Abstract: An apparatus for removing mineral contaminants from water is disclosed which has an aeration tank connected to a supply of water and having an inlet for admitting the water to the aeration tank and an outlet for discharging water. A diffuser is connected to the aeration tank inlet and has a plurality of apertures which permit the diffusion of the contaminated water into an airhead within the aeration tank. A source of compressed oxygen is in direct communication with the top of the aeration tank. A controller controls the source of compressed air to permit oxygen to be supplied independently of the water supply to the interior of the aeration tank for recharging the aeration tank with oxygen. A bed of calcium carbonate chips may be positioned inside the aeration tank beneath the spray of contaminated water. A pick-up tube has an open end located above the bed of calcium carbonate chips and is connected to the outlet of the aeration tank.