Tannins are types of degraded organic matter (mostly from vegetation) that dissolve in water. They’re frequently found in swampy or marshy environments as well as in lakes and rivers. Here’s what you need to know about tannins in your water.
How Do Tannins Get Into Tap Water?
As we stated, tannins are typically found in rivers and lakes. If your city’s water comes from a surface water source with high tannin levels, the tannins are likely to be present in your tap water as well. Tannins can also penetrate rock formations, entering private wells via cracks or fissures. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t regulate tannins, since they’re considered secondary pollutants.
Do Tannins in Tap Water Have Any Health Effects?
Fortunately, tannins’ effects are entirely aesthetic and have no negative effects on the health of people who consume them. However, if large quantities of tannins are detected in your home’s tap water, it could mean that other pollutants such as germs and pathogens are also present. That’s why—even though tannins don’t cause health problems in and of themselves—it’s advisable to be safe and have your water tested for additional toxins if you suspect that your water contains tannins.
How Can You Remove Tannins From Your Tap Water?
You can easily remove tannins and other particles from your tap water by using an activated carbon filter in a water filtration system. Installing a whole-house filtration system rather than a point-of-use model will protect your clothing and plumbing fixtures from stains while improving the taste, fragrance, and appearance of your water at each tap.
Hopefully, this recap of what you need to know about tannings in your water has proven useful. If you’re still concerned about the effects of tannins in your water, then as we said, you can look into the many ways to effectively filter your home’s water.
