Bacteria are everywhere; on surfaces, in the air, in the ocean, inside the human being, EVERYWHERE. It is a known fact that there are over 1,000,000,000,000 (a trillion) species of bacteria present here on earth. Bacteria can be classified into different kinds, all from the friendly to the deadly. One most “fun” fact about a bacterium cell is that it can multiply into more than a million bacteria cells- this is what I call having each other’s “bac” if you ask me.
Since bacteria are found almost everywhere, they can also be found in places and on things we least expect. For instance one of the most ignored places where you’re likely to find 2 times the total number of bacteria in your kitchen. Likewise, one of the most infiltrated appliances where you’re likely to find more bacteria than any other appliance is your refrigerator water dispenser.
Simply put, a refrigerator water dispenser is a combination of a refrigerator and a water dispenser ( perfect!). This appliance is one of the numerous must-have appliances in a home. At least 5 out of every ten homes in the USA have refrigerator water dispensers. Apart from the fact that it is fancy and makes the home( kitchen) look good, it is also a good source of pure and filtered water, It readily serves clean and chilled water whenever needed. It is, however, a place where some harmful bacteria call “home”. Unfortunately, only 1 out of every 5 is aware of the plausibly dangerous bacteria harbored by this machine. According to the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) germ study, one of the most contaminated surfaces in a home is the refrigerator water dispenser. Which bacteria can’t be seen with the eye.
Why Bacteria Can Be Found In A Refrigerator Water Dispenser
Below are a few reasons why we can find bacteria on and in a refrigerator water dispenser.
It is Natural: Naturally, surfaces contain a substantial amount of germs, hence it is actually impossible for a surface to be complete without germs.
Dirty Hands: Mostly, when we get thirsty, we are eager to quench our thirst. In the process, we can be sometimes careless in the way we touch or handle this machine. We almost too soon forget that our hands are one of the major ways through which germs(bacteria) can be passed.
Cleaning: According to statistics, 2 in every 5 families clean their refrigerator water dispenser and zero do so thoroughly. This means that most of the time, this machine goes uncleaned upon long-term use. This increases the number of bacteria that this machine is susceptible to by the day.
Bacteria Growth In Refrigerator Water Dispenser And Its Health Risk
Bacteria growth is formed by the existence of bacteria in colonies. The fact that they exist in colonies makes such growth visible to the eyes. As we pay less attention to cleaning this dispenser, bacteria finds its way into its water lines and spreads through to every other internal part. Most of the bacterial growth thrives in the parts that are most difficult to reach, this increases the rate of spread of contamination. The refrigerator water dispenser is a combination of different parts put together to make it work effectively, so it is wise to ensure that every part susceptible to cleaning is cleaned and disinfected accordingly.
Without a doubt, a refrigerator with a water filtration system is one of the coolest appliances yet, it can also pose a source of health risks. Over time the water filter is packed with unclogged bacteria. Eventually, the water dispenser becomes the most bacteria-ridden spot thereby causing contamination. After a certain period of use, we always change the filter, but the water dispenser remains unchanged as it’s not replaceable. Effects of consuming such water include; diarrhea, nausea, gastrointestinal problems, dysentery, typhoid, polio, and so on. In more severe cases it could lead to dehydration or even death. The importance of consistent and thorough cleaning of this machine cannot be over-emphasized. Regular cleaning of the water dispenser reduces its health risks and is sure to continually provide pure water for you and your family.
In conclusion
Water is life and we need water to survive as 70% of the human body is composed of water. As important as it is to take in water, it is equally important to make sure we are taking in clean water.
Truthfully, there is no approach to completely get rid of bacteria, but there are a few ways to reduce it and the dangers it can cause. This is done by cleaning the surfaces at all times and sanitizing the germ hotspots like refrigerator water dispensers regularly in the right way. Also, remember always to wash your hands (with soap of course) and maintain good personal and environmental hygiene.
