Chromium 6 Contamination in Drinking Water Around Tampa Bay, Florida
Introduction
Chromium 6, also known as hexavalent chromium, is a dangerous drinking water contaminant that has been detected in water sources across Florida, including in counties and cities around Tampa Bay. This known carcinogen can have severe health impacts when consumed over long periods of time, even at low levels. In this article, we will discuss the presence of chromium 6 in the region's water, associated health risks, and water treatment solutions for removal.
Presence in Drinking Water
Chromium 6 has been found in varying concentrations in the tap water of many municipalities that source from groundwater wells across Florida. This includes cities and communities in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, and other counties surrounding Tampa Bay.
The contaminant often enters groundwater through natural deposits or industrial contamination. Chromite ore processing, steel production, chrome plating, dyes and pigments manufacturing, leather tanning, and wood preserving are key sources of chromium 6 pollution. Runoff or improper disposal of chromium 6-laden waste has resulted in aquifer contamination in Florida.
Health Concerns
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have classified chromium 6 as a known human carcinogen when inhaled. Studies have also confirmed the chemical's cancer-causing effects when ingested through drinking water over extended periods.
Chromium 6 does not naturally occur in water sources. It is the toxic form of chromium that can come from the erosion of natural chromium deposits or industrial waste. In contrast, chromium 3 is an essential human dietary nutrient found in many vegetables, meats, grains, and yeast.
According to the EPA, chromium 6 has the potential to cause the following adverse health effects when consumed through drinking water:
Stomach tumors
Liver damage
Reproductive issues
Damage to circulatory, nerve, digestive, and immune systems
Sensitive populations like children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk from chromium 6 exposure. Research indicates increased cancer risk even at concentrations lower than the current EPA legal limit of 100 parts per billion.
Prolonged consumption of drinking water exceeding California's public health goal of 0.02 parts per billion poses significant cancer risk. While federal and Florida guidelines remain higher, experts urge close monitoring and treatment to remove chromium 6 from drinking water for optimum health and safety.
Affected Counties and Cities in the Tampa Bay Region
Chromium 6 has been detected at elevated levels above safety recommendations in municipal water systems across the Tampa Bay region sourced from groundwater:
Pinellas County
Clearwater
Dunedin
Largo
Oldsmar
Palm Harbor
Pinellas Park
Safety Harbor
Tarpon Springs
Pasco County
Dade City
Holiday
New Port Richey
Port Richey
Zephyrhills
Hillsborough County
Plant City
Sun City
Tampa
Water Treatment Solutions
Fortunately, Chromium 6 can be reduced to safe levels in drinking water using advanced treatment methods. Effective filtration technologies recommended by water quality experts include:
AquaCarbonGuard Catalytic Carbon Filter - Oxidizes and filters chromium 6 using catalytic carbon media. Up to 50 times more effective than standard carbon filters.
AquaBlue Whole House Filter - Multi-stage filtration combines carbon block and micron filters to remove chromium 6 and other contaminants.
AquaRevive Reverse Osmosis System - Advanced RO removes chromium 6 and other heavy metals, chemicals, bacteria and salts for safe, pure water.
Retention Tank + Chlorine Injection - Chlorine oxidizes and deactivates chromium 6 to make water safe. Requires sufficient contact time.
HydroClear Ozone Generator - Ozone oxidizes chromium 6 into a particle form that can be filtered out. Also effective for disinfection.
Proper ongoing maintenance and filter replacements are critical for ensuring these systems continue removing chromium 6 and other contaminants. An annual water test can validate treatment effectiveness.
For more information on chromium 6 treatment options for your home or business, schedule a free water test from a water quality expert.
Additional Resources
Chromium 6 in drinking water is a serious health risk. Proper treatment installation, maintenance and testing are key to protecting your household and business from this carcinogen. Contact Aqua-Wise Water Treatment Solutions today to learn more about chromium 6 removal options or schedule your free water testing appointment.