Water Filters: Options for Everyone

Water filters can be the solution to a number of water quality issues. Whether your water quality suffers from strong odors, bad taste, poor texture, and/or high contaminant levels, a filtration system exists to treat the problem.

Water filtration can be done at the point-of-use, which refers to the faucet being used, or point-of-entry whole house water filters can be installed. Whole house filtering systems are usually only required if water quality is extremely poor and/or there is a concern about using your water system for other purposes than drinking. Which filter system you actually choose depends on your own specific needs.

Point-of-use filters include the following types:

• Carafe pitcher filters
• Countertop filters
• Faucet filters
• Under-the-sink filters

Whole house water filters include:

• Reverse osmosis systems
• Distillation systems
• Ultraviolet water purifiers

In actuality, all of the whole house filtration systems listed above can also be used as a point-of-use filter. Many filter systems rely on more than one type of filter being used. As an example, most reverse osmosis and distillation filters are used in conjunction with some form of carbon filter.

Choices and more choices!

How do you determine what type of water filter system you need? Have your water supply professionally tested to identify potential problems. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis even if you don't smell, taste, or see any specific troubles with your water. Based on the test results, you can narrow down the choices of water filtering systems that will best meet your needs.