Uranium

OVERVIEW AND TREATMENT OPTIONS:

Uranium is an element that occurs naturally.  It is a radioactive substance, and has been in rocks since the formation of the earth.  It is a normal part of rocks, soil, water, and air, but not all rocks contain uranium, There are some places in the world where uranium is prevalent in the bedrock.  Other related elements that may be found in association with uranium is radon.

SOURCES

Uranium enters water naturally by leaching from soil and rocks, or releases from processing plants.

HEALTH CONCERNS

Uranium has shown to have toxic effects on human kidneys leading to their inflammation and changes in urine composition.   Extensive exposure to this heavy metal can cause cancer as it decays into other radioactive substances, such as radium.  However, the chemical properties of uranium in drinking water are more of a concern than it’s radioactivity.  When uranium is ingested into the body, most is eliminated.  The small amount the body does absorb is carried through the bloodstream and deposit into the kidneys.  Unlike radon, bathing and showering vapors from water containing uranium are of no health concern.

TESTING

It is usually normal procedure to test a private water supply when buying a new home.  This test should include uranium.  This test should also be performed when drilling a new well.  Testing every 5 years for Uranium is a smart approach seeing that levels can fluctuate in your well water.  If you have treatment already addressing uranium, an annual test should be performed to be assured the treatment and equipment are performing properly.

TREATMENT

Ion Exchange and Reverse Osmosis are the most common ways to remove uranium for water distribution systems.  Since uranium only gets introduced into the body through ingestion, it may not be necessary to install a reverse osmosis system for the entire home.  A point-of-use unit could possibly provide the proper protection for all the drinking and cooking water for the entire household.  However there are other technologies able to remove uranium from your water as well. The HM-XR SERIES  is the BWS preferred method for removing all heavy metals, but decisions about treating water depend on many factors.  From the amount of people using the water to the maintenance and costs of the system.   You should always consult a water treatment specialist when uncertain about the best approach for your situation.