Heptachlor

Heptachlor is a white to tan organic solid with a camphor-like odor and waxy appearance. The human-made chemical is a substance sold as a white or tan powder in the market. When released into water systems, the contaminant may cause various health issues to the individual who consumes the drinking water.

The organochlorine compound is a popular insecticide used to control insects in homes and crop fields. It was an insecticide used formerly to eliminate termites, ants, and other insects found in agricultural fields.

Heptachlor in drinking water may cause liver and nervous system damages to individuals exposed for a short period. However, longer exposure or consumption of heptachlor-contaminated drinking water may result in a higher risk of acquiring cancer and extensive liver damage. Consumption and use of the contaminated drinking water must be discontinued to avoid these health risks.

You can detect the organochlorine compound in your water through the use of water samples in liquid-liquid extraction and gas chromatography. You can also hire an expert to get the water tested for you if you don’t want to do it yourself.

According to the EPA, granular activated carbon (GAC) in water filter systems can remove heptachlor to below the MCL. Since most of the water filter systems use granular activated carbon in their filter chambers, you can protect yourself or your family from heptachlor and other contaminants by installing a good water filtration unit.