Chlorine is a necessary element in drinking water and its high concentration has several negative effects. It reduces the risk of waterborne diseases, but it also causes corrosion and the failure of hot water cylinders. In addition, it affects dialysis patients. The question is, how much should you worry? Read on to learn about the pros and cons of chlorine in water in Christchurch. We’ll be discussing all these issues and more.
Chlorine reduces the risk of waterborne diseases
Regardless of whether we’re drinking bottled water or filtered tap waters, the presence of chlorine in our water will reduce the chances of contracting a waterborne disease. Chlorine oxidises bacteria in the water by breaking them down into smaller pieces. These particles then can’t infect the human body. It also helps other water treatment processes by removing colour and odour compounds.
Although chlorine disinfection is effective at reducing the risk of waterborne disease, there are downsides to the chemical process. Disinfectants such as chloramine are created in varying levels by chlorine’s reaction with organic matter. The natural chemicals that bacteria use to survive in soil and trees react with the chemicals in chloramine to reduce their growth in water. While the presence of chlorine in water reduces the risk of acquiring waterborne diseases, it also leads to a layer of biofilm, which makes it difficult to kill germs.
Added chlorine to water can decrease the risk of a wide range of diseases. Four milligrams of chlorine per liter of water can effectively kill bacteria and germs that cause waterborne diseases. However, a recent study from John Hopkins University found that this chemical can also be responsible for the emergence of new carcinogenic and toxic byproducts. Although some of these compounds are already treated in most local water treatment facilities, most are not regulated on a federal level.
It causes corrosion
The introduction of chlorine into Christchurch’s water supply has led to an increase in hot water cylinder failure and pitting corrosion. This was already a major problem, but the introduction of chlorine to water has made the problem even worse. In fact, more than 2000 hot water cylinders have been replaced since the chlorine story broke. And while the initial chlorine dose was reduced, the network is being operated to get as much water as possible from pump stations that don’t treat their water with chlorine. As a result, the amount of chlorine in the water network is expected to decrease significantly, mitigating the corrosion issues.
One of the most common symptoms of corrosion in hot water cylinders is pitting, and the effects are first visible in hot water cylinders. But the damage isn’t limited to hot water cylinders. Stainless steel and enamel-lined steel can protect copper HWCs and pipes from corrosion. Fortunately, copper heat exchangers don’t experience increased failures from chlorinated water.
It causes failure of hot water cylinders
Some homeowners believe the chlorination of their water has been a contributing factor to the failure of their hot-water cylinders. While the CCC has acknowledged that this may be true, they argue that they cannot claim that the chlorine is the only cause. The council says that the chlorine levels are within the acceptable limit. Those who believe that the water Christchurch is chlorinated are advised to contact the local health department for further information.
The introduction of chlorine to water in Christchurch is thought to be one of the reasons for the spike in failure of hot-water cylinders. It has also caused a spike in plumbing failures. Several property management companies and cylinder manufacturers are reporting a large increase in replacements after the chlorine issue broke. Some hot-water cylinders may need to be replaced as a precaution.
It affects dialysis
The safety of water supplies is essential for patients receiving dialysis. High levels of chlorine can affect patients and dialysis equipment. However, silver-stabilised hydrogen peroxide may also pose a risk. Water utilities are increasingly using chlorite, chlorate, and chloride ions to disinfect water, which may compromise the health of patients. In one study, water that contained chlorite ions caused significant adverse health effects in dialysis patients.
Chloramines, or chlorinated compounds, are harmful when directly absorbed into the bloodstream. This is why dialysis centers treat water to eliminate all chemicals. Home dialysis patients should contact their healthcare provider or the manufacturer of their equipment to get more information. Those with weakened immune systems should also consult a medical professional. These professionals can also provide additional information about the chlorine levels in the water.
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