Learn About Water

Iron (Fe)

Similar to hardness, iron in the water can also have a detrimental effect on water processing equipment. Levels exceeding 0.1 mg/l should be treated. In addition to removing hardness, a water softener can also serve the function of removing iron. It is important when using a softener for the removal of these contaminants to minimize the oxidation potential in the water. This means keeping as little air from contacting the water as possible. If oxidizers are introduced into the stream, the iron will precipitate, making for an unfavorable environment for the ion exchange process to take place. If oxidation is significant then the recommended treatment method would be to use a filter system. In order to remove precipitated iron, a filter with at least a 5 micron rating is required.