What are your water filter options?

There are a few factors to consider when choosing a water filtration system. People should consider a water filter / purification system that meets the quality standards implemented by the EPA and meets their particular needs. Not all systems can remove all contaminants. If you have a problem with a particular contaminant, such as bacteria or radon, it is best to opt for a water filter system that knows how to remove that contaminant from your supply.

There are two types of water purification systems: point of use (POU), in which the water is filtered at the tap where it is attached and point of entry (POE), in which it is filtered when it enters the house to have purified water. on all taps. The latter can sometimes include a filter that traps contaminants such as microbes and chemicals found in the water or removes the contaminants in other ways.

Point of Entry Water Filters come with:

• Water softeners

These devices correct the hardness of the water through an exchange system. The calcium and magnesium that are present in tap water can make it hard. Using sodium or potassium ions, this filter replaces calcium and magnesium ions to soften the water.

• Aerators

This system uses jets of air to remove some chemicals, including radon and chemicals in gasoline.

• Water filtration media or adsorbents

These are usually carbon-based filter systems that capture solids and liquids in the filter.

Point of use water filter comes with

• Stills

These devices work by boiling water and then removing the steam that contains the contaminants. While this process removes many of the minerals often found in tap water, it can change its taste.

• Reverse osmosis units

These devices filter water through a membrane, using pressure to remove chemicals and microbes. Although this system uses a lot of water, it removes all chemicals and microbes that cause disease. This makes it a very effective purification method.

• Jugs of filtered water

Systems like this include a replaceable filter (valid for 3 months) that captures chemicals and other contaminants. First, the jug is filled with tap water and then flows through the filter. This affordable, easy-to-use system can enhance the taste of tap water.

Water filter options

Those who aren’t ready to install a purification system can choose other ways to address some, if not all, of their drinking water problems, even if they don’t have a filter.

• When turning on the water after a couple of hours, they should run the cold water for several minutes to remove any remaining lead.

• They should then boil the water for 1 to 3 minutes, cool the water, and then place it in a clean jug before putting it in the refrigerator. This will kill microbes such as cryptosporidium.

• They can also put tap water into a pitcher or other container and then refrigerate it to help improve the taste of water that has too much chlorine.

When water safety is a concern, people can take steps to improve the quality of the water in a home so they feel comfortable knowing that the water is safe to drink. As soon as they determine the problems to be solved, they can decide on the system that is best for them to improve water quality.