Manganese in Drinking Water: Causes, Effects & Solutions

Manganese in drinking water can be a common problem, but effective solutions exist to remove it and ensure safe, clean water for your home. We understand the frustration of dealing with discolored water, stains on fixtures, and potential health concerns. At SoftPro Water Systems, we specialize in providing efficient and reliable water treatment solutions. In this article, we'll explore the causes and effects of manganese contamination and guide you through the best ways to solve this problem.

What is Manganese in Drinking Water?

Manganese is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks and soil. It's an essential nutrient for humans and other living organisms in trace amounts, but excessive levels in drinking water can be harmful. Manganese typically enters water sources by dissolving from rocks and soil into groundwater, surface water, and well water. This process occurs more readily in acidic conditions or when water contains high levels of organic matter.

While manganese is similar to other common water contaminants like iron and sulfur, it has distinct characteristics. Iron often causes reddish-brown stains and a metallic taste, while sulfur produces a rotten egg odor. Manganese, on the other hand, can cause black or brown stains and may impart a metallic taste to the water.

Regions known for high manganese levels in groundwater include parts of the Midwest and New England in the United States. The presence of manganese can also be influenced by industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and the age and condition of water distribution systems.

How Do I Know if I Have Manganese in My Water?

Detecting manganese in water often involves observing specific signs and symptoms:

• Discolored water: Manganese can cause water to appear brownish, black, or reddish.
• Metallic taste or odor: The water may have a distinct metallic taste or a slightly earthy odor.
• Stains on plumbing fixtures: Black or brown stains may appear on sinks, bathtubs, and toilet bowls.
• Black particles or sediment: You might notice small black particles or sediment in the water.

If you suspect manganese contamination, testing your water is the only way to confirm its presence and determine the concentration. Several options are available:

• Home water testing kits: These kits provide a convenient way to test for manganese and other common contaminants.
• Professional laboratory testing: Certified laboratories offer more accurate and detailed water analysis.
• Contacting local water utilities: Your local water supplier can provide information on water quality in your area and may offer testing services.

Is Manganese in Water Harmful?

While manganese is an essential nutrient in small amounts, elevated levels in drinking water can pose health risks, particularly for infants and young children. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a health advisory level of 0.3 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for manganese in drinking water.

Health effects associated with excessive manganese exposure include:

• Neurological problems: Manganese can affect the nervous system, potentially leading to tremors, difficulty walking, and cognitive impairment.
• Impaired cognitive development: Studies have suggested a link between high manganese levels in drinking water and developmental delays in children.
• Movement disorders: In severe cases, long-term exposure to high manganese levels can contribute to movement disorders similar to Parkinson's disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also recognizes the potential health risks of manganese in drinking water and provides guidelines for safe levels. A 2004 WHO report stated, "Manganese has been shown to produce neurotoxic effects in humans following ingestion of drinking-water with high manganese concentrations."

It's important to note that the severity of health effects depends on factors such as the concentration of manganese in the water, the duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility.

How to Solve the Problem of Manganese in Water

Several effective water treatment methods are available to remove manganese and improve water quality:

• Oxidation and filtration: This process involves oxidizing manganese, converting it into a solid form that can be filtered out. Common oxidants include chlorine, potassium permanganate, and ozone. This method is often used in municipal water treatment plants and can be adapted for residential use with appropriate filtration systems.
• Ion exchange (water softeners): Water softeners primarily remove calcium and magnesium (hardness minerals) but can also be effective in removing manganese, especially when combined with oxidation. The SoftPro ECO™ City Water Softener (upgraded Fleck 5600SXT) and the SoftPro® Elite HE Water Softener [CITY WATER] are examples of water softeners that can help address manganese concerns.
• Reverse osmosis: This process uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide range of contaminants, including manganese, from water. Reverse osmosis systems are highly effective but typically produce less treated water compared to other methods. The SoftPro® Reverse Osmosis System w/ Advanced Alkalizing RO Water Filter offers a comprehensive solution for removing manganese and other impurities.

Choosing the right water filtration system depends on several factors:

• Manganese levels: Higher concentrations may require more specialized treatment methods.
• Water chemistry: The presence of other contaminants, such as iron or hardness minerals, can influence treatment selection.
• Budget: Different treatment systems have varying costs, both for initial purchase and ongoing maintenance.
• Household needs: Consider the amount of water used and the specific water quality goals.

Other filtration technologies, such as greensand filters and manganese oxide filters, can also be effective in removing manganese. It's important to consult with a water treatment specialist to determine the most appropriate solution for your specific needs and water conditions.

Preventing Manganese Contamination

While treatment systems are essential for removing manganese, taking preventive measures can help minimize contamination:

• Well maintenance: Regular well inspections and periodic shock chlorination can help control bacterial growth and reduce manganese buildup.
• Source water protection: Addressing potential contamination sources in the area, such as industrial discharge or agricultural runoff, can help protect water quality at its source.
• Point-of-entry vs. point-of-use treatment: Point-of-entry systems treat water for the entire house, while point-of-use systems, like the SoftPro® Reverse Osmosis System w/ Advanced Alkalizing RO Water Filter, are installed at specific locations (e.g., kitchen sink) to provide treated water for drinking and cooking.

Maintaining Your Water Treatment System

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the continued effectiveness of your water treatment system:

• Filter replacement: Filters need to be replaced periodically, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The Reverse Osmosis Replacement Filters for SoftPro GREEN RO Systems and the Pura UV-20 Systems 10 Micron Carbon Block Filter are examples of replacement filters for specific systems.
• System cleaning: Periodic cleaning helps prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
• Professional servicing: Annual or biannual professional servicing can help identify potential issues and ensure proper system operation.

Proper water usage and addressing other water quality issues, such as hardness or acidity, can also help extend the life of your water treatment system. The SoftPro® pH Neutralizer Calcite Filter for Neutralizing Acidic Water [WELL WATER] can help address acidity problems.

Resources

For further information on manganese in drinking water and water treatment solutions, we recommend consulting the following resources:

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/
• World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/
• Water Quality Association: https://www.wqa.org/