Chlorine is a type of disinfectant, not a contaminant, that’s added to the water to control microbes. From chlorine, disinfection by-products, such as total trihalomethanes (TTHMs), can form in the water.
Heavy metals such as lead may get into your water from the pipes and plumbing coming into your home. Excessive lead exposure is a serious concern, especially for young children and babies.
Microbial cysts can enter the water from human or animal fecal waste. Cryptosporidium is a parasite commonly found in lakes and rivers. According to the EPA, cryptosporidium is resistant to disinfection, and even well-operated water-treatment systems cannot ensure that drinking water can be completely clear of it.
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Industrial pollutants in your drinking water can come from discharge from different kinds of factories or chemical plants.
In March 2008, the Associated Press published a report that found various pharmaceutical compounds in the water supplies of 24 major metropolitan areas across the United States. In fact, many water treatment facilities may not be able to remove 100% of these types of manufactured compounds or substances. PUR® faucet-mount filters reduce trace levels of pharmaceuticals by 99%, and PUR water pitchers reduce trace levels of pharmaceuticals by 96%.**
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