Water Testing VOC’s Connecticut
Water Testing for VOC’s in Connecticut is important if you are at risk. What are VOC’s (volitile organic chemicals) and how do they contaminate Connecticut drinking water?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that tend to evaporate rapidly at normal room temperature. When dissolved in water that is heated or stirred, VOCs readily move into the surrounding air. VOCs are commonly found in agricultural and industrial areas where leaking fuel storage tanks, pesticide runoff, seepage from landfills, industrial discharge, and accidental chemical spills may contaminate groundwater.
Some VOCs, such as benzene and carbon tetrachloride, are known to cause certain forms of cancer, including leukemia in CT residents.
Another category of organic chemicals that has been associated with increases in certain cancers is trihalomethanes (THMs). These compounds are actually by-products of the disinfection process known as chlorination.
THMs are formed in Connecticut drinking water when chlorine combines with naturally occurring organic material, such as decomposing leaves or animal waste. Some examples of THMs that may exist in drinking water are chloroform and bromoform.
Since groundwater in CT rarely contains high levels of organic matter, chlorinated private water supplies are less susceptible to the formation of THMs. In fact, THMs are most often found in chlorinated surface waters used for public drinking water supplies. The risk of consuming THMs in chlorinated public drinking water varies with season, water temperature, water chemistry, disinfection method, and other factors.
However, the health risks in CT, associated with drinking non-disinfected water when there is evidence of pathogenic contamination (i.e. bacteria, viruses, etc.) are much greater than the risk of exposure to THMs.
Exposure to VOCs can result in many adverse health effects depending on the type, level and length of exposure. Health problems can range from minor ailments to major, long-term health complications including:
- Eye, nose and throat irritation
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Asthma exacerbation
- Fatique
- Allergic skin reaction
- Memory impairment and loss of coordination
- Cancer
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Central Nervous System damage
Keep your family safe. Schedule an appointment for a Connecticut water testing specialist to test your well today 888-558-1574.
