Pitcher water filters are not designed to filter out bacteria like E. coli, as the size of this organism is too small to be filtered out. Therefore, it is important to take steps to ensure that your drinking water is safe by treating it with a method that is effective for killing bacteria, such as boiling or using chemical treatments. It is also important to remember to regularly change the filter in your pitcher water filter. While these filters are effective at removing other contaminants from drinking water, they cannot protect against the presence of E. coli.
What Is E. Coli?
Escherichia coli (or E. coli for short) is a type of bacteria commonly found in human and animal intestines, as well as in the environment. While most types of E. coli are harmless, certain strains can cause serious illness if ingested through food or water that has been contaminated.
What Is The Size Of E. Coli?
Escherichia coli is a typical gram-negative rod bacterium. Its dimensions are those of a cylinder 1.0-2.0 micrometers long, with a radius of about 0.5 micrometers.
How Does E.Coli Get Into The Water?
E. coli can enter drinking water through a variety of sources, including animal and human waste. It is important to ensure that any potential source of contamination is removed from the water supply before it reaches your home. This could include ensuring that pipes are in good condition and not leaking, or using a whole-house filtration system.
What Water Sources Are Most Prone To E. Coli Contamination?
Groundwater sources are more likely to be contaminated with E. coli than surface water sources, due to their proximity to potential sources of contamination such as agricultural runoff and septic systems.
How Do You Know If Your Water Has E.Coli?
The only way to know for sure if your water has E. coli is to test it in a certified laboratory. Home testing kits are available.
How To Filter E. Coli From Drinking Water?
Boiling: Boiling water is an effective method for killing and removing E. coli from drinking water.
Chemical Treatment: Chemicals such as chlorine, iodine, or ultraviolet light can also be used to kill bacteria like E. coli in drinking water, though these treatments may not always be practical for home use.
Distillation: Distillation is an effective option for removing E. coli from drinking water, as it can effectively remove bacteria and other contaminants while preserving the taste and quality of the water.
Reverse Osmosis: Reverse osmosis is a process that can be used to filter out E. coli and other pollutants in drinking water and is often used in industrial water treatment systems.
UV Water Purification: Ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to kill most types of E. coli and other bacteria in drinking water, though this method is generally only practical for large-scale water treatment systems.
Negative Health Effects Of E. Coli
- E. coli can cause serious forms of food poisoning, such as urinary tract infections and diarrhea.
- It can also lead to infection in the blood, liver, and kidneys, which may require hospitalization or even be life-threatening.
- E. coli is also linked to diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and infant botulism.
Other Contaminants Water Filter Pitcher Remove
- Chlorine and Chloramine
- Disinfection Byproducts
- Lead
- Chromium 6
- Cysts
- Mercury
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Pharmaceuticals
- Bad tastes and smell
- Sediment
- Insecticides
- Radium
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Factors Required For Filter Pitchers To Remove E.Coli
- Filter pitchers must have a pore size of 0.2 microns or smaller to be able to remove E.coli from water effectively.
- The filter pitcher must be tested and certified by NSF International against the NSF/ANSI standard 244 for Bacteria Removal and also the NSF/ANSI standard 231 for Microbiological Purification.
- Silver-impregnated filters may be used in some cases to help reduce the presence of E.coli.
- Ultraviolet light technology may also be used to help kill E.coli in filter pitchers if they are properly maintained and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Regular maintenance and cleaning of the filter pitcher are essential in order to keep it working optimally and remove as many contaminants, including E.coli, as possible.
FAQs
What Type Of Filters Can Not Filter E.Coli?
Activated carbon filters and cartridge filters aren’t effective at removing e.coli.
How Reverse Osmosis Filters E.Coli?
Reverse osmosis is a process in which water is pushed through a semipermeable membrane with pores so small that only molecules of water can pass. It is effective at removing contaminants in the water including particles as small as 0.0001 microns, which includes E. coli along with other contaminants such as lead and arsenic.
How Does Water Filter Pitchers Work?
Water filter pitchers are a common device for filtering water. They use a combination of carbon-based filters and ion exchange filters to reduce the number of contaminants, such as chlorine, heavy metals, and sediment from drinking water. It is important to note that the effectiveness of these filtration systems will depend on the type of filter used.
What Happens If You Don’t Change Filters Regularly Cleaning?
- It can lead to a build-up of bacteria and other contaminants in the water.
- This can cause unpleasant odors or tastes in your drinking water.
When Should I Change My Water Filter Pitcher?
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for when to change filter cartridges, but a good rule of thumb is to change them every two to three months.
Why Aren’t Most Filters Capable Of Removing Bacteria From Water?
Most water filter systems are designed to reduce the levels of certain contaminants, such as chlorine and heavy metals. Bacteria, on the other hand, are much smaller in size than these types of particulates and can pass through standard filters. To remove bacteria from drinking water, more sophisticated filtration systems or treatments are usually needed.
How Much E-Coli Is Safe In The Water?
The World Health Organization considers a zero count of E. coli per 100 ml of water to be safe for drinking. If the water contains more than that, it is considered to be at medium or high risk and should not be consumed without being treated or filtered first.
Conclusion
It is important to use an appropriate filtration system that is designed to remove even the smallest of bacteria from your drinking water. At the same time, it is also important to regularly inspect your filtration system in order to keep the device functioning properly and reduce the risk of contamination. Taking these measures can help to make sure that your water supply remains free of contaminants like E. coli, providing you with safe and clean drinking water.
Meet Jeffrey B Roberts, your dedicated guide into the realm of water science and technology. As a hydro biologist with an insatiable curiosity, Jeffrey’s journey has been one of unraveling the mysteries of water systems and advocating for clean, safe water for all.
With an academic background steeped in the sciences, Jeffrey’s passion lies at the crossroads of science, technology, and nature. A deep fascination with plants and genetics has not only enriched their understanding of aquatic ecosystems but has also propelled them into the world of water softening solutions.
Believing that clean water is a basic human right, Jeffrey’s writing transcends the technicalities, making the intricate world of water softening accessible to all. Through their blog, they ardently share insights, tips, and breakthroughs, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their water quality.
Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Jeffrey is a respected figure in the hydronics industry education. With years of hands-on experience, they serve as an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of experts at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. His involvement on the Technical Advisory Board further cements their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in water technology.