Small-Scale Treatment Systems

Small-Scale Treatment Systems

There’s been an emerging trend in the water treatment world the last few years: small-scale treatment systems. In a recent piece out of Iowa State University, the team talked about how cities are tackling water shortages by testing small-scale treatment systems and recycling wastewater. Instead of relying on big, centralized systems that can break down or struggle with water shortages, some cities are getting creative with decentralized systems. Places like El Paso and Austin are recycling wastewater right in the city and using it for local needs, which is not only cheaper but also easier to maintain. These small-scale systems can also help cut down on the need for freshwater and make communities more water-secure. And as climate change puts more pressure on resources, this should pave the way for smarter water use.

Explained: Performance Data Sheets

Aquasana released a recent article explaining how to know if a water filter is effective with performance data sheets (PDS). With so many filters out there (and so much marketing fluff and inaccurate reviews), it’s hard to tell which ones actually remove contaminants. That’s where performance data sheets come in handy; provided by the manufacturer, these sheets show lab test results on how well the filter works. They tell you which systems were tested, who did the tests, and how much junk the filter removes. A good PDS will also show if a filter meets NSF/ANSI standards, with badges from trusted groups like WQA. Plus, PDS can reveal how a filter handles multiple contaminants, so you can match it to local water issues.

Whole Home Water Filtration Helps Reduce PFAS Exposure

In a recent article by Aqua Pump Company, the team discusses the critical role of whole home water filtration systems in reducing exposure to PFAS chemicals. As a reminder, the US Geological Survey found that 45% of the country’s water contains PFAS, which are harmful chemicals linked to health issues like cancer and liver damage. The article emphasizes that whole home water filtration systems, especially those with activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis membranes, are effective in removing up to 98% of common PFAS compounds. These systems provide really solid protection by filtering all water entering the home, ensuring safer water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The team also gives well-deserved plug for their own services as “your Golden Eagle filtration specialist” (sick tagline).

Hydrogen Water: Myth or Legit?

In his article for Kinetico, Dr. Smelik (who has a Ph.D. in Earth & Planetary Sciences plus co-founded the Kinetico Raleigh location) discusses the potential health benefits of hydrogen-infused water. Hydrogen water, which is water enriched with hydrogen gas, is touted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It's claimed to help with everything from reducing inflammation and wrinkles to boosting athletic performance and improving brain health. However, while the initial studies show some promise, more research is needed to confirm these benefits. For now, hydrogen water is an interesting but pricey alternative to regular purified water, and its benefits may vary from person to person.

What else is happening:

• This week Gradient hopped on the storage-container-treatment train and announced ForeverGone, the industry’s “only complete all-in-one solution to permanently remove PFAS”

• Researchers from MIT and Georgia Tech have now come up with a way to repurpose surplus beer yeast to absorb lead from contaminated water

• A couple weeks ago Modernize Home Services, the marketing platform that connects homeowners with home improvement contractors, announced they’re now including water treatment solutions

• May is Small Business Month, and to celebrate WQA shared this article with 11 Things to Do to Grow Your Company

• Clearwater Systems is celebrating their 50th Anniversary with Kinetico

• Aquanology says this is how to choose a whole house water filtration system

• Florida Pure Water Solutions says you shouldn't DIY home water softener installation: this is why