Total Organic Carbon in Surfside Florida Water

Unhealthy Levels of Total Organic Carbon in the Water Supply of Surfside Florida Homes

Total organic carbon is a general measurement of carbon-based material dissolved in water. In Surfside this material can originate from natural sources like decaying vegetation, algal material and soil runoff, or from trace organic compounds that enter the source supply. It often doesn’t give water an obvious appearance change, but elevated organic loading can make treatment more difficult and sometimes contributes to color, unpleasant odors, or an off taste. For homeowners, TOC is a helpful gauge of overall organic content in the water reaching your plumbing and appliances.

You may also see total organic carbon referred to as dissolved organic carbon, since much of it is in solution rather than visible particles. Even when Surfside water looks clear, dissolved organics can react with disinfectants such as chlorine and increase a chemical or “pool-like” smell or flavor. Those organics can also encourage slimy buildup inside faucets and fixtures where water sits, a concern in our hot, humid climate. That’s why many local homeowners choose whole-house solutions that treat organics before they reach every tap and showerhead.