Three Types of Water & Why They Matter To Your Health
Water damage can be merely unfortunate, or it can be a tragic destruction of property. It’s tempting to think that water damage is only a matter of how much water leaked into the property. However, there are other factors to consider, such as how long the flooding lasted, and what category of water was involved.
Water damage professionals categorize water based upon its relative purity. There are three categories of water, with category one being the cleanest, and category three the dirtiest. As you might suspect, the dirtier the water, the more dangerous it is to your health.
Category One Water
Category one water is relative safe, with no dangerous chemicals or contaminants. Generally, if the water is safe for you to drink, it is category one water. Water damage resulting from leaks of category one water typically come from potable water supply lines, sinks or tubs overflowing, or appliance water leaks.
Category Two Water
Category two water, sometimes called “grey water”, will cause discomfort or health issues if ingested, because it contains chemicals or other irritants. Examples of category two water are toilets containing urine, sump pump leaks, dishwasher leaks, or washing machine leaks. Each one of these leaks carry chemicals or microorganisms that can irritate the human body. These nutrients are also food for other dangerous microorganisms that can make your home unpleasant or unsafe to live in.
Category Three Water
Category three water, sometimes called “black water”, is the most dangerous, and the most disgusting. Category three water contains the most troublesome microorganisms, and can originate from various sources. Sewage line leaks, toilet backflows, and septic tank backups are the most dangerous of typical category three water leaks. However, sea water, river or lake water, or Category Two water that has been left stagnant is also classified as category three because of its inability to be ingested without danger.
Some leaks may be small, and cause only limited physical damage. But depending on the type of water, even small leaks can pose a health risk. This is why professional water damage services, like what Mold Removal Boston offers, are so valuable. You can get an expert evaluation of the extent of the damage, the risks it poses, and what treatment is required to return your home or business to a safe state.
If you’ve seen signs of water damage, contact Mold Removal Boston for an expert evaluation today. Call us at (617) 607-3398, or submit a request for service online.
