Is It Safe to Drink from a Garden Hose?
It’s a hot day and you’re watering the garden. Taking a quick sip from the hose to quench your thirst seems tempting, but it can also be dangerous. The hose itself may release harmful chemicals, carry bacteria, and the water may contain heavy metals. Filtering your hose water can remove most of these problems and result in pure, safe water.
Why Should You Filter Your Garden Hose Water?
Studies have shown that over 2,000 chemicals are found in municipal water supplies in the United States. Most of these chemicals are harmless, but some can have negative health effects, including affecting plants. This raises the question, “Do garden hoses need to be filtered?” The answer depends on how you use the water and what your city adds to the supply.
In some areas, chemicals like chlorine are added to the water to kill bacteria. Other chemicals can come from fertilizer runoff, factory waste, and even treatment plant contamination. Adding chlorinated water to compost piles has been shown to kill beneficial microorganisms.
Additionally, the water from the hose has to travel through pipes, which can be rusty or contaminated and carry toxins. The hose itself is likely made from a plastic that could contain BPAs, which are released when the hose gets warm in the sun.
How to Keep Your Garden Hose Water Clean and Safe
Letting the Water Run
Some gardeners think that letting the water run for a few minutes or letting it sit in containers is a sufficient way of purifying garden hose water. This will definitely help to remove some contaminants, but it does not remove heavy metals or certain other compounds.
Filtering Hose Water
Filtering hose water is an easy and economical way to remove up to half of the potentially harmful chemicals. Garden hose filtration systems are widely available and come with various features. Most only remove chlorine, but there are a few that do a better job at removing more complex threats.
Types of Hose Filters
There are several types of hose filters available, including:
- Self-contained filters: These filters simply screw onto the end of the hose and are easy to use. Some have a poly screen that must be changed, while others use granular activated charcoal.
- Carbon block filters: These filters are more effective at removing contaminants than self-contained filters. They can reduce chlorine, chloramine, pesticides, heavy metals, and herbicides.
- Ion exchange filters: These filters are the most effective at removing contaminants. They can remove algae, bacteria, mold spores, lime scale, and many chemicals.
How to Choose a Hose Filter
When choosing a hose filter, consider the following factors:
- The type of contaminants you want to remove: If you are concerned about heavy metals, you will need a filter that is specifically designed to remove them.
- The flow rate: The flow rate of a filter is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Choose a filter with a flow rate that is high enough for your needs.
- The cost: Hose filters range in price from $20 to $100. Choose a filter that fits your budget.
How to Install a Hose Filter
Installing a hose filter is easy. Simply screw the filter onto the end of the hose. Make sure the filter is facing the correct direction, as indicated by the arrows on the filter.
How Often Should You Replace Your Hose Filter?
The frequency with which you need to replace your hose filter will depend on the type of filter you have and how often you use it. Most filters should be replaced every six months to a year.
Can I Use a Garden Hose Filter to Clean My Drinking Water?
No, garden hose filters are not designed to clean drinking water. They are designed to remove contaminants from water that is used for gardening purposes, such as watering plants and washing cars.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Garden Hose with a Filter?
There are many benefits to using a garden hose with a filter, including:
- Improved water quality: A hose filter can remove harmful contaminants from your water, making it safer for your plants and your family.
- Reduced risk of plant damage: Contaminants in water can damage plants, causing them to wilt, turn brown, or die. A hose filter can help to prevent this damage.
- Extended hose life: A hose filter can help to extend the life of your hose by preventing the buildup of sediment and other debris.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your garden hose water is clean and safe can give you peace of mind.
Conclusion
Filtering your garden hose water is an easy and effective way to improve the quality of your water and protect your plants and your family. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right hose filter for your needs and enjoy the benefits of clean, safe water.
