Phosphorous

GENERAL INFORMATION
Phosphorus is commonly found in soil, rocks and plants.  Phosphorus is an important fertilizer, but is also present in human and animal wastes, in sludges and in detergents. Phosphorus is relatively immobile in soil and will not reach groundwater except under certain conditions, such as transport from sewage treatment systems placed below the seasonal high water table and soils with low concentrations of iron, aluminum, and manganese.   

AESTHETIC ADVISORY
Phosphorous as nutrient can increase levels of bacterial and algal activity in water. Too much phosphorus in the water can cause algae to grow faster than ecosystems can handle creating an algal bloom. Phosphorous is also used extensively for water treatment.

Input units: 
mg/L
ppm
Contaminant group: 
Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Phosphorous levels were detected in your water sample. There is no health-based standard for phosphorous. If you have concerns about the levels detected, please consult your physician.

Typical range in Ohio: 
0.05 - 0.07
Major sources in drinking water: 
Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of earth materials
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS

  • Reverse Osmosis
Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS