Bacteria in your water supply can have a detrimental effect on your health, resulting in symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, headaches, and cramps. This is why it’s so important to have your water tested at least once a year or whenever you suspect there may be contamination.
This article will cover some of the most common bacteria found in UK tap water and a few possible solutions, including reverse osmosis (RO) systems, water filters, and bottled water.
Bacteria Commonly Found in UK Tap Water
Drinking water is typically treated with chlorine and other chemicals to kill any germs and bacteria. However, it is still possible for these impurities to find their way into your water supply.
The three main types of bacteria that indicate the possible presence of pathogens include:
Coliform bacteria
Typically found in vegetation and soil, coliform bacteria are usually harmless. However, when their presence is found in drinking water, it is typically an indication of disease-causing organisms.
Escherichia coli
Escherichia coli (more commonly known as E.coli) is a sub-group of coliform bacteria that are found in the intestines of most warm-blooded animals, including humans. E.coli usually finds its way into drinking water through faecal contaminants and can be very dangerous.
Enterococci
Enterococci is similar to E.coli in that it’s also found in the intestines of animals. If enterococci are found in your drinking water, it’s a signal that your water may be contaminated with harmful germs.
Possible Solutions
If your tap water tests positive for any of the abovementioned bacteria, you should take immediate action. Some of the solutions available to you include:
Reverse osmosis tap filter
Reverse osmosis filters use a high-pressure pump to push water through a reverse osmosis membrane. This semipermeable membrane only allows water to pass through, leaving substances like salt and bacteria behind.
A reverse osmosis tap filter provides a dependable way to ensure you and your family enjoy pure drinking water, free from harmful contaminants. The best place to install one of these filters is at the kitchen sink to ensure accessible, instant clean water.
Bottled water
Drinking demineralised water from a bottle is a great interim solution if you’ve detected bacteria in your tap water. However, bottled purified water can be costly in the long run. It also means that you’ll need to make regular trips to the shops to ensure you have enough pure water for drinking.
Boil water before use
If you want to kill any bacteria in your tap water, you can always boil water before use. While this method is effective, it can be time-consuming and end up using a significant amount of electricity or gas. As a result, it isn’t an ideal long-term solution.
Final Thoughts
While other solutions are helpful, the best way to ensure safe filtered water is to invest in a reverse osmosis system. Not only are they easy to use, but these filters are fairly affordable and make a great investment for your home. There are plenty of RO systems to choose from, and you’re sure to find one that aligns with your budget and specific needs.