Comparative Analysis of Bacteria Inactivation Potency of Various Household Water Treatment Chemicals

ABSTRACT
Ensuring safe drinking water is essential for preventing waterborne diseases, particularly in areas with limited access to centralized treatment facilities. This study conducted a comparative analysis of the bacterial inactivation potency of two chlorine-based household water treatment chemicals, WaterGuard and WaterCare, to assess their effectiveness against common waterborne pathogens. Data collection involved market surveys, online research, and manufacturer information to examine the chemical composition, recommended dosage, shelf life, and regulatory approvals of various household water treatment chemicals. Following this, water samples were collected from tap and tank sources, and microbial analysis was performed to detect the presence of Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella spp., and Enterobacter spp. The efficacy of WaterGuard and WaterCare was tested by varying their dosages and observing bacterial inactivation rates. The results revealed minimal variations in effectiveness between the two chlorine-based disinfectants, demonstrating that both chemicals performed similarly in eliminating the target microorganisms. These findings suggest that chlorine-based water treatment chemicals provide reliable bacterial inactivation regardless of minor differences in formulation. The study contributes to public health by offering insights into the efficacy of household water disinfectants and guiding informed decision-making for water treatment practices.