Why Boise utilities still dose with chlorine
City systems disinfect groundwater and Boise River sources with chlorine or its longer‑lasting cousin, chloramine, to kill microbes during distribution. The approach is effective, but recent water‑quality guides for Boise list “Chlorine/Chloramines” as prominent additives that can reach irritating levels (HomeWater).
What you notice first: taste, smell, and dry skin
Even trace parts per million give tap water a “pool” flavor. In hot showers chlorine volatilizes, irritating eyes and stripping natural oils so hair feels brittle and skin feels tight. Aquarium owners must treat every gallon because chloramine is deadly to fish gills.
The part you can’t see: disinfection by‑products (DBPs)
When chlorine meets natural organic matter, it forms chemicals such as Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs). Independent testing shows Boise’s 2023 TTHM levels exceeded the most protective health guidelines, though they remained within federal legal limits (Epic Water Filters USA). The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality warns that DBPs carry potential cancer, reproductive, and developmental risks (Idaho DEQ).
Why ordinary softeners won’t help
Salt softeners swap minerals; they do not touch chlorine, chloramine, or DBPs. Typical fridge filters have too little carbon to handle an entire household’s flow and clog quickly.
How AquaKlear’s catalytic‑carbon stage solves the problem
- Rapid chlorine & chloramine removal with high‑mesh catalytic coconut carbon verified to cut residuals below sensory thresholds.
- DBP adsorption before the compounds ever leave the faucet.
- Whole‑home protection so showers, laundry, and drinking taps all benefit—not just one pitcher.
- Appliance longevity because rubbers and plastics no longer degrade in chlorinated water.
Results Idaho families are reporting
Meridian homeowners see the chlorine smell disappear within 48 hours of installation, and eczema flare‑ups linked to shower irritation subside. Breweries using filtered water note brighter hop aroma in test batches, proving taste gains extend beyond the dinner table.
Your next step
Book a free in‑home water test. AquaKlear will measure your exact chlorine residual and present a custom filtration plan you can taste and feel in a single week.