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Frequently we take our tap water
for granted. We think that it is pollutant free just because it is coming
from a deep well or a municipal water supply. Unfortunately this assumption
is frequently not the case. Both well and municipal water are occasionally
found to contain coliform bacteria or parasite cysts. Other times the water
may be technically safe, but has a funny taste or odor, or is laced with
sedimentary particles. Consequently it is important to have your tap water
periodically tested and if necessary a water filter installed. |
Water Filter
Types
Water filters come in a variety
of types and styles to address different types of tap water issues. There
are faucet mounted water filters, undersink water filters, countertop water
filters, reverse-osmosis water filters, activated carbon filter water
filters and whole house water filters. What you choose to purchase depends
on the results of your water tests and your specific household needs.
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Faucet Mounted
Water Filters
Faucet mounted water filters are easy
to install and take up very little space. They are excellent for improving water
taste, and reducing odors and chlorine levels. They also reduce rust and
sediment. They do reduce the water flow rate, however most are able to switch
between filtered flow and non-filtered flow. Installation does not require the
need for a plumber and replacement cartridges are easy to change. Faucet mounted
water filters range in price from $20-$70. |
Whole House
Water Filters
The advantage of whole house
water filters is that they address the needs of the entire home. They are
ideal for removing rust, sedimentary particles, and even chlorine from tap
water. However they typically do not effectively address other pollutants
such as metals, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and parasite cysts and
coliform bacteria.
Whole house filters are installed
in series with the main water supply line into the home, and can cost
between $40 and $1000. Typically smaller ones that are used cost between $50
and $100. In addition, typically a plumber is required, unless you are a
super DIY homeowner. Whole-house water filter replacement cartridges,
however, are fairly inexpensive and easy to install.
Reverse-Osmosis Water Filters
Reverse-Osmosis water filters are
frequently placed under kitchen cabinet sinks and are excellent for removing
a wide range of pollutants including arsenic, cysts, heavy metals, rust,
Chlorine, Sodium, dissolved solids, and the associated tastes and odors that
frequent these types of pollutants. However they are inefficient (e.g.
create a significant amount of waste water) and need to be regularly cleaned
with bleach. Installation again typically requires a plumber or a super DIY
homeowner. Reverse-osmosis water filters are also more expensive. They
typically will set you back $200-$600 before installation costs. They also
take up kitchen cabinet space.
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Undersink
Water Filters
Undersink water filters are great
for producing a large volume of water and eliminating rust, sediment, taste
and odor issues. However they take up kitchen cabinet space and require
modifications to the plumbing system and the kitchen countertop. Prices
range from $30 to $400 for an undersink water filter.
So before purchasing a water
filter, have your water tested first to see what water filter type is right
for your specific water needs.
For information on how to install a new
faucet, See HomeAdditionPlus.com's "Installing
a New Faucet Ebook". It provides in-depth, easy to
understand, step-by-step instructions and pictures, on how to install a new
Faucet.
Additional Home Plumbing Resources
Water Filters from
Amazon.com
