Purchasing a water filter is one of the easiest and most effective to safeguard the quality and purity of drinking water. However, the problem is that there is a wide variety of water filters available in the market with different types and features.
This makes it difficult for people to pick the one that matches both their water requirements, needs, and budget. Fortunately, with the help of this comprehensive guide to buying filters, people will be able to make informed decisions.
In this guide, we will first cover different types of water filters so that you can decide which one is the type that you want. We will then discuss different factors that you need to consider before making the final purchase.
Also, read our blog post about Ultimate Guide For Buying a Reverse Osmosis Filter
Different Types of Water Filters - Overview
There are several types of water filtration systems available in the market, such as:
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filters:
Reverse Osmosis filters are one of the most widely used water filters all around the world. These filters utilize a semi—permeable membrane to eliminate a wide range of impurities and contaminants.
It is claimed that these filters remove 99% of impurities from the water. However, the only downside is that they produce more water waste and require professional installation.
Activated Carbon Filters:
This type of water filter is usually designed using charcoal or coconut shells to eliminate toxic impurities from the water. Activated carbon filters are commonly found in pitcher filters, under-sink systems, or faucet filters.
Ultra-Violet Filters:
As the name indicates, these filters utilize ultraviolet to kill toxic bacteria, pesticides, and other microorganisms. These filters are often in conjunction with other filters to provide extra disinfection.
Ceramic Filters:
This type of filter contains tiny pores that efficiently capture the smallest bacteria, toxic impurities, and contaminants in the water. These are usually used in portable and gravity-fed filters.
Ion Exchange filters:
Ion exchange filters remove only specific minerals by exchanging them with their ions. These filters are widely used to soften the ions of magnesium and calcium.
Whole House Filters:
This type of filter is installed at the main supply line of homes to make all the entering water impurity-free. These filters include multiple filtration stages to remove chemicals, sediment, and viruses.
In-Line Water Filters:
Last but not least, In-line filters are normally directly into the water supply line of appliances such as refrigerators and many more.
So, we think now you have got an idea of which type of water filter you need to go. Now, let’s take a look at some of the factors that you need to consider before making the final decision.
How to Buy the Right Water Filter – Comprehensive Guide
1. Identify your water quality & requirement needs:
First of all, you need to figure out what kind of water quality you’re expecting. This includes what type of contaminants or impurities you want to eliminate from the drinking. Regarding water requirements, you need to determine the usage of water.
2. Select what kind water filter you want:
The next is to decide which type of water filters you’re planning to go with. For your ease, we have already discussed all the types of water filters above in this article.
3. Consider the water filter lifespan and replacement cost:
Once you have decided on the type of filter, you then need to determine the average lifespan and overall maintenance and replacement cost. The maintenance cost refers to the cost of filters, cartridges, and other components that you need to change/replace regularly to keep the filter working properly state.
4. Review the Selected Filter Performance:
You also need to review the performance of that filter water. This will involve reading other customer reviews and thoughts on its performance. Doing this will provide you with a good idea of how effective the filter is.
Reading customer reviews will provide useful insights related to the filter’s durability, reliability and off-course usability as well.
5. Compare prices and warranties:
For the selected filter, you need to compare the prices and warranties offered by different manufacturers. Doing this will ensure that you’re getting a competitive price.
Apart from comparing prices, you also need to check the warranty offered by the manufacturers. Doing this will protect the money that you have invested.
6. Look for additional Features:
Nowadays, most water filters come with additional features such as filter life indicators, after-change reminders, water pressure monitoring etc. You need to go with a filter that provides maximum additional features at a competitive price point.
7. Seek guidance from professionals:
Finally, if you’re still not sure about the right water filter, then it would be better for you to consult with an experienced person, such as a family member or friend, with knowledge of water filters. You can also seek professional guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a good water filter?
A water filter is a filtration system that removes impurities, contaminants, chemicals, and heavy metals from regular water, making it more healthy, safe, and tasty.
How do you know your drinking water is contaminated?
You can check the most recent water report of your local municipal water supply. Moreover, you can also test your water from a reputable laboratory to determine whether it is contaminated or not.
Which type of water filter is best?
The answer to this question depends on user-specific needs and budget. However, Ro filters are one of the go-to options for most people around the world, especially in the United States. These filers eliminate almost kinds of contaminants and impurities from drinking water.
Are there any additional costs associated with buying a water filter?
Yes! Buying a water filter also involves additional costs, such as filter replacements. Therefore, you need to also consider these expenses into the consideration before making the final decision.
Conclusion:
Buying a water filter for tasty, healthy, and safe drinking water is a good idea. But the problem is that there are so many types and brands available in the market offering good quality water filters. This makes most people confuse. With this guide, we hope you will end up buying the best filter for yourself.