Do I Need Water Treatment in Ohio?

On February 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train out of Madison, IL, derailed in East Palestine, OH. The derailment is a stark reminder of the environmental hazards that can result when a freight train carrying hazardous materials jumps the tracks. It also emphasizes the urgency of adequate water treatment measures to safeguard public health, protect vital resources, and prevent other environmental damages.

In this article, we answer questions like “Is it safe to drink water in Ohio?” and address concerns about Ohio water contamination in general and which communities and individuals require water treatment. We’ll also discuss the various solutions and options available to Ohio homeowners to ensure their water is free of unwanted bacteria, minerals, and chemical contaminants.

If you’ve been putting off installing a water treatment system in your Kirtland-area home, there’s never been a better time to talk to the professionals at Kobella Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling.

Dangers of Unclean Water

Many customers have recently asked us about the post-Ohio train derailment water quality. Ohio water pollution typically involves agricultural runoff, improper waste disposal, and aging infrastructure. However, when a train carrying toxic chemicals derails, the hazardous substances it’s transporting can spill into nearby water bodies, contaminating the water supply by direct contact or groundwater seepage.

In the East Palestine accident, the train was transporting hazardous materials like vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, combustible liquids, and other toxic substances, including ethylhexyl acrylate, which can cause shortness of breath and eye and skin burning. People who inhale another material released in the incident, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, can suffer dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, and weakness.

Immediately following the derailment, 3,500 fish died in local waterways, and chemicals were found in the Ohio River in the northern panhandle. Despite the Environmental Protection Agency reassuring residents that testing found the air and water quality safe, many remain stressed or uneasy. Some are concerned about contamination and whether these chemicals will leach into local groundwater supplies. They’re also worried about the health of pets and farm animals and the soil in which people grow food.

Contact Us Today (440) 729-2099

Schedule Service

Schedule Service

Who Needs Water Treatment?

Drinking water contaminated by toxic chemicals can lead to severe health issues, including:

• Acute or chronic illnesses
• Internal organ damage
• Neurological disorders
• Hormonal disruptions
• An increased risk of cancer
• Compromised immune systems
• Developmental issues

Is it safe for your household members to drink post-spill water? Do you need to invest in water treatment solutions like filtration? Currently, there is no indication of risk to Ohio household water supplies, whether from private or public wells. However, experts suggest having your home’s water tested to ensure peace of mind, as no one can guarantee wells or the Ohio River are 100% safe.

Whole-Home Water Filtration From Kobella

At Kobella, we believe everyone deserves access to safe and clean water. If you want total confidence in your family’s water supply, one of the best ways to achieve it is with a whole-house three-stage reverse osmosis drinking water system. A reverse osmosis system:

• Improves water’s taste, smell, and appearance
• Saves money by reducing the amount of bottled water you buy
• Creates crystal-clear ice cubes free of impurities

We also install kitchen sink systems and other water filtration solutions like point-of-use drinking water filters at various faucet locations.

Ready to learn more about water treatment systems that keep the water at your Willoughby, Lake County, or Geauga County home clean and safe? Contact Kobella online or call (440) 729-2099.