As much as we might try to deny it, the fact remains that the water from our taps at home may not always be suitable for drinking. Despite the filtration carried out by the factory and the treatment at public water sources, what we get from the taps in our homes may not always be completely clean and safe. The impurity is usually caused by the contaminants in pipes, especially older ones.
In many homes, it is not strange to find a filtration method that is used by homeowners. The process of choosing a water filtration & purification sink faucet filter can prove difficult since there are so many to pick from. Therefore, in this article, we’ll guide you on how to choose a faucet water filter.
What is a Faucet Water Filter?
This is a device that is used to remove impurities and contaminants from the water flowing out of a faucet. This device can be directly attached to your faucet. This setup makes it easier for the device to filter the water.
There are different technologies employed by manufacturers of these products to collect and get rid of water contaminants. Some devices are fitted with activated carbon, while others make use of specialized materials. Regardless of the technology employed, these devices end up doing their job.
When it comes to installation, the process is quite easy. You don’t need to be technically savvy or use so many tools before you can install one. With these devices, you can enjoy safer and cleaner drinking water from your faucet.
Different Types of Water Filters
There are different types of water filters. Your needs and preferences will determine which one is best for you. Let’s take a look at them, shall we?
Installed Under Sinks
If you prefer the device to be discrete yet effective, you can choose the type that can be installed under your sink. The product’s position under the sink doesn’t prevent it from removing the contaminants in your water. One advantage of this option is that it can integrate seamlessly with your existing plumbing. Therefore, it won’t take up space on your countertop.
Countertop
This option is straightforward and flexible, as per the filtration process. If you choose this, access to the purified water is easy since the devices are connected directly to your faucet and installed on your kitchen counter. You can visit https://www.preservationartisans.org/ to learn about the history of kitchen countertops. Therefore, it’s perfect for people who want convenience thanks to its easy installation and removal process (if need be).
Water Pitchers
While these are not directly connected to faucets, they still do the job of purifying water. With these devices, you can enjoy clean, filtered water on the go in your home. They are designed with a filter cartridge that gets rid of the impurities.
What These Filters Remove
With a faucet filter, you can get rid of odor and taste, pesticides, estrogen, heavy metals, and a variety of contaminants. It can also remove rust, algae, insects, suspended pollutants, and irritants. The commonly used filter media include activated carbon fiber, ceramic, carbon-to-carbon block, etc. Although most filtration systems will produce clean drinking water, not all of them will meet such standards.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Faucet Filter
When you want to buy this device, there are features you need to consider. Taking these features into consideration will ensure you select a filter that will get rid of all liquid contaminants. Let’s take a look at these features:
Filtration Technology
The filtration technology used in the product determines how effective it would be. The two main types of filtration technology used in filters are activated carbon and reverse osmosis. Let’s explain them further.
Activated Carbon
This technology is used in a wide range of faucet filters. Activated carbon can get rid of pharmaceutical medicines, pesticides, and chlorine with this technology. Heavy metals such as zinc and lead can also be removed via this technology.
Reverse Osmosis
This technology is not commonly used in tap-mounted filters. The reason is because of its size as well as its higher complexity level. With reverse osmosis, you can get rid of different contaminants, including arsenic and fluoride.
Ability to Remove Contaminants
Before you buy any product, find out the contaminants it can eliminate. The filter should at least be capable of removing chlorine, lead, and sediment. When shopping, look for products that can get rid of viruses, bacteria, chemicals, and heavy metals.
Certifications
Ensure that you purchase a product with WQA or NSF certification. You can check here to find out more about the NSF certification. Products that have either of these certifications show that they have been tested to properly remove certain contaminants.
Flow Rate and Pressure
The job of the filter is to get rid of impurities and not lessen the flow rate and pressure. The product you choose must maintain a pressure range of 40 to 60 psi. Therefore, you need to buy a device that matches your home’s liquid pressure. Doing so will prevent damage to your faucet and won’t cause a decline in efficiency.
Lifespan and Replacement Indicators
You need to change the cartridges on the device from time to time. Therefore, you need to find out the cartridge’s estimated lifespan. It is usually indicated in numbers, representing either the number of filtered gallons or months. You also need to get a device that has indicators or prompt systems that will let you know when you need to replace the cartridge.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
Ordinarily, you shouldn’t need a plumber to install a faucet filter. Therefore, get a device that is easy to install and maintain. With such a product, you don’t have to take a technical course or get several tools just to install and maintain the product.
Conclusion
Faucet water filters ensure that the liquid from our taps is clean and safe. Different types of filters can be installed in your home. When choosing one, you need to pay attention to the features we discussed in the article above.
