How to Remove Benzene From Aquatic Ecosystems

Exposure to benzene can cause respiratory, neurological and reproductive disorders, as well as cancer. It is an important industrial solvent, but exposure can also come from tobacco smoke, auto exhaust and gas station fumes. In the home, exposure can come from exposure to paints, glues, detergents and furniture waxes. Keeping aquatic ecosystems and public drinking water clear of benzene is important to all animals that depend on or live in that water. Large systems are protected through the use of activated charcoal filters run through a packed tower aeration system. For home use, any of a variety of activated charcoal filters will meet your needs.

Things You'll Need

• Granular activated carbon or charcoal filter
• Home tool box set

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Instructions

• 1

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the activated carbon filter to your plumbing. You can find such filters at hardware stores and from companies that specialize in water purification. Filters can be as simple as a free-standing cylinder through which you pour your drinking water, to a high-volume system you can mount to the entry point from which your water enters your home from a well. A simple filter that screws onto the end of your faucet is a common type that is often used when people have well water.

• 2

  Filter all water you use in an aquarium or fish tank through the activated charcoal filter before adding it to the tank. Faucet-mounted filters can usually be activated specifically for when you draw water for drinking and cooking and left dormant when you draw water for purposes other than consumption. This helps you extend the useful life of the filter.

• 3

  Check the filter regularly, according to manufacturer's schedules, to make sure it is still working effectively. Filters have to be replaced over time as they become clogged or the carbon loses its effectiveness. If you have a free-standing or faucet-mounted filter, you will usually have to replace the entire unit. If you have attached a high-volume filter to your plumbing, you will be able to use replaceable canisters in the system.