What are Iron Removal Filters: Everything you need to know – If you live in an area that has hard or groundwater for its main water source, then you can notice reddish-brown stains on your fixtures, taste metallic water, or have clogged pipes. These are the classic symptoms of water with a high amount of iron, and it is something that many homeowners in rural and semi-urban settings are all too familiar with.
Iron removal filters are an effective solution to these issues, and guarantee clean, clear, and safe water in your home which you can also use in your business. The question remains: what are they, how do they work, and why would you want to install one in your home or business? This blog will explain everything you need to know about what iron removal filters are.
Understanding the Issue: Why Is There Iron in Your Water?
Iron is a naturally occurring element that is found in the soil and rock of the earth. The water dissolves some of the iron and transports it into your groundwater supply as it moves over layers of iron-rich strata. While small amounts of iron is not harmful to human health and high concentrations of the metal can cause:
- The metallic taste of drinking water
- The reddish-brown stains left behind on fixtures of sinks, toilets, and laundry
- Blocked pipes and appliances
- Bacterial growths, especially iron bacteria that produce a slimy and foul-smelling scum
These can affect the quality of your water supply and generally shorten its plumbing systems and appliances.
What are Iron Removal Filters?
Iron removal filters are specific water treatment filtration systems that are designed to remove excess iron, and in some cases, manganese and hydrogen sulfide, from a water supply. Some filters employ the oxidation of iron to remove it, which functions differently according to the other type and concentration of iron being removed from your water.
Iron removal systems are primarily POE (point of entry) installations treating all water entering a household and thus are appropriate for homes where well water or private water sources are used.
Iron in Water Types
Before choosing the right filter, we need to understand the different kinds of iron generally detected in water:
Ferrous iron (clear water iron): Dissolved and invisible with exposure to air and it forms red-brown precipitates.
Ferric Iron (Red water iron): Insoluble and therefore visible, which stains and sediment hazard.
Organic Iron: Binds with natural organic matter; the filtration of this type of iron is extremely difficult.
Iron Bacteria: A constellation of iron and microbial life can cause slime and clogging of filters.
Apart from these differences in iron types that require different filtration processes you should test the water before installation of any filters.
How Does an Iron Removal Filter Work?
Most Iron filters work through the following one or more methods.
1. Oxidation and Filtration
In this technique an oxidizing agent is used, such as air, chlorine, or potassium permanganate, to oxidize soluble ferrous iron into insoluble ferric iron. Then it retained on the filtration media, which may consist of manganese greensand.
2. Catalytic Media Filters
This type of filter contains media that reacts with iron for oxidizing and trapping. They do not require any additional chemicals and are usually regenerated by backwashing.
3. Aeration System
The Air injection oxidized the water flows into the tank forming particulates that can then be filtered out. These systems are chemical-free and energy-efficient.
4. Chemical Dosing and Filtration
For water containing high concentrations of iron or bacterial contamination, a chlorinating or hydrogen peroxide dosing pump oxidizes the iron before filtering. This system can also disinfect the water.
Things to Consider Before Buying an Iron Removal Filter:
Some of the things include:
- Compatible with water flow rate (household consumption basis)
- Type of filtration media and its lifespan
- Regeneration or backwash is the procedure requirement (manual or automatic)
- Maintenance requirements
- Multi-contaminant removal (iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide)
If you are unsure, then you can take advice from the experts at Valley Water Solutions. We can help you analyze your water quality and provide you with the best solution for you.
Reasons for Installing an Iron Removal Filter in Your Home
Here are some primary points for which an iron filter can be beneficial in improving the taste and smell of the water for users:
- Does not stain clothing, sinks, and bathroom tiles
- Increased life of water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers
- Decreased warranty costs for piping and fixtures
- Reducing clogs increases pressure within water lines
- Safe, clear water for drinking, cooking, and bathing
Professional Installation and Assistance with Valley Water Solutions
Valley Water Solutions provide specific water filtration systems with excellent quality iron removal filters. It does not matter whether a little bit of mild discoloration is present or if the water has a lot of iron because it comes directly from the well. Everything is available, right from water testing to installation and aftercare.
Residents in the areas of Saskatchewan have trusted Valley Water Solutions, and we are always happy to help during the entire process. Additionally, we make the entire process transparent and provide expert advice.
Contact Valley Water Solutions Today for Expert Help!
Are you tired of reddish stains, metallic tasting water, and appliances getting clogged due to excess iron in your water? Then reach out for assistance from Valley Water Solutions for expert guidance.
Valley Water Solutions specializes in designing custom water filtration systems for home water treatment in Saskatchewan, including modern advanced iron removal filters made for the unique water challenges that this province poses. Whether you are using well water, living in a rural area, or just want water quality for your family, we have it all.
The Reasons Why I Should Choose You:
- A reliable team with local knowledge.
- Solutions tailored to the quality of your water.
- Free testing and consultation services
- Installation, services, and friendly maintenance
- Support you can trust with a smile
Frequently Asked Questions on What Are Iron Removal Filters?
1. How can I know if my water contains excess iron?
Reddish stains can appear on your plumbing fixtures; the water can have an unusual metallic taste or may appear cloudy and brown. For accurate iron detection, you should opt for a professional water test.
2. Are iron removal filters safe for drinking water?
Yes! An iron filter ensures better taste whilst also removing impurities such as manganese and hydrogen sulfide. It helps to improve the clarity of water and makes such waters even safer.
3. What is the lifespan of iron removal filters?
The lifespan of an iron-removing filter would depend on the type of filter and the amount of water that has been run through it. Media systems usually last between 5 and 10 years with proper care and with backwashing at the right time.
4. Should I test my water before the iron filter installation?
Testing of a water source will help identify iron type and concentration (with any other contaminants), which contribute to selecting the correct system for good performance.
