water Treatment Plants, while the groundwater comes from 22 different municipal wells spread across the city.

While these sources are generally reliable, they are not immune to contamination. Factors such as industrial pollution, agricultural runoff, and natural mineral leaching can introduce impurities like arsenic into the water. It’s important for residents to understand these sources and the potential hazards they might pose to ensure they’re consuming the safest possible water.

What is Arsenic?

Arsenic is a chemical element that can be found naturally in rocks, minerals, and soils. It is also used in various industrial processes, such as agricultural pesticides, wood preservatives, and metal production. In small amounts, arsenic is naturally occurring and relatively harmless. However, elevated levels of arsenic in drinking water can be extremely dangerous.

mineral rock from soil that could contain arsenic

5 Hidden Dangers of Arsenic in Your Drinking Water

Arsenic in drinking water can come from a variety of sources, including groundwater, surface water, and even from the pipes in your own home. Unfortunately, arsenic cannot be detected by our senses. It is odorless and tasteless, making it extremely difficult to detect. The only way to know the levels of arsenic in your drinking water is to have it tested by a certified laboratory. The symptoms of arsenic poisoning can take years to show up, making it all the more dangerous. Here are your risks for drinking water contaminated with arsenic:

  • Cancer Risk: Regular consumption of arsenic-contaminated water can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including bladder, lung, and skin cancer. Arsenic interferes with DNA repair, promoting the growth of cancer cells.
  • Cardiovascular Problems: High levels of arsenic in drinking water have been associated with various cardiovascular diseases. It can lead to hypertension, atherosclerosis, and increased mortality from heart diseases.
  • Respiratory Issues: Ingesting arsenic can also lead to respiratory problems. Long-term exposure can cause chronic cough, shortness of breath, and even lung damage.
  • Neurological Effects: Arsenic can have detrimental effects on the nervous system. Symptoms can range from numbness in the hands and feet to more severe conditions like memory loss or intellectual impairment.
  • Skin Disorders: Regular intake of arsenic-contaminated water could lead to skin issues such as rashes, hyperkeratosis, and pigmentation changes. In severe cases, it can cause skin lesions and increase susceptibility to infections.

Depending on the level and duration of exposure, arsenic poisoning can also cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and even paralysis. Exposure to arsenic has even been linked to low birth weight, developmental problems, and cognitive disabilities in children.

How to Deal with Arsenic in Your Home

If you suspect that your water supply may be contaminated with arsenic, it is important to take action. There are several ways to remove arsenic from your drinking water, including reverse osmosis, activated alumina, and distillation. It is important to make sure that any treatment system you choose is certified by an independent organization such as the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).

Regular testing of your drinking water is an essential practice for all McAllen residents, as it ensures the safety of your water supply over time. Even if you have installed a water treatment system, a change in the environmental factors can lead to a sudden increase in arsenic levels or the presence of other contaminants. Therefore, contacting a certified lab for regular water testing is highly recommended. By doing this, you can detect any spikes in arsenic levels or the presence of other harmful substances promptly. This proactive approach will enable you to take necessary remedial actions timely, safeguarding your family’s health and well-being.

water in a test tube
drinking water sitting in glass

Why South Texas Residents Should Choose a Kinetico Drinking Water System

A Kinetico Drinking Water System is a stellar solution for improving the quality of your drinking water in McAllen. Kinetico systems are renowned for their exceptional effectiveness in reducing contaminants, including arsenic, from your water supply. Here are some of the key reasons why a Kinetico Drinking Water System is the perfect fit for you:

  • Superior Filtration
    Kinetico systems utilize an advanced reverse osmosis filtration technique, which effectively eliminates arsenic alongside a vast array of other contaminants such as lead, nitrates, and cysts. The result is clean, pure, and fresh-tasting water that is free of harmful substances.
  • Efficient Performance
    Kinetico systems are designed for optimized performance. Their water-on-water technology produces more filtered water with less waste, saving you money on your water bills.
  • Non-electric Operation
    The Kinetico Drinking Water System operates without electricity, making it eco-friendly and extremely reliable. There are no electrical components to fail, ensuring consistent performance and longevity.
  • Customizable to Your Needs
    Kinetico Drinking Water Systems can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your household. Whether you need a compact system for a small family or a larger one for a bustling household, Kinetico can provide the perfect fit.
  • Certification by Trusted Bodies
    Kinetico systems are certified by independent organizations like the NSF, affirming their ability to deliver the purest water possible. This certification gives you the peace of mind you deserve when it comes to your family’s health.

By integrating a Kinetico Drinking Water System into your home, you can protect your family from the hidden dangers of arsenic and other contaminants, ensuring you always have access to safe, pure, and delicious drinking water. Because your family’s health and well-being is something you should never compromise on.

Call Aqua Clear Water Solutions Today!

Don’t wait another day worrying about the quality of your water. Your family’s health is too important to risk. Reach out to Aqua Clear Water Solutions, your trusted partner for all your water treatment needs. We are committed to ensuring that you always have access to safe and pure drinking water. Let our team help you install and maintain a Kinetico Drinking Water System that is customized to your needs. Contact us today at (956) 322-8215 or visit us at aquaclearwatersolutions.com to learn more about our solutions. Invest in a Kinetico system – because when it comes to water, your family deserves nothing but the best.