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How to Remove Arsenic From Water + Best Arsenic Filters Reviews

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According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), drinking arsenic water can trigger serious conditions such as heart disease, immune disorders and various forms of cancer. To remove arsenic from your drinking water, you will need to install the best arsenic filter in your home.

First thing first, you’ll need to decide if you want to install a point of use arsenic filter or a whole house arsenic filter.

Showering in arsenic water does not pose any health risks as arsenic is not absorbed through the skin.  A point of use arsenic filter for drinking water is sufficient for most people.

However, if you feel you need a whole house arsenic removal filter, I have some recommendations for you. Without further ado, let us dive right into our recommendations for the best arsenic filters

(First, here’s a quick summary of my top pick:-)

  Type Filtration Price
Home Master TMAFC-ERP   Under Sink Reverse Osmosis $$$  
Big Blue Whole House Activated Alumina Whole House Carbon & Activated alumina $$$$
Big Berkey BK4X2 Countertop Water Filter Countertop Berkey Element $$$
Megahome Countertop Distiller Stainless Countertop Distillation  $$
Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher Pitcher Carbon $

How To Remove Arsenic from Water Through Filtration 

Just like other contaminants, it’s never possible to remove 100% of a single conterminant from water. The goal should be to reduce the arsenic in water to negligible levels. The most effective filtration method for removing arsenic includes the following:

  • Reverse osmosis
  • Oxidation and Filtration
  • Distillation
  • Activated alumina
  • Ion exchange

Oxidation of water plays a big role in the filtration of arsenic. When the water has a high level of oxidation, it converts arsenic (III) to arsenic (V). Because most cities use chlorine to treat water, this helps to oxidize arsenic because chlorine acts as an oxidation agent.

Reverse Osmosis Arsenic filter 

If you are looking for the safest drinking water reverse osmosis the way to go. It’s the most effective method of removing stubborn contaminants such as arsenic and lead.

Most filtration methods are effective at removing some types of contaminants but are not effective in removing others. Reverse osmosis removes virtually all contaminants.
When it comes to arsenic reverse osmosis removes up to 95% of all arsenic in water. A big advantage with RO filters is that you can choose an under-sink filter, Countertop, or whole house filter.

Distillation for Arsenic Removal 

Distillation is another effective method of getting rid of both arsenic (III) and arsenic (V). With distillation, you’ll remove 100% of arsenic dissolved in water. Distillation also provides some of the purest water. Water is first heated to vapor which is collected in another container. Arsenic has a high boiling point, so it’s left behind in the first container. Although distillation is effective at removing contaminants, it has several drawbacks. Distillation is energy-intensive so you’ll pay more in power bills. Another drawback is that you only have the option of using a countertop system. 

Adsorption Media Arsenic Filters

This filtration method uses metal oxides that absorb the arsenic in water. Some of the metal oxides that are used include iron oxide and titanium oxide. Water is passed through these oxides which absorb the arsenic from water.

Anion Exchange Arsenic Filtration 

Systems that use ion exchange to remove arsenic from water using the same principles as a water softener. They have a resin bed where water passes through arsenic anions are exchanged with chloride anions that are on the resin bed.

Just like a water softener the system needs to regenerate after a period of time. It regenerates by backwashing with a sodium chloride solution. The chloride removes the arsenic anions that are on the resin bed. Although this method of filtering arsenic is simple, it has several disadvantages. It makes water become more acidic because of the increase in chloride levels. 

Activated Alumina Filter 

Activated alumina is made from aluminum hydroxide. It has to undergo a chemical reaction which makes it highly porous. It has a big surface area. It’s very effective at filtering the two types of arsenic from water. It’s also able to remove other types of contaminants such as fluoride.

Oxidation FIltration 

Oxidation is a great filtration method especially when you are using well water that has iron plus arsenic. The process of filtration involves first oxidizing iron to ferric iron which does not dissolve in water. The same way Arsenic (V) is also oxidized to Arsenic (III) which is much easier to filter out. The oxidation is activated by passing water through potassium permanganate. The last steps involve removing insoluble iron and Arsenic (III) by passing through a filtration media such as carbon.

Coagulation filtration

Another effective method of treating water with arsenic is called coagulation filtration. This method involves adding any of the following iron or aluminum salt, ferric sulfate, ferric chloride or polymers to water. Because these chemicals have a positive charge they neutralize the negative charge of dissolved arsenic, iron and manganese. When the positively charged particles combine with negatively charged particles coagulate and form suspensions. The particles settle at the bottom in a process called sedimentation. A sediment water filter can be used to remove the solid particles.

Types of Arsenic in Water

There are two types of Arsenic (III) and Arsenic (V). While removing Arsenic (V) is relatively easy, removing arsenic (III) is quite difficult. Most filtration methods are able to get rid of Arsenic (V).

When it comes to filtering arsenic (III) from water, carbon filters alone won’t do. For carbon filtration to work, you need to apply an additional filtration method. FYI In addition to Arsenic (III) being more stubborn to remove, it’s also more toxic compared to Arsenic (V). 

 

Best Arsenic Filters Reviews

Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian RO Filter- Best Undersink for Removing Arsenic

  • Under-Sink Purification sytem
  • Reverse Osmosis
  • In-built pump
  • Reduces waste by 80%
Check Price on Amazon

The first arsenic filtration system on our list is the Home Master TMAFC-ERP which is an under-sink Reverse Osmosis Water purifier System, and for those who don’t know, the company Home Master is perhaps one of the most popular makers of reverse osmosis filtration system in the world.

this comes highly recommended by pretty much all the water purification experts and has earned itself a good reputation in the water purification industry.

Before we begin checking out just how good the TMAFC-ERP Undersink system is, there are some obvious things you should know about this reverse osmosis system.

The TMAFC-ERP is unique because it carries an innovative full-contact design which overcomes some of the challenges that are associated with traditional reverse osmosis system and it has long-lasting filters which are super easy to install.

Looking at technical details, it has an inbuilt non-electric permeate pump internally installed to reduce water wastage; it uses a seven stage filtration process which removes 99% of all chemical contaminants such as arsenic, chloramine, chlorine, and others.

Its unique full-contact design adds minerals such as calcium and magnesium to improve the water quality and taste.

The inbuilt permeate pump helps to speed up the filtration process and reduce water wastage which is associated with reverse osmosis systems. Most importantly, the TMAFC-ERP has long-lasting easy to replace filters; you can expect each filter to purify up to 2000 gallons of water.

My only issue with the TMAFC-ERP is that if you’re using private well water, you’ll need to install a well water filtration system because under-sink purifiers are not good at handling sediments.

Although you have to pay a couple of hundred to buy this system, it’s an excellent system for removing arsenic from water. With that said, I’m going to list the pros and cons of the Home Master TMAFC-ERP.

Pros
minants.

  • Innovative design
  • Long-lasting filters
  • Easy to replace filters
  • Reduced water wastage
Cons
  • Use of pre-filter if you’re using a private well
  • The price might be on the higher side for some people
Check Price on Amazon

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that no list of the best arsenic removal systems can be complete without the inclusion of the Big Blue Whole House Activated Alumina Water purifier system. Let’s dive in and check out. 

3 Stage 20″ Big Blue Whole House Arsenic Water Filter 

  • Whole House purifier sytem
  • 3-stage filtrationn
  • Activated alumina filtration
  • Includes a sediment filter
Check Price on Amazon

Whether you’re looking at the ability to remove arsenic, sediments or fluoride the Big Blue has to be on the list because the filters are pretty good in removing contaminants from water.  With their large filter, it’s gives a great flow rate and does not lose pressure easily.

The systems use a 3 stage filtration process

Stage I- polypropylene sediment system

Stage 2- Activate alumina purifier

Stage 3 Carbon filter

So, what’s good about the Big Blue Whole House Activated Alumina Water Filter?  Well, there are a lot of things, for starters, you can get 6-12 months of filtration from a single filter; the purifier is able to remove 98% fluoride, iron and arsenic from water. The installation process is super simple with basic plumbing skills you’ll be able to do it.

If you’re wondering about the downside, there aren’t any deal-breaker here if you are looking for a whole house water purifier. Sure this filtration system carries a relatively hefty price tag, but Big Blue is a very powerful water purifier. So with that out of the way, let’s jump into the pros and cons, shall we?

Pros
  • Reduces 99% arsenic contermination from water
  • Great flow rate up to 6 GPM
  • Reliable and easy to use
  • Sediment filter
  • long-lasting filters
Cons
  • Somewhat pricey for budget-oriented  buyers
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Check Price on Amazon

Aquasana OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filter

The OptimH2O has emerged one of the best Reverse osmosis under sink water filter of the new year, and it's one of our top pick in 2020 due to the exceptinal water quality that it produces.

It's the first filter that combines RO, claryum filtration, and Remineralization.
This water filter is able to remove lots of contaminants including both arsenic (III) and (V). Aquasana OptimH2O filter has been in the market for some years and has gotten quite a bit of press in major publications for its ability to remove many more contaminants.

It removes stubborn contaminants such as fluoride and asbestos. The Aquasana OptimH2O has top-grade components, and you get excellent support when you buy.

Features of Aquasana OptimH2O

  • combines Reverse osmosis, claryum filtration, and Remineralization.
  • A flow rate of half-gallon per minute.
  • NSF certified to remove chlorine and chloramines 
  • Reduces arsenic, fluoride, lead, chloramines, heavy metals and chlorine.

Now that we have looked at the features of OptimH2O, you might be asking yourself what are the downside of this reverse osmosis water filter. Well, the major drawback of this system is the cost of replacing the filters.

Pros
  • High efficiency in removing contaminants
  • Top grade components
  • Easy installation and replacing filters.
  • Filters 0.5 gallons per minute.
Cons
  • The high cost of replacing filters

Check Price on Amazon

 Big Berkey BK4X2 Countertop Water Filter System- Countertop Arsenic Removal FIlter 

The next up on our list of arsenic removing systems is the Big Berkey BK4X2 Countertop Water purifier System, and in case you don't know Berkey is perhaps one of the best-known manufacturers of water purification systems in the market; the quality of their products can go head to head with any company in the world.

The big Berkey brand has stood the test of time; the BK4X2 comes with the big Berkey housing which is made with high-grade stainless steel with a capacity of 2.25 gallons of purified water.

It utilizes two powerful Black Berkey filters; it also includes a fluoride removing element; this purifier has been tested and shown to remove 99%  chemical contaminants which include arsenic chemicals, chloramines, chlorine, and fluoride.

The separate fluoride purifier is able to remove 95% of fluoride, the fluoride element is able to purify 1,000 gallons of water. Unlike the Home Master TMAFC-ERP, the Big Berkey BK4X2 can be able to handle raw water directly from a private well.

With that said, a water purifier can't be perfect, there are some obvious flaws, to start with, the cost of replacing filters is a bit high. Although the filtration speed is high when the filters are new, the speed tends to go down after a couple of weeks. However, don't let that stop you from buying this filtration system because those weaknesses are not deal-breakers.

So, lets me not waste anymore of your time, let's dive in and look at the pros and cons.

Pros
  • Great tasting water
  • Removes iron from water 
  • does not remove healthy minerals from water
  • Long-lasting filters
  • No additional plumbing is required
Cons
  • Slow filtration speed when filters get old
  • Expensive replacement filters.
Check Price on Amazon

Megahome Countertop Water Distiller Stainless-  Best Distiller For Removing Arsenic

The next on our list of arsenic removing system is the Megahome Countertop Water Distiller and before we begin, you should know that distillation gives the cleanest water, and Megahome is perhaps one of the most respected countertop distillers on the market today.

Distillation works by heating water to boiling point; it turns into vapor, and the vapor is collected in another container. Most of the contaminants remain in the fast container.

And because of how effective distillation is at removing almost 100% arsenic and contaminants, it does offer a great way to remove arsenic from water within a short time. 

The distiller can produce one gallon every 5.5 hours; it made with stainless both in the interior and exterior.

With Megahome Countertop Distiller you get…</h4>

  • A safe way to remove arsenic from water
  • The cleanest water of most purification
  • High-quality Stainless steel construction
  • One gallon glass collection bottle.
Check Price on Amazon

Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher - Removes Arsenic Fluoride, Lead and  Chloramine,

The next filtration system for removing arsenic is Aquagear water filter pitcher. The first thing that struck me about the Aquagear purifier is how long its filters last. Each filter is able to handle about 150 gallons of water, this, however, depends on the quality of water you've in your home.

The Aquagear brands are made in the USA, and they are made using recyclable materials. When it comes to removing arsenic contamination, Aquagear is able to remove arsenic contamination and produce high-quality water for drinking water.

Unlike most filter pitchers that remove only chlorine, Aquagear uses a purification process that is able to lots of contaminants in water. In fact, this is one of the two pitchers that consumer Reports recommend for removing lead from water.

The only issue that I found with Aquagear is the slow rate of filtration. You should make sure that there are no bubbles trapped in the filter which tends to make it slow down. With that out of the way let's look at the pros and cons of Aquagear water filter pitcher.

Pros
  • Effective purifier which remove arsenic contermination
  • Long-lasting filters
  • Easy to remove and replace filters
  • Produces high-quality water.
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Cons
  • Slow filtration process
Check Price on Amazon

Seychelle pH2O Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher- Effective at Removing Arsenic

The Seychelle pH20 is designed to add minerals to your water. It increases water alkalinity up to 9.5 pH. The mineral-rich water is great for hydrating your body and removing acidic contamination.

Mineralized water is good for your body because it helps to boost your energy levels and slow down the aging process. In addition, It has the ability to remove inorganic contaminants such as arsenic, fluoride, and asbestos.

This 8-cup filter pitcher has been tested by 51 different independent laboratories and has been shown to remove aesthetic contaminants, chemical contaminants and inorganic contaminants (including arsenic) as well as enhancing pH up t 9.5.  

Seychell pH2O is a great way to get alkaline water cheaply without having to buy expensive bottled water. 

Pros
  • Great tasting water
  • Good design
  • Removes both organic and inorganic contaminants
  • Increases water pH up to 9.5
Cons
  • Filters need to be replaced every 3 months
  • Slow filtration process
Check Price on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions about Arsenic Removal Filters

Is it safe to shower with arsenic water?

Arsenic does not readily enter the body through the skin. Bathing, swimming, and showering with water that has levels as large as 500 ppb 0.500 ppm is safe if you avoid swallowing the water. Supervise children when they are bathing and brushing teeth does not swallow the water.

What are the effects of drinking arsenic in water?

Symptoms of exposure to elevated levels of arsenic include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and impaired nerve function, which may result in pain or numbness and burning in hands and feet. Arsenic can also cause skin changes, which include darkening, and corn-like or wart-like growths.

How do you know if you've got arsenic in your water?

Unfortunately, there is not any way to know the arsenic level in water before a well is drilled. Levels can fluctuate between wells, even. You see, can't taste, or smell arsenic in your water.

What does arsenic do to your body?

It might play a part in the development of diabetes, cancer, vascular disease, and lung disease. The Food and Drug Administration says that exposure to elevated levels of arsenic is associated with higher rates of skin cancer, bladder cancer, and lung cancer, as well as heart disease.

What removes arsenic from water?

Some of the methods that are used to remove arsenic from water including reverse osmosis. This is where water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane under pressure that will let water molecules through while blocking the contaminants.

What foods are high in arsenic?

Seafood: Fish, shrimp, shellfish and other fish may contain significant amounts of organic arsenic, the less toxic form. However, specific types of seaweed and mussels may comprise inorganic arsenic as well 4, 6, 5. Rice and rice-based foods: Rice accumulates arsenic.

Best methods of removing arsenic from water?

There are five methods to remove inorganic contaminants; reverse osmosis, activated alumina, ion exchange, activated carbon, and distillation. Although carbon is the most absorbent material that is known to man, it’s not very effective in removing arsenic. It’s only able to reduce arsenic by 50%. On the other hand, the ion exchanger removes up to 90%.

Does bottled water contain arsenic?

The FDA standard of quality for arsenic in bottled water is 10 parts per billion ppb, which means FDA reasoned that--based on the best available science--the current limit protects the public health. ... Of the 130 bottled water manufacturers tested by Consumer Reports, only two exceeded the FDA standard for arsenic.

Would you taste arsenic?

Arsenic is extremely poisonous to humans. What makes arsenic dangerous is that it doesn't have a taste or odor, so that you may be exposed to it. Some types of arsenic are man-made, but it also exists naturally in the environment.

Can Brita filter out arsenic?

It reduced arsenic by greater than 99% in each trial. Brita filters are not certified to remove arsenic, as shown by the analysis mentioned 28, and the typical filter does not remove a significant quantity of Arsenic. The Zero Water pitcher is an option for arsenic removal.

What are the effects of arsenic poison on human health?

These include cardiovascular disease, liver, lung, bladder and skin cancer, diabetes and strokes. Recent studies have suggested that arsenic can be harmful to fetal development and may cause IQ deficits in children.
The symptoms of acute arsenic poisoning include nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Numbness and tingling of the extremities, death and muscle cramping follow these, in extreme cases.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency U.S. EPA set an arsenic maximum contaminant level MCL for public water supplies in 0.010 mg L. This is equal to 0.010 parts per million ppm, 10 micrograms liter µg L, or 10 parts per billion ppb. The EPA also sets the MCL Goal MCLG for drinking water.
Long term exposure to drinking water containing arsenic at levels greater than 10 ppb increases the odds of getting cancer; for lower levels that the odds are less. ... A level above 10 ppb increases the risk of long-term or chronic health problems.
 
 

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ABOUT LEON SMITH Leon Smith Profile Leon is a Thirty-something-year-old blogger from Mauritius who is currently studying for a Masters degree in chemical and processing Engineering at the University of Eldoret in Kenya. Read more about him.