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.

What level is acceptable?

The regulated levels will always shift between different countries and decision makers. In Sweden, the Swedish EPA gives a water remark at levels above 0,5 mg/l. 

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

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

Do Bluewater machines remove iron?

Yes, Bluewater removes over 99% of iron molecules! However, you need to know what form of iron you want to remove; is it Fe2 or Fe3? 

• Fe2: Our units generally have a limit of 1.5 mg/l 
• Fe3: Our units generally have a limit of 0.3 mg/l