Types of House Water Filters

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No two water systems are the same and many people are extremely concerned about the quality of their drinking water. There are many contaminants found in local water systems, from simple things like calcium and magnesium, which leaves hard water residue and limescale on everything it touches. There are also minerals like iron, which leaves a rust residue on your sinks, and clothing and sulfur which makes your whole house smell like rotten eggs.

Besides, these simple minerals more dangerous contaminants are sometimes found. These dangerous contaminants are things like lead and arsenic which pose a danger to you and your family's health. There are some times things like bacteria, viruses and cysts which also pose a serious health risk and must be eliminated to insure your drinking safe water.

With all these contaminants and chemicals found in our drinking water how do I know exactly what is in my home water supply? The answer to that question is quite easy as there are two ways to find out.

First, the FDA requires that your local water supply facility provides a annual Consumer Confidence Report which details exactly what is in the water that it supplies. You can get a copy from your local government agency or they can provide details on how you can obtain the annual report.

The second way is to have your water tested yourself. You can get a list of locally certified testing labs that can test your water and provide a detailed report as to what it contains. Make sure you use a certified lab, as there are many water softener companies on the market that are eager to sell you their equipment, irregardless as to what is in your water. Get your water tested ONLY from a certified lab to obtain accurate information.

Now that you know what is in your water what kind of filter do you need. There are many choices, styles and prices ranges on the market from whole house water filtration systems to units that are site specific in your home.. Check the features and specifications and with a little research you will be able to find just the right model to suit your needs. Here is a sample of the site specific types of filters available.

Water Pitchers

These models allow you to run your tap water into a canister in the pitcher that has granulated carbon filters. They absorb and block any sediment that is in your water. These filters are replaceable and depending on the quality of your water, need to be changed on a regular basis. Most models have a gauge that alerts you to when the filter needs changing. Water pitchers are best used for reducing chlorine, fluoride, calcium and magnesium for your water.

Faucet Mounted Filters

These filters have the same filter through cartridges and easily attach to the end of your faucet. These filters are best used to improve the taste and smell of your water but often do not remove the most harmful of contaminants. Like the filters in the pitchers above, depending on usage, the filters need to be replaced every 6 to 9 weeks. Because they are attached to the end of the faucet they often also slow down the amount and pressure of the water coming through the tap.

Counter Top Filters

There are hundreds of these types of filters on the market. They are made to fit the standardized cartridges used in the above two units. They are more customized so you can adjust the filters for specific water conditions and to purchase canisters from different manufacturers to get the one that works best for you. Some of these higher end units do block lead, arsenic, cysts and bacteria. These may be one your best bets if you have serious concerns with the quality of your water.

Under the Sink Filters

These are very similar to the counter top models except they are stored under the sink in the cabinet below. The units come in one or two stage models and will reduce the minor chemical and like the counter top models do have some models that block the lead, arsenic, bacteria and cysts.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

These filters work with a thin synthetic membrane with pores large enough to allow passage of water molecules but too small for larger molecules. Water pressure forces molecules through the membrane and leaves the larger molecules of contaminants behind. This is a slow process because the water must pass through the small pores of the membrane. For every one gallon of extracted 3 to 10 gallons are drained away. The rate of clean water produced is dependent on water pressure. The higher the pressure the greater the amount of clean water produced.

Reverse osmosis filters have an advantage over other filters because they remove a wider variety of pollutants. They can remove 80 to 90 percent of most toxic minerals but they can not remove radon or chlorine.

Reverse osmosis filters come in faucet models, counter top models, and under the sink models and do not require electricity.

Ultraviolet Filters

These filters are mainly used to kill bacteria and viruses. They are specialized units and do not remove a wide variety of other pollutants. They are also used when there are outbreaks of disease an illness infected areas.

 When choosing a water filter, take your time and carefully compare features and specifications and read all fine print.  Pay close attention to what is not said as well what is covered.  If the specs do not indicate a certain chemical, pollutant or bacteria is removed it probably isn't.

There are many options available and by careful consideration you will be able to find the best filter for your home water supply.