Microplastics

Microplastics have become an increasingly common topic in discussions surrounding drinking water quality. These tiny plastic particles can originate from a variety of everyday sources and have been detected in water sources around the world. As researchers continue to study their prevalence and potential impact, many Tucson homeowners are looking for ways to better understand microplastics and reduce their presence in drinking water.

What Are The Main Sources Of Microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in size that originate from a variety of everyday sources. These particles are generally classified as either primary or secondary microplastics.

Primary microplastics are intentionally manufactured as small particles for use in products such as cosmetics, synthetic textiles and industrial applications.

Secondary microplastics form when larger plastic items break down over time. Common sources include synthetic clothing fibers, deteriorating plastic bottles and bags, and tire wear particles that can enter waterways through stormwater runoff.

What Are The Effects Of Microplastics On Water Quality?

While long-term human health impacts are still being evaluated by researchers, the presence of these particles in water systems poses potential chemical risks, as plastics can absorb and transport secondary toxins such as heavy metals and PFAS. Detecting and measuring microplastics in municipal water remains a complex task because of their extremely small size, which is why treating your home’s drinking water at the point of use is one of the most reliable ways to reduce exposure.

How Do You Remove Microplastics From Tap Water?

One of the most effective ways to reduce microplastics in drinking water is with a point-of-use (POU) drinking water system that utilizes advanced reverse osmosis technology. Systems like the Kinetico K5® Drinking Water Station with VOC Guard help reduce a wide range of small particles, including microplastics, before they reach your glass.

The Kinetico K5® Drinking Water Station With VOC Guard

The K5® utilizes a customizable multi-stage filtration process that helps reduce a wide range of drinking water contaminants, including microplastics.

• Pre-Filtration: Helps reduce sediment, chlorine, and other larger particles before water reaches the system’s more advanced filtration components.
• Reverse Osmosis Membrane: Forces water through a semi-permeable membrane that allows water molecules to pass while restricting larger particles and contaminants.
• Post-Filtration: Provides a final stage of filtration before water reaches your tap, helping improve taste and odor.
• FlexFiltration Options: Customizable filtration options designed to address specific contaminants and water quality concerns unique to your home.

The Kinetico K5® Drinking Water Station with VOC Guard is certified by the WQA to NSF/ANSI Standard 58 for the reduction of PFOS and PFOA.

Improve Your Tucson Drinking Water With AquaZona

Whether you’re concerned about microplastics, PFAS, or simply want greater confidence in the water coming from your tap, drinking water filtration can help address a wide range of water quality concerns.

Understanding your drinking water is the first step toward improving it. Schedule a free water test with AquaZona to learn more about the water in your home and how to improve it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microplastics

Can A Standard Water Filter Remove Microplastics?

Many basic countertop pitchers and refrigerator filters are designed to improve taste and odor, but they may not address contaminants as effectively as a reverse osmosis (RO) system. For homeowners concerned about microplastics, reverse osmosis point-of-use systems may provide a more comprehensive approach to filtration.

How Do Microplastics Get Into Tucson Tap Water?

Microplastics find their way into water supplies through stormwater runoff, industrial discharges and the breakdown of plastic waste. Because they do not easily degrade, these tiny fragments can sometimes pass through traditional municipal water treatment facilities, making home water filtration systems an important extra layer of protection.

What Is A Point-of-Use (POU) Drinking Water System?

A point-of-use (POU) drinking water system treats water at a specific location, such as a kitchen sink, rather than treating all the water entering a home. These systems are designed to improve the quality of the water you drink and cook with by addressing contaminants directly at the tap.