Trace Contaminants

Trace Contaminants | Water Purification | Plumbing | Rutledge

From trace amounts of lead and copper that sneak in through aging pipes to the PFAS chemicals making headlines, even “clean” municipal water can carry hidden hazards. HEP’s licensed plumbers bring lab-grade testing right to your Rutledge tap, zeroing in on those microscopic threats and designing custom solutions that fit your family’s needs and budget. With our advanced filtration systems and point-of-entry conditioners, you’ll taste the difference immediately while gaining long-term protection for appliances, fixtures, and—most importantly—your health.

We handle every step of the water purification journey: precise sampling, transparent lab reports, tailored equipment installation, and ongoing maintenance so performance never slips. Backed by 24/7 emergency service and the area’s strongest warranties, HEP turns anxiety about unseen contaminants into confidence with every glass you pour.

FAQs

What are “trace contaminants” in Rutledge’s drinking water?

Trace contaminants are minute quantities of substances—such as lead, arsenic, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial by-products—that can enter Rutledge’s municipal or well water through aging pipes, agricultural runoff, and past industrial activity. While they are present at parts-per-billion or trillion levels, long-term exposure can pose health risks, making specialized water purification important.

How does your plumbing-based purification system remove these trace contaminants?

Our system combines multi-stage filtration and point-of-entry (POE) treatment. First, a sediment pre-filter removes rust, silt, and larger particles. Next, a catalytic carbon block adsorbs chlorine, VOCs, and many pesticides. We then use either NSF-certified lead-removal media or ion-exchange resin (for metals) and an optional reverse-osmosis membrane to target PFAS, nitrates, and pharmaceuticals. A final UV or advanced oxidation stage disinfects microbes without adding chemicals, ensuring broad-spectrum contaminant reduction right at the plumbing entry.

Is the purification system certified for safety and performance?

Yes. All critical components are independently tested and carry NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 58 certifications for contaminant reduction—including lead, arsenic, chlorine, PFAS, and pharmaceutical residue. The UV modules comply with NSF/ANSI 55 Class A or B (depending on model), and the entire assembled system is pressure-rated to meet the International Plumbing Code used in Tennessee, giving homeowners peace of mind.

Will the system affect my water pressure or taste?

Pressure drop is minimal—typically 4–6 psi across the whole system—because we size housings and membranes to match your home’s flow demand. Most homeowners don’t notice any change at faucets or showers. Taste usually improves, as chlorine, sulfur odors, and metallic flavors are removed. If you have specific aesthetic concerns (e.g., softened feel), we can fine-tune the post-filtration mineral cartridge to retain desired hardness.

How much maintenance is required after installation?

Routine maintenance is straightforward: replace the sediment pre-filter every 6–12 months, the carbon block annually, and the RO membrane every 2–3 years, depending on household usage and local water quality. UV lamps require yearly bulb replacement and quartz sleeve cleaning. We offer service plans that include scheduled cartridge swaps, performance checks, and water testing, so you don’t have to track dates yourself.

What does installation look like for a typical Rutledge home and how long does it take?

A standard POE installation usually takes one working day. Our licensed plumbers shut off the main line, mount the filtration manifold on a wall near your existing water heater or utility area, plumb the inlet/outlet connections with PEX or copper, and install a drain saddle if reverse osmosis is included. We pressure-test, sanitize, and flush the system before restoring service. You’ll receive a water-quality report and a walkthrough on filter changes and bypass procedures.