Chloride and Fluoride
General Information
Chloride occurs naturally in water from sedimentary rocks and soils and through dissolved salt deposits. Other sources of contamination are road de-icing, sewage and industrial discharges, leachate from dumps and landfills, and saltwater.
Low levels of chloride in drinking water are generally not harmful to human beings, although it may be harmful to some people suffering from heart or kidney disease.
Chloride levels over 250mg/L may cause a salty taste. Chlorides also can have a significant effect on the rate of corrosion of steel and aluminum.
Fluoride is maintained at 1 mg/L in municipal water distribution systems.
Naturally occurring fluoride is often present in well water. Levels over 2 mg/L are considered excessive and may be of concern especiailly for children. Some people who drink water containing fluoride in excess of the MCL over many years could get bone disease, including pain and tenderness of the bones.
Corrective Action
Consult your dentist if your fluoride result is below 1 mg/L or above 2 mg/L.
Fluoride and chloride can be removed from water by reverse osmosis filtration.
