Unfiltered water can contain various contaminants including:
- Lead: Often leaches from old pipes and can cause serious developmental issues. - Chlorine: Used for disinfection but can form harmful by-products. - Microbial Pathogens: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause gastrointestinal illnesses. - Nitrates: Common in agricultural areas and can interfere with oxygen transport in the blood. - Fluoride: While beneficial in small amounts for dental health, excessive levels can cause fluorosis.