When it comes to drinking water and using water around your home, quality matters. Filtering your water is one of the best ways to remove contaminants like lead, pesticides, chlorine, and sediment and improve taste and odor. The team at Water Filter Stuff has tested and reviewed all the top water filtration systems and put together this guide on choosing the best water filter for your home.
Why Filter Your Home’s Water?
There are a few key reasons why installing a water filter system can benefit most households:
1. Remove Potentially Harmful Contaminants
While public water supplies are regulated, there can still be concerning contaminants present in tap water. Top contaminants to watch out for include lead, chlorine, chloramine, fluoride, mercury, arsenic, hormones, and pharmaceuticals. Filtering water removes these unhealthy substances, promoting better health.
2. Improve Taste, Odor, and Appearance
Unfiltered water often has an unpleasant taste and smell from chemicals like chlorine. Sediment and mineral buildup can also make water appear cloudy or discolored. Water filters remove odors, improve clarity, and provide better tasting water for drinking and cooking.
3. Protect Appliances and Fixtures
Sediment, minerals, and chemicals in tap water can shorten the lifespan of appliances like dishwashers, coffee makers and ice machines. Whole house water filters help reduce scale buildup and corrosion issues inside pipes and fixtures too.
Types of Water Filters Compared
There are a variety of water filtration systems to choose from. The right one depends on your budget, requirements, and preferred installation method.
4. Pitcher Filters
Pitcher filters, like Brita and PUR, are simple and inexpensive but have a limited lifespan and slow flow rate. They attach to pitchers or bottles for easy filtered water access in the fridge. Great for basic filtration.
5. Faucet Mount Filters
Attaching a filter directly to the kitchen faucet makes accessing filtered water simple. Culligan and Brita are top brands. Good for getting filtered water from a single kitchen faucet.
6. Under Sink Filters
Under sink systems are installed below the sink and often include separate filtered water tap. Offers high capacity and flow rate. Brands like Aquasana and Frizzlife are great options. Some allow DIY install but consult instructions.
7. Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis (RO) uses advanced technology to remove contaminants. Provides the purest water. Have larger storage tanks and deliver consistent filtered water to dedicated faucet.
8. Whole House Filters
A whole house system filters all water entering a home. Beneficial for washing, showers, appliances. Require professional installation but low maintenance. Brands like Aquasana and SpringWell are excellent choices. Some allow DIY install.
Key Features to Consider in a Water Filter
9. Filtration Method
Common filtration methods:
Activated carbon (great for chlorine and chemicals)
Reverse osmosis (best filtration technology)
UV light (kills microorganisms)
Water softeners (removes minerals)
Look for systems using a combination.
10. Filter Capacity
Capacity indicates how much water a filter can process before needing replacement. Get at least 6-12 month capacity. Check manufacturer details.
11. Flow Rate
Flow rate measures gallons filtered per minute. Higher is better to avoid slow water flow. Flow rates depend on the filter type and home water pressure.
12. Certifications
Look for NSF, WaterSense or other independent testing/certification to ensure effectiveness and safety.
13. Costs
Consider both upfront costs and ongoing costs for replacement filters. Pitchers and faucets are most affordable, while under sink and whole house systems involve a bigger investment.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and maintenance makes all the difference:
14. Consider Professional Installation
While some systems like pitchers and faucets are easy DIY, under sink and whole home systems usually require a plumber or handyman for installation. Always consult manufacturer instructions.
15. Change Filters Regularly
Replace filters based on manufacturer recommendations, usually every 3-12 months depending on type and use. Set reminders to maintain performance.
Contact the Water Filter Experts Today
Choosing the optimal water filtration system for your needs and budget is important. The team at Water Filter Stuff has tested and reviewed all the top brands and models. Get in touch for personalized advice on the best water filter for your home!