WaterAnswer.com

Action Workflow

Contaminant to Treatment Matrix

EPA treatability-inspired matrix linking common drinking water contaminants to practical household treatment approaches.

Utility and ZIP Triage

Start with system-level context before treatment.

NSF Certification Checker

Validate treatment claims before purchase.

Mail-In Water Testing

Confirm contaminant profile at tap level.

This matrix is inspired by EPA treatability logic and adapted for homeowner decisions.

Interactive treatment matcher

Treatment matrix

Contaminant Typical effective approach Notes
PFAS Reverse osmosis, high-quality activated carbon Verify certification and replacement schedule
Lead NSF 53/58 point-of-use filtration Also evaluate service lines/plumbing source
Nitrates Reverse osmosis or distillation Standard carbon is not sufficient
Arsenic RO or selective adsorptive media Speciation and pH can affect performance
Chromium-6 RO and selected adsorptive systems Verify claim scope for Cr(VI) specifically
THMs/VOCs Activated carbon Often tied to disinfection chemistry
Hardness Ion exchange softening Scale control, not contaminant removal for drinking risk
Bacteria Disinfection + source correction UV/chlorination plus well/system remediation

How to use this intelligently

  1. Identify likely contaminants from CCR, region profile, or well testing.
  2. Use matrix to shortlist mechanisms.
  3. Verify exact product certifications.
  4. Re-test water after installation to confirm performance.

Supporting references

Frequently Asked Questions

Can one treatment handle every contaminant?
Usually no. Different contaminant classes require different mechanisms. Multi-barrier setups are common when risk profile is mixed.
Should I trust this matrix without testing?
Use it to shortlist treatment options, then confirm with utility data and tap-level testing.