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Iron

Iron is a metallic element that is commonly found in the earth's crust; it dissolves in flowing water and ends up in the groundwater. In wells with ferrous water, the iron usually occurs in ionic form (Fe2 +) and hydroxide form (Fe3 +).

How do I know I have iron in my water?

There are two types of iron:
  • Fe3 + is oxidized iron, which gives the water a rust-brown color.
  • Fe2 + is invisible in water, and if it is exposed to oxygen in the air, it is oxidized to Fe3 + and precipitates with a rust-brown color. This happens, for example, when you drain water into a sink at full outlet.

Ferrous water will give off brown coatings on your sanitary ware and clog your drains.

What level is acceptable?

The regulated levels will always shift between different countries and decision makers. In Sweden, the Swedish EPA has previously set a water remark at levels above 0.5 mg/l — check with your local authority for the most current regulated threshold. 

What are the risks of iron in the water?

Problems that arise with ferrous water are unpleasant taste of the water, brown coatings in sanitary ware, porcelain brown coatings and discoloration on laundry. The biggest problem is that coatings and deposits clog the water pipes in the home, and also clog pipes inside water heaters and household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers.

Signs that you have ferrous water


  • You have brown coatings in sanitary ware, in sinks and showers etc.
  • You have brown coatings on porcelain
  • You have brown discolorations on laundry
  • The water can have a characteristic iron taste

A Bluewater water purifier installed in a kitchen

Is it dangerous to drink water with a lot of iron in it?

No, it is usually not dangerous to drink ferrous water. At extremely high iron levels, however, children and animals can become poisoned. They then get symptoms such as:

  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches

Bluewater water purifiers are highly effective at removing iron — see the product page for current performance specifications. 

Do Bluewater water purifiers remove iron from water?

Yes, Bluewater water purifiers are highly effective at removing iron molecules. However, it is important to identify the form of iron present in your water — Fe2 or Fe3 — to ensure the appropriate solution is selected. 

  • Fe2+ (ferrous iron): Our units generally handle up to 1.5 mg/l
  • Fe3+ (ferric iron): Our units generally handle up to 0.3 mg/l

If your iron levels exceed these limits, please contact Bluewater customer support to discuss the right solution for your water quality.