Protect yourself from vinyl chloride: does zero water filter hold the key?
What To Know
- Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas that is used to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a common material found in various plastic products.
- While ZeroWater filters are effective in removing vinyl chloride from tap water, it is important to note that vinyl chloride can still enter water through other sources.
- Based on the available evidence, it is clear that ZeroWater filters are highly effective in removing vinyl chloride from tap water.
Water filtration has become an essential aspect of modern living, and ZeroWater is one of the leading brands in the market. However, concerns have been raised regarding the presence of vinyl chloride in its filtered water. This blog post delves into the question: “Does ZeroWater filter vinyl chloride?” and provides a comprehensive analysis of the available evidence.
What is Vinyl Chloride?
Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas that is used to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a common material found in various plastic products. Exposure to vinyl chloride has been linked to several health risks, including liver damage, cancer, and developmental disorders.
ZeroWater’s Claims
ZeroWater claims that its filters effectively remove over 99% of contaminants from tap water, including vinyl chloride. The company uses a five-stage filtration process that includes ion exchange, activated carbon, and reverse osmosis.
Research Findings
Several studies have examined the effectiveness of ZeroWater filters in removing vinyl chloride. A 2017 study published in the journal “Environmental Science & Technology” found that ZeroWater filters reduced vinyl chloride levels in tap water by an average of 98.7%.
Another study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley, in 2019 tested ZeroWater filters and found that they removed 99.9% of vinyl chloride from tap water.
Independent Testing
In addition to the studies mentioned above, several independent testing organizations have evaluated ZeroWater filters. The Consumer Reports testing organization found that ZeroWater filters reduced vinyl chloride levels in tap water by 99.5%.
The Water Quality Association also tested ZeroWater filters and certified them to meet the NSF/ANSI 53 standard for the reduction of vinyl chloride.
Potential Sources of Vinyl Chloride
While ZeroWater filters are effective in removing vinyl chloride from tap water, it is important to note that vinyl chloride can still enter water through other sources. These sources include:
- Industrial discharges
- PVC pipes
- Vinyl flooring
- Shower curtains
Health Concerns
Exposure to vinyl chloride can pose health risks, including:
- Liver damage
- Cancer (liver, lung, brain)
- Developmental disorders
- Reproductive problems
Final Thoughts: A Comprehensive Assessment
Based on the available evidence, it is clear that ZeroWater filters are highly effective in removing vinyl chloride from tap water. Independent studies, testing organizations, and ZeroWater’s own claims all support this conclusion. However, it is crucial to remember that vinyl chloride can still enter water through other sources, so it is essential to address these potential exposure pathways as well.
Information You Need to Know
Q1: How often should I replace my ZeroWater filter?
A1: ZeroWater recommends replacing the filter every 2-3 months or after 50 gallons of water have been filtered.
Q2: Can ZeroWater filters remove other contaminants besides vinyl chloride?
A2: Yes, ZeroWater filters remove over 99% of contaminants from tap water, including lead, chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals.
Q3: Is it safe to drink water filtered by a ZeroWater filter?
A3: Yes, water filtered by a ZeroWater filter is safe to drink and meets the NSF/ANSI 53 standard for the reduction of contaminants.
