Let’s look at the various types of water filtration systems you might use in your home. To decide which of the home water filters is best for your household, have your water tested. Based on the test results, you can choose a filter to remove contaminants that are common in your local water supply.
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters are the most common type used in homes. These filters use activated carbon to remove contaminants like sediment, organic substances, chlorine, and agricultural chemicals. The charcoal in the filter traps impurities, removing them from the water during the filtration process. Carbon filters are inexpensive and greatly improve the smell and taste of water.
Reverse Osmosis Home Water Filters
Reverse osmosis (RO) filters clean water by using pressure to direct water through a semipermeable barrier. The pores in the barrier are small, filtering out impurities. A reverse osmosis system removes contaminants including detergents, salts, chlorine, lead, pesticides, and some bacteria and viruses. The water from an RO system will taste cleaner and smell fresher. This type of filter works relatively slowly and the filter membrane can become clogged, reducing the effectiveness of the system. Reverse osmosis also wastes a lot of water as it purifies.
Home Water Filters Include Steam Distillation
Distilling water means bringing it to a boiling point so that it converts to steam. Heavier impurities are left behind, and the steam is distilled into a separate container as it cools. This method will remove heavy metals, sediment, salts, calcium, and most bacteria. This method of generating clean water takes time, and electricity is needed to power the process.
UV Filter
UV filters are especially effective at removing viruses and bacteria. These filters purify water using ultraviolet light. The light destroys the DNA of bacteria and viruses so they cannot replicate. A UV filter will not remove other types of contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and sediment, so these are best used in conjunction with another type of filter.
Test your local water supply and install the best filtration system for your household. You’ll enjoy cleaner water that tastes fresh and is good for your health.
Five Stars Home Inspections offers home inspections and water quality testing to customers in the Greater Boston area. Contact us to request our services.