Austin Algae Woes: Is Tap Copper Ruining Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine finally ditching the razor and embracing the freedom of smooth, hair-free skin, all from the comfort of your Austin bungalow. But what if your at-home laser hair removal device isn’t delivering the promised results? Or worse, what if you’re worried about potential risks? The culprit might be lurking in your tap water: copper. Austin’s aging infrastructure, particularly in older neighborhoods like Hyde Park or Travis Heights, can leach copper into the water supply. This isn’t just about a metallic taste; it could be interfering with your laser treatments.
This guide is for Austin residents who are serious about getting the most out of their at-home laser hair removal devices. We’ll dive deep into how copper contamination can affect your treatments, how to test your water, and, most importantly, how to fix the problem. Forget generic advice; we’re talking actionable steps you can take right now, using products readily available at your local Home Depot or Lowe’s.
First, let’s understand the problem. Copper, while essential in trace amounts, becomes a contaminant at higher concentrations. Austin Water monitors copper levels, and their reports are publicly available. However, these reports reflect city-wide averages, not necessarily the water quality at your specific address. The age of your pipes, the distance from the treatment plant, and even recent construction in your area can all impact copper levels.
So, how does this affect laser hair removal? While there’s limited direct research on the interaction between copper and laser hair removal, we can infer potential issues. Copper is a conductor of heat. Theoretically, elevated copper levels in your skin (absorbed through washing or showering) could increase the risk of burns during laser treatment. This is especially concerning for individuals with darker skin tones, who are already at a higher risk of hyperpigmentation from laser treatments.
More likely, however, is the impact on the device itself. Some at-home laser devices use deionized water for cooling. If you’re using Austin tap water, even if it appears clear, the copper can corrode the internal components of the device over time, reducing its lifespan and potentially affecting its performance. This could lead to less effective treatments, requiring more sessions to achieve the desired results.
Now, let’s get practical. How do you know if you have a copper problem? The first step is to check Austin Water’s annual water quality report. You can find this on their website. Look for the section on “Lead and Copper Rule.” This will give you an idea of the city-wide average, but remember, your situation could be different.
Next, consider a DIY water test. You can purchase a copper testing kit at most hardware stores in Austin, like the Home Depot on Ben White Boulevard or Lowe’s on North Lamar. These kits typically involve collecting a water sample and using a reagent to detect the presence of copper. Follow the instructions carefully. A reading above 1.3 parts per million (ppm) is considered above the EPA’s action level.
However, DIY kits aren’t always the most accurate. For a more precise reading, consider sending a sample to a certified laboratory. Several labs in the Austin area offer water testing services. A quick Google search for “water testing Austin” will provide you with options. This is especially important if you have reason to suspect high copper levels, such as blue-green staining in your sinks or tubs.
Okay, you’ve tested your water and found elevated copper levels. What now? The solution is filtration. The good news is that effective copper filters are readily available.
Here are a few options, readily available at Austin hardware stores:
Pitcher Filters: These are the most affordable option, but they’re best suited for small amounts of water, like the water you use to clean your laser device. Look for a pitcher filter specifically designed to remove heavy metals, including copper. Brita and PUR are common brands.
Faucet Filters: These attach directly to your faucet and provide filtered water on demand. They’re a good option for filtering the water you use to wash your face before and after laser treatments. Again, make sure the filter is certified to remove copper.
Whole-House Filters: This is the most comprehensive solution, filtering all the water entering your home. While more expensive to install, it protects all your appliances and ensures that all the water you use is free of copper. Look for a filter that uses activated carbon or KDF media to remove copper. You can find these at plumbing supply stores in Austin, like Ferguson or Winnelson.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: RO systems are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including copper. They’re typically installed under the sink and provide filtered water through a separate faucet. While more expensive than other options, they offer the highest level of filtration.
When choosing a filter, pay attention to its certification. Look for filters certified by NSF International to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for the reduction of copper. This ensures that the filter has been independently tested and verified to remove copper effectively.
Installation is usually straightforward, especially for pitcher and faucet filters. Whole-house filters and RO systems may require professional installation, which will add to the overall cost.
Now, let’s address some common pitfalls. One mistake people make is assuming that a water softener will remove copper. Water softeners primarily remove calcium and magnesium, the minerals that cause hard water. They don’t typically remove copper.
Another common mistake is neglecting to replace filter cartridges regularly. The effectiveness of a filter decreases over time as it becomes saturated with contaminants. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement.
Finally, don’t ignore the potential for lead contamination. While we’re focusing on copper, lead is another concern in older homes with lead pipes or lead solder. If you’re testing for copper, it’s a good idea to test for lead as well.
In conclusion, if you’re an Austin resident using an at-home laser hair removal device, it’s worth investigating your tap water for copper contamination. Elevated copper levels could potentially interfere with your treatments and damage your device. By testing your water and implementing appropriate filtration solutions, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your laser treatments and protecting your investment. Don’t just assume your water is safe; take proactive steps to ensure its quality. Your skin (and your laser device) will thank you.