May 2014 Newsletter: Drinking Water

Most of us around Ballston Lake are on wells or take water directly from the lake for consumption. At the NYSFOLA meeting May 3rd the following recommendations were made by DEC as the best way to “treat” this water for safe consumption. These are recommendations only and you should have your water tested periodically to be sure your drinking water is as pure as you want and to be sure your “treatment “system is working properly. Water tests can be done by CNA on 27 Kent St. Ballston Spa. Call 884-0800 for information and costs. Best water treatment is done by:

1. Passing drinking water thru a 5 micron filter to remove sediment, particles, and algae.
2. Sterilizing the water with a chlorinator or a UV in line element. This kills bacteria and algae
that are still in the water after #1.
3. Filtering the water with an in line activated charcoal filter. When you “kill” the bacteria and
algae in #2, toxins and by products are released into the water. The charcoal filter removes
this residual unwanted material from the water and also improves the taste of the water.
4. Remember to follow all manufacturer’s instructions concerning filter life and when the filter
should be replaced. They do not last forever.