Drinking Water Filter Systems, Drinking Water Safety

Sources of Water Pollution

There are 2 main sources for drinking water - ground water and surface water. Ground water is water that is obtained underground, such as a well. Surface water is water that is obtained from rivers, lakes, reservoirs, etc. Surface water pollution is generally caused by runoff or direct dumping of polluted substances into the body of water. Polluted water from storm drains and sewage treatment plant overflows contribute to surface water pollution.

Ground water pollution is caused by seepage of polluted material into the ground that reaches the water table. As you go deeper into the ground, more natural filtering is done. Wells have to be dug deep enough to draw water that is not polluted. In very polluted areas, this may not be feasible. Below is a graphic of the typical water aquifer and possible pollution sources.