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How to Remove Contaminants from City Water - Methods for Home Water Filtration in Tampa Bay, Florida

Writer's picture: Eyal Gamili HoltzekerEyal Gamili Holtzeker

How to Remove Contaminants from City Water - Methods for Home Water Filtration in Tampa Bay, Florida
How to Remove Contaminants from City Water - Methods for Home Water Filtration in Tampa Bay, Florida

Clean, safe drinking water is essential for good health. While city water is treated, it can still contain contaminants that should be removed through filtration. This article will examine common contaminants in Tampa Bay city water and effective filtration methods to eliminate them at home.

Common Contaminants in Tampa Bay City Water

Tampa Bay's drinking water comes from a combination of groundwater drawn from the Floridan Aquifer System and treated surface water. This water meets federal and state safety standards but may still contain:

  • Hardness Minerals like calcium and magnesium that leave scale buildup and reduce soap effectiveness. They enter water through contact with limestone and other rocks.

  • Heavy Metals like lead and copper that leach from old pipes and plumbing fixtures.

  • Disinfection Byproducts that form when chlorine reacts with organic matter. These include trihalomethanes linked to cancer risks.

  • Microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illnesses even after conventional disinfection. Cryptosporidium is resistant to chlorine.

  • Pesticides, Herbicides, Pharmaceuticals that run off from agriculture and urban areas. Small amounts can pass through treatment.

  • Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs) that persist in the environment. Exposure is linked to health issues.

While levels may be within standards, reducing your family's exposure is wise. Filtration effectively eliminates many common contaminants.

Effective Home Water Filtration Methods for Tampa Bay

Several reliable filtration methods can remove contaminants from Tampa Bay city water right at your tap. Consider installing:

Whole House Water Filtration Systems

These systems filter all water entering your home. The AquaBlue Whole House Filter System uses a multi-stage filter to reduce chemicals, heavy metals, sediments, and scale. It protects plumbing too.

Reverse Osmosis Filtration

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems push water through a semipermeable membrane that blocks minerals, metals, microbes, and chemicals above the molecular level. This is one of the most thorough filtration methods.

Ultraviolet Disinfection

UV systems like the AquaGuard use ultraviolet light to disrupt microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. The UV light alters their DNA so they can't multiply or cause illness. It provides chemical-free disinfection.

Activated Carbon Filtration

Carbon systems like the AquaCarbonGuard use activated carbon to absorb and remove chlorine, pesticides, industrial chemicals, odors, and colors. Carbon effectively reduces many common water contaminants through adsorption.

Water Softeners

Water softeners like the AquaLux exchange calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions to eliminate water hardness. Softening prevents scale buildup and improves soap performance. Maintenance includes periodic salt additions.

Eliminating Specific Contaminants

Targeted filtration can also eliminate specific health concerns:

  • For lead, install certified lead-removal filters. Also replace lead plumbing components.

  • For bacteria and parasites, use UV disinfection or reverse osmosis. Chlorine injection can help but may produce byproducts.

  • For hardness minerals, water softeners work best. Other options include template assisted crystallization filters.

  • For heavy metals, activated carbon or reverse osmosis remove most types. Some metals require specific media.

  • For perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), reverse osmosis or activated carbon work well. Anion exchange resins also reduce PFCs.

No single system removes everything. Combining methods like carbon filtration with UV provides more complete contaminant removal.

Professional Water Testing and System Installation

Identifying your specific water quality issues requires testing by an accredited lab. This helps size and customize the optimal filtration system for your home and family.

A water treatment professional can interpret results and make technology recommendations based on your water chemistry and contaminants present. Reliable companies like Aqua-Wise Water Treatment Solutions provide both testing and expert system selection and installation.

Schedule a free water test to start the process. Addressing water contaminants improves health and peace of mind.


Water Quality Resources


  • EPA Drinking Water Contaminants - Learn about regulated and emerging contaminants


Safe drinking water is vital for Tampa Bay families. While city water meets standards, reducing contaminant exposure through in-home water filtration provides an added layer of protection. Systems tailored to your specific water chemistry maximize benefits. Partnering with water quality experts ensures proper testing, technology selection and professional installation for optimized protection and peace of mind.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

  • What is hard water?
    Answer: Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium.
  • What are the signs of hard water in Florida?
    Answer: Signs of hard water in Florida include white or yellowish buildup on faucets and appliances, soap scum in sinks and showers, and dry, itchy skin.
  • How does a water softener work?
    Answer: A water softener works by removing the minerals that cause water hardness and replacing them with sodium ions through a process called ion exchange.
  • How often should I add salt to my water softener?
    Answer: You should add salt to your water softener tank as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks, depending on your household water usage.
  • Is softened water safe to drink?
    Answer: Yes, softened water is safe to drink. However, if you have concerns about the sodium content, you may want to consider installing a reverse osmosis drinking water system.
  • What are the benefits of using a water softener in Florida?
    Answer: Benefits of using a water softener in Florida include softer, smoother skin, cleaner dishes and clothes, longer lifespan for appliances and plumbing, and reduced buildup on fixtures and surfaces.
  • How do I know if I need a water softener in Florida?
    Answer: If you notice signs of hard water, such as buildup on fixtures or appliances, soap scum, or dry skin, you may benefit from a water softener. You can also have your water tested to determine its hardness level.
  • Can I install a water softener myself?
    Answer: While it is possible to install a water softener yourself, it is recommended that you hire a professional to ensure proper installation and performance.
  • How much does a water softener cost in Florida?
    Answer: The cost of a water softener in Florida varies depending on the size and type of system, as well as installation and maintenance costs. On average, a basic system can range from $500 to $5,000.
  • How often should I have my water softener serviced in Florida?
    Answer: You should have your water softener serviced annually to ensure it is functioning properly and to maintain optimal performance.
  • What is reverse osmosis and how does it work?
    Reverse osmosis is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. Water is forced through the membrane, which traps pollutants and allows clean water to pass through.
  • What types of contaminants can reverse osmosis systems remove?
    Reverse osmosis systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, fluoride, lead, arsenic, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful particles.
  • Do I need a reverse osmosis system if I already have a water softener?
    A water softener and a reverse osmosis system serve different purposes. While a water softener removes hard minerals like calcium and magnesium, a reverse osmosis system removes a wider range of contaminants.
  • Is reverse osmosis water safe to drink?
    Yes, reverse osmosis water is safe to drink. In fact, many people prefer the taste of reverse osmosis water over tap water due to its purity and lack of chemicals.
  • Do I need to replace the reverse osmosis membrane over time?
    Yes, the reverse osmosis membrane will need to be replaced periodically to ensure optimal performance of the system.
  • How often should I change the filters in my reverse osmosis system?
    It is recommended to change the filters in your reverse osmosis system every 6-12 months, depending on usage and water quality.
  • Can a reverse osmosis system be installed under my sink?
    Yes, most reverse osmosis systems are designed to fit under the sink for easy installation and convenience.
  • How much water does a reverse osmosis system waste?
    Reverse osmosis systems typically waste about 3-5 gallons of water for every gallon of purified water produced, but some systems are designed to be more efficient.
  • Will a reverse osmosis system remove beneficial minerals from my water?
    Yes, a reverse osmosis system will remove some beneficial minerals from your water along with the contaminants. However, these minerals can be easily replenished through a healthy diet or supplements.
  • Can I install a reverse osmosis system myself or should I hire a professional?
    While it is possible to install a reverse osmosis system yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and optimal performance of the system.

Reviews from our amazing customers

Alexandra O

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Tampa, FL

I recently had Aqua-Wise Water Treatment install a 96k grains water softener, carbon, and RO system in my home in Tampa. Living in an area with various contaminants, including PFAS, I was in search of a comprehensive water treatment solution, and Aqua-Wise delivered. The 96k grains water softener effectively addresses hard water issues, ensuring a noticeable improvement in water quality. The addition of a carbon filtration system enhances the removal of impurities, and the RO system provides an extra layer of purification, crucial for combating contaminants like PFAS.I can already feel the positive impact on both my appliances and overall well-being. Choosing Aqua-Wise Water Treatment has proven to be a wise decision, providing my family with clean, softened water that exceeds our expectations. I highly recommend their services to anyone in the Tampa area seeking a reliable and thorough water treatment solution.

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Mark H

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Pinellas Park, FL

I'm delighted to share my positive experience with Aqua-Wise.com. Their installation services for our point of entry and RO system were exceptional. The team exhibited professionalism and efficiency throughout the process. Additionally, opting for their financial option at just $69 made the entire service even more accessible for my family. We're thoroughly satisfied with the results and highly recommend Aqua-Wise for their quality work and flexible payment plans.

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Julia A

average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Product ratings

Saint Petersburg, FL

Comments: I am so glad that I chose Aqua Wise for our water softener and RO installation. It was ultimately a decision for our health, but it's a big purchase and we wanted to make sure we were in good hands. Eyal explained everything every step of the way. You can tell he is very knowledgeable and passionate about water quality. He and his son came out quickly and the installation was seamless. We needed an electrician as well to come out and install a power supply, which Eyal also arranged for. They offer financing options as well, and they are reasonably priced in my opinion. I highly recommend Aqua Wise for your home's water needs, and supporting a local family owned business. Thank you Aqua Wise!

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