Purchasing a whole house water filter can be the best option for your family. They are economical and do an excellent job of removing chlorine and other contaminants while leaving in the minerals that your body needs. A whole house water filter will usually give you the most health benefits for your money and can last for decades if maintained properly.
You will find a number of different types of filters on the market. The most popular type is the point-of-entry (or POE) water filter. These filters work by attaching to the incoming supply line and filtering out chlorine, lead, cysts, and other impurities before they reach your faucet. They are the most effective at removing harmful chemicals and bacteria, but they require a large replacement filter and some users recommend changing the filter more frequently.
A whole house water filter that uses a point-of-use system will need a countertop mount or attached to a faucet for easy access. Some models will have multiple water stations with separate faucets that can be turned off and on at different times. This feature can allow you to drink fresh water while doing chores around the house or cooking dinner. Most of these units will provide up to 20 gallons of water from one nozzle.
RO systems can be used as well, but they are more costly and can only remove certain compounds, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. Most manufacturers recommend using a multi-stage water filtration system. This is generally a better option if you are serious about protecting your family from dangerous chemicals and other impurities. Multi-stage filters boast the best removal of hazardous substances such as lead and copper.
When researching the best whole house water filter, you should also take into account the cost of replacement filters. The cost varies depending on the brand and type of unit you buy, so it is important to compare several options. Also, you’ll want to consider whether you want to use your shower water or bath water. If you plan on reusing some of the water in your shower or bath, you might be able to save a few dollars by using a filter for that purpose. It’s important to note though that if you add salt or any other impurities to your tap water, you will need to replace the filter all over again.
Another thing to keep in mind is where you plan on installing the whole house water filter. Many models can be installed just about anywhere, although you should make sure the water source is always clear. Installing a unit outside the house may not always be the best idea, since most will require access to a private water source. If you do decide to install one of these units outside, be sure you don’t place it too close to an outdoor shower or bath. If you do this, you may end up with a clogged unit in a few years.
