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Are you frustrated with your drinking water quality? If you’re experiencing tap water issues such as cloudy water, floating particles, or you’re generally unhappy with how your water tastes, you may be considering adding a mounted filter. While water filters can help to filter out some particles, it may not address all of the issues you’re having. First, we have to understand how a faucet water filter works. Then, we’ll discuss what it can and cannot do.
A faucet filter connects directly to the faucet where you get your tap water, usually in the kitchen. After you attach the filter and turn on the tap, it passes through the filter. Depending on which option you purchase, the filter is typically made of plastic or metal. The filter acts as a sediment trap, removing particles like sand and dirt. From there the water usually passes through a block of activated carbon and zeolites. This block traps contaminants such as chlorine.
Keep in mind that a water filter does not purify water, it filters water. The mounted water filter on your tap will filter out the larger particles like sand or dirt. A purifier, such as a reverse osmosis unit, removes everything else.
Understandably, many want to install a mounted faucet filter at first due to its ease and affordability. If you’re unsure what is ruining your water quality, it is easy to assume that this will fix the issues you’re having. Faucet water filters can be a quick, temporary fix for your kitchen sink, but there may be other underlying issues. If this is the case, a mounted faucet filter alone will not take care of all the issues you face.
Now that we’re aware of some differences between a water filter and water purifier, you’re probably wondering, is one option better than the other? It depends on your water quality! We recommend getting your water tested before you make a decision. A water test will tell you exactly what is in your water so you know what is causing your issues.
Many companies can test your water with and without the mounted filter to see what difference it is making. This can also help you determine if you could benefit from a different filtration system.
So, what are some pros and cons of water filters?
Water Filter Pros
Water Filter Cons
There are many treatment options that can work for you. To know what option is correct for your specific needs, you should have your water tested by a water specialist. While exploring your treatment options, keep in mind that the issues your neighbors face may not be the same issues you have.
There are a few options you have based on your water issues: whole home filtration, under sink filtration, and water softeners.
A whole home filtration system is typically installed where your main water line enters your home. Whole home filtration brings clean water to every tap in your home and provides clean water for bathing, cooking, and drinking. The primary need for a whole home filtration system is to remove contaminants from your water.
Under sink systems provide filtered drinking water on demand, with no waiting around for the filtration process to run its course, as you would with a pitcher such as a Britta. Under sink filtration systems address a variety of common issues such as unpleasant odors and contaminants.
Reverse osmosis is a common under sink filtration system. With an under sink reverse osmosis system, the filter housing, storage tank, and plumbing tubes, are all hidden from sight. Reverse osmosis is a very low-energy method for removing almost everything from water that is not water. The result is some of the best drinking water available right from a tap on your kitchen sink!
Water softeners are not water filter systems, so they do not treat water quality issues directly.
When combined with other systems it can give you the best water quality! A water softener will take care of any hard water issues you have. If you use a water softener you may notice less mineral build-up, softer skin, and no water stains left on your dishes.
With many filtration options to choose from, you may be wondering which option is best for you. The only way to know is to first get your water tested. From there your chosen water expert will recommend customized options based on your needs. Your chosen installer will help you maintain your water filtration system as regular maintenance may be needed.
If you’re in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with Suburban Water Technology Inc.!
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