According to MLive, more than 21,000 residents in the Battle Creek area were warned about contaminated drinking water in March 2025. Per a press release shared on March 21, the city used additional disinfectants in the water treatment process to reduce bacteria stirred up during drilling.
However, introducing additional disinfectants had an unintended consequence: the formation of dangerous chemical byproducts known as total trihalomethanes (TTHMs).
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, TTHMs are a group of 4 toxic byproducts formed when disinfectants, like chlorine, interact with decaying plant matter, algae, and organic debris in the water.
Over time, TTHM exposure can damage the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. TTHM exposure can also increase the risk of cancer. The EPA’s legal limit for TTHMs in drinking water is 80 parts per billion (ppb). However, water samples in affected areas reached well beyond federal limits.
City governments claim these elevated TTHM levels are not health emergencies. However, long-term TTHM exposure is a serious concern, especially for infants, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems.
How Reverse Osmosis Systems Protect Your Family from Michigan Water Contamination
When public water systems fail to deliver safe drinking water, a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system can serve as an additional line of defense. Kohley’s RO systems effectively remove TTHMs from your drinking water. They also remove other harmful contaminants, including:
- Chlorine
- Lead
- Sodium hydroxide
- Nitrates
- Dissolved solids
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Heavy metals and micro-contaminants missed by standard filters
Removing these contaminants is particularly important for protecting babies and the elderly. Aside from making your water safer for consumption, a RO filter will also improve the taste, smell, and clarity of your water. Click here to learn how reverse osmosis systems from Kohley’s deliver home water purification in Muskegon, Rockford, Holland, and the surrounding areas throughout Michigan.
Kohley’s Reverse Osmosis Solutions: Trusted Since 1969
At Kohley’s Superior Water, we’ve spent over 50 years helping Michigan families enjoy clean, healthy water. Our advanced RO systems are designed for efficiency, durability, and performance. We also offer professional installation and maintenance, so you’ll never have to wonder if your system is working properly.
Whether you’re looking for a solution to water contamination in Muskegon, Rockford, Holland, or the surrounding area throughout Michigan, Kohley’s is your partner for long-term water quality.
Schedule a Free In-Home Water Test Today
Municipal water treatment errors are rare. However, they do happen. It’s in your best interest to be proactive and install a filtration system to protect your water supply from incidents like this.
Call Kohley’s Superior Water today to schedule a free in-home water test or learn more about how a reverse osmosis system can protect you and your family.
