Most surface waters such as lakes and rivers will have distinct characteristics depending on the source of water that feeds them. The watershed or drainage basin surrounding the lake can have a very profound impact on the water quality of the lake. Lakes that are spring fed such as Skeleton lake have exceptionally high water quality while lakes that are fed by a watershed that is overpopulated by beavers will have water that is of poor quality. Overall the lakes in the Parry Sound / Muskoka area have exceptionally good water quality. When analyzed for heavy metals from aluminum to zinc, physical factors, volatile organics, herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides you will find that save and ecepting a little tubidity, colour and bacteria the overall water quality is better then most bottled water.

The system you choose to purify your lake water is dependant on the characteristics of your untreated lake water. Keep in mind that the characteristics of your lake will change throughout the season. In winter when ice covers your lake oxygen levels can drop to zero if there is no incoming source, such as a river with rapids or waterfalls to airate the water. Without oxygen your lake will go into an anerobic condition. Metals such as iron and manganese will become soluble, while sulphates will give up their oxyen and the water will have the stench of rotten eggs. These problems usually only occur on small swampy lakes. The best way to improve your lake water quality on small lakes is to install a dock deicer that will aerate the water over the winter. This will reverse the eutrophication or dying of your lake. Many lakes have been restored to vibrant health by aeration.

Don't be a fool and drink untreated surface water. Eventually you'll pay the price. You may not die. You might only be sick for a long, long time.

The Basics

Clear water lakes can use the simplest of water filter systems. To see if you have a clear water lake such as Lake Joeseph, Clear Lake, Whitefish Lake, or the out waters of Georgian bay simply fill a clean white five gallon pail with water. If it is clear without any yellow colouration, all you need is a basic system.

Systems for Clear water Lakes

Lake Water systems Single Tap

Lake Water System Basic Whole House

Lake Water Whole House System Four

Yellow water or tea lakes - Tannins or "Total Organic Carbon", impart a distinctive yellow or tea colour to the cold and hot water. (If you only have colour in the hot it is likely a problem with the hot water tank eg: rusting.) Tannins come from leaves and vegetation much like making a cup of tea. The type of decaying vegetation will determine the complexity of the tannins and the ease or difficulty of their removal. The filtration system that works on lakes like Manitouwabing, Penn Lake, or Fairy Lake will not work on Brandy lake, Vernon Lake, Fox Lake, or Harris Lake. This is because of the different types of vegitation and soils causing the tannins.

Tannins must be remove in order to make your ultraviolet light work properly. Tannins absorb UV light, refract and render it ineffective.

There are several systems that can be used on yellow or tea lakes. Call us to see which one is best for your situation. 1-800-461-9620

Systems for Tea Lakes

Lake Water System Two

Lake Water System Two Dual Filter

Swamps and bogs - We have installed many systems on swamps, bogs and muskeg lakes. Surprisingly enough they can produce some of the best tasting and crystal clear water. Each system is custom designed to the customers requirements.

Systems for swamps and bogs

Here is a picture of typical system.