Why You Need a Home Water Filter: Australian Water Chemicals

Overview of the Recent News: What’s Going On, Australia?

The safety of our drinking water is something most of us take for granted. Australia is the ‘lucky country’, after all; for most of us, accessing clean, quality tap water is as simple as grabbing the car keys or locking the front door.

However, recent news has revealed alarming information about cancer-related chemical contamination in water supplies across Australia. 

In this article, we give our take on the issue and explain why a home water filter is essential for your family’s safety.

Earlier this month, 9News reported concerning evidence that many families – and almost two million Australians – are unknowingly drinking water with carcinogenic chemicals.

Yes – the ones that lead to cancer.

The article brought to light the presence of toxic chemicals in drinking water supplies across various states in Australia, from New South Wales to the Northern Territory. 

The key chemical of concern is PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), a type of PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). 

These chemicals have been detected at levels that exceed safety guidelines, prompting calls for immediate government action. 

Affected areas so far include both urban and rural regions, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue. 

While our immediate South East Melbourne suburbs weren’t listed in the danger zones, one that did make the list was Footscray – and we know how close that densely populated suburb is to the bustling Melbourne CBD.

Many have been left wondering: is Australian tap water drinkable anymore? 

Before we give our two cents, let’s look at what these chemicals are and how they got into our water supply.

Understanding PFOS and Other Contaminants

What Are PFOS and PFAS?

PFOS and PFAS are synthetic chemicals widely used in various industrial applications and consumer products, including firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, and food packaging. 

PFAS in particular is commonly referred to as a ‘forever chemical’ due to its inability to be broken down by the environment or our bodies (at least, not for many decades). 

These human-engineered chemicals came into global popularity in the 1950s. For many years, they were hailed for their abilities to resist heat, grease, and stains (hence being found in a lot of cookware and even clothing).

How Does Drinking Water Get Contaminated?

According to a recent BBC article reporting on the global issue, these chemicals are so widespread in such commonly used items that they’ve naturally found their way into our soil and water.

“Some of the most commonly reported sources of PFAS contamination is from the use of fire-fighting foams…Unfortunately, the foam can be washed away, leading the PFAS to pollute nearby water courses and soil.” – Richard Gray via BBC.

The report elaborates on other common use cases like food packaging, carpet cleaners, and even bedding, all of which can lead to far-reaching contamination over time.

Environment Protection Authority Victoria says that we’re all exposed to a small amount of these chemicals everyday simply through dust, food, textiles, and water. 

But the issue arises when those levels go beyond the mandated safe levels – which, according to a recent UNSW study and many health and environmental professionals, it now has.

So, what happens when higher levels of these chemicals find their way into our bodily systems through drinking water?

Health Risks Associated with PFOS and PFAS

While research is of course ongoing, it’s been confirmed that exposure to PFOS and PFAS is linked to a range of adverse health effects, including:

• Increased cholesterol levels
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Thyroid disease
• Decreased vaccine response in children
• Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
• Potential impacts on the development of fetuses during pregnancy

These health risks underscore the importance of addressing water contamination promptly and effectively. 

The Current State of Water Safety in Australia

Regulation and Monitoring

In Australia, drinking water quality is regulated by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG), which set the standards for safe drinking water. State and territory authorities are responsible for ensuring compliance with these guidelines through regular testing and treatment processes.

Gaps and Shortcomings

Despite these regulations, recent incidents of contamination highlight gaps in the current system. Historical cases, such as the 2016 discovery of PFAS contamination in the Oakey and Williamtown regions, show that more stringent measures are needed to prevent and address such issues.

Practical Tips for Protecting Your Family

With so much buzz around this alarming issue, what can we do to protect ourselves from these carcinogenic contaminants? 

Your first thought could be bottled water, but that’s not without its own contaminants and issues, too – plus, it’s not an ideal solution in terms of eco-friendliness.

Our advice, which is shared by experts, is to use a house water filter.

What is a Whole Home Water Filter System?

A whole home water filter system, also known as a point-of-entry (POE) filtration system, is installed at the main water line where water enters your home. 

This system filters water before it reaches any of your taps, appliances, or plumbing fixtures. It’s the best way to protect against contaminants because it removes most PFAs before water comes out of the tap.

There are different options for house water filters like activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and UV filters. It’s best to speak to a trusted plumber about which option is best for your home.

Benefits of a Home Water Filter 

• Comprehensive Protection: Unlike individual filters, a whole home system ensures all water sources in your home deliver clean water. These include taps, showers, and appliances.

• Improved Water Quality: Enjoy fresher, cleaner water with improved taste and smell by removing chlorine, sediment, and other impurities.

• Cost Savings: Though initially more expensive, a home filter saves money long-term by extending the lifespan of your plumbing and appliances, reducing maintenance costs.

• Environmental Benefits: Of course, bottled water is largely on the decline, but a home water filter can improve these environmental factors even further. 

Speak to Jet Plus Plumbing and Safeguard Your Water

These recent findings of chemical contamination in Australia are scary. They indicate that many of us have been drinking chemicals for years without knowledge, which is a major call to government bodies to take action. 

But we don’t believe in fear-mongering. The good news is that there is something we can do, right now, and that’s to install a quality whole house water filter.

At Jet Plus Plumbing, we can offer you expert advice, installation, and maintenance services for whole home water filter systems. Our experienced technicians ensure your system operates efficiently, providing you with clean, safe water.

Don’t delay – speak to us today about the best water filter system for your home.