The quality of water used in your homes is becoming more and more suspect of contaminants such as chromium, lead, chlorine, fluoride, microbes, and bad odor. Across the nation, newspapers are discussing and reporting about water quality problems related to human health. There are many types of filters and dispensers for sale that vary as much in what they filter as they do in appearance and price. Replacement filters must be understood as well to determine length of use and long term cost.
Different filters offer different methods of filtration and will vary in function. For example, many filters will remove chlorine and bad odors, while not removing lead or other heavy metals such as chromium, or other organic compounds or bacteria. The general and primary concerns seem to focus on removal of chlorine, odors, lead, and microbes. However, other materials may need to be considered due to local industry or geology.
Most consumers are interested in a quality product that does what is expected for a fair price, and is fairly simple to install. Before discussing the pros and cons of a brand of filter system, it is important to know what type of filter is used in the system to make sure it will perform as you expect.
There are many types of systems on the market and here are a few categories to choose from with some pros and cons to help you decide.
1. Filter pitchers - these filters are simple to use, and often use activated granular carbon to attract and remove contaminants. However, keep in mind that all activated carbon filters are not all equal, so read about what they are certified to remove through certifiers like NSF International. In general filter pitchers will help remove smell and taste and many will remove chlorine. The hardest thing is to determine when it is time to change the filter. Depending on the brand, some of these will also remove lead. These systems are least costly, however, replacing filters can be costly and knowing when to replace can be hard to determine.
2. Countertop filters - these types of filters usually attach to the sink aerator and can filter larger amounts of water much faster than filter pitchers. They are generally more expensive than filter pitchers; however, a wide variety of filters are offered to suite your needs. The filter itself is usually larger and will last longer depending on use. They are fairly easy to install, however the hose leading to the faucet can get in the way and some people do not like the appearance. These units can remove lead, chlorine, odor, bad taste, and many more specific filters are available, depending on what needs to be removed.
3. Faucet-mounted filters - these filters use the same filtration as countertop and pitcher filters, but mounts directly to the tap in place of the aerator. They can filter water faster than a pitcher, but tend to be bulky, cumbersome, and can clutter up the sink area. The size of the filter may also dictate that you change it more frequently.
4. Under counter filters - For those who want to filter large amounts of water fast, this may be the filter system for you. It has the same benefits as the countertop filter that attaches to the faucet. It offers a wide variety of filter types and sizes. The main canister is hidden under the sink with a dispenser attached to the back of the sink. The dispenser for faucet is offered in a variety of styles and quality changes with price. The cost may vary considerable depending on the type and/or quality of the system. This type of filter may or may not require some professional plumbing. The types of materials removed is similar to the counter top filter
5. Distillers - this type of water cleaning system boils water, turning it into a vapor and collecting it as it condenses back into pure water. This is a great system for removing contaminants; however it also removes all the water's natural minerals which can leave the water tasting flat. These systems tend to be 2 to 3 times more expensive than over or under the counter filtration systems. And, with distillation some chemicals may vaporize and condense back into the system.
6. Reverse osmosis - these units can be installed almost anywhere on the water system, including under the sink. Water is forced through a semi permeable membrane that leaves impurities behind. Very clean water can be expected, however the process can create as much or more wastewater as the clean water produced. These systems can be expensive to buy and maintain. The benefit is that they can remove a large number of disease causing organisms, and most chemical contaminants, including heavy metals.
Whether you are considering filtration for the kitchen sink, refrigerator ice and water dispenser, bath and shower, or possibly a complete system for the entire home, there are a large number of filters and dispensers available. At the very least consider buying a quality filter and dispenser for your drinking and cooking water. You can never go wrong with a carbon block filter which provides a relatively long life before needing to be replaced. These filters will reduce chlorine, bad taste and odors, volatile organic compounds, and other pesticides and herbicides. By doing a little research today, you may begin to change your internal world forever.
| Price : $79.95
