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How To Compare Water Filters & Ensure You're Buying An Effective One

By David Cassell
Sep 16, 2009
Water is a necessity. We need it to live, the bathe and to swim in. In order for us to use water properly we need to make sure that it is filtered properly so that it is safe to use.

The steps that you take to filter the water vary, though. Each method makes the water safe at different levels. To compare water filters and find the one that can do the job effectively will save you time and money.

Activated Carbon Filter

Most water filtering systems are very easy to install and are not that expensive. If for example, you choose an activated carbon countertop or undercounter water filter, you'll have a device that can remove chlorine, VOCs, THMs from your tap water for a little over $100. If you are even a little handy with tools, you don't need a plumber to install these filters.

An activated carbon filter can last months for a family and replacement filters are inexpensive too. Another good thing about activated carbon filters is that they don't filter out the vital minerals in water that are essential for your body's function. This is where reverse osmosis systems fall short; they de-mineralize water which not only gives the water a flatter taste but robs you of vital minerals you'll normally receive from a glass of water

Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

This system works on the same basis as you learned in science class. Osmosis is the passage of a liquid with a low level of concentration, through a semi-permeable membrane, into a solution with a higher concentration.This process continues until the osmotic pressure on the two sides are equal.

RO filtration method is great at removing heavy methods but not effective at removing synthetic chemicals. A big drawback also is that this system wastes a lot of water.

Ultra Violet Filtration

This system use high frequency light to irradiate water with a glass element. When water passes through the element, it kills any living organisms. It is a great sterilizing system but not good at removing chemical contaminants. Also, for this device to work effectively, it needs to be coupled with a pre-filtering device that is capable of removing sediment.

Due Diligence

There are so many different types of water filtration systems that it can be hard to chose which is the best one to get. Do some research and see what filters work best.

One way compare water filters is to find out from the manufacturer the NSF rating for your water filter. That rating will tell you what contaminants the filter is capable of removing effectively and by extension what drinking water contaminants it can't remove.
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