Bromate

Combined Bromate Contamination in Drinking Water Around Tampa Bay, Florida

Combined bromate is a chemical that can contaminate drinking water supplies. It forms when ozone used for disinfection reacts with naturally occurring bromide in source water. Exposure to high levels of bromate has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Understanding where bromate may be found, the health risks, and water treatment solutions is important for residents of Tampa Bay.

Presence of Bromate in Drinking Water

The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level of 10 ppb for bromate in drinking water. Bromate contamination is a concern for utilities using ozone disinfection that draw from surface water sources or groundwater under the influence of surface water with elevated bromide levels.

Analysis shows that bromate is present at detectable levels in drinking water supplied to residents throughout the Tampa Bay region. Based on available data from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the following areas have confirmed bromate contamination in public water systems:

Hillsborough County

Apollo Beach
Brandon
Carrollwood
Cheval
Dover
FishHawk
Gibsonton
Lake Magdalene
Lutz
Mango
Progress Village
Riverview
Ruskin
Seffner
Sun City Center
Tampa
Temple Terrace
Thonotosassa
Town 'n' Country
Wimauma

Pinellas County

Belleair
Clearwater
Dunedin
Gulfport
Indian Rocks Beach
Indian Shores
Kenneth City
Largo
Madeira Beach
Oldsmar
Pinellas Park
Redington Beach
Redington Shores
Safety Harbor
St. Pete Beach
St. Petersburg
Tarpon Springs
Tierra Verde
Treasure Island

Polk County

Auburndale
Lake Alfred
Lake Wales
Winter Haven

Pasco County

Bayonet Point
Hudson
Hudson Beach
New Port Richey
New Port Richey East
Odessa
Port Richey
San Antonio

Is Bromate a Health Concern?

The EPA classifies bromate as a possible human carcinogen based on animal studies. Studies exposing rats to high levels of bromate showed increased incidence of cancerous tumors.

While more research is needed, the cancer risk from bromate is considered low at the maximum contaminant level of 10 ppb set by the EPA. However, utilities work to limit formation during disinfection. Residents may consider home water treatment for additional peace of mind.

Sensitive populations like children and those with compromised immune systems may be at higher risk from bromate and other water contaminants. Properly treating water can provide an extra layer of protection for at-risk individuals.

Water Treatment Solutions for Bromate Removal

Several water treatment systems are effective at removing bromate from drinking water. The best options for homes and businesses in the Tampa Bay area include:

The AquaLux Water Softener uses ion exchange resin to remove bromate and other contaminants while also preventing scale buildup from hard water.

The AquaCarbonGuard Catalytic Carbon Filter combines carbon filtration with a catalytic process to reduce chlorine, bromate, pesticides,VOCs, bad taste and odors.

The AquaBlue Whole House Filter System provides multi-stage filtration to remove a broad range of contaminants including bromate.

The AquaGuard UV SYSTEM uses ultraviolet light disinfection while avoiding bromate formation associated with chemical disinfectants like chlorine and ozone.

For municipal systems or commercial properties, a Retention Tank + Chlorine Injection System allows time for ozone to break down so less bromate forms before distribution.

The HydroClear Ozone Generator can be paired with filtration to remove contaminants and utilize ozone's strong disinfection ability without increased bromate production.

The AquaRevive Reverse Osmosis System provides premium filtration using a membrane to remove dissolved contaminants like bromate.

Larger commercial facilities can benefit from the HydroTech Pro Commercial Water Treatment Systems tailored to handle specific contaminant issues.

Well owners concerned about bromate contamination entering groundwater can look into the WellFusion Well Water Treatment Systems for whole home protection.

Proper water testing is recommended to identify if bromate is present and at what levels. This allows selection of the most appropriate treatment solution. Learn more about the Floridan Aquifer system and effects of contaminants on health.

Take Action for Cleaner Water

Concerned about potential bromate contamination or other water quality issues? Schedule a FREE water test from Aqua-Wise to start assessing your water. Custom water treatment solutions are available to address specific problems identified. Ongoing maintenance plans and financing options are available to make clean water accessible. Contact Aqua-Wise at 727-236-7161 to learn more and get started improving your water today.