Access to clean, safe, and readily available water for drinking, cooking, and other domestic purposes is a necessity for modern living. Unfortunately, there are increasing concerns about poor quality as millions of tons of untreated sewage water are being discharged into large bodies of water every day.
Given the uncertainties on water quality, experts recommend the purchase and installation of quality water filtration systems. In this article, you’ll learn the basics of water filtration systems and five things to consider when choosing and installing one in your home.
Understanding Water Filtration Systems
Water filtration refers to a process in which solid particles are removed using a series of filter media that allows the water to pass through while filtering the unwanted particles. In general, any system with a filter that can remove any amount of sediment, particles, chlorine taste, and bacteria from your water is a filtration system.
5 Things To Consider When Buying And Installing A Water Filter
- Contaminants In Your Water
The first step when choosing the best water filter for your home is to take a closer look at your water supply. While most water filters can help remove common contaminants, determining which pollutants are in your water supply can make it easier for you to find the right system to install.
Local municipality water lines generally have annual water quality testing. These reports are available to consumers, so you can simply request one to review water quality. That said, you never know which type of pollutants can enter your pipes before reaching your taps.
In this case, you can test your water using a DIY water testing kit that you can find in local hardware stores or online shops. However, if you want reliable and more comprehensive testing, hiring a water specialist is the best option.
- Types Of Water Filtration Systems
In general, you’ll find numerous types of water filtration systems today. However, they often fall into two categories: point-of-use (POU) filters and point-of-entry (POE) filters. The type of filter you choose will determine its filtration capabilities and installation location.
POU filters are installed and filter water in a specific tap or water fixture. Common types of POU filters are under-sink or countertop filters, which are installed near your kitchen tap and purify your drinking water.
POE filters, on the other hand, are installed in your main water line and are used to filter all incoming water. This means it filters water before reaching any water fixtures and outlets in your home—from the kitchen to the bathroom—so you can enjoy clean, pure water anywhere in your home. This is why POE filters are also commonly called whole-house water filtration systems.
- Unit Measurements
Regardless of the type of water filter you choose, you’ll want to check its size before installation. Most filters are fairly large and bulky. So, it only makes sense to measure your planned installation location and compare these measurements to the water filter’s size. You’ll also want to give enough space for any wirings and tubes required.
Checking the sizing and making sure that there’s enough wiggle room make the unit easier to install and maintain in the future (i.e., replacing water filters).
- Hardware Compatibility And Add-Ons
Most water filtration systems have a universal fit, making them compatible with a variety of water fixtures, faucets, showers, and other plumbing components. However, you’ll still want to confirm if the water filter you’re eyeing is compatible with your existing fixtures and plumbing or if you need extra attachments.
In addition, take note that some water filtration systems may not include everything you need when installing. For instance, most units don’t include a bypass valve, but this may be handy in letting you switch between filtered and unfiltered water.
- DIY Vs. Professional Installation
Another thing you need to consider when installing a water filtration system is whether to do it on your own or hire a professional.
In general, most water filters are quite easy to install on your own, as long as you have the right tools and knowledge on how your plumbing works. However, if you have no idea about plumbing, then hiring a professional plumber ensures that your water filter is properly fitted and installed.
Takeaway
Water from your tap may look clear and clean; however, some impurities and pollutants may still be present in your water that you’d rather not consume. Instead of second-guessing the purity of your drinking water, consider purchasing and installing the best home water filtration system to ensure your family’s health.