Before I Begin if you want to check your to see if your public water is clean CLICK HERE.
If you want to have your water tested or more information on water filtration Reach out to Mike Kogovsek at Culligan Water 860-371-0938 [email protected]
Water filtration is essential for ensuring safe and clean drinking water. Here are some key points people should know:
1. Types of Contaminants: Water can be contaminated by microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, parasites), chemicals (lead, pesticides, pharmaceuticals), and physical particles (sediment, rust). Understanding the contaminants in your water source is crucial.
2. Common Filtration Methods:
- Activated Carbon Filters: Effective at removing chlorine, bad odors, and tastes. Limited effectiveness against heavy metals and pathogens.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): Removes a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved salts, heavy metals, and some chemicals. It often includes a pre-filter and post-filter for enhanced effectiveness.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Purifiers: Use UV light to kill bacteria and viruses. They do not remove chemicals or physical particles.
- Distillation: Boils water and condenses the steam, leaving contaminants behind. Effective for most impurities but can be slow and energy-intensive.
- Ceramic Filters: Use porous ceramic material to filter out bacteria and sediments. Often used in combination with other filters.
3. Certifications: Look for filters certified by organizations like NSF International or the Water Quality Association. These certifications ensure the filter meets specific standards for contaminant removal.
4. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including changing filters as recommended, is essential for ensuring the continued effectiveness of a water filtration system.
5. Cost: Consider both the initial cost and the ongoing maintenance costs. More advanced systems like RO can be more expensive initially but might save money in the long term by providing comprehensive filtration.
6. Flow Rate and Capacity: Ensure the filter can handle the volume of water you need daily. Some filters might slow down water flow, which can be inconvenient for larger households.
7. Point-of-Use vs. Point-of-Entry:
- Point-of-Use (POU): Installed at a single water outlet, such as a kitchen sink or a refrigerator.
- Point-of-Entry (POE): Installed where the main water line enters the home, filtering all water before it reaches any outlets.
8. Water Testing: Before choosing a filtration system, it’s advisable to test your water to identify specific contaminants present. This helps in selecting the most appropriate filtration technology.
Understanding these aspects of water filtration helps in making an informed decision, ensuring that the chosen system effectively addresses the specific needs and provides safe, clean drinking water.