Which Kind of Water Filtration System Is Best for a Modern Household?
Except for those lucky enough to get their water from a private well, homeowners will agree that some form of water filtration is an absolute necessity. Drinking straight from the tap, especially in a big city, is just a dubious prospect no matter how thoroughly the water suppliers treat and process the water to make it safe. Indeed, the additives they use to help purify the supply - chlorine is the most common one - can affect the taste and smell of the water.
Using a filtration device makes the water more pleasant to consume and adds another layer of protection from potential contaminants. But with so many options available, many homeowners are at a loss for which to choose. This article will look at the key differences between the three most popular systems used today.
Faucet Water Filters
Faucet water filters are essentially one step up from water pitcher filters, at least in the sense that they can provide a constant stream of filtered water and don’t take up extra space. These are inexpensive and easy-to-install devices that attach to the faucet, allowing the user to get filtered water straight from the tap. The user can also instantly switch back to unfiltered water if they wish, which helps extend the filter life.
The downside with faucet filters is that they only capture a limited range of waterborne substances. This includes large-particle pollutants like fine sand, silt, and some minerals. They can also filter out chlorine, which is a selling point for many.
Under-Sink Filter Systems
Next up are under-sink water filters, which are much larger and significantly more effective than faucet filters. These are installed underneath the faucet in the under-sink cubby. They use a similar filter material as faucet-mounted models, primarily made of activated carbon. But because the filter is larger, it takes water longer to pass through it, and so it absorbs a somewhat wider range of substances.
Some versions even feature two or three filters for maximum absorption, and some use a slightly different filtration method called reverse osmosis. Since under-sink filters are fairly inexpensive and remove a wider array of pollutants, they are a good mid-range option for those who want safer drinking water.
Whole-House Filtration Systems
Last but certainly not least are whole-house water filtration systems. For homeowners who want their water to be as clean and safe as possible, it’s hard to beat whole-home systems. Some models are more effective than others, but the best ones can remove a huge range of contaminants, including volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, bacteria, pesticides, and chlorine.
One major advantage of these systems is that they treat all the water in the house, not just the drinking water. This is especially helpful for sensitive skin that gets itchy or irritated when exposed to chlorine or minerals. Whole-home systems are considerably more expensive than the other filtration options, especially for the most effective models. But for homeowners who don’t want to take any chances when it comes to their water supply, it may be worth the investment.
About City Plumbing
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