Not all shower filters are made equal, make sure you do your research before getting one - Alkanatur North America

Not all shower filters are made equal, make sure you do your research before getting one

One of the main goal of shower filters is to remove impurities from water, specially chlorine as it can have unwanted effects on our skin, body, lungs, hair and nails. Most companies out there use a chemical called calcium sulphite for this which is effective at removing chlorine but it comes at a great cost.

Shower filters have become increasingly popular in recent years as people become more aware of the potential hazards of unfiltered tap water. One common component of shower filters is calcium sulphite, a chemical that is used to remove chlorine and other impurities from the water. While calcium sulphite is generally considered safe, there are some potential dangers associated with its use in shower filters that consumers should be aware of.

calcium sulphite formula molecular structure

It is important to understand what calcium sulphite is and how it works. Calcium sulphite is a white, odorless powder that is commonly used in water filtration systems to remove impurities from tap water. When calcium sulphite is exposed to water, it forms a chemical reaction that converts the chlorine in the water to chloride ions, effectively removing the chlorine from the water.

While this process is effective in removing chlorine from water, there are some potential dangers associated with the use of calcium sulphite in shower filters. One of the most significant concerns is the risk of exposure to sulphites, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. Sulphites are a type of preservative commonly used in foods and beverages, and some people are allergic to them. While the levels of sulphites in shower filters are generally considered safe, it is still possible for people with allergies to be exposed to them through showering.

Additionally, calcium sulphite is known to release sulphur dioxide gas, which is a toxic gas that can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. This gas can also exacerbate respiratory problems, such as asthma or bronchitis.

Also, there are concerns about the potential for calcium sulphite to leach into the shower water and cause skin irritation. This is because calcium sulphite can break down over time, releasing small particles that can irritate the skin.

Finally, there are concerns about the potential for calcium sulphite to react with other chemicals in the water to produce harmful byproducts, such as trihalomethanes (THMs). THMs are known to be carcinogenic, and long-term exposure to these chemicals can increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

For this reason, many manufacturers are now turning to alternative de-chlorinating agents, such as activated carbon or Vitamin C, to provide a safe and effective alternative. When looking for a shower filter look for one that doesn’t contain calcium sulphite like our Alkanatur Shower Filter.

 

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1 comment

I look forward to finding a showerhead filter that does not have sulfites and removes chlorine and other concerns.

susan stevens

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