Search for:

Top 6 Reasons to Get a Water Filter for Your Home

Water is essential for our survival, and having access to clean and safe drinking water is crucial for maintaining good health. However, the water that comes out of our taps may not always be as pure as we think. Contaminants such as chemicals, pollutants, and microorganisms can find their way into our water supply, posing potential risks to our well-being. This is where a water filter for home becomes an invaluable addition.

What are Water Filters?

Water filters are devices designed to remove impurities from water, ensuring that it is safe for consumption and other household uses. While tap water is treated by municipal authorities, it can still contain residual contaminants that may impact its quality. A water filter acts as an additional line of defense, providing you with purified water right from your own tap.

1. Water Filters Eliminate Chemicals and Bacterias in Water

One of the primary reasons to invest in a water filter is to eliminate harmful contaminants. Tap water can contain various pollutants such as chlorine, lead, pesticides, bacteria, and viruses. These substances can have adverse effects on your health, especially if consumed regularly over time. A water filter effectively removes these contaminants, reducing your exposure and safeguarding your well-being.

 

2. Enhance the Taste and Odor of Water

Have you ever noticed a strange taste or odor in your tap water? This can be attributed to the presence of chlorine or other chemicals used in the water treatment process. By using a water filter, you can improve the taste and odor of your drinking water. The filter removes the chemicals responsible for the unpleasant taste, leaving you with clean and refreshing water that is enjoyable to drink.

 

3. An Affordable Clean Water Source

While purchasing a water filter may involve an initial investment, it can prove to be a cost-effective solution in the long run. Buying bottled water or relying on other alternatives can be expensive over time. With a water filter, you have access to clean water at a fraction of the cost. It eliminates the need for buying bottled water and helps you save money in the process.

 

4. Water Filters Reduce Micro Plastics and Environment Pollution

The production and disposal of plastic water bottles contribute to environmental pollution. By using a water filter, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste and carbon footprint. Choosing filtered tap water over bottled water helps in the conservation of resources and minimizes the negative impact on the environment. It is a small step towards creating a more sustainable future.

 

5. Convenient Clean Water for Your Family

Having a water filter installed in your home provides you with convenient access to clean water whenever you need it. You no longer have to rely on purchasing water bottles or carrying heavy jugs from the store. Whether you need water for drinking, cooking, or other household tasks, a water filter ensures that you have a constant supply of purified water right at your fingertips.

 

6. Improve Your Family’s Health

Drinking clean and purified water is essential for maintaining good health. By removing harmful contaminants, a water filter reduces the risk of waterborne diseases and improves your overall well-being. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with compromised immune systems, young children, and pregnant women who are more susceptible to the effects of contaminated water. Investing in a water filter is an investment in your health and the health of your family.

Getting a water filter for your home offers numerous benefits that go beyond just ensuring clean drinking water. It eliminates harmful contaminants, enhances taste and odor, provides a cost-effective solution, has environmental benefits, offers convenient access to clean water, and promotes overall health. With the wide range of water filters available in the market, you can choose one that suits your specific needs and preferences. Make the decision to prioritize the quality of your water and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are providing your family with safe and healthy drinking water.

8 Common Types Of Water Filters And How They Work

8 Common Types Of Water Filters And How They Work

Most of the water that we use for drinking, cooking, bathing and washing has been treated through one or more types of water filters before it reaches us. These water filters are the safeguards that clean water from chemicals and contaminants that are harmful to our health, such as bacteria and pesticides, as well as strip away sediment, odors, discoloration and unpleasant tastes.

The biochemical properties of the water in your area, the water pressure, the type of pipes it travels through and even your home’s water source all affect what’s in your water. The Environmental Protection Agency doesn’t regulate every contaminant that may be found in a public water supply, and even if your water is supplied by a private well, you’re still faced with the important decision on how to treat, filter, soften and purify your water.

Whether you’re trying to clean contaminated or discolored drinking water or are simply seeking to improve the softness and sediment levels of the water you use to bathe, there are a number of filtration systems that can improve the condition of your water. Our guide features an explanation of common water filters and how they work, as well as their benefits and shortcomings, to help you make informed choices about what’s in your water.

Advertisement

Compare Quotes From Top-rated Water Treatment Installation Contractors

Free, No-commitment Estimates

8 Types of Water Filters

1. Activated Alumina

If you need to remove fluoride or arsenic from your water, activated alumina (AA) is the best filter of choice. Made of aluminum oxide, this highly porous ceramic compound has a high capacity for adsorption—note, not absorption. This means that when AA draws in chemicals to its activated porous sphere, the chemicals aren’t just held inside the pores: the materials actually bond together.

This quality makes AA a cost-effective choice to draw out toxins and metals from contaminated water without the risk of these substances leaking back into the environment. The longer AA has contact with your water, the more harmful chemicals it can remove.

Activated alumina is excellent at purifying drinking water for home use, as well as in industrial applications, water treatment facilities or in the cleanup of toxic waste.

2. Alkaline and Water Ionizers

Alkaline or ionized water is touted as one of the healthiest water treatments and is said to offer benefits such as improvements in bone and digestive health, decreased risk of cancer and heart disease, better skin and even improved hydration and taste.

The electrically charged minerals in ionized water separate alkaline water from the acidic, which softens the water and improves its drinking quality. It is important to note that alkaline ionizers lack good filtration abilities, so you’ll want to use them in tandem with other water purifiers.

3. Carbon Block and Activated Carbon

Also known as carbon filters or activated charcoal, these are commonly deployed in home water filters, such as one you might place on your faucet, under your sink or in a water pitcher. Activated carbon filters are excellent at attracting and adsorbing pollutants, removing them from the water. This material requires no electricity to work and is cost-effective, but it falls short when it comes to removing minerals and dissolved organic matter.

4. Ceramic Filters

The tiny pores on a ceramic surface will trap any matter that is larger than the pores themselves, keeping it out of your water. These are simple to install, easy to use, inexpensive and electricity-free filters. If treated with silver, a ceramic water filter can also kill bacteria and prevent mold and algae in your water. However, they can’t move faster than they can filter, and they aren’t effective at sifting out viruses.

5. Distillation

Akin to the precipitation cycle, distillation is a highly effective purification process in which water is boiled into steam and then cooled down to return to liquid form in a clean container. The process kills bacteria and improves the taste and smell of treated water.

The good news is that you can complete the distillation process with a number of countertop equipment options, and once complete, you will have made water that is safe for drinking. However, the process does require electricity or a heat source to work, and it is incredibly slow, so it doesn’t win in efficiency.

6. Reverse Osmosis

In this method, water is forced through a semipermeable membrane that allows water to run through, but not the contaminants, chemicals, metals or parasites it may be carrying. RO filter systems are highly effective at eliminating harmful pollutants from your water.

However, they tend to be more expensive than other types of water filters, require high water pressure to operate and tend to waste a lot of water in their purification process, only cleansing a small portion of the total water used.

7. Sand and Sediment Mesh

A mesh filter works the same way a colander does: they help filter large particles of dirt, clay, sand and rust from water. They can’t purify or cleanse, but they can keep sediment from creating buildup in your plumbing system.

8. Ultraviolet Light

UV light is one of the safest and most effective ways to treat microorganisms in your water, including viruses, bacteria, protozoa and parasites. Water is exposed to high frequency UV light radiation, which passes through a glass element. This filtration method requires energy to perform and tends to be on the pricier end.

UV lamps as water purifiers do their best work as the final stage in a water treatment system when the water is at its most filtered; this is because the light cannot pass through non-organic contaminants, which decreases its effectiveness.

How to Determine Which Water Filters Are Right for You

Not every water filtration method can remove all contaminants and completely purify your water. To choose the water filter that will best serve your needs, we first recommend using a water test kit to learn what water contaminants you’re dealing with. Once you identify your top areas of concern, you can choose a water filter that specifically addresses your needs and improves the water conditions where you need it most.

Home improvement stores should supply a wide inventory of water filters and their installation equipment so you can DIY. However, if you’re going for a complex filtration system or a total overhaul, such as whole-home water filters, you may want to hire a licensed and experienced professional plumber to help.

The Best Water Filter For Home Use (Pitcher, Charcoal, Under-Counter)

Humans can survive for weeks without food, but only a few days without water. To say fresh water is important would be an understatement! But as important as it is to drink enough, it’s equally important to drink clean water! Here are the best water filter options for your home.

A high-quality water filtration system is an important part of a healthy home. Plus it’s one of the easiest switches to make for a healthier life. You can easily find great water filters for any home, from countertop units to whole-house water purifiers.

While our family prioritizes nutrient dense food, healthy water is just as important. Some water sources have hundreds of chemicals, many of which are more easily absorbed from water than food.

The Best Water Filter

Already know you want to get a water filter for your home and want to jump ahead? Spoiler alert: here are my favorite options:

  • Best water pitcher filter: Clearly Filtered and Soma Water Filter
  • Best whole house filter: Radiant Life whole house water system
  • Best under the sink filter: Radiant Life 14-stage water purifier
  • Best water alkalizer: LifeIonizers

If you’re going backpacking or traveling the Lifestraw is a good portable option.

What’s In Your Water?

If you’re drinking tap water, the answer to that question is 300+ chemicals and pollutants, according to the Environmental Working Group. Test results reveal we have a big problem with our water supply. Among these contaminants are:

Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs)

VOCs, like pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful chemicals. These chemicals are found in most municipal water sources, well water, and other sources due to agricultural contamination. Research links certain VOCs to damage in the reproductive system, liver, kidneys, and more.

Heavy Metals

You’ll also find metals like lead and mercury in some water sources. Areas that still use lead pipes are a big contamination source. These heavy metals can lead to a host of health problems, especially in young children.

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals

These chemicals may mimic or interfere with the normal hormones in the body. And they’re being found in increasing amounts in the water supply. These chemicals are known to affect animals when they enter the water supply as well.

Increasing evidence shows these chemicals can cause issues ranging from diabetes to PCOS, to cancer. One of the biggest ways these chemicals get into the water supply? Hormonal birth control pills.

Fluoride

This may be the most controversial of the contaminants in water (if something like water contaminants can be controversial!). It’s purposefully added to the water and there’s much heated debate about the benefits/harm. More and more scientists and doctors are speaking out about fluoride.

And even if fluoride has any benefit, it would be directly to the teeth. Drinking fluoride hasn’t been shown to increase oral health. Plus, fluoride is linked to thyroid problems and other disorders when swallowed.

If that weren’t enough, here are a few more common drinking water pollutants and impurities.

  • Chlorine bleach (added during city water treatment)
  • Corrosion from lead and copper pipes
  • Bacteria, viruses, and harmful microbes
  • Radioactive pollution
  • Iron oxides and sediment (hard water)
  • Arsenic
  • Nitrogen and phosphorous runoff (from farm fertilizers)

Check Your Water

You can check your local water quality report to see what contaminants are in your water supply. This helps determine what you need to filter out when choosing a filter.

The easiest way to find your local water report is to check your local water company’s website. The report should be publicly available. You can also view detailed water reports for most cities at EWG here.

If you have a well you can have your water tested. If you want to skip testing water, simply opt for a filter that removes all the everyday contaminants.

Choosing The Best Water Filter

So what are the options for those of us not interested in drinking a chemical cocktail every time we pour a glass of cold water? There are options for every home and budget. From filters that just take out the basics like chlorine to ones that remove all contaminants and remineralize the water!

Some filters are ANSI/NSF standard approved. This means they meet certain guidelines to remove specific known contaminants. Looking for these certifications is a good place to start. Some popular options include Aquasana, Brita, and AquaTru.

I’ve tried several dozen of the thousands of options available. Keep in mind this is my own experience and I haven’t tried every option. Here are my top picks and what I’ve tried in order of my least favorite to the filters we use now…

Bottled Water

Bottled water has started falling out of favor lately and with good reason. Mark’s Daily Apple did an in-depth analysis of why, but bottled water isn’t a good option for several reasons:

  • Chemicals from the plastic bottle itself can leech into the water. Even BPA-free bottles.
  • In most cases, the water isn’t any different than tap water
  • Bottled water costs more in many cases that drinking tap water
  • Water bottles and other plastic waste are a major source of pollution

Verdict: Not the best option on price, taste, or health so I skip it. Some bottled water companies are now starting with healthier water, but once it’s bottled in plastic you have many of the same problems.

That said, bottled water is convenient, and there are some great sustainable options. Instead of plastic bottles, choose a high-quality reusable one. Here are my favorite plastic-free, sustainable, and reusable water bottles!

Best Water Filter Pitcher

Water filter pitchers usually use granulated activated charcoal to remove some contaminants. They are cheaper than other filter options upfront. The downsides are the frequent filling and cartridge replacement (which makes them more expensive in the long run). The filter lifespan isn’t as good compared to some other options. And with 6 kids I need something with a good filter life as replacement filters can get expensive

They may improve the taste but they won’t remove all the toxins. Pitcher filters will reduce chlorine but don’t effectively remove VOCs, heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, or fluoride.

This category also includes faucet mount external filters, which use the same technology. Some other popular options include the Brita pitcher and PUR Plus.

Verdict: Better than nothing, but doesn’t remove the worst offenders and is somewhat costly to use compared to other options. If this is the only option that will work in your home, choose a high-quality pitcher. I like this Soma Filter system or Clearly Filtered. If you have the space and the budget though, there are better options.

Charcoal Stick Water Filters

For those tight on space, charcoal sticks are a great alternative too. Charcoal sticks can be used in any pitcher or water bottle and remove contaminants in the same way many pitcher water filters do.

They’re reusable and last for months. You can even use them as a refrigerator deodorizer or in the garden when you’re done with them!

Verdict: These charcoal water filter sticks are a great eco-friendly, zero-waste option for those tight on space. Ideal for couples and those just filtering water for 1-2 people.

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

Reverse Osmosis filtration uses a membrane that removes many water contaminants. You’ll often see it as an under the sink water filter with a holding tank. While it filters larger particle contaminants, it rejects a lot of water in the process.

It results in several gallons of water wasted for every gallon filtered. RO also removes naturally occurring minerals we need (including calcium and magnesium). When we cook with this demineralized water it leaches essential nutrients from the food by up to 60-86% or more.

Not only does RO water not have beneficial minerals in it, but there’s some concern drinking it pulls these minerals from our bodies.

We used this type of filter for a long time but added trace minerals back into the water to replace the ones that were filtered out. It does remove a large amount of contaminants but it’s not the best option.

Pros:

Removes a large amount of contaminants. Many units are stored under the sink and have a simple spigot over the counter for getting water. It reduces arsenic, asbestos, heavy metals, and fluoride.

Cons:

Wastes more water than it produces. Doesn’t reduce VOCs or endocrine disruptors. Requires adequate water pressure to work so it’s not usable if the home water supply is cut off. Takes up to an hour to filter one gallon of water and filters need to be replaced regularly. Removes necessary minerals from the water.

Verdict:

Certainly better than a lot of options out there and it does remove fluoride. But not the best due to water waste and costly filters. My parents have the AquaTru countertop RO system which wastes less water and can be a good option.

Distilled Water

The distillation process uses heat to turn water into steam. The steam then rises and moves to a cooling chamber where it turns back into liquid, leaving behind many contaminants. This type of filtration reduces large particles like minerals and heavy metals. However, it doesn’t remove endocrine disruptors or VOCs since they vaporize at equal or lower temps than water and rise with the steam. It does effectively kill bacteria.

Pros:

Removes a large amount of contaminants. Does reduce arsenic, asbestos, and heavy metals. Does remove fluoride.

Cons:

Doesn’t reduce VOCs or endocrine disruptors. Home distillation systems are often large and expensive. Uses a large amount of electricity and won’t work in power outages. Removes necessary minerals from the water. Long-term use can cause mineral deficiencies.

Verdict:

Better than bottled water, but definitely not the best option out there, especially for home situations.

Solid Block Carbon Filters

Recognized by the EPA as the best option for removing chemicals like herbicides, pesticides, and VOCs. Activated carbon block filters remove chemicals, pesticides, bacteria, fluoride (with filter attachment), heavy metals, nitrates, nitrites, and parasites. Most are gravity based and can safely transform any type of water into safe drinking water including rainwater, pond water, and even sea water. Though these types of water will clog the filters much more quickly and aren’t ideal.

While these can be more pricey than pitcher filters or other filters up front, they seem to be the least expensive in the long run. Plus they require the fewest filter replacements (a big plus for me!). These types of filters also don’t remove naturally occurring minerals from the water so the water tastes better.

A popular option is the stainless steel Berkey filter and it’s what we used for many years. We now have a whole house and under the counter filter system and I like them better than the Berkey. While I think it’s still helpful, there are better options out there.

Pros:

Filters heavy metals, VOCs, microbes, and particles, depending on the micron size of the pores in the filter. Can be inexpensive per gallon and makes for great-tasting water. Doesn’t require electricity or water pressure to work. Portable options can even be used while traveling.

Cons:

Does require counter space and has to be manually filled. More expensive up front. Doesn’t remove endocrine disruptors and there are some concerns with third-party testing with some brands. There are also some recent reports that indicate these filters may not remove fluoride as well as claimed.

Verdict:

Better than some, especially in places where under-counter or permanent systems aren’t an option. I’d opt for under the counter filters instead or a Clearly Filtered pitcher if you need something on the counter.

Under Counter Multi-Stage Filters:

After years of research and trying all of the options above at some point, we finally found an under-counter multi-stage water filter system. It meets all of my criteria and exceeds them. I review the one we personally use in depth in this post. But in short, it filters water through a 14-stage process that utilizes most of the methods listed above. Plus it uses UV and adds minerals back in.

It removes fluoride, lead, chlorine, MTBE, chromium-6, nitrates, pesticides, pharmaceutical residues, water-borne illnesses, and more. This filter has worked well for us for years and I’ve recommended it to my own family members.

Pros:

Removes the widest range of contaminants. Very easy to use with no manual filling required. Spigot attaches near the sink for easy use. And the water tastes great.

Cons:

Must be installed under the sink. We had to hire a plumber for this, though we probably could have figured it out ourselves, but I was reluctant to try. More expensive than other options.

Verdict:

It’s definitely the best option I’ve found and the one we currently use.

A Step Above Filtration

Interested in going above and beyond filtration? There are options that also enhance the water as well as clean it. I’ve spent the last few years researching options like water alkalizer, hydrogen water, and all of the other methods that claim to optimize water in some way.

Here are the ones I’ve personally tried:

Alkaline and Ionizer Water Filter Combinations

These filters are increasingly popular in recent years. Manufacturers claim alkaline drinking water has various health and longevity benefits.

Here’s how it works:

Positively charged calcium and magnesium ions to pass through the membrane and become concentrated at the negatively charged plates. Calcium and magnesium are alkaline earth metals, they are responsible for giving the alkaline water, made by a water ionizer, its alkaline pH.

I have a Life Ionizer system currently installed under my kitchen sink. I like that it has options for regular purified water or alkaline water with easy to control levels of each. This page explains more about how the technology works and all of the options.

Pros:

These systems come with a reverse osmosis system so they filter water. They may also have some added health benefits from the alkalizing process. There are both countertop and under counter options to fit in most kitchens and can be less expensive depending on the model you choose. This process also generates hydrogen in the water, which may have some additional benefits.

Cons:

They do require some space and aren’t the cheapest option. They also must be installed under the sink and require a plumber if you can’t do this yourself.

How to Choose A Water Filter

Water is fundamental to our health – but with all of the different kinds, it can be tough to figure out the best type of water to drink and how to choose a water filter. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of water, and how you can decide what might be best for you and your family.

Health Benefits of Water

We are made up mostly of water – here’s a quick review of why water is important. Water:

  • Keeps us hydrated
  • Ferries nutrients, proteins, hormones and chemical signals
  • Flushes the kidneys and liver
  • Keeps our skin and joints supple and hydrated
  • Reduces pain
  • Helps with digestion and elimination, and prevents constipation
  • Diminishes hunger

Checking Your Water Source

Before you choose a type of water filter, it’s important to know what kind of water you are dealing with in your home and what’s in it. If you live in a larger municipality, check with the city about water treatment and what chemicals they use (chlorine and fluoride are common); if you draw your water from a local or private well, ensure you test it. Then, based on what’s in your water, you can begin to make decisions about what filtration systems you may need.

What’s The Best Type of Water?

Let’s talk about some of the common water types that are available. We’ve listed these sources in what we feel is least desirable to most desirable.

Bottled Water

What Is It: Store-bought water that is packaged in bottles.

Pros

We actually don’t think there are pros to this one!

Cons

  • Stored in plastic, which can leach endocrine-disrupting chemicals into the water. Bits of microplastic can also be detected.
  • Bottled water is an unregulated industry, and it’s up to each bottled water company to test and screen its water (or they may not do this).
  • Many bottled water sources are not what the labels claim – companies take water from municipal sources, meaning it’s tap water.
  • Expensive.
  • The environmental impact of plastic is huge: people consume over 300 billion litres of bottled water every year, and those plastics don’t biodegrade. Plastic is polluting our oceans and affecting wildlife – researchers predict there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish by 2050.

Tap Water

What's the best type of water?

What Is It: The water comes from your tap in your kitchen and bathrooms.

Pros

  • Inexpensive and easily available.
  • Can be easily treated by using filters (more options for this below).

Cons

  • Tap water is usually disinfected with chlorine, which can destroy our gut bacteria and affect digestive health.
  • Is often treated with fluoride, with can disrupt our endocrine system.
  • Can be contaminated with drugs that people are using.
  • Can have a metallic taste or odor.

Activated Carbon Water Filter

best type of water

What Is It: This type of water is filtered using a carbon block that soaks up contaminants.

Pros

  • Removes the chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors.
  • Low cost and relatively simple to maintain.
  • Tastes neutral.

Cons

  • Doesn’t remove all contaminants – things like heavy metals and fluoride remain.

Distilled Water Filter

best type of water

What Is It: This type of water has been boiled to remove impurities and minerals.

Pros

  • Everything in your water is removed.
  • Can help with detoxification.
  • Can be made at home.

Cons

  • Doesn’t have beneficial minerals – you’ll need to add minerals back into it.
  • Has a flat taste.
  • Can be acidic in the body.
  • Uses a fair amount of energy to produce it.

Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

What Is It: Reverse osmosis water passes through several filters to remove the large and small contaminants.

Pros

  • Removes most major contaminants – chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals (such as lead and mercury), bacteria.
  • Tastes pure and clean.
  • Great for people who live in cities and want to remove a lot of toxins in their water.

Cons

  • Can be expensive.
  • Wastes water.
  • Can remove some beneficial minerals.

Spring Water

Best Type of Water

What Is It: Fresh water that comes straight from the source – the earth itself, which naturally filters and mineralizes the water.

Pros

  • One of the cleanest water sources available.
  • Contains natural, beneficial minerals.
  • Easy to find for free – Find A Spring is a great resource to find spring water near you.
  • Tastes pure and clean.

Cons

  • Can contain some pollutants – ensure you test the spring water for purity.
  • Can be difficult to access if you don’t have a spring near you.
  • Need large glass containers and transportation to collect it.

Your Next Steps In Choosing a Water filter

Choosing the best water or water filter really shouldn’t be so difficult. How do you choose what’s best when there are pros and cons to every option? Here are the steps we recommend.

  1. Look up your municipal water source and find out what is being added and what is being removed from your water.
  2. Determine what you ultimately want to have or not have in your water.
  3. Determine your optimal set-up (ie. You may want a portable option if you’re in a rental).
  4. Review the options above and choose the one that checks most of the boxes.
  5. Compare the options in that category and make the choice that works with your budget.

 

5 Types of Water Filters and How They Work

Making choices is stressful, but sometimes a selection, like picking out a loaf in the bread aisle, can only steer you so wrong. While other times, like choosing a water filter for your home, the decision is critical.

No one wants to spend money on a water filter only to find out that the filter solves a problem they don’t even have. And yet, when faced with the multitude of water filtration options, it can feel intimidating to find the right one for your home – the one that not only makes your water taste great but also rids it of the maximum number of contaminants.

Fear not. It is simpler than you think. Below is a breakdown of the most popular types of water filters on the market to help you make an educated decision about what water filters make the most sense for your home.

What is a water filter?

Water filters remove or reduce the presence of harmful contaminants in water such as bacteria, chlorine, sediment, and heavy metals. They can improve the taste, odor, and safety of your tap water. However, some water filters are more effective than others when it comes to removing certain contaminants due to the effectiveness of the filtration method they rely on.

The different types of water filters

Depending on what contaminants you want to remove from your water, there are five types of water filtration systems to know about:

  1. Activated carbon
  2. Ion exchange
  3. Reverse osmosis
  4. Mechanical
  5. Ultraviolet

Activated carbon

Activated carbon water filters reduce chlorine, chloroform, agricultural chemicals, organic substances, sediment, and magnesium.

The key to understanding how an activated carbon water filter works is adsorption. As opposed to absorption, in which one material will take in or soak up another material, adsorption occurs when one material sticks to another while passing through. This is the basis of activated charcoal or activated carbon.

Activated charcoal is created when organic material with high carbon content (like wood, coal, or coconut shells) is heated in such a way that it does not burn, but instead results in char. The char is then treated to create a porous material that binds to certain toxins and impurities, thus pulling them out of the water flowing through the system.

This is the most common type of filter and is often used in conjunction with other filtration methods for maximum toxin removal.

Ion exchange

Ion exchange water filters are good for the removal of hard water minerals and radioactive material, as well as reducing lead.

As the name suggests, ion exchange filters consist of a substance that will exchange one ion for another as water flows through it. For example, ion exchange will replace calcium or magnesium ions, which cause water hardness, with sodium ions. This will “soften” the water. A home may be experiencing hard water if its water leaves stains on washed dishes. Hard water tends to build up in pipes, which may decrease the life of certain kitchen appliances.

Although ion exchange helps with hard water and some radioactive material, the filter does not remove organic material, particles, or bacteria as effectively as other filtration options. As a result, it should be noted that ion exchange is more commonly associated with water softeners than filters, though softeners may be included as a stage in whole house filters.

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

Reverse osmosis water filters are good at effectively removing a high percentage of toxins including fluoride, hexavalent chromium, arsenic, nitrates/nitrites, copper, radium, salt, and more.

Talk about a good bang for your buck – reverse osmosis filters are incredibly popular for a very good reason. Reverse osmosis filters are top of the line for removing a large percentage of contaminants from the water, potentially including dangerous bacteria associated with waterborne diseases.

RO filters work by pushing water through the reverse osmosis membrane using pressure. The contaminants remain on one side of the film while fresh water is pushed to the other side. It’s one of the few filters that can rid water of water-soluble contaminants like fluoride and chromium +6. If a home has a water softener, an RO system will also remove the salt from drinking water.

While these are becoming a popular option, reverse osmosis systems use an inordinate amount of water when going through the filtration process – sometimes up to four times the normal amount. The process is also slow, causing a decrease in water pressure. That’s why whole-home reverse osmosis systems typically don’t exist. Further, the level of filtration isn’t necessary for day-to-day activities like flushing toilets, taking showers, and doing dishes. Learn more about the pros and cons of RO here.

Mechanical

Mechanical water filters are good for the removal of physical particles such as sediment or dirt and waste matter.

Mechanical filters are most often used as a pre-filtration method. They work as a barrier where water flows through a mechanical filter and waste material will get stuck between nylon floss, synthetic foam, or in pads. For example, in the case of a fish tank, the filter will trap plant materials, leftover fish food, and waste without trapping beneficial bacteria that are good for fish.

You may notice that mechanical filters have micron ratings which indicates how effective they are at removing certain sizes of particles. Common ratings include:

  • 5 micron: Removes most particles visible to the naked eye.
  • 1 micron: Removes particles too small to see with a microscope.
  • 0.5 micron: Removes cysts such as giardia and cryptosporidium.

Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet water lamps are a type of home water treatment system that’s good for the removal of bacteria and viruses.

An environmentally friendly option, UV filters will sterilize water using different frequencies of ultraviolet light.

UV filters work using UV light,UV light, which essentially sterilizes all bacteria and viruses when it’s absorbed into their DNA, thus sanitizing drinking water. It’s important to note that UV filters only rid water of bacteria and viruses so it’s important to use this filter in conjunction with other types of filters to remove prevalent contaminants like chlorine, lead, and pesticides, leaving you with clean, drinkable water.

Which filter is best for drinking water?

The best type of water filtration system will depend on which contaminants are in your tap water, as each type of water filter removes different contaminants. The good thing is many water filters on the market use a combination of different filtration methods, as each filter can only remove so much on its own. For example, reverse osmosis systems often use mechanical, adsorption, and then reverse osmosis. If you’re still unsure of which type of water filter is best for your home.

Top 5 Health Benefits of Filtered Water

Your choice for water consumption impacts more than just taste. We recommend having your water filtered and softened to get the most out of drinking it. Here are the top 5 reasons you should be drinking filtered water.

Filtered Water is Chlorine-Free

Filtering your water will remove most of the chlorine found in your tap water. Companies often use chlorine to clean water of impurities. It may be seen as clean water, but it’s not necessarily safe to consume. Chlorine, in large amounts, can have several negative health effects on the body. You can avoid these health hazards with a water filtration system.

No Metals or Minerals

Other impurities are also removed from filtered water. These include lots of sediment, mold, dirt, and rust. These come from rusty and dirty pipes that your tap water runs through. That means that whatever is in the pipes is going directly into your cup. Pipes won’t stay clean and buildup is common for homeowners. You can avoid consuming these foreign impurities with filtered water.

Better Taste and Smell

Having your water filtered also improves its taste and smell. Tap water can taste less appealing and can carry an unpleasant smell that is not very inviting. This is especially the case in areas with lots of natural water sources. You can enjoy a cleaner, more purified taste with a water filtration system.

Removes Bad Bacteria

Avoid thousands of bad microorganisms in your water supply with a water filter. Some bacteria found in tap water are dangerous and can make families sick. This is due to illnesses and diseases born from excessive bacteria. Water with microorganisms filtered out is safer for consumption.

Provides Necessary Vitamins and Minerals

You can still consume necessary minerals and vitamins with filtered water! Some of these vitamins and minerals include magnesium and potassium. Filtering your water keeps the good parts in and keep the bad bacteria out.

Benefits of an Under-Sink Water Filter

Did you know that 96% of all home drinking water in the US contains at least some level of contamination? And that goes for city and well water alike.

blogIf, for example, you have well water, your underground water supply is an open target for pesticides, radon, lead, industrial contaminants, and all sorts of other “undesirables”.

Even your treated city water contains at least some level of chlorine; this highly toxic chemical is used to kill off bacteria. At higher-than-acceptable levels, chlorine can cause a large number of ill health effects, including airway irritation, wheezing, skin and eye irritation, and more – as if you didn’t have enough to worry about already.

Well, here’s one thing you won’t have to worry about: a home water filtration system from Burton. We can install one that will cover your entire home or one that fits neatly under your kitchen sink or, for that matter, anywhere else in your home you like.

These single purpose water filters go by two names: point-of-use and under-sink water filters. The system’s tank is installed under your sink and connected to a new, dedicated faucet that produces purified water for drinking or cooking.

Additional benefits of an under-sink water filtration system include the following:

  • • Odorless and better tasting water
  • • Chlorine and chemical free
  • • A much more economical solution than bottled water, and infinitely better for the environment
  • • Filtered water provides highly effective protection against rectal, colon, and bladder cancers
  • • Chemicals and bacteria are removed while retaining healthy mineral deposits that balance the pH of drinking water
  • • A 33% reduced risk of gastrointestinal ailments.

Everything You Need to Know About Filtered Water

person filling PUR water pitcher at sink

Is filtered water cleaner and better tasting than tap water? Here’s a go-to guide for making the most of your H2O.

 

We all know that drinking water regularly is integral to our health and wellness — and with good reason! Every cell in our body needs water in order to function so staying hydrated is a must. But if the water you’re drinking isn’t as clean-tasting as you’d like, it’s unlikely you’re going to get enough daily sips. Thankfully, there are a variety of filtration systems to make your water a little cleaner and a whole lot more palatable to drink. Read on to discover what makes filtered water the best drinking choice and why it’s smart thinking to filter your water rather than to go with the flow.

What is filtered water?

Sure, many of us prefer the taste of filtered water, but what exactly are we drinking? Filtered water is groundwater or tap water that has undergone a process to remove impurities and a variety of physical and chemical contaminants in an effort to make the water cleaner for drinking (not to mention far more refreshing). These chemical and physical contaminants include certain bacteria, fungi, parasites, copper, lead, and other unwelcome pollutants. In most cases, the filtration process also works to remove chlorine in an effort to improve the water’s overall taste. However, unlike distilled water, filtered water isn’t completely free of particulates. Filtered water may still contain healthy minerals that are safe to consume and are actually beneficial to your health.

How is water filtered?

During a traditional filtration process, water flows through groupings of different materials, including gravel, sand, and activated carbon. Think of these filters like tiny nets trapping unwanted water invaders. These filters work to absorb and/or dissolve unwanted particles along with neutralizing bad odors.
But some filtration systems, like PUR, go a step further to include filters made from activated carbon for even smaller pores for the water to pass through. PUR filters also include ion exchange materials for trapping unwanted metals. As water flows through the filter, physical and chemical contaminants are adsorbed by the carbon while heavy metals like lead and mercury are adsorbed by the ion exchange materials.

Is filtered water cleaner than tap water?

Filtered water is generally cleaner to drink than tap water. However, that is not to say that tap water is unsafe to drink. Generally, tap water is safe to drink, but not all tap water is created equal. The safety of your tap water depends on its source.

Should I filter my own water or drink bottled water?

Whether to drink filtered water vs. bottled water is more of an environmental-conscious and cost decision opposed to a decision regarding taste or safety. Both bottled water and filtered water undergo processes to remove unwanted contaminants, which can range according to water bottle brand or individual filtration system. However, plastic water bottles account for a sizable portion of our planet’s daily plastic consumption. In fact, humans use about 1.2 million plastic bottles per minute in total and purchase about 50 billion plastic water bottles per year. Plus, buying bottled water on a regular basis can really add up from a cost perspective.
Alternatively, drinking filtered water in a glass or reusable water bottle can save just one person about 156 plastic bottles

What is the best way to filter water?

The two most common at-home water filters are faucet filtration systems and pitcher filtration systems. Both are effective ways to reduce physical and chemical contaminants and improve the taste of tap water, but choosing the best water filter for you depends on your individual needs. Consider what makes the most sense for your space, your lifestyle, and (perhaps most importantly) what filtration system you can properly clean and maintain so it’s as effective as possible.

Faucet Filtration vs. Pitcher Filtration

Here’s a rundown on the benefits of these popular water filtration methods:

Faucet Filtration Benefits

  • Effective in filtering out unwanted chemical and physical contaminants
  • Convenient, no-fill design
  • Easy to install
  • Doesn’t take up refrigerator space
  • No wasted water
  • Some faucet filters can go up to 3 months before needing to be replaced

Try: PUR Plus Faucet Filtration System

 

Pitcher Filtration Benefits

  • Effective in filtering out unwanted chemical and physical contaminants
  • Easy to clean
  • Can be refrigerated for cold water
  • Easy to use
  • Some pitcher filters can go up to 2 months before needing changing

Try: PUR 11 Cup Pitcher

How do I clean my water filter?

Keeping your water filtration system clean with a functioning filter is the best way to ensure it is performing its best. For pitcher filters, the best way to do this is to wash and clean the pitcher at least every other week. Many pitchers are dishwasher safe, but you can also wash your pitcher by soaking it in warm, soapy water for about 15 minutes before rinsing clean. Replace the filter about every 2 months or according to the pitcher’s instructions.

Faucet filters should be cleaned and examined monthly. Detach the filtration system from the faucet and empty any filter debris from the cartridge by tapping it over a wastebasket. Soak the filter canister in mild dish soap mixed with water for about an hour before rinsing and leaving to air dry. Reconnect to your faucet and turn the water on for about 5 minutes to flush out any remaining debris. Faucet filters should be replaced about every 3 months or according to the filter’s instructions.
Whether you’re concerned about cleaner drinking water or just want better-tasting H20, there’s no question that filtered water checks the boxes. But that doesn’t mean you have to up your spending on store-bought bottled water or expensive, professionally installed filtrations systems. With simple, at-home water filtration, you can easily convert everyday tap water into delicious, thirst-quenching refreshment you can enjoy.

12 Wonderful Things to Do in Bourton-on-the-Water

1. Get a giant perspective at the Model Village

image of model village from a higher point with wanischa smiling in front

Remember when you were a kid and model houses were riveting?

Well, who knew an entire model village would be just as interesting to adults.

This miniature representation of Bourton-on-the-Water is so cool to walk through, and will have you pointing out spots you recognise in the real village.

The level of detail is astounding, especially for the more unique buildings like the church.

Plus, there are many picture opportunities to make yourself look giant (more appealing to those of us under 6ft)…

 

2. Enjoy the sun with a picnic by the River Windrush

many people sitting on the grass in bourton-on-the-water having picnics and chatting

The River Windrush and picturesque bridges are two of the main reasons why people wax lyrical over Bourton-on-the-Water.

On a weekend, you’ll find the banks crowded with locals and tourists alike who are sitting down to enjoy an ice cream or some lunch.

With such a stunning scene available to all, at times it felt like a crime to go and sit inside a restaurant. That’s why we’d strongly recommend grabbing a bite from one of the best lunch spots and just sitting by the enchanting water. You can also feed the ducks with your bread leftovers!

3. Lose yourself in the Dragonfly maze

We entered the Dragonfly Maze with the calm confidence of two people entertaining themselves with a child’s game.

We left the maze one hour later with none of that confidence, and pretty mentally exhausted…and we were in the majority 😅.

Finding your way through the maze, it turns out, is the easy part. Solving the riddle at the centre is far more challenging.

I’ll leave this mystery for you to attack (and no doubt agonise over)…

All that said, we’d definitely recommend the maze for a bit of puzzle-solving fun!

 

4. Step back in time at the Motoring Museum

motor museum with a bush trimmed in the shape of a car, with the river windrush next to it

A tribute to some legendary British manufacturing, you can almost smell the fumes from the 20th century in this museum.

You’ll find classic and vintage cars, motorcycles and even caravans to marvel at, with plenty of memorabilia to transport you back in time.

English people may even recognise Brum! I physically can’t remember how many times the adventures of this little car with eyes would keep me riveted to the enormous box with a tiny screen.

5. Fill your belly at some great restaurants

3 dishes, one chocolate dessert, camembert pretty starter, and a steak with onion rings

There aren’t many restaurants in most Cotswolds villages.

This is an area where Bourton-on-the-Water again outshines it’s competition, since there is actually ample choice within walking distance.

Grab a bite for breakfast from one of the excellent bakeries.

Let your taste-buds dance at one of the some of the pubs or restaurants, without the wallet guilt.

You can check out our article on the best restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water for plenty of inspiration.

6. Blow off some steam at the Cotswold Brewing Company

Getting away to the countryside and enjoying the fresh air with a cool lager or cider is the perfect type of holiday for some. For those people, the Cotswolds doesn’t disappoint.

The beer, lager and cider made in the Cotswolds may not reach the levels of those bold Belgians, but is definitely very tasty.

Why not see how it’s all made, and get some generous tastings to go with it?

For one, you’ll save the potential regret of getting to the end of your holiday, and finding out that there’s a tastier brew you could have been enjoying the whole time…

If the process before the glass reaches your mouth isn’t that important, there are plenty of charming pubs in Bourton-on-the-Water to hit the spot.

 

7. Avoid Birdland if you care about animals

penguins in an enclosure, all staring away from humans

If you’re wondering if Birdland is ethical and the birds are treated well, I have some bad news.

We did some basic research on Birdland before we bought our tickets, and found no big red flags. Many other blogs rated this as one of the best things to do in Bourton-on-the-Water.

As soon as we walked in, we realised we didn’t dig deep enough.

Birdland is best summed up with the very first animals you see, a reserve for penguins.

After the initial “wow there are penguins!”, we looked a little closer…

The penguins outside of the water were all staring at the fake wall, away from people. Completely motionless. In some kind of depressed daze.

Immediately we realised our mistake. Each new reserve showed majestic birds, withdrawn to the corners of their tiny cages.

Having already made the mistake, we felt we could at least provide an accurate picture of this place to others and share the news.

If animal welfare is important to you, please skip this one.

8. Get some fresh countryside air on a long walk

a field near bourton on the water, with yellow flowers, with overcast weather

One of the best things about a UK staycation to the countryside, is the opportunity to go on a scenic stroll.

Bourton-on-the-Water in particular has some lovely walks. These are some we’d recommend:

Bourton-on-the-Water to Stow-on-the-Wold

We particularly enjoyed this walk, which takes you through scenic Lower Slaughter and many fields – in one part, you walk right through a field of cows! It does get quite muddy in some areas, so we’d advise taking walking shoes, and if you do the loop it will take you about 5 hours. We stopped in Stow-on-the-Wold for lunch at The Hive, and it was delicious!

River Windrush and the Slaughters

Following the River from the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water will take you to Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter. You’ll also pass through a wooded area, as well as the usual fields. The whole loop takes about 3 and a half hours.

Archaeology, Rivers and Lakes

If you’d prefer a much shorter stroll to cross off some of the prettiest and most interesting parts of Bourton-on-the-Water, you can’t go wrong with this one. This trail takes you on a loop of the area just outside the centre, and can be done in around 40 minutes

We’d strongly recommend downloading the AllTrails app to see which walk fits your fancy. There is plenty of information to help you decide and you can follow the GPS so you don’t get lost.

9. Treat yourself with scones and jam

2 coffees 2 giant scones

Scones and jam are one of the few foods British people are proud to call their own (despite the best efforts of some, pizza and curry are a little hard to justify).

So when in Rome… make sure you get a huge scone and load that bad boy with all of the clotted cream and jam at your disposal.

Just a heads up, in the Cotswolds it’s less of a snack and more of a full blown meal.

For a classier lunch, there is also “afternoon tea”. This generally involves little sandwiches, cake, and – you guessed it – that famous English beverage that you either love or hate.

 

10. Step into the fascinating Model Railway Exhibition

What is it about trains and railway sets that seems to fascinate every child for at least some period of their lives?

At the model railway exhibition and toy shop, the little child in you, or with you, may go off the rails.

Walking in and seeing all the moving sets navigate the miniature terrain creates a pretty magical atmosphere. The shop almost feels like it belongs in Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

Well worth a visit!

Ticket price: £3.00 (Adult), £2.50 (Child)

Official website

11. Rent a cottage with some friends or family

cottage in the slaughters, very pretty with ivy

It’s impossible to ignore how beautiful some cottages and houses in the Cotswolds are.

In fact, being an excellent gardener may well be an obligatory skill you need to live there. That’s almost the only explanation for the sheer volume of stunning front gardens.

So why not stay in such a cottage in Bourton-on-the-Water?

You can rent one in the centre if you are partial to a coffee and cake in a café, or just want more activities at your fingertips

We stayed in a cottage called Lavender Barn West. Just 3 minutes walk into the centre, this cottage was almost perfect. The only aspects that weren’t ideal were the beds were squeaky and one room had only twin beds.

We paid £650 (incl. AirBnb service charges) for 3 nights, with 4 people staying. This felt reasonable compared to other places.

Alternatively you can load up the car with food, alcohol and some awesome travel games and completely isolate yourself a bit further out.

Either way, escaping to the beautiful British countryside with some of your favourite people is a superb way to spend a few days.

You can also check out our Plan Your Trip section for more money-saving tips.

12. Take a day-trip to Cotswolds villages near Bourton-on-the-Water

Bourton-on-the-Water is perfectly placed in the Cotswolds to use as a base for ‘village-hopping”.

Here are some day-trip suggestions from Bourton-on-the-Water:

Stow-on-the-Wold, Slaughters and Chipping Campden

Stow-on-the-Wold and the Slaughters are only 5-10 minutes drive, or very much in walking distance. Chipping Campden is only 15 minutes from Stow-on-the-Wold, so covering both in the same day makes sense.

There isn’t an awful lot to do or see in each, but even just stopping for lunch in a new village was super enjoyable.

view of river in the slaughters, cotswolds

Bibury and Cirencester

Quaint Bibury and bustling Cirencester are about 25-30 minutes away, and can easily both be covered in a day as we did.

Bibury is home to the famous Arlington Row (a row of some of the prettiest houses you’ll see), and we also did a 2 hour walk around the fields here. Cirencester feels much more like a town than a village, with some nice parks and markets to explore.

Tetbury and Castle Combe

If you don’t mind a long drive, Castle Combe and Tetbury are 2 of the few villages which rival Bourton-on-the-Water’s reputation for the “best village in the Cotswolds”.

While it will take you 40 minutes to Tetbury, and almost an hour from Bourton-on-the-Water to Castle Combe, the time goes quickly on the serene country roads.

Castle Combe is just beautiful with bridges and riverside views to match Bourton-on-the-Water, and Tetbury is perfect for some relaxing forest strolls.

 

If you don’t have a car, there are some other villages like Moreton-in-Marsh which can be explored by train.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Water Purifier

Water Filter Buying Guide

Water is essential for life. But the quality of water that we consume every day is becoming dangerous for our health. To improve the quality of water for daily use, it is now mandatory to install water filters in our home. But people tend to make mistakes while buying a water filters in various aspects including purpose, flow rate and capacity.

Every filter works best on its own, but it is not necessary that it works best for your requirements too. Before buying a water filter you should go through a thorough analysis and research to get the best solution for your water filtration needs.

Water Filter Buying Guide: Things to Consider Before Buying Water Purifier

Test water quality of your supply

What type of source do you use for your daily usage? Most of the filtration requirements are defined by the source of water you use. The very first thing to do is test quality of water that is supplied to you. There are easy to use checkup kits available or you can even call an expert to do the job. You need to install a water filter only if your water source is contaminated. There are mainly two types of water sources:

Private or individual

Private source includes bottled water, spring water, and water from ponds, shallow wells, streams, ponds and river canals. Private sources also include individually created sources like rainwater harvesting, residential bores, cisterns.

Public

The United States safe drinking water act identifies public sources as the ones provided by public entities like local government supply, ration water tanks and city water systems.

If you get water from a private source like well and bottled water, then you can eliminate contamination from the source itself. But rivers, ponds, streams require a lot of expense and time to be cleaned. Natural private sources are not reliable in terms of quality. So, a water filter is required.

In case of public water sources, you can file a complaint against the water contamination and quality to the local authorities which may not be effective readily. If the water from a public source is contaminated, you need to get a water filter installed fit for your needs.

Check your home water system

If the water report and tests do not show any hazardous contamination in your water supply, then the problem may be in your house water system. Check for leakage in all faucets and pipelines going around your house. Make sure that the surroundings of your house are clean and there is no clogged drainage around your supply line. Metal water pipes slowly accumulate rust and other organic contaminants due to moisture. The pipes throughout the house should be cleaned quarterly to prevent organic growth and rust.

Understand your needs

Water filters eliminate only the specific contaminants that they mention in their labels. Be aware of what kind of contamination prevails in your water supply. Check the list of contaminants the water filter you want to buy eliminates. Analyze your daily consumption of water based on purpose like drinking, washing, bathing and cooking. If you need water purification for all your needs, whole house filters with Point of Entry system are the right fit. If the water purification is required only for drinking or bathing purpose, then point of use filters like RO filtersunder sink filters and countertop water filters.

Explore the categories

With advancement in water filtration technology, there are many processes available today to purify water. There are many categories of water filters based on performance, durability, maintenance and cost which fit all types of water filtration solutions ranging from personal home to a commercial industry.

Maintenance cost

The maintenance cost of all filter categories varies highly. While many filters may come cheap in cost, the maintenance like replacement of cartridges and hoses is costly. So get detailed maintenance and repair costs of your water filter from the company before buying them.

Water filters are not a one-time investment. They need regular maintenance depending on the quality of the cartridges. Many companies provide features like quality index and security alarms for cartridges replacement which are beneficial. If the filters are regularly maintained the quality of water deteriorates, hoses may choke and power consumption increases.

Beware of scams

Do water filters actually work? Are you going to be scammed with an overrated device with false promises? Is doorstep water test trustable?

In case of any health related product, you should be aware of the scams that go around to stay alert and prevent getting scammed yourself. It highly depends on the company that you buy the water filter from. There are many companies that provide water filters at very low costs. They are mostly fake or ineffective. Water filtration is not a cheap process and any person who sells them at unbelievably low price is probably scamming you.

In recent news, many water filter scams have come into lime light. The worst of all was the door step sales and service scam to test your water quality and provide fake water filters. While there are many reputed companies that provide door step sales and service feature, they do not approach you without your solicitation.

Do you think that your water filter throws out more water than it purifies?

Then, you may be a victim of another scam. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) does not allow more than 30% of water to seep out from waste hose. But due to this scam being neglected, almost 3 liters of water seeps out to provide 1 liter of pure water.

Buy only certified water filters

The reviews not only help in finding a water filter company that is legitimate, they also help you find the right one for your requirements. Customer feedback is one of the best ways to find a good water filter company both for the product quality and performance and the post sales services and warranty.

You can also compare the price of the water filters online. If the price of another product with the same features is low, it is anyway beneficial for your pockets.

Important Note – Always read the description and contaminant list that he water filter eliminates. Never install water filters on your own as that voids the warranty. Read the instructions of use carefully for optimum performance.