When it comes to health, what we consume matters immensely. And among those crucial consumables, water stands out to be a pivotal component. The presence of pollutants, sediments, bacteria and a variety of contaminants in our tap water can lead to serious health problems and diseases. This underscores the significance of water filtration systems. However, choosing the right filtration system can often be a daunting task due to the countless options available in the market.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of water filtration systems, examining the best systems suitable for home use. We will consider key features, performance, pros, cons, prices, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision when selecting a water filtration unit best suited to your needs.
Why Do You Need a Water Filtration System?
Before diving into the best filtration systems, it is essential to understand why your home needs one. Access to clean, filtered water is not just about improving the water’s subjective taste. It provides numerous benefits:
- Removes harmful pollutants: Tap water may look clear, but it contains several unseen pollutants like lead, chlorine, and other chemicals. A water filtration system is designed to effectively eliminate these contaminants.
- Prevents waterborne diseases: Many illnesses are waterborne, and having a filtration system can greatly reduce the risk of these diseases.
- Saves money: In the long run, filtered tap water is much cheaper than constantly buying bottled water.
Types of Water Filtration Systems
Most water filtration systems for home use fall under these categories:
- Reverse Osmosis Systems (RO): These units filter water by forcing it through a semi-permeable membrane that removes a wide range of contaminants.
- Activated Carbon Filters: The most common type of filter, it removes impurities through chemical absorption.
- Ceramic Filters: Water is simply poured into the filter and seeps through the ceramic material, which traps harmful bacteria and protozoa.
- UV Filters: one of the newest technologies, UV filters use ultraviolet radiation to combat bacteria and viruses.
- Infrared Filters: This technology is used primarily in areas with hard water, as it negatively charges the water to soften it.
1. The APEC Water Systems ROES-50
Reputed for its supreme quality and performance, The APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series Top Tier 5-Stage Certified Ultra Safe Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System ensures that consumers have access to clean drinking water that’s as good as bottled water and way more cost-effective. The 5-stage filtration system includes a Carbon Block filter, a Granular Activated Carbon filter, and a Reverse Osmosis Membrane, which can remove up to 99% of contaminants^[1^].
2. CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter
The CuZn UC-200 presents a long-lasting, efficient, and easy-to-install solution. It employs a 3-stage filtration process, which includes a micron sediment pre-filter, a KDF-55 Filtration Media, and an Acid Washed Coconut Shell Activated Carbon Filter. What makes it even better is that it can filter about 50,000 gallons of water, which means you can enjoy clean water for five years before needing to replace it^[2^].
3. Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter
The Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter is convenient for those who prefer a portable water filtration system. The system uses a gravity-fed method that can filter nearly 6000 liters of water before the need for replacement. It is powerful enough to remove pathogenic bacteria, parasites, herbicides, pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Whether you live in an urban setting with treated municipal water or a rural area with well water, the need for a reliable, efficient water filtration system cannot be overemphasized. Apart from safeguarding your health by eliminating contamination, this can significantly reduce the cost spent on buying bottled water in the long run.
Sources
[1]: APEC Water; ROES-50 Essence Series, Top Tier 5-Stage Certified Ultra Safe Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System, (http://www.apecwater.com)
[2]: CuZn Water Systems; UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter, (http://www.cuzn.com)
[3]: Berkey Water; Gravity-Fed Water Filter, Big Berkey, (http://www.berkeywater.com)