Remove copper from shower water?

by Brigid Oram
(Los Altos, CA , USA)

Hi,

We have a whole house filtration and softener system already. However, hair is turning green. We have new copper pipes and I read that this can cause the problem.

I've read that kdf filter media actually adds copper to the water, but your site is saying it removes copper. Can you explain how? I'm desperate for a solution.

Thank You,
Brigid Oram

Response:

So sorry for the delayed response. Just had numerous things come up...

According to my research, the Aquasana shower filter has the best filtration media for copper removal, as well as other contaminants. It has natural coconut shell carbon and a KDF copper/zinc media which further reduces chlorine and enhances water pH balance.

The carbon allows the good minerals through, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. But it removes heavy metals like copper, lead and mercury.

From what I understand, the KDF media does not add more copper into the water, even though it contains copper. According to KDF Fluid Treatment:

"We can explain redox (oxidation reduction process) like this: KDF Fluid Treatment's unique combination of copper and zinc creates an electro-chemical reaction. During this reaction, electrons are transferred between molecules, and new elements are created. Some harmful contaminants are changed into harmless components. Free chlorine, for instance, is changed into benign, water-soluble chloride, which is then carried harmlessly through the water supply. Similarly, some heavy metals such as copper, lead, mercury and others, react to plate out onto the medium's surface, thus being effectively removed from the water supply."

You can read more here: How KDF Water Filter Media Works.

See our Shower Filter Reviews and Recommendations.