Americans in the 21st century looking to kit out their home with a home water filtration system are very far from alone in doing so. It is something millions of homeowners across the country are doing already, if they have not already invested in well water systems or alternative water products such as hydrogen, purified, mineral, distilled, or otherwise filtered water.
To look at it another way, municipal water supplies are falling considerably short of the mark. Synergy Science, a company specializing in alternative water products as well as halo shield technology, say that this is, for the most part, where the market for their products has come from.
But what is wrong with municipal water? Well, it’s important to note that it is held to pretty high standards. These standards, however, are considered too low by many people, and this is in reaction to the many harmful contaminants that are frequently found in our tap water.
These can be anything from bad bacteria to heavy metals, and excessive minerals (which make for hard water) to surface pollution such as pesticide run-off. There is also the issue of lead plumbing, and pipes in many older properties are still composed of this harmful substance (which has been linked to mental illness).
This is why water filtration systems are so popular today. Nevertheless, there is a lot to consider if you are going to get one. And not least because there are several types of filters, which can be better or worse for different water quality problems. Moreover, it might not seem like it, but the decision of whether to go with an under-sink or countertop water filter is another important decision.
Different Water Filters
The type of water filter you go for will be determined, as mentioned, by what type of water problem you have. For example, if you have hard water, then a deionization filter which removes dissolved mineral salts is the one you should go for.
For excessive large and undissolved particles in the water (usually a pipe problem), you should consider a mechanical filter to remove these. For other dissolved particles (as well as a good all-round solution) reverse osmosis is the way to go. Research these different filters, see what they are best for removing, and it should become clear what type you should install.
Countertop vs. Under-Sink
So, with the type of filter decided, it is time to figure out where in the kitchen or bathroom the filter should go. Here is a brief introduction:
Countertop
Often, installation is much easier (and therefor cheaper) with countertop filters. They fit right into the faucet and therefore don’t require a massive plumbing job. You can also remove them and take them with you to other places. They will, however, take up space on your countertop, and they will only be able to filter as much water as the unit can actually hold. That means no continuous flow of filtered water.
Under-Sink
Under-sink filters will provide you with a continuous and fast flow of filtered water from a filter that is out of sight. This does bring with it energy concerns (they are electrically powered) and you will not be able to move them around. They are the better solution for serious water problems, but installation will usually be more expensive and will require a plumbing job.
Ultimately, it’s worth repeating that your water problem will suggest what your filter solution – it’s not really a matter of taste or preference. Nevertheless, these filtration systems are almost certainly the best way to deal with such problems, and you will be thankful for the advantages they provide – especially today.
