Water is a basic necessity that has major health benefits. But these days, due to the greater use of various chemicals and compounds both industrially, domestically and in agriculture, water supplies are at increasing risk of contamination. Studies continue to come forward demonstrating how chemicals, pathogens, and heavy metals have become mixed into crucial water supplies. All of this makes it essential to have a high-quality water filter installed in our homes.
Despite the importance of clean drinking water, people are still making mistakes when it comes to choosing a water filter for their home. Before a decision can be made, thorough research needs to be done to ensure you’re buying the filter that’s best for your circumstances.
What to look for in your water filter?
Types of water filters
Once you’ve analyzed your needs, it’s time to find out the different types of water purification filters available. It is essential to check which kind of water filter will fit with your home. For example, houses with limited space might prioritize a faucet-mounted or refrigerator filter, while a whole house filter could be installed if there are no restrictions on the space available in the home.
In terms of installation, there are under-sink models that are installed under every sink in the home, and also countertop models available too. The countertops models are generally easier to install, as the under-sink models will need to be plumbed in.
At the time of purchase, it’s essential to check out if the filter system you’ve purchased has the capabilities you’ll need. There are different technologies and methods available to purify water. For example, if multiple pollutants need to be removed, the best option to choose is activated carbon filters. What’s excellent about this option is that these filters are incredibly easy to find.
On the other hand, if your home has a bad case of hard water, the best type of filter you can install is a reverse osmosis filter. Studies have shown that people tend not to prefer this type of water filter only because they waste a significant amount of water in the filtration process.
National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Certification
When making your water filter purchase, it is essential to make sure that the product you’re thinking of buying has the NSF certificate. The presence of this certification serves to ensure that the specific contaminants monitored by the NSF will be removed. Furthermore, these tend to serve as a guarantee that the water filter will work according to the manufacturer’s claims.
So whenever you are doubtful about any particular brand, find out if their water filter has the NSF certification.
Budget and scams
No matter what you’re buying, your budget will always play a vital role. When it comes to buying a water filter, it can be a significant consideration. If you spend a lot of money on a high-quality water filter, remember there will also be a need to maintain it. Remember to budget for maintenance as well as the upfront purchase.
As the competition in this market is huge, one needs to be careful about scams as well. Some companies make false promises about their product, and when you skimp on price, you may get poor quality too. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. A lot of these scams appear in push-selling tactics from doorstep sales. Although larger, more reputable companies also sometimes make dubious claims, at least they do not disturb you constantly without your permission.
“Do you know; water filters waste more water than they purify”
In terms of maintenance, there are two aspects of a water filter you’ll need to give particular attention to.
Filtration rate
Filtration rate refers to the amount of water a water filter can produce regularly. A large number of studies have shown that a majority of people do not care about the filtration rate. A wise buyer would never make such a mistake. For example, say your typical home water consumption is greater than what the water filter can provide – in this instance, this particular water filter would not be a good choice.
Water filter cartridges
Water filters work with cartridges. When looking to buy one, it is essential to consider the number of cartridges a water filter uses. Some water filters only need one, others may use two. It is also essential to consider how long a cartridge will last so that you’ll know how frequently you need to replace them.
In addition, when it comes to health, it is essential to understand what is good and what isn’t. Prior to purchasing a water filter, finding out and understanding your needs regarding quality drinking water is a must. Normally, water filters serve to remove some of the contaminants in the water.
Therefore, it’s essential to check which contaminants the filter can remove and which it can’t. Also, keep in mind your water usage. Let’s say you need filtered water for every purpose, you’ll need a water filter for the entire house. But if it is just for bathing and drinking, RO filters can work wonders too.
Conclusion
The best choice for your water filter can only be made after you’ve thoroughly researched your needs and what’s available on the market. The more carefully you research, the better quality option you will select.
