TALK WITH A WATER FILTRATION EXPERT
Perry Park residents recently learned of concerning levels of radium in their water supply, reported by local authorities and covered by 9News. Elevated radium levels were discovered in a routine water test, showing values that far exceed the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) safe drinking limits. This news has raised health concerns among residents, especially regarding the potential cancer risks associated with radium exposure. Aqua Serve is here to provide clarity on what radium is, its health risks, and available solutions for those in Perry Park.
What is Radium?
Radium is a naturally occurring radioactive metal found in soil, rocks, and groundwater. Originating from the decay of uranium and thorium, it often dissolves into water supplies, particularly in areas with specific geological features, such as parts of Colorado. Radium can be especially concerning when it enters drinking water because it mimics calcium, accumulating in bones over time and leading to increased health risks.
Health Risks of Radium
Radium exposure, particularly from drinking water, poses significant health risks. Long-term ingestion can lead to bone cancer, as radium accumulates in bones and replaces calcium. Other potential health issues include anemia and fractures, and there are concerns for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised health. Due to these risks, the EPA has set strict guidelines to limit radium levels in public water supplies.
What Are the EPA’s Maximum Contamination Level Goals for Radium?
The EPA has established a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero picocuries per liter (pCi/L) for radium, meaning that any presence of radium in drinking water is considered potentially harmful. Recognizing that completely eliminating radium can be challenging, the EPA has set an enforceable Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 5 pCi/L for radium-226 and radium-228 combined. This limit is intended to protect public health by reducing radium to levels considered manageable and within safe limits.
The Value of a Final Barrier
Given the risk that radium contamination poses to health, a reliable “final barrier” at home is invaluable. Point-of-entry and point-of-use water treatment systems, such as reverse osmosis (RO) systems, create a critical last line of defense. These systems remove contaminants, including radium, from the water before it reaches the tap, offering residents in Perry Park peace of mind by ensuring safer water.
Brita Pro Products for Radium
To address elevated radium levels, Aqua Serve recommends Brita Pro water filtration systems. These systems include both point-of-use and point-of-entry technologies, which can effectively exceed the treatment capacity of standard water treatment methods. Brita Pro products are rigorously tested and meet Water Quality Association (WQA) standards for radium reduction, making them a trusted solution for residents concerned about water quality.
Aqua Serve Pricing for Lab Tests
For those interested in testing their home’s radium levels, Aqua Serve offers professional lab testing services. A comprehensive radium testing is $278 plus the sample collection service call fee of $170. We encourage Perry Park residents to take proactive steps in testing their water regularly, especially given the recent elevated levels detected in the local water supply.
Radium in water is a serious issue that demands attention, particularly for Perry Park residents who have witnessed significant fluctuations in radium levels. By understanding radium’s health risks, EPA safety guidelines, and the value of final-barrier treatment systems like Brita Pro, residents can make informed decisions to protect their health. For further information on testing your water or learning about treatment solutions, contact Aqua Serve.