Is the initial dark carbon water from a purifier safe to drink?

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SUMMARY

The initial dark carbon water produced by new activated carbon filters is not harmful to drink, as there are no reported medical issues associated with ingesting it. Users are advised to discard this dark water, which is a result of the carbon filter's activation process. The discussion clarifies that while ingesting activated charcoal is safe in specific contexts, the dark water from new filters should not be consumed. Concerns about potential health risks are unfounded, as the dark particles do not pose a hazard to normal stomach function.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of activated carbon filtration systems
  • Knowledge of the properties of activated charcoal
  • Familiarity with water purification processes
  • Basic awareness of health and safety guidelines regarding consumables
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the health effects of activated charcoal ingestion
  • Learn about the maintenance and replacement schedules for carbon filters
  • Investigate the differences between new and used activated carbon
  • Explore safety guidelines for water purification systems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for homeowners using water purifiers, health-conscious individuals, and anyone interested in the safety and maintenance of activated carbon filtration systems.

lucas_
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Please see attached pictures. Whenever we replace the right cartridge (with carbon filter) with new one (every 6 months). There are initial dark tint water from the carbon that fills a basin. Are the dark water safe? We throw the water of course. But there maybe those who didn't know or have ingested it (or traces of). What does the dark carbon particles do to the body?

water_purifier.jpg
dark_water.jpg
 
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Ingesting activated charcoal is recommended after accidental ingestion of specific toxins.
Is burnt toast is somewhat similar?
Curious myself about levels that may be high enough to interfere with normal stomach function.
 
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There is no ingestion hazard listed for new activated charcoal. Get the dust in your eyes or aspirate it , yes it is a problem. Ingest it, there is no known (no reported medical) problem. Contaminants refers to used activated charcoal, which can have all sorts of crud in it.

https://generalcarbon.com/activated-carbon/activated-carbon-msds/
This means: throw out the "black water" from your new filter if you do not like it, and stop worrying.
 
jim mcnamara said:
This means: throw out the "black water" from your new filter if you do not like it, and stop worrying.
Yep
 

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