Journal of Hydraulic Structures

Journal of Hydraulic Structures

Variation in Effluent Quality of Household Water Treatment Systems Over Time: A Case Study in Ahvaz

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Hossein Sasani 1
Seyedeh Tooba Mirsalari 1
Mohammad Azizipour 1
Neematollah jaafarzadeh 2
1 Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
2 Environmental Technologies Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
10.22055/jhs.2025.49748.1353
Abstract
In certain regions, increased salinity in surface water and the aging of urban water distribution networks have led many citizens to rely on household water purification systems. However, if the filters in these systems are not replaced on time, the quality of the treated water can deteriorate. This study evaluated the performance of three household water purifiers over a one-year period in Ahvaz, Iran. Parameters such as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, turbidity, and total coliforms were measured monthly at both the inlet and outlet of the systems. In addition, weekly visual inspections were conducted to monitor changes in the appearance of the first-stage filters. The results confirmed the absence of coliforms in all effluent samples. However, in the first month following the installation of the first filter, the turbidity of its output exceeded the acceptable limit. Notably, significant color change in the first filter occurred by the second month. Furthermore, it was observed that two years after membrane installation, regular monitoring of output TDS is essential. If the TDS exceeds permissible levels, membrane replacement is necessary. Additionally, when the membrane is new, the TDS of the treated water may drop below 50 mg/L, increasing the risk of acidification. In such cases, adjusting the pH through a mixing valve or replacing the sixth-stage filter is recommended to ensure water quality and safety.
Keywords
household water purifiers
TDS
Turbidity
pH
Coliforms
Subjects
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