Categories
Water Filtration

Best Inline Garden Hose Water Filters Of 2021

When gardening, you’ll want to make sure your plants have access to clean, safe water to help them thrive. Regular tap water contains chloramine and chlorine levels that can hurt your garden; therefore, a garden hose filter is required to protect your plants from these harmful chemicals.
A garden hose filter may assist you in growing a fruitful garden by keeping your soil healthy and providing your plants with the nutrients they require to flourish.

First Time Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Correct Hose Filter

When selecting your first water filter for a garden hose, there are a few factors to consider.

Filter Materials

A sediment filter is a good choice for a garden hose filter since it keeps dirt, sediments, pebbles, and other material out of your water supply. The higher the mesh value, the greater the amount of impurities that can be filtered.
If you use municipal water for your garden, you’re undoubtedly dealing with additional chlorine and chloramines to fight bacteria and illness; nevertheless, these chemicals can harm your plants and disrupt the ecology, necessitating the usage of a better filter. To disinfect the water, the finest garden hose filters employ active components.
Water filtration systems have been enhanced by advances in nanotechnology. Copper, carbon, silver, and mixtures of the three minerals have antibacterial characteristics, allowing them to kill bacteria and remove chlorine and chloramines from water. A strong disinfectant that preserves water safety can be created by doping the filter medium with a copper, carbon, or silver-based chemical.

Size

You might have access to the best filter materials in the world, but you won’t be able to use them until you select the appropriate size. Standard garden hoses are compatible with the filters listed above. If your hose is exceptionally large, you’ll need to look into specific filters.
An excessively big filter may cause leaks and may not effectively filter hazardous chemicals. A filter that is too small might harm your hose by causing clogs. Before buying a filter, make sure you measure your hose since the improper size might create a lot of problems in your yard.
PIC: man gets hose

The Best Garden Hose Filters

Here are some of the top water filtering systems for garden hoses on the market today. We’ll go through their advantages, disadvantages, and differences from other alternatives.

1. AQUACREST Garden Hose Water Filter

The garden hose filter was designed specifically for garden water, and we upgraded the recipe by adding ion exchange resin. The 5-micron filter aperture effectively reduces undesirable elements like chlorine, odor, and silt while keeping essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The filter may eliminate white water spots created by left over minerals after air drying, in addition to supporting healthy plant development.
The garden hose filter was designed specifically for gardens and may be used for gardening, swimming pools, baths, spas, pet bathing, and more. It’s compatible with the garden mist cooling system as well. The improved formula filters calcium ions more effectively, intercepts contaminants, prevents calcium deposits from clogging nozzles, and extends the atomizer’s life. This is a filter that may be used for a number of purposes on a daily basis.
The long-lasting inline filter can fulfill all of your garden water demands in four months, giving you clean, fresh water, supporting healthy plant development, and assuring the safety of your garden water. It efficiently reduces chlorine odor after watering the garden, protects your family’s health, and creates a safe and healthy environment for children.

2. Clean Water for Your Fun Garden Hose Filter

This top-rated garden hose filter fits most regular garden hoses and can handle up to 10,000 gallons of water. Its antibacterial characteristics are provided by catalytic carbon rather than copper, and the body is made of polypropylene and plastic. While it is not suitable for drinking, it is ideal for use in the garden.
The filtering capabilities of Clean Water for Fun were tested by a third party. It promises to remove organic pollutants by 99 percent and chloramines by 97 percent, both of which are impossible to achieve with most conventional filters. However, several users discovered that while the filter decreased chloramines considerably, it only did so by 90 rather than 97 percent.
They employ carbon derived from coconut shells, which is activated via a steam method. To expand the surface area, activation produces millions of surface micro-pores. The carbon is then coated with a catalyst that breaks the ammonia and chlorine link, resulting in the elimination of chloramines.
TCE, MTBE, PCE, ammonia, chlorine, chloramines, disinfectants, pesticides, herbicides, and trace-level organic materials are all adsorbable by the catalytic carbon filter. Its body is made of a long-lasting polypropylene material that will last you at least a summer.
If you wish to use the filter on a regular basis, you’ll need a connector. Two sets of connections make it simple to connect and disconnect it from your hose, making it ideal for a home irrigation system. The filter was created by Clean Water for Fun for watering your garden, not ponds or aquariums, however many customers have had no problems utilizing it for those purposes.
Although it will not completely destroy germs, this American-made filter may be a fantastic addition to your garden. This filter will be useful if you reside in an area with good water quality but have encountered chloramines.

3. LOVHO Sediment Filter

The LOVHO garden hose water filter also attaches to your pressure washer input or house water faucet to eliminate sediments from the water supply, safeguarding your equipment. This filter was created by LOVHO for rural families, small farms, and those who utilize well water.
It will not remove chlorine or chloramines because it is a sediment filter. If you use municipal water to water your plants, it will not work. If you’re more worried about extra sediments or have a finer filter to purify chemicals, this option may be worth considering. It features a long-lasting metal coupler and body, and it can handle any flow rate with a maximum hose pressure of 80 psi.
Customer service is excellent, and if necessary, they will repair your broken filter. To remove additional contaminants, they recommend using their 100 mesh sediment filter. They will upgrade you to a different choice if you have problems with the 40 mesh filter. LOVHO also offers installation, cleaning, and part replacement assistance to ensure that you have the best possible experience with their goods.

4. Waterdrop RV Inline Water Filter

Waterdrop Inline water filter is NSF 42 approved and has a long durability of 3 months. It provides clean and crisp drinking water with every sip at its finest, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities to the fullest.
Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) and Advanced Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) technologies provide very effective multi-stage filtering. It reduces chlorine, bad taste and odor, and particles larger than 20 microns, resulting in cleaner and safer drinking water.
It has an anti-kink flexible hose protector to keep the line from kinking and straining while providing smooth water flow. Any 3/4GHT standard water hose can be used with the hose protection.
Because the Waterdrop inline water filter is made of food-grade materials, no pollutants are leached back into the water, allowing you to drink safe and pure water.
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Under-sink

What is Ultrafiltration and How Does it Work?

Ultrafiltration is a method of water filtration much unlike reverse osmosis. Also referred to as UF, ultrafiltration utilizes the pressure of a standard home water system, in order to remove contaminants by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane. Through this method, ultrafiltration is capable of removing bacteria, parasites, and viruses, while also retaining minerals found in water. While it does bear a resemblance to reverse osmosis systems, ultrafiltration is considered to be a superior method of filtration, efficient at producing mineral rich, healthy drinking water.

What Exactly is Ultrafiltraion?

Through the use of hydrostatic pressure, ultrafiltration works similarly to reverse osmosis, forcing water through a semipermeable membrane. The overall success of this process is thanks to a membrane pore size of 103 to 106 Daltons, filtering away bacteria, viruses, endotoxins, and much more. This semipermeable membrane produces purified water with a very low density of silt, once the water is forced through. Fundamentally, the process of ultrafiltration doesn’t differ from RO, or even microfiltration, aside from the molecular size retained.
This semipermeable membrane is comprised of a thin layer of material capable of separating substances through pure force. The membrane process was once considered a dependable technology for desalination. With time, membrane processes became increasingly popular for bacteria removal, as well as other microorganisms, impacting odor, flavor, and color of resulting water. As membrane production advances continue to be made, as well as with module design, there is a noticeable decline in operating costs and capital.

How Does UF Work?

The membrane material found within ultrafiltration, utilizes hollow fibers which enables water to flow through both sides of the shell. Suspended solids of high molecular weight are retained alongside solutes, as the membrane allows water and low molecular weight solutes to pass through. Aside from the variations in retained molecular sizes, reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration aren’t different fundamentally, as well as nanofiltration and microfiltration. UF is ideal for the removal of a whole slew of contaminants that are larger than the pores of the utilized membrane, especially when combined with other forms of water purification.
As ultrafiltration systems utilize hollow fiber membranes, water is better enabled to flow through for better filtration. A large surface area is presented for particle adherence, while other membranes filter in from the outside. These fiber membranes feature a high resistance to chemicals, such as chlorine and oxidants. However, the TFC RO membrane, on the other hand is incapable of tolerating chlorine.
By comparison, a reverse osmosis system features an extensive form of filtration, due to the inherently small pore size of the RO membrane. An ultrafiltration system retains beneficial minerals that RO systems would otherwise remove. The downside to this type of filtration, is that a UF system will not remove fluoride, salts, or TDS from water sources. An RO system also requires a booster pump to operate properly, in order to increase water flow. UF systems operate on a low water pressure system, so booster pumps aren’t needed.

Microfiltration, Nanofiltration, and Ultrafiltration

The big difference between four various types of membrane based filtration lies with the reduced particle size, or membrane pore size. Determining which form of filtration is best suited to your needs, is all dependent upon your current water source situation, as well as the desired water quality. For each kind of membrane filtration, simply view the spectrum of reduction utilizing the chart below.

How is Ultrafiltration Used?

Each and every type of membrane based water filtration serves a different purpose to a variety of consumers. As such, most people who appreciate minerals being retained in their drinking water, makes UF the filtration method of choice. Plus, because it wastes less water, ultrafiltration systems may be used over an RO system. For example, in areas where water is more regulated, California residences may opt for RO over UF. Someone in the Carolinas, by comparison, where they struggle with fewer dissolved minerals, may opt for UF instead of RO. Ultrafiltration is sometimes utilized to recycle water after the process of filtration, for irrigation purposes. Microfiltration is capable of removing suspended solids ranging from sediment to algae. Nanofiltration is efficient at removing heavy solids in dairy, as well as softening purposes.

What is Ultrafiltration Capable of Removing?

A fine filter found within the UF membrane is capable of reducing particles up to 5,000 times smaller than a human hair, for a reduction of 90-100% of all contaminants. Ultrafiltration may not reduce specific organics, but it can perform better through the use of a carbon block prefilter. When installed with a prefilter, consumers will notice a marked improvement in the reduction of chlorine, lead, odor, cysts, and much more. Overall, you can also expect up to two years of life out of a UF membrane, before replacement is necessary.
Ultrafiltration systems have gained popularity over the stable water quality it produces, regardless of the water source. It also features a compact physical footprint, with capabilities of removing most viruses and organic molecules. UF does not require the use of chemicals either, except when cleaning membranes.

Characteristics of a UF Membrane

Regular maintenance is the top way to prevent fouling of a nanofiltration membrane, due to scaling, solids, and other microbiological agents, including algae, and microbes. Ultrafiltration is categorized somewhere between nanofiltration, and microfiltration. Thanks to a pore size ranging between 0.1 to 0.01 microns, ultrafiltration membranes prevent 90% of a macromolecular solute from passing through. Ultrafiltration systems are most applicable to situations including:
  • Standalone systems
  • Water softening
  • Paper pulp mill effluent filtration
  • Food and beverage industries
  • Wastewater and industrial process water treatment and recycling

Benefits of Ultrafiltration

  • Doesn’t generate wastewater
  • Removes viruses and bacteria
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Operates at a lower pressure
  • Retains essential minerals
Ultrafiltration systems are considered to be rather eco-friendly. With a 90-95% recovery rate, uf can be used to treat wastewater, and prepare it for reuse. A home ultrafiltration water system often benefits the environment as well, by reducing the amount of discarded plastic water bottles overall.

Filtration Development

Modern membrane technology didn’t technically get it’s start until the 1990s, with ultrafiltration getting it’s start during the 1960s. This was following the heals of the discovery of the 1950s discovery of the RO membrane. While it was first described toward the end of the 19th century, ultrafiltration has come a long way. It also came after MIT’s discovery in the beginning of the 60s, when they discovered polyelectrolyte complex hydrogels.
When polymeric membrane chemistry and processing techniques were getting their start through the manufacturing of filtration membrane. UF was made more efficient through the discovery of these new materials and manufacturing methods. Overall, this poised UF as a competitive process for efficient water treatment solutions. In fact, the global ultrafiltration membrane market grew to a size of $5.3 billion in 2019. Though recent events caused a little bit of a slump, the market is projecting a substantial recovery in 2021. Efficient advancements, as well as increasing water safety regulations, are expected to drive adoption upwards.
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Water Filtration

How to Enjoy Drinking Water in Your RV

When you are serious about the RV life, obtaining safe drinking water is not always an easy task. The quality of your drinking water is highly dependent upon the water source of any given RV park, unless you utilize pricey bottled water, instead. Either way, it’s a well known fact that water from plastic bottles, as well as RV park water sources are both accompanied by an unpleasant flavor.

How fresh is RV water, exactly?

By the time camping season is beginning to wrap up, water is drained out of the system in order to properly winterize your RV for winter storage. The biggest issue with this practice, is that it’s impossible to drain all of the fresh water from the holding tank. Should you manage to remove all of the water contained therein, moisture will still remain in the system. This means that it creates an environment beneficial to the growth of mold, mildew, and more. Next season, you will essentially be showering, washing dishes, cooking, and possibly consuming with water that sat all winter, accumulating contaminants.
In and of itself, contaminated water poses threats to your overall health. Regardless of whether contaminated water stemmed from winter storage, it is possible to receive water full of contaminants through hookups alone. There are simply zero guarantees when it comes to the safety of water originating from hookups in an RV park, so why bet your family’s health on something so controversial? The fact of the matter is, it is not uncommon to observe suspended particles and cloudy water flowing from RV faucets utilizing a hookup. And, in the moment, you have no way of knowing what’s in there!

What’s the resolution?

Water Filters

Water filters are one of the easiest ways to obtain safe and healthy drinking water. You may choose from a variety of styles, sizes, and features, according to what best suits your needs. Whether you prefer to attach one directly on your faucet, set something on a counter, or keep it in the fridge, you can bet there is one for you. Filter cartridges work by removing contaminants and solids through the use of activated carbon. This ensures your drinking water is free of bacteria, viruses, suspended solids, and dangerous chemicals, while also being abundant with essential minerals commonly found in drinking water.
If you find yourself concerned that simple cartridge filtration won’t be adequate for various water sources, an inline system, Reverse Osmosis, or Ultrafiltration system may serve as the best solution. These types of water purification utilize porous membranes to remove dangerous contaminants on a molecular level. RO systems also enable users to install prefilters for hard water, and subsequent stages for more refined filtration, such as for the removal of fluoride.

Bottled Water

Although it may seem convenient to grab a case of bottled water at the store, it’s rather bothersome to tote and store on your RV. Let’s not forget that the plastic used to produced bottled water also presents health issues in and of itself. When exposed to the heat of manufacturing and shipping, the plastic may leech dangerous chemicals into the contents and, ultimately, into your body. Long term, this “solution” is far from it, and shouldn’t be considered permanent.
The biggest issue with bottled water also comes down to the source. While bottled water manufacturers hinge their advertising schemes on crystal clear streams, and glistening rivers, it couldn’t be further from the truth. The fact of the matter is that bottled water is often produced utilizing municipal water sources, or even recycled wastewater. In that case, what’s the point of even investing in a different source from RV park water hookups?

Boiling Water

In the event of an emergency, when forms of purified water are otherwise unobtainable, it may be possible to boil your water source, instead. This method is ideal for situations where water may be unsafe to consume, for various reasons. This is especially true if you are utilizing a natural water source, such as a lake, river, etc. Regardless, boiling water may be the only situation for a variety of cases. However, it’s important to note that the act of boiling water does not remove contaminants, and does not have the innate ability to kill off every type of dangerous bacteria or virus. If you have no other choice, boil your water, otherwise, look to filtration or a purification system before a bad situation presents itself.

Filling the Tank

A great option is to ensure your tank is filled with fresh water before you even move your RV off the lot. You never know when you’ll reach a reliable water source before reaching any given destination. Whether you are traveling to the next campground on a vacation, or are moving from one RV park to another, you could face a water shutoff at any point.
It is important to keep your system sanitized as well. This further minimizes the risk of contaminants after winter storage, where leftover moisture could pose a health problem. Simply begin by draining the old water, through the use of a drain plug or petcock. It is important to note that you should never drain a water heater when it is under pressure, or otherwise hot. Continue by locating the drain for the fresh water holding tank, draining all of the contents. This is the time to turn the water pump on for a moment, in order to force out any remnants before closing your drains. However, once the water is finished draining, do not allow the pump to continue running.
A cup of household bleach per fifteen gallons, is all you need to sanitize the tank. Mix the bleach with water in a one gallon container, pouring it directly into the fresh water holding tank. Once it’s nearly full, turn the pump on, and open every single hot and cold faucet. This allows the water to run until you smell bleach. At this point, close your faucets. It’s important to drive your RV or trailer around, so the water can move around, further assisting with the complete sanitizing of the tank, if possible. Allow the RV to sit for 12 hours, before draining the entire system. You will want to fill the fresh tank with water once again, opening each faucet to allow water to run through. Once the smell of bleach is gone, you’re done. It may be necessary to repeat the process if you are unable to eliminate all signs of bleach. Once the smell is gone, though, you are free to use the water system.

Add Flavor

Water tanks can leave your drinking source tasting funny. Filtration and boiling won’t always be the solution, which is where the addition of flavor may be a lifesaver. In the event of unpleasant water, simply utilize flavors such as lemonade mix, or even add water for an infused treat. This way, you’ll stay hydrated, and be free to enjoy the rest of your space in a beautiful environment.

Final Thoughts

Water is one of the most important aspects to good health. Without a good, reliable source of water, hydration may not be possible. It’s for this reason that we suggest the aforementioned resolutions to handling a frustrating water source situation. By adhering to the advice above, you will be well on your way to enjoying your RV, regardless of where life takes you.
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All Reviews

Which is Healthier: Filtered Tap Water or Bottled Water?

Managing personal health is one of the most popular pursuits of mankind, especially in terms of extending overall longevity. Food and water sources are under constant scrutiny, especially in regard to which method is superior to another, and the debate over filtered tap water vs bottled water is no exception. So which type of drinking water is safest, and deserving of a spot in your household?

Filtered Tap Water

Water filters are capable of purifying tap water by allowing water to flow through various types of filter media utilizing different methods. The type of media utilized is completely dependent upon the manufacturer, model, and, in some cases, consumer discretion. Ultimately, the goal is to obtain safe drinking water for your household, without the need for excessive plastic or dangerous chemicals.

Charcoal Filtration

Filters may utilize cartridges containing activated charcoal. Charcoal has an inherent characteristic of high porosity, which makes it capable of bonding to various contaminants commonly found in tap water. While this may take care of numerous impurities, the fact of the matter is that it mostly captures chlorine. Activated charcoal isn’t capable of bonding to all materials, which means many contaminants pass through activated charcoal unscathed. Additionally, charcoal requires frequent cartridge replacements in order to maintain a high standard of filtration. Otherwise, the pores quickly become clogged, incapable of bonding with subsequent contaminants and chemicals.

Waterdrop WD-FC-01 Faucet Water Filter

By adopting selected and thoroughly tested Activated Carbon Black (or ACF), Waterdrop water filter cartridges feature a large surface area, with a collection of microholes. These holes effectively absorb present substances that may be harmful to your health, producing safe, pure drinking water. Waterdrop’s filter system provides up to 3 months of use, or 320 gallons of clean water. This makes it one of the most cost-effective water filter options on the market. Homeowners would only need four replacements for an entire year of dependable filtration.

AO Smith Whole House Carbon Filtration System

For clean water you can taste, the AO-WH-FILTER reduces up to 97% of all Chlorine commonly present in tap water. A whole house filter provides the convenience of filtering tap before it flows through to you faucets, for whole house peace of mind. Overall, this system will reduce your family’s exposure to chlorine, as well as a plethora of other chemicals that lead to health problems in the water and air. Covered by a 6 year limited warranty, the AO-WH-Filter provides 6 years of water filtration, or 600,000 gallons of water. Everything you need to get started is included in the package, such as a hose adapter, shut-off valve, and more. Some other tools may be required for a complete installation but, otherwise, you won’t need to call a plumber to complete the task.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse Osmosis purification systems create safe drinking water by separating clean water from impure water. Under high pressure, the tap water is forced through a porous membrane, in order to remove impurities. Nearly 100% of all harmful bacteria, dissolved solids, and organic material is removed through this method, with very little energy consumption. This does mean, however, longer processing times, in order to ensure completely pure water. Additionally, RO systems may be more involved and expensive to maintain. Some companies do offer subscription services, in order to ensure monthly maintenance is kept up on with high quality service.

iSpring 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

For optimal protection, you can’t go wrong with a multi-layered filter system, like the RCC7P-AK from iSpring. This pressure-boosted system enables the removal of 1000 types of contaminants, while also improving the performance of water pressure. Tap water is forced through various stages of filtration, at a high rate of speed, in order to reduce overall waste water, and improve filtration results. This makes an ideal solution for homes with low pressure, such as 40 PSI or less, where other filtration options fall flat. Put your household in good hands, by utilizing an RO system from iSpring, and enjoy the confidence that this system provides.

Waterdrop D4 RO Drinking Water Filtration System

The Waterdrop RO Drinking Water Filtration System, aside from offering premier RO filtration, features a tankless design. Measuring in at 12.44” tall, Waterdrop’s tankless RO system puts an elegant spin on a household necessity. When you need the guarantee of a high output, with a small footprint, the Waterdrop D4 RO will not let you down. Simply install the system underneath most kitchen sinks, or any other kitchen cabinet with space, and enjoy.
By adopting an innovative technology and design, Waterdrop has integrated various filtration materials to produce a 5-in-1 filter. This filter demands less space, while achieving optimal filtration capabilities, in order to reduce: chlorine, TDS, heavy metals, pesticides, and more. You will appreciate the automatic flush after 1 hour of zero operation, which ensures the filter remains pure at all times. This also supports the filter’s lifespan, providing consumers with the highest quality effect in water filtration.

Pros of Filtered Drinking Water

There are large variety of reasons to opt for filtered water over bottled water. Aside from lessening the demand for plastic, home water filtration takes the guess work out of toting cases of bottled water into your home. Aside from that, here are a few additional reasons why you should make the switch from bottled to filtered water.

Odor-Free Water

If you have ever noticed a funny smell coming from your faucet, it’s most likely derived from chlorine used to treat tap water. Local municipal water sources routinely add chlorine in order to kill off any bacteria that may be present in city water. The most basic of water filters are capable of removing chlorine from local water. This means, even if you invest in the cheapest faucet water filter, chances are, you will eliminate funny odors – activated charcoal is great at absorbing odors.

Filtered Water is Healthy

Water filtration removes certain chemical and physical particles that pose a danger to human health when consumed. This includes herbicides and pesticides used in industrial farming, which leech into water systems through runoff. Reverse Osmosis, for example, is a great process by which many of these dangerous contaminants may be removed. However, it is important to note that natural water does contain essential minerals required for good health, which may be removed by an RO system.. This further highlights the importance of utilizing a means of remineralization, when utilizing a Reverse Osmosis water purification system.

Filtered Water Fits into a Budget

The initial cost for your average filtration system may seem steep up front, but it will quickly turn into a money-saving investment with some use.

The Downside to Filtered Water

As with everything, there are pros and cons to consider. With filtered water, the cons mostly incorporate cost, and not quality of water output. Here are a few downsides of filtered water to consider:

High Initial Costs

As mentioned, the initial costs associated with a water filtration system can be high. However, the cost is usually offset with some use. If cost is your biggest concern, you are likely to discover other options on the market that better suit your needs, such as renting a machine. This way, you won’t need to invest thousands of dollars on your own system, especially if it’s outside of your budget. Osmosys also offers a subscription service, which ensures proper maintenance on a regular schedule, as well as free installation.

Replace Filters

After the filtration system has been purchased, the only cost to consider is the replacement of water filters. These filter cartridges will require regular replacement, so many times per year (according to the manufacturer). This can vary widely, with many filters providing months of use, if not an entire year, before a replacement is required. Even with these purchases factored in, they are still much less than a year’s worth of bottled water purchases.

Pros of Drinking Bottled Water

Let’s not forget about bottled water, though. What are some of the pros associated with utilizing bottled water over filtered.

Overall Convenience

Ask a group of people, and most would agree: bottled water is convenient. Not only does it allow you to bring water with you, but it provides it’s own carrying case. Simply grab a bottle to enjoy on your trek and be on your way. In the event you forget one at home, simply swing by a convenience store, and grab one from there.

Safe Alternative to Tap

The majority of people worry about the quality of their tap water. When tap water presents a certain danger, bottled water is certainly a safer choice for human consumption, especially since it’s typically comprised of filtered tap water. In most cases, the contaminants and dangerous chemicals have been removed from the tap before filling the bottles.

The Down Side of Drinking Bottled Water

Unfortunately, you may notice that the cons of bottle water quickly begin to outweigh the benefits of bottled water’s taste and convenience. It has become such a problem, in fact, that the EU is beginning to ban the use and production of bottled water entirely. Why would organizations launch a fight against bottled water on a global scale?

Negative Impacts on the Environment

Plastic happens to be one of the top environmental hazards in the world, regardless of it being recyclable. Unfortunately, even though bottled water is used everywhere, up to 80% of all bottles aren’t properly recycled or reused. Up to one million water bottles are purchased every minute around the globe, with numbers steadily increasing. Most of these bottles end up in landfills, where it will take up to 700 years to even begin decomposition. All of this plastic will also come back to bite us in the form of microplastics. Essentially, bottled water drinkers have the potential to consume the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of microplastics twice a month. We must also consider the carbon footprint of production, as well as water transport from bottling plants, as well as grocery stores, gas stations, and more.

What Does it Really Cost

After we have discussed filtered water and bottled water at length, it’s time for you to have your own say. Regardless of how you feel about the environmental and ethical impacts bottled water has on the plant, this final detail should make you sit up straight and think. On average, a 3 person household in the United States invests nearly $600 on bottled water on an annual basis.

What’s the Bottom Line?

With so many types of filtration system available at our fingertips, homeowners are left with many decisions. They can choose between faucet filtration, to under the sink models, or even filtered water beginning from the home’s point of entry. Whether you are looking to add filtered water, or are searching for a household replacement, there is a wide range of information available across our website.
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All Reviews

Carbon Filters and Roles In Water Filtration

Water filtration has come a long way since the early days of emerging water purification techniques. Many factors go into the overall design and manufacturing evaluation as to whether any given material is an effective mode of filtration. As one of the more effective routes, solid carbon blocks have dominated the industry of water treatment, especially in the POU (or Point of Use) category. This specific method of water filtration employees other filter tech, in addition to standalone treatment methods.

Carbon Filters Explained

Most water filtration processes involve carbon, where it serves as a medium. These include backpacking water filters, pitcher filters, faucet filters, reverse osmosis water filtration systems, refrigerator filters, shower filters, and even whole house filters.
Considering almost every filtration solution out there relies on carbon, let’s talk about its source. Carbon for filtration is derived by grinding up any of the three main carbon sources – coconut shells, peat, and bituminous coal. Coconut shells are the most used of the three, especially because they are renewable.
Creating a carbon filter follows a set of steps. It starts with heating the material in the absence of oxygen. Once it gets to 1000 degrees, it bakes off the impurities. Next, the pure carbon is transferred to steam of 1600 degrees – the activation of carbon, leaving the carbon granules filled with pores and cracks.
Contaminants and chemicals in large amounts are trapped in these openings.

How Carbon Filters Work

The working principle behind carbon filters’ capability to remove contaminants is adsorption, i.e., the attachment of the impurities to the surface of the activated carbon. It is similar to how a magnet attracts and withholds iron filings.
Furthermore, carbon filters are excellent catalysts, especially in reactions involving the change in the chemical composition of certain contaminants. Considering these capabilities, it is not surprising that activated carbon can remove pesticides and other organic chemicals, chlorine, VOCs present in industrial cleaners, solvents, and gasoline, and chloroform, and other THMs.

Carbon Block Filter Explained

A carbon filter essentially comprises loose pieces of carbon compressed together. That compression happens in the carbon block filter. The surface area of one pound of compressed activated carbon – the amount in the conventional ten-inch filter cartridge – is equal to that of a 160-acre farm. That explains why a carbon block filter is one of the most absorbent materials ever discovered.
The compressed nature of a carbon block filter reduces the water flow rate, compared to that of loose medium filter materials, for instance, a GAC filter. The micron rating of the filter also affects its flow rate. The micron rating is an indication of the level of compression in a carbon block filter. Therefore, a small micron rating translates to a lower flow rate but finer filtration.

The Filtration Power of GAC Water Filters

Ever wondered what contaminants the GAC water filters could remove? Let’s find out together.
Granulated Activated Carbons are known for their extremely high adsorption capabilities. Therefore, they are effective at removing different contaminants (as listed here). The list includes VOCs, pesticides, hydrogen sulfide, nitrates, and others.
Municipal water plants rely on chlorine, chloramine, and other disinfectants to purity tap water. However, the residues of these disinfectants leave an offensive odor and taste in the water. GAC filters can remove the odor and taste, which is why they are used in one or multiple stages of a reverse osmosis system.

What Distinguishes Carbon Block Filters from GAC Carbon Filters?

Although both filter types comprise the same filter materials, the carbon in one is loose and compressed while the carbon in the other is grounded and loose. It is common to see water filter systems combine both filter types for excellent filtration results.
In carbon block filters, you have a solid block of compressed carbon, making it very effective against a long list of contaminants, including those with small particle sizes. Water flow is slower in systems with carbon block filters, and this is because of the compact nature of the compressed carbon. This filter type is often present in reverse osmosis and other water filtration systems.
Conversely, the carbon in GAC filters is in the loose, granulated form, hence the name – ‘Granular Activated Carbon Filters.’ The water flow here is faster compared to carbon block filters. The adsorption properties are also better, so the filter is effective against contaminants like lead, hydrogen sulfide, and chlorine.

Expert Guide and Reviews of Carbon Water Filters

1. Camco TastePure RV Carbon Water-Filter

Every homeowner deserves the convenience of enjoying filtered water directly from their kitchen faucet. That is exactly what the Camco 40043 TastePure filter offers at a good price point. Asides from kitchen use, this filter can slot easily into your RV or camper, ensuring that you never run out of filtered, healthy water.
The installation and use of this filter are seamless. You do not have to replace until after three months. However, the micron rating is 20 microns, which means it might struggle against contaminants of smaller particle sizes.
This filter is compatible with the common 3/8-inch quick connect fittings, guaranteeing a smooth installation and replacement. But you must be ready to live with the slow filtration speed of the Omnipure, which handles all your cold-water filtration at a flow rate of just 0.5 gallons per minute.
Despite paying less for this filter, you can expect up to 1,000 gallons of filtered water or a year of use. This is one of the best options in the market in terms of value.

2. iSpring 3-Stage Carbon Under-Sink Water Filters

You get three filtration stages in this iSpring under sink water filter. Therefore, it efficiently eliminates contaminants like lead, arsenic, heavy metals, parasites, and bacteria in your drinking water. The lifespan of the inbuilt filters is around 6-12 months, depending on your water quality and consumption.
There is no doubt about the crispness and purity of the filtered water from the iSpring filter. However, this comes at a premium, especially for the additional faucet compatibility that ensures you get filtered water directly from your tap.
If you have no problem with the cost, this is one of the best filter systems you can put your money on.

3. Waterdrop WD-FC-06 Carbon Block Faucet Water Filtration System

You can never go wrong by trusting this Waterdrop Water Faucet Filtration system to safeguard your family from the hazards of unhealthy drinking water. As a first-time user, you only need to get the unit out of the box and screw it onto the end of a faucet in your bathroom or kitchen. That’s all!
This filter comes with a stainless-steel faucet, which relies on an activated carbon block made of pure coconut shell from Sri Lanka to reduce suspended solids, chlorine, offensive odor, and taste. The best part of this filter’s performance is the remineralization – the inbuilt mineralization filtration media restores many beneficial minerals into your drinking water.
The food-grade faucet materials guarantee even additional safety, asides from complementing the gorgeous appearance of your kitchen sink. So, a unit of the Waterdrop WD FC-06 is a reassurance of about 320 gallons of crisp, filtered water or three months of constant filtered water in its purest form.
Categories
Water Filtration

How to Select a Pool Filter for Summer Long Fun

When you have a pool, you want to ensure you have access to it all summer long. Unfortunately, bacteria and contaminants can get in the way of enjoying a big splash, especially when you aren’t utilizing the proper pool filter. While it’s true that chlorine and other sanitizers work hard to kill various contaminants, other elements are known to contribute to the growth and colonization of bacteria. If you are struggling to see the point in filtration, try associating a pool filter with your liver. Although your body may employ other means to keep your body free from dangerous bacteria, it’s the liver that is the true work horse of the human body.
Without a pool filter, debris virtually remains untouched, which quickly leads to cloudy pool water. On the other hand, when a filter is not properly maintained on a schedule, it can lead to dangerous swimming conditions. Either situation further highlights the importance of owning a decent pool filter, as well as keeping up on scheduled maintenance. But how do you know you’re choosing the best filter for your pool? Let’s dive further into pool filter options, and determine which filter offers the features you’re looking for.

Types of Pool Filters

Choosing the best pool filter comes down to knowing exactly what your options are, so let’s get right to it. There are three types of pool filters available, including: cartridge, diatomaceous earth (or D.E.), and sand. Each type of filter comes with differing replacement frequency, filtration rate, price, and cleaning method. In addition to overall microns, you need to understand the function and basic mechanics of each pool filter before you make your final selection.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters provide easy maintenance, with sufficient effectiveness as long as it isn’t used with a large pool. They tend to run on the expensive side, and feature a tank smaller than that of a sand filter. The internal plastic cylinder is surrounded by polyester filter media, with caps on each end. It works by pulling water through the polyester pleats, capturing debris as small as 10 microns, before it flows through to the pool water.
Overall this type of pool filtration is inexpensive and efficient, collecting a variety of contaminants. As such, there is a bit more physical work involved, considering cartridge filters require cleaning rather than backwashing. This is done by removing the cartridge, and spraying it what a garden hose in order to remove dirt and debris. You may also opt to utilize filter cleaner from time to time, soaking the cartridge filter in chemical filtration, etc.

Pros of Cartridge Filters

  • Doesn’t Require Backwashing
  • Creates Less Water Waste
  • Removes Contaminants as Small As 10 Microns
  • Performs Well at Low Speeds
  • Works with Variable Speed Pumps

Cons of Cartridge Filters

  • Requires a Deep Clean Every 6 Months
  • Has a Lifespan of 2 to 3 Years
  • Involves More Work Compared to Other Filters

Diatomaceous Earth Filters

This type of pool filter involves more maintenance than any other type, because it is capable of removing the smallest contaminants – as small as 5 microns. Essentially, the tank in a D.E. Pool filter utilizes grids, or fingers, covered in white powder (diatomaceous earth). D.E. Is comprised of tiny fossils made up of silica, which is commonly used in cosmetics, toothpaste, and pest control. When it’s used in pool media, the D.E. Is heat treated to keep it in place for proper operation. As a side note, it’s unwise to sprinkle diatomaceous earth, so please do not experiment here.

Pros of D.E. Filtration

  • Captures Tiny Particles <5 Micron
  • Works Well With Bigger Pools
  • Doesn’t React With Pool Chemicals

Cons of D.E. Filtration

  • Costs More to Operate
  • Requires More Maintenance

Sand Pool Filter

Homeowners on a budget will appreciate the sand filter above all others, especially with the minimal maintenance requirements. Large pools benefit most from sand filtration, because it doesn’t clog easily. As the pool pump operates, water is sucked in through a skimmer, and pushed through a large sand filled filtration tank. The media utilized inside a pool filter is #20 silica sand, which is capable of grabbing particles measuring 20 microns or larger. Grains of sand contained therein are of a prickly nature, when viewed under a microscope. Essentially, each grain possesses rough edges on every side, which is how it is able to grab contaminants as they pass by.
Over time, with regular use, the filter’s overall efficiency and capabilities decrease as the grain’s rough edges wear down by erosion. This type of filter also benefits from a pressure gauge, in order to provide a reading in regard to internal pressure. As internal pressure increases, the gauge will provide a warning as to when a backwash should be completed. Whenever a backwash is done the filter flow is reversed, which enables debris and waste to wash out of the filter and away from pool water. Considering that silica captures particles of 20 microns or more, it’s crucial to stay on top of pool chemistry in order to sanitize tiny bacteria.

Pros of Sand Pool Filters:

  • Lower Overall Costs
  • Simple Maintenance
  • Replace Sand Every 5-7 Years
  • Efficiency Benefits from Various Additional Media

Cons of Sand Pool Filters

  • Backwashing and Rinsing Waste Water
  • Filter Efficiency Decreases with Increased Pressure
  • Least Effective with 20 Micron Filter

Troubleshooting Pool Filters

Overall maintenance is crucial to the proper operation of pool filters, so you can enjoy your pool all season long. In order to prevent your filter from running into common problems, regular maintenance is key. However, should you find your filter to show signs of a common issue, there may be a simple solution.

Leaks

When a homeowner observes water dripping from around the filter, or a small puddle underneath, it’s more than likely to have sprung a leak. Leaky filtration won’t create significant water loss, but it can become a larger problem without proper attention. You should work to identify the source of leak, checking for holes and patching as necessary. In the event of more serious damage it may be necessary to replace the entire tank. Additionally, a worn or torn O-ring is a common cause of leaks, but easy to replace with another set of hands. This can be prevented by keeping the ring hydrated during use.

Cycling Issues

A flow rate problem may arise from filters running in short cycles – even if the pool is not in use. If your pool pump is too strong for your filter, a flow rate that is too high creates flow rate problems. Basically, this occurs when your pool filter is inadequate for overall pool size. If this happens with appropriate filtration and pump pairing, you need to attempt a backwash. You should continue a backwash until the water is crystal clear, which involves several minutes of waiting. This could also be a problem of clogs or algae wearing down your filter, and it’s in need of a deep clean or total replacement.

The Best Filter for You

By spending a little time researching the aforementioned styles of pool filtration, you are one step closer to finding the perfect filter for you. When all the right parts are in place, there is nothing more enjoyable than time at the pool with your family. The right pool filter means you will get the most out of your investment, and enjoy your pool for years to come.
Categories
All Reviews

How Frequent Should You Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter?

Most homeowners with refrigerator water filters often struggle to keep up with the replacement schedule. Perhaps, they often get carried away with enjoying a constant supply of fresh, clean water while forgetting that the refrigerator filter is due for a change.
We all need clean water to stay healthy. But this description doesn’t fit our tap water, which often contains contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and others when passing through the municipal pipes. This is why you install a refrigerator water filter to remove these contaminants and ensure the water coming out of your water dispenser is clean and safe for drinking.

How frequently do you need to replace your refrigerator water filter?

The question, “How often should I change my water filter?” is so important that we came up with this detailed guide to answer it and provide even more helpful information.

Why do you need to replace your refrigerator water filter?

Asides from the important health benefits of replacing your refrigerator water filters at the right time, you have a few other reasons to not leave your refrigerator water filter beyond the stipulated duration.
Using the same filter for too long makes it ineffective against contaminants and debris. This means that the contaminants will end up in your refrigerator water, giving your water a foul taste and odor. If this continues for long, the filter becomes clogged and escalates into even bigger problems for your fridge. Your water dispenser pressure may drop and ice production reduced.

How often do you need to change your water filter?

Most manufacturers set a six-month lifespan for their refrigerator water filters. This means that the filter is due for a change at least every six months. However, this period may vary depending on certain factors.
First, if you filter water frequently, either with the dispenser or ice maker, you may need to replace your water filter earlier than the stipulated period. Second, if your water quality is poor or you are filtering hard water, your water quality and water hardness also force your refrigerator filter to do more work, which means the filter will be due for a replacement earlier than expected.
You can determine your home water supply quality using water test strips that tell you what contaminants it contains.

How do you know it’s time to replace your filter?

It can be challenging to track the exact time to replace your refrigerator filter. We know this too. That is why we have listed a few signs that can tell you your filter is due for a change;
  • Foul-smelling ice or refrigerator water
  • Bad tasting refrigerator water or ice
  • Low water dispenser pressure
  • Slow or ineffective performance of the icemaker
If you record any of the situations above, your water filter is dirty and due for a change.

How do you change your refrigerator water filter?

Once you are convinced that your refrigerator water is due for a change, you should get a new replacement filter and swap it with the expired filter. Although it is usually straightforward to access and replace these filters, the exact process of replacement is determined by the make and model of your refrigerator.
Here are the basic steps involved:
  • Get a replacement filter.

    You can check your owner’s manual for the model number of your fridge, so you can purchase the right filter replacement online.
  • Find the water filter.

    Your manual will also help locate the exact position of the water filter in your refrigerator unit.
  • Shut off the water supply.

    You cannot replace the filter without turning off the water supply. With the refrigerator pulled away from the wall, shut off the water supply using the water supply valve.
  • Remove the dirty filter.

    You can remove the old filter either by twisting it a quarter turn before pulling or just pushing a dedicated release button to get it out.
  • Install the new filter.

    You can install the new filter by twisting it in or just pushing it into place, depending on the design of your refrigerator unit.
  • Turn the water supply back on.

    Now that you have successfully replaced the filter, turn on the valve and return your refrigerator to its original position.

How do you choose the right water filter for your refrigerator?

The average lifespan of a refrigerator is between 8 and 10 years. However, some units from all manufacturers may last longer depending on the usage culture, maintenance, and other factors. That said, it is easier to replace the filters for new refrigerators than for the older units. We have identified four points to consider when moving through the refrigerator filter progression.

Is your refrigerator compatible with a filter?

Suppose you have a fridge that is older than ten years. In that case, it may not be compatible with a refrigerator water filter. Such units are usually old, and if there is no filter compatibility, you may need to look at other water filtration solutions for your home or office. If filter compatibility is present, you can see which filter models are compatible with the unit by searching online using your refrigerator model number as a reference.

Is your refrigerator efficient?

Age and efficiency are closely linked. Old refrigerator units are more likely to be less efficient. If this is the case, you don’t want to make things worse by adding an extra function – a fridge filter. Adding a refrigerator filter means your unit will use a lot of energy, which may make it struggle and adversely affect its overall performance. So, you should assess your refrigerator’s performance and ensure it can conveniently handle any additional output requirement you are adding.

Are these filters certified?

Filter certifications are a way of assessing the quality and genuineness of the filters. Look out for NSF product certifications related to water filtration standards. Units with such certifications have been tested and verified to perform according to the manufacturers’ claims. The core standard certifications of the filtration industry include NSF 42, NSF 53, and NSF 401.
NSF 42 is one of the most essential certifications a filtration product can have – it verifies the purity and taste of the water. If your neighborhood water quality is fair, an NSF 42 product is enough. However, if you live in an urban or industrial area, NSF 53 is ideal, alongside NSF 401 certification.

Our Replacement Filter Recommendations

Samsung Genuine DA97-17376 Refrigerator Water Filter ($49.99)

This filter is from the OEM manufacturer and is specially designed to provide you and your family with clean, crisp, and great-tasting water. The presence of a high-grade carbon block guarantees an excellent filtration performance that gets rid of over 99% of harmful contaminants in water. It also ensures that your refrigerator doesn’t get damaged by the presence of these impurities. It offers up to six months of optimal performance or 300 gallons of water.
This filter is tested and certified and fits your refrigerator model perfectly like the original. However, it is only available from the OEM manufacturer, making it more expensive than the replacement brand.

Samsung DA29-00020B Refrigerator Filter Replacement by Waterdrop

The OEM brand is often associated with perceived assurance and guarantee. However, more customers are seeking more affordable options, which has led to the increased adoption of replacement brands. These replacement filters offer excellent filtration performance without costing as much as the OEMs.
Waterdrop is one of the biggest names in the filtration industry. The Waterdrop water filter DA29-0020B is specially made for refrigerators. It is relatively affordable despite running on an advanced filtration technology and 100% superior coconut shell carbon block. You are guaranteed a better performance than the generic brand.
It is also NSF certified for safe materials and excellent filtration performance. This filter is effective against up to 97% of harmful substances in water, including rust, cyst, and chlorine. The best part? It retains the beneficial minerals found in water.
This filter is available for $14.99, way cheaper than the OEM models.

Finally…

By now, you should have a clear answer to the question, “How often should I change my refrigerator water filter.” If you have any questions or need help with your unit, feel free to let us know in the comments. We will be glad to help.
Categories
Reverse Osmosis

Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration – How It Works

The first step in understanding the working principle of reverse osmosis is to know what osmosis is all about. Osmosis explains the natural behavior of water – how it always strives to achieve equilibrium.
For instance, if there is a cup, and in the cup, there is a thin piece of waterproof clothing partitioning it into two sections of the same size. The clothing is the “semipermeable membrane.” Now let’s assume we fill each section with equal amounts of fresh water and saltwater.
You would notice that the water level on the saltwater compartment will continue to rise. This is because the freshwater moves to the saltwater section (the more concentrated solution) through the membrane. The movement confirms the nature of water to always look for equilibrium; it is moving to ensure there is an equal amount of salt in both sections.
In reverse osmosis, pressure comes into play, and the common water contaminants replace the salt in our example.

Reverse Osmosis Filtration Experienced

Reverse osmosis describes the application of pressure to a highly concentrated solution, forcing it to a lower concentration membrane through a membrane. The contaminated water is the highly concentrated solution while the uncontaminated water is the lower concentrated solution.
There are two water solutions here – one is highly concentrated with contaminants, and the other is the uncontaminated water free of contaminants and fit for drinking. A semipermeable is key to achieving effective reverse osmosis filtration. It removes inorganic solids, including salts and other harmful contaminants and chemicals, from water.

The Process of Reverse Osmosis

When the unclean water is pressured, it passes through a semipermeable membrane, which is also called the reverse osmosis membrane. The membrane has pores of a definite size, which are just big enough to allow water molecules to pass through them. This means that every other component apart from the water molecules, including dissolved salts, organics, bacteria, and pyrogens, is trapped.
The first step in reverse osmosis is increasing the pressure of the water above the normal osmotic pressure. A high-pressure pump helps to achieve this. The water easily demineralizes or deionizes with the additional pressure, thus separating the pure water from the contaminants. These separated components then pass through the semipermeable RO membrane.
Once the feed water gets into the membrane under pressure, only water ends up passing through while the contaminants and other impurities are trapped and sent to the brine or reject stream. The water that passed through is the filtered water or product water or permeate, free of up to 99% of contaminants and dissolved salts. The other part that the membrane restricts is the concentrate.
While the standard filtration process keeps the trapped contaminants within the filter, reverse osmosis adopts a cross-filtration method with two terminal outlets, each for the contaminant and the filtered water. So, there is an outlet each for both the wastewater and the filtered water. The wastewater is not accumulated because the system washes the contaminants away and maintains relatively high turbulence so that the RO membrane surface remains clean.

The Differences Between Reverse Osmosis and Traditional Filtration

The major difference between traditional filtration techniques and reverse osmosis filtration is the presence and capability of the membrane. You get pure water from your faucet because of the rate at which the water goes through the membrane.
Traditional filters rely on individual substances to remove impurities. We have created a list of such substances (filtration materials) below, each with its pros and cons. This list can guide you to decide the best filtration style for your use.
  • Activated Alumina – Effective against fluoride but may add a metallic taste to the water.
  • Activated Carbon – It is relatively affordable and effective against chlorine. It cannot remove dissolved inorganic compounds.
  • Ceramic Filters – Despite being cheap and easy to use, it is slow in performance.
  • Ultraviolet Purifier – It can remove bacteria. However, it costs more and may increase your electricity bill.
  • Water Distillation – It is effective against bacteria and contaminants but requires electricity to work and takes several hours to filter water.
Reverse Osmosis Filtration relies on an activated carbon filter to remove contaminants. It also gets rid of leftover dissolved inorganic compounds that can harm you. You can determine the effectiveness of your RO filtration system relative to traditional water filtration by checking the micron rating scale.

Micron Rating Explained

The micron rating describes the average size of the openings in a filter. A higher micron rating means the filter will allow larger substances to pass through. Micron is the one-millionth of a meter and is often used as a unit of measurement in science and tech.
The filter in RO systems has a micron rating of 0.0001 microns, which means they can remove contaminants bigger than that. On the other hand, carbon filters have a micron rating of 0.5, i.e., they can only remove contaminants larger than that.

What Reverse Osmosis Filters Remove?

RO systems are effective against dissolved solids, such as fluoride and arsenic. Asides from the RO membrane, there are usually sediment and carbon filters, offering a broad spectrum of reduction. The carbon filters effectively against chlorine, bad odor, and taste, while the sediment filter deals with the debris and dirt.
Some of the contaminants that constitute the 99% of impurities RO systems remove from water include:
  • Fluorine and chlorine
  • Nitrates, sulfates, and other salts
  • Cadmium, barium, chromium, arsenic, lead
  • Rust, dirt, and sediments
  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
  • Parasites
  • Pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals
  • Total dissolved solids (TDS).
Finally, it removes bad taste and odor and makes water colorless.

Advantages of Reverse Osmosis Filtration

It improves your diet.

Reverse osmosis provides you with tap water even if you are on sodium-restricted diets. In addition, the RO filtered water is safe to drink and can be used in cooking, whether to wash ingredients or as boiling water.

It offers flexibility.

The safety RO filters offer is not dependent on the water source. So whether yours is the municipal water or water from a private well, RO systems can filter it. The filtration process removes dissolved solids in well water and the excess water treatment chemicals used in municipal water.

It is convenient.

You can easily install a reverse osmosis system without any additional help. The design is compact, requiring a little under sink or countertop space.

Factors affecting the performance of RO systems

A reverse osmosis water system may tick all the necessary boxes and still not perform optimally. This is because the optimal performance of an RO system depends on a couple of other factors, including salt concentration, recovery, pressure, and temperature.
Pressure – Increased feed water pressure is necessary to increase the permeate flux and decrease the dissolved solid content of the permeate.
Temperature – Increased temperature helps to increase the permeate flux and salt flow.
Recovery – This is the relation between the permeate flux and the pressure of the feed water. It is a direct relation, so when the percentage recovery increase, the natural osmotic pressure increases, alongside the concentration of the salts in the residual fed. This leads to an overall decrease in salt retention.
The salt concentration of the feed water increases as the osmotic pressure increases. So, if the pressure stays constant, an increase in salt concentration will lead to a lower membrane water flux.
pH tolerance can also contribute to the performance of a RO filter, but this works differently across various kinds of RO membrane.

In Conclusion

We are confident that you now know more about reverse osmosis, its relationship with traditional filtration, and how the process helps to get rid of harmful contaminants in water.
Categories
Reverse Osmosis

Steps to Remineralize Your Water After Reverse Osmosis

People often remineralize their RO water to raise the pH level to meet their preferences. However, not many people know this. There are several water drinkers out there that want to remineralize their RO water but with little to no success.
Remineralization is a relatively easy process. There are many methods to achieve the desired results. But just before we get to that, it is important to know why remineralization is necessary, despite the water already purified.
Read on to find an answer to this question and several others related to healthy water, the mineral components, and how you can remineralize your water to your taste.

RO Water Explained

Reverse Osmosis (RO) water offers a wide range of health benefits. Reverse osmosis is a method of water purification that relies on a counter-osmosis principle. The membrane in reverse osmosis is semipermeable and usually made of a thin film composite. Therefore, it can effectively withhold harmful impurities such as sediments, mercury, lead, and others from making their way into the purified water.
RO systems are effective against water contaminants like arsenic, fluoride, sulfates, and other harmful impurities. It is also effective against the beneficial minerals in the water, including sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. The 99% filtration efficiency rate (or higher) of these filtration systems means they can remove hundreds of contaminants from tap water with no problems.
RO systems offer such a high level of effectiveness because they are equipped with high-pressure industrial RO filters. You may not get the same level of efficiency from lower-cost house filters.
As effective as RO systems are, they cannot remove chlorine or make hard water soft. If you want to soften water, you should combine your RO system with an activated carbon filter, which is effective against over 70 other contaminants. You need an activated carbon filter to remove impurities like pharmaceuticals, chlorine bi-products, herbicides, and pesticides.
Considering that a RO system spares no impurities, both chemicals, and contaminants, where does that leave the nutrient content of the filtered water? Does RO filtered water still contain the relevant nutrients to make you healthy?

How healthy is demineralized water?

There are multiple claims about how healthy pure water is. According to experts, the body stands to benefit from mineral water due to the presence of certain elements in such water. However, food has been continuously identified as the primary source of mineral supplements. So, if water is not the primary source of mineral supplements, drinking demineralized water shouldn’t be a problem.
But things take an interesting turn with a recently released WHO report, which identifies certain health risks associated with drinking pure RO water. Demineralized water, if consumed over time, can affect the body adversely. It puts the intestinal mucous membrane at risk while adversely affecting the metabolism and mineral homeostasis of the body. All these may impair different bodily functions. Also, drinking several liters of low-mineral water after intense physical activities have been linked to severe damages like hyponatremic shock or delirium. This situation is referred to as “water intoxication.”
We are always quick to think that we are not missing any micronutrients, provided we eat healthily. But this is not always true. Meals made with low-mineral water usually lack these essential materials. Consuming such foods over time may lead to a shortage of essential micronutrients in the body. So, rather than following the status quo, we should be intentional about these essential elements and ensure our bodies get enough of them.

Why should you remineralize water?

Reverse osmosis filters help eliminate harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants present in water. But that is not all – they also remove the essential minerals. If you have ever wondered why people remineralize their reverse osmosis water, we have identified a few below:

Remineralized quenches thirst faster.

Quenching your thirst is more effective and faster with ionized water. You can hydrate your body just by drinking the right amount of remineralized water. Ionization occurs when the pH level of water is raised. Remineralized water is safe because it contains safe electrolytes.

Remineralized water contains beneficial minerals.

Essential minerals in water include sodium, magnesium, and calcium, all of which are removed during the reverse osmosis filtration process. The absence of these minerals deprives the body of certain benefits. For instance, calcium helps to prevent weak bones and osteoporosis in women. Sodium also helps with blood pressure regulation.

Remineralized water is better-tasting.

The improved taste of remineralized water is due to the perfect balance between purification and quality. So, you can use your remineralized water to make tea, brewing coffee, baby food, and cooking. There is a clear difference between remineralized or mineralized water and demineralized water, especially in taste and crispness.

How do you remineralize water after reverse osmosis?

Although the necessary microelements are missing in demineralized water, it doesn’t make it unfit for drinking. Reverse osmosis eliminates harmful impurities in drinking water, such as heavy metals, viruses, bacteria, and others. You can find more information about the type of contaminants the RO systems are effective against.
Suppose you decide to stick with RO water. In that case, you should ensure your diet is balanced and your electrolytes replenished after exercise. But if this is not possible, here are a few easy ways to improve your RO drinking water.

Himalayan Salt

The most accessible and most affordable method of remineralizing your RO water is using Himalayan salt. Just a few drops in each gallon of your water, and you have all the minerals again.
NB – Himalayan salt is not the same and does not offer the same results as regular salt.
Himalayan salt ensures the taste of your water remains the same while adding the necessary minerals. Asides from remineralizing your water, it also offers sinus problem relief and helps with weight loss. Water remineralized using Himalayan salt also improves respiratory functions and lowers high blood pressure.

Alkaline Water Pitcher

An alkaline water pitcher makes remineralization easy and fun. All you need to do is keep your water in the alkaline water pitcher. It will restore these beneficial minerals. However, you must be ready to pay some good money for an alkaline water pitcher.

Introduce an alkalization stage to your RO system

If you have an RO system without an alkalization stage from the factory, you can add one. You only need to get an alkaline filter you can attach to your RO system. So, during filtration, the water passes through this alkaline filter and restores these useful minerals, giving you a wonderful drinking experience.

In Conclusion

Remineralizing your water comes with a couple of health benefits. While it remains a personal decision, you should consider any of the remineralization methods described above to ensure you do not miss out on any of the essential minerals your body needs. It is even more important if you are not sure about getting them in your diet.
Categories
Healthy Life Home Improvement

How Effective are Faucet Water Filters?

The majority of households across America, and other well developed countries, already enjoy a supply of treated tap water. However, it may come as a surprise to learn that as many as four in ten Americans prefer to utilize some form of water treatment within their home, in order to remove additional contaminants. Because they are easily accessible, and simple to use, faucet filters are a widely used form of water filtration. While they may be easy to buy, and simply to use, they may not be the best option for your family. If you find yourself doubting the effectiveness of your faucet filter, let’s explore a few questions:
  • Are Faucet Filters Effective?
  • Are Faucet Filters Worth the Investment?
  • Should I Purchase an Expensive Unit?

Understanding Filtering VS Purifying Water

Far too often, people unintentionally compromise their own health by putting less effort toward their drinking sources. Although some individuals consider the terms filtering and purifying to be the same thing, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The truth is, filtration and purification differ greatly from one another.

Water Filtration

Removes large contaminants from water that has already been processed and treated. This is helpful with water that was treated with chemicals such as bleach, in order to remove unpleasant scents and tastes that may remain. Additionally, some treated water may still contain lead, and chlorine, which can carry serious health consequences. Faucet filters and pitcher filters are also capable of removing dirt, dust, cysts, germs, and even mercury, to name a few.

Water Purification

When water has been treated improperly, or left untreated, it will benefit from water purification through an RO system, or the like. This means that purification is capable of removing virtually everything that’s harmful to human health, even if they’re tiny – such as arsenic. This type of water treatment is extremely beneficial to areas where access to safe drinking water may be restricted or unavailable.

How Effective is Tap Water Filtration?

The method and means by which a faucet water filtration is utilized makes all the difference in overall effectiveness. In areas where treated tap water is available, you can expect effective filtration results, capable of removing lead and chlorine. Some forms of sediment might also be removed in small amounts. Overall smell and flavor will also improve, as many of the contaminants that affect taste quality are easily filtered out. Homeowners should expect a 20% improvement in their water quality through the use of a water faucet filtration device. However, for areas suffering from highly contaminated, or otherwise dangerous, water conditions, a tap water filter simply won’t cut it – turn to an RO system, instead.

How Do Faucet Filters Work?

Since we have now provided a full picture of what filtering vs purifying drinking water looks like, you can have a greater understanding of how faucet filters operate. Essentially, homeowners can rely on an affordable faucet filter to remove solid contaminants like sand and dirt, various chemicals like chlorine, and metals like lead. Overall, users will notice a marked improvement in taste and smell if they were initially cringing at the thought of drinking water laced with bleach.
These water filter devices are easy to install and use, requiring a simple mount directly onto your sink faucet. Typically they are comprised of metal, but may also utilize a plastic housing. The internal aspects feature a filter cartridge, which usually provides filtration through activated carbon. Depending on the manufacturer, style, and price, there may be one or more stages water is filtered through.

Sediment Removal

Water flows through a non-woven screen whenever a faucet is turned on. This screen is wrapped around a filter cartridge, typically filled with activated carbon. This provides the means to trap sand, sediment, and dirt, preventing it from flowing through to your cup.

Activated Carbon Block

After water has gone through the screen, it flows through activated carbon, and zeolite. Water contaminants are trapped as it passes through nooks and crannies of the carbon block, effectively removing various chemicals. On the downside, once these porous surfaces are filled, filtration effectiveness will drop before stopping completely.

Activated Carbon Filter (ACF)

This type of carbon filtration utilizes a microporous material in a fiber shape, with a structure that’s well-defined and particularly porous. This provides an absorption rate anywhere from 100 to 1000 times faster than other traditional methods for organic gases. ACF tends to cost more on the expensive side, due to the use of high quality material and input cost associated with newer tech. However, this type of filtration features a long service life, and costs under 10 centers each day for unlimited healthy, safe drinking water.

Ceramic Filter

Mainly used for filtration, ceramic filters are capable of removing pollutants, organic chemicals, chlorine, while improving odor and taste. Compared to other types of filtration, such as ACF or even CTO, the effect of a ceramic filter is poor. This is simply due to the fact that it is incapable of removing heavy metals and various inorganic salts.

Chemical Removal

While activated carbon performs well enough at removing some contaminants, it simply cannot do well against calcium and magnesium, to name a few. This is where the removal of chemicals is such an important aspect, especially if you smell chemicals out of your tap. One easy and affordable method for the removal of chemicals, is to allow water to trickle through slowly, thereby producing a higher removal rate.

Top Recommendations for Faucet Filtration

Waterdrop is a well-known professional water filtration brand. The ACF Faucet Filtration System is tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI standard 42 for the overall reduction of chlorine, foul tastes and odors, and to NSF/ANSI 372 for lead-free material.
With 6 stages of filtration, the Waterdrop ACF Faucet Filtration System has been proven to effectively reduce lead, fluoride, and chlorine commonly found in tap water. The activated carbon fiber in particular is efficient at removing up to 93% of chlorine, taste and odor, and many other contaminants. A simple design provides quality filtered water to your family, through the use of simple tap water. With leak-proof technology, the Waterdrop means you can fit this product to your faucet with any of the included adapters. The Waterdrop Facebook homepage also sends out coupons on a regular. Simply follow @waterdropdirect for more information in regard to discounts.

In Conclusion

Should you ever come into contact with someone wondering “how effective are the faucet filters?”, you will be prepared to explain the entire situation. Regardless of how clean they consider their tap water, they are sure to taste the difference in the overall reduction of lead and chlorine with the simple installation of a Waterdrop faucet water filter.