Guide to Water Filtration Systems
Water filtration systems are quickly becoming a necessity in many areas of the world and in most cases are very affordable for home owners. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 90 contaminants, including bacteria and lead, can be found in the drinking water flowing into our homes. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. A home water filtration system is a great way to ensure that the water you drink is healthy and clean.
What to do Before you Purchase a Water Filtration System for your Home
Are you interested in having your well water filtered to remove sediment, excessive amounts of minerals or maybe unpleasant smells, or is it municipal water that you are concerned about. Municipal supplies are usually very safe but maybe you are interested in chlorine removal or some other chemical that concerns you. Maybe your water is too hard or too soft. All of these things can be corrected through filtration and treatment.
The first step you should take when considering a filtration system is to have your water tested. Knowing what your water contains is the best way to determine which system is right for you and your family. Some of the most frequently used water filtration systems are reverse-osmosis, water softeners, sediment filters and UV purifiers. If you have more than one problem with your water, a combination of two filter systems may be needed. Therefore it is essential that you determine which contaminants you want to remove before making a buying decision. This information will also help you decide if you require a point of use filter only or a whole house filter system.
Review Available Water Filtration Systems and Select the One that Meets Your Needs
Another consideration is convenience. How difficult is the system to install? Can it be installed by you or will you need a professional to install in for you? How long will the system retain optimum performance before replacement parts or a complete replacement of the system is needed? Before purchasing a system, read the system’s performance data sheet. In most states this information must be provided to the buyer and will reveal important information. Faucet mounted systems generally involve regular filter changes; whereas systems that mount directly to your homes plumbing do not require frequent filter changes. One way to get the most value from your filter is to purchase a system that includes a performance indication device. This meter notifies you when the filter needs to be changed.
Cost is an additional consideration. If you are currently purchasing bottled water, the money you spend each week disappears with each bottle of water you drink. When you purchase a filtration system, you are investing in a convenient and unlimited supply of clean water. Ultimately, this investment will save you time and money. You must weigh the initial cost with the cost of maintaining your system. Easy-to-install carbon filters are less expensive to install than the in-line systems, but the cost of changing filters must be considered. Also, you need to know that the reverse-osmosis system filters a limited amount of drinking water and involves some waste. As much as four gallons of water are wasted for every gallon of water that is purified. The amount of waste water varies between manufacturers.
The final step in choosing a water filtration system is simple and will help you select a quality system. Always be certain the system you choose is one that is certified by NSF International. NSF International is a non-profit organization whose seal of approval can be trusted. Treatment of your water is essential for your health.