Manganese in Water
What is Manganese?
Manganese is commonly found in soil. It is a tasteless, odorless, silver–colored metal that occurs naturally, often in combination with iron, oxygen, and sulfur.
Low levels of manganese are present in surface water and groundwater, often in groundwater with iron. The average amount of manganese in drinking water is 0.004 parts per million (4 parts per billion). Excess amounts enter water through human sources such as landfills and industrial runoff.
Health Effects of Manganese in Water
Manganese is a toxic essential trace element, but is essential at low levels for normal functioning of humans and animals.
Chronic exposure to high levels of manganese in water has been shown in some limited studies to cause lower intelligence and poor coordination in children.
Manganism can occur from the frequent inhalation of manganese. Symptoms include: psychological problems resembling dementia, diminished motor skills, tremors, weakness and speech difficulties. It is not known if manganism can occur from the frequent ingestion of water with elevated levels of manganese, as all studies have been limited and inconclusive.
EPA Regulation of Manganese in Water
US EPA Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (for aesthetic/cosmetic effects) in drinking water: 0.05 mg/L (50 parts per billion). Levels above this can cause black staining of laundry and plumbing, bitter taste of water.
Recommended Treatment Methods for Manganese in Water
As a general rule of thumb, you should have a Qualified Premier Water Technician perform a FREE WATER TEST to measure the level of manganese in your water. There may also be additional elements that require different or additional treatment methods to guarantee manganese removal.
The following solutions have been tested and approved for manganese removal: