Evaluación de la calidad física, química y microbiológica del agua para consumo humano de la Junta de Agua Potable de la Parroquia Benitez, Cantón Pelileo, Provincia de Tungurahua

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the physical-chemical quality and microbiology of water for human consumption provided by the drinking water management board of the Benítez parish, Pelileo canton, Tungurahua province. Three samplings were carried out; thirty samples were obtained from different vital points such as the source, reception tanks, storage tanks, distribution tanks and some homes in the parish. Sampling was done following the provisions of INEN 2176:2013. Water. Water quality. Sampling. Sampling techniques. Standard methods were used for the analysis of water, wastewater and the Hach method. The physical parameters of pH, turbidity, conductivity, and total dissolved solids were considered, giving favourable results because they all remained below and within the maximum limit allowed by INEN 1108:2014. Drinking water. Requirements. The values of chemical parameters such as nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, fluorine, ammonium, chloride, ammonium, and hardness were within the regulations. However, it was found that the fluoride concentration in the water was high, which can cause fluorosis and dental deterioration. This may be due to a deficiency in the coagulation-flocculation process in people who consume it constantly. It ended with the microbiological analysis using the membrane filtration method, where total and faecal coliforms were considered; the presence of total coliforms was found in the samples taken at the source since they did not have any purification process. It is concluded, according to the results obtained from each parameter, that the water of the Benítez parish is suitable for human consumption, and its purification process is adequate.