HAA5 Contamination in Drinking Water Around Tampa Bay, Florida

Haloacetic acids (HAA5) are a group of chemicals that are formed along with other disinfection byproducts when chlorine or other disinfectants used to control microbial contaminants in drinking water react with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter in water. The five HAA5 components regulated by the EPA are monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, monobromoacetic acid, and dibromoacetic acid.

Presence of HAA5 in Drinking Water Around Tampa Bay

While HAA5 contamination is found in drinking water systems across Florida, it appears to be a particular concern in counties and communities around the Tampa Bay area. Based on available water quality reports, the following locations have detected HAA5 in their drinking water at levels above the EPA's maximum contaminant level of 60 parts per billion:

Hillsborough County

• Apollo Beach

• Brandon

• Carrollwood

• Gibsonton

• Riverview

• Ruskin

• Sun City Center

• Tampa

• Temple Terrace

• Town 'n' Country

Pinellas County

• Clearwater

• Dunedin

• Gulfport

• Indian Rocks Beach

• Largo

• Oldsmar

• Pinellas Park

• Safety Harbor

• St. Petersburg

• Tarpon Springs

Pasco County

• Holiday

• New Port Richey

• Port Richey

Polk County

• Lakeland

• Winter Haven

Hernando County

• Brooksville

• Spring Hill

Health Concerns of HAA5 Exposure

The EPA has regulated HAA5 as a group of probable human carcinogens based on evidence from laboratory studies. Exposure over many years is thought to potentially increase cancer risk. Some studies have also linked HAA5 exposure to adverse reproductive effects such as spontaneous abortion and stillbirth.

While the cancer risk applies to lifetime exposures, the reproductive health concerns may stem from shorter term exposures during pregnancy. People with higher water consumption due to health conditions, infants, and other sensitive individuals are thought to have the greatest health risks from HAA5 contamination.

Water Treatment Solutions for HAA5

There are several effective water treatment solutions available to reduce HAA5 levels for homes and businesses around Tampa Bay.

The AquaLux Water Softener reduces hardness-causing calcium and magnesium ions, which can help limit the formation of HAA5 when chlorine is added.

The AquaCarbonGuard Catalytic Carbon Filter uses a high-performance carbon medium designed to directly reduce HAA5 levels through adsorption.

The AquaBlue Whole House Filter combines several filtration media like KDF-55 to target HAA5 reduction before the water reaches your taps.

For microbial control without increasing HAA5 levels, the AquaGuard UV System uses ultraviolet light to disinfect drinking water without any chemicals.

In cases of high HAA5 source water, a retention tank allows chlorine to dissipate for a period before entering the home plumbing.

The HydroClear Ozone Generator also offers chemical-free disinfection of well water along with oxidation of iron, manganese, and sulfur.

For maximum contamination reduction, reverse osmosis systems like the AquaRevive can remove HAA5 along with a wide range of other pollutants.

In addition to residential water treatment, Aqua-Wise offers commercial HAA5 reduction solutions like the HydroTech Pro line as well as whole home systems designed for the Floridan Aquifer such as WellFusion.

Take Action for Cleaner Drinking Water

For Tampa Bay area homeowners concerned about HAA5 and other drinking water contaminants like hard water, the first step is testing your water. Aqua-Wise offers a free water test and consultation to identify issues and the right solutions for your home and family.

Discounts, promotions, and financing options are also available to make whole house water treatment affordable. Contact Aqua-Wise today to learn more and take control of your home drinking water quality.