The Best Water Filter Types
What's in your drinking water? Do you drink water directly from your tap? If so, you may be exposing yourself to over 300 different types of chemicals and pollutants. Tap water can contain volatile organic chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. Heavy metals like lead can be found in tap water supply.
These and other chemicals are found in most municipal water supplies. Contamination comes from several different sources including agricultural contamination and pollution run-off. A contaminated water supply can cause health problems to your immune system, kidneys, liver and more.
So, what's the solution? Getting a water filter is the best way to ensure that you're drinking from a clean water supply.
If you're shopping for a home water filter, you may get overwhelmed by all of the options on the market. Have no fear, we've put together this guide to help you figure out which type of filter is best for your home.
What Are The Different Types Of Water Filtration?
Water filters come in all different shapes, sizes and materials, with a variety of functionalities. Before you can choose which type of filter is the best for you, you may want to have a clear understanding of the different types of water filters.
Filters work to remove dangerous sediments and parasites from a drinking water supply. This guide will help you find the very best water filters for your home. Based in Australia? Shipping is free on most products Aus-wide.
Each filter type is designed to work in a varying array of applications with different overall purposes. Some are made with charcoal while others filter chemicals through natural porous material like coconut peat based Carbon. Whether you are looking to filter your home supply or just keep your water bottle clean, we can guarantee that there is a specific filter for your needs.
Here is a list of the most common types of water filters and a brief description of their functionalities.
Ceramic Water Filters
Ceramic filters are usually used in bench top or under sink systems. The ceramic filter is usually a cartridge-style filter made with fossil materials and small silicon shells. The ceramic traps contaminants from the drinking supply within its pores.
Ceramic filters are known to be very effective. The ceramic material requires more maintenance than some other filter types and the cartridges need to be changed often.
R/O Reverse Osmosis Water Filters
Reverse osmosis is a water separation process that uses a semi permeable membrane to remove ions, molecules and larger particles from a water source. Essential to the process is the ability to force a solvent from a region of high solute concentration (The water source) through a membrane to a region of low solute concentration (your permeate or Post Membrane water) by applying a pressure in excess of the osmotic pressure. This action life’s osmosis process, which is the natural movement of solvent from an area of low solute concentration, through a membrane, to an area of high solute concentration when no external pressure is applied.
Most people use reverse osmosis water filters because of their ability to rid the water of contaminants at high percentages. The membrane separates the contaminated water from the clean water. The contaminated water becomes waste water and gets flushed down the drain. The clean water goes through the line to your faucet. A quality reverse osmosis system will require the use of more water than a regular filter type, through its cleaning process. Although the process is slow, the reverse osmosis process results in finely filtered water. A reverse osmosis (or R/O) system can get expensive to maintain, as it is important to change the pre filters more often to protect the fragile membrane
Activated Alumina Water Filters
When aluminium ore (bauxite) is treated it becomes porous and creates activated alumina. Activated alumina is treated at 500°C and removes all organic substances from the material.
Activated alumina water filters are usually used in cheaper filters and are usually purchased because they are said to have a high percentage of fluoride removal.
Depending on the brand of filter, activated alumina can vary in quality and performance. Some filters may last longer than others.
Activated Carbon Water Filters
Activated carbon water filters are made from granulated coconut shell husk. The shell husk is treated with heat, which opens up the pores which then absorb contaminants.
The activated carbon water filters are extremely reliable and commonly used in house water filters. Depending on which filter you choose, you'll notice that there are differences in the lifespan capacity, performance and the quality. Carbon filters can be utilised in an activated carbon water bottle or a jug filter. You can even get a bench top unit or a filter for your tap. Under sink filters and home systems are also commonly made with activated carbon. Try the Omnipure ELF Carbon Block 1M 10 Inch Filter.
Customers tend to prefer carbon filters over other variants as they are generally easy to install, readily available, economically viable, and effective filters that remove high levels of contaminants. Upgrade your activated carbon filter by bonding it with nano-silver for antibacterial protection which will kill most organisms and improve the drinking water supply.
UV Ultraviolet Water Filters
High frequency light is used to move water through a glass element in the UV ultra violet water filter process. The process sounds overwhelming, but here is how it works. Water moves through the glass element and gets exposed to light, Generally the rate is a 254nm which kills any living organisms in the water.
If a local community has a wave of illness that is connected with the drinking water supply a UV system could be useful. The UV System will rid the water supply of organic matter and excrement. Third world countries use UV water systems for large properties in rural areas that rely on tanks for drinking water.
UV water systems require high levels of maintenance and they can be very expensive.
Ioniser Water Filters
The water ioniser works by using electricity to convert a regular water supply into a functional water supply. Ionisers produce alkaline antioxidant water for drinking and acid oxidising water for external use like taking a shower.
Some ionisers are equipped with on-board water filters but not all are made to remove contaminants that can be found in most water supplies today.
The process of electrolysis allows for water ionisers to work. The electrolysis process has medical significance which can neutralise stomach acid. Ionisers are intended for medical use but are also made for domestic use.
Which Type Of Water Filter Is Best For Home?
The key to finding the best water filter for your home is identifying what you wish to remove and matching it with a high-quality filter for that application at the most economical price point.
There are amazing water filters and water softener systems that have been designed to promote healthy living. You can find a water filter for every home type; it really just depends on preference.
Water Filter Jugs
A pitcher water filter pitcher or a water filter jug generally uses granulated activated charcoal to remove contaminants. The water pitcher option is inexpensive but requires frequent filter changes and cartridge replacements. Water pitchers are not the most effective way to clean your water supply. The carbon is not fully solid so it can leave some particles and toxins in the water.
The benefits of pitchers include their ability to reduce chlorine and improve the taste of the water. Pitcher filters are not quite as effective at removing heavy metals and fluoride from the water.
The negatives are that their chlorine removal ability is generally low and most won’t filter out bacteria. You want to have the cleanest water source possible in your home. If you do go for a pitcher, be sure to choose a high-quality option.
Vol Water Pitcher 1.6 L - White
Water Filter Jugs are an easy way to filter water in your home. VOL uses a super fast water filtration technology to clear the water of chemicals and impurities. The VOL pitcher is equipped with an indicator that alerts you when it's time to change the filter.
Some of the VOL features include 1.6L capacity and a BPA free guarantee. The filter actively works to remove viruses, parasites, sediment, and chlorine from the water. The sleek design is complimented with white hard plastic. You can also get your VOL in purple or blue. The VOL pitcher is a great addition for any kitchen!
Charcoal Stick Water Filters
If you are working with a tight space in your home you may want to consider charcoal stick water filters. Charcoal sticks can be added to any water source to remove contaminants.
Add a charcoal stick to your water pitcher or your water bottle as an instant portable option.
Charcoal sticks are reusable and they can last for several months. Use them in your refrigerator to remove odors or even in your garden.
Charcoal sticks are eco-friendly and they do not cause waste. They are perfect for small apartments and homes!
Benchtop Water Filters
Countertop water filters, also known as a benchtop water filter, are an easy install option for your home, these are particularly useful when you are unable to drill holes in bench tops or are likely to move again in a short period of time.
If you are looking for a simple but effective water filter option, consider these, they are easy to install and they can be moved easily.
The benchtop water filter includes a diverter that is screwed on to the sink's aerator.
Once the bench top water filter has been installed it can be used to filter cold water directly from the tap. The diverter moves the water from the sink pipes into a little tube that filters the water.
Your countertop water filter uses replaceable cartridges that can be matched to most application needs
Under-Sink Water Filters
Undersink water filters or under counter water filters are used to filter water through a number of process stages depending on the model. Most commonly undersink filters will include a sediment removal, Chlorine reduction and cyst protection component with in the filter media.
This particular design of filter is often chosen by home owners as it does all of the hard work out of sight of visitors and helps to maintain a clean and functional kitchen for its intended use. Most undersink systems come with separate modern design taps to keep in sync with your kitchen’s design.
Installation can be easy, if you have an existing water point or dishwasher connection.
0.5 Micron Lead Cyst Carbon Block
We recommend the Micron Lead Cyst, a 10 inch block made of carbon. This drop in cartridge is used to remove chlorine, lead, foul tastes and odors.
This drop in filter can be used with several systems including the following:
- Aqua One
- Aqua-Pure
- X Steam
- Purestream
- Belair, Filters
- Only, Freshly Squeezed 10" Replacement Filters
- Pure Tec
- Rain Dance
- Pure Rain
- Healthy Water
- Most traditional drop in cartridge application
If you're looking for the ideal filter for your home, your business, or your water bottle, knowing all about the different types of cartridge and purifiers will help you! The quality of the water you drink is very important. Remember, unfiltered water can contain unwanted sediments, chemicals, chlorine, and parasites.
Have high standards for your water supply, whether you are taking a shower or drinking from your supply, it's important to maintain those standards by purchasing purifier and keeping it clean and updated.
Fridge Water Filters
Refrigerator water filters work by removing particles and contaminants from your fridge water source. If you have a refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser. Although, in an ideal world, we would love to think that our tap water drinking supply is completely safe. The truth is, there is a range of contaminants found in most tap water.
The fridge filter is a great option for keeping clean water in your home. Look for a filter with a low micron rating. A low the micron rating means more and smaller contaminants can be captured.
Granular activated carbon filters are used for refrigerator water filters. The average rating for a carbon-based filter is 0.5 to 1 micron in size.
Installation can be easy. Check your refrigerator manual for help installing. Be sure to change your filters regularly to maintain high water quality.
Inline Water Filters
Inline water filters are attached directly to the cold-water lines found under your sink. The filter effectively becomes part of the cold-water supply, removing unwanted particles from the drinking supply before they get to your faucet or appliance.
If you are looking for a discreet way to keep your water clean an inline water filter could work for you. The filter is installed under the counter, it's a great option if you are looking to save space in your kitchen.
Inline filters can be very effective and high-quality systems are said to remove up to 99.99% of contaminants including heavy metals, chlorine and water-borne cysts from the drinking supply.
What Is The Best Water Purification Method For Home?
Of course, we all want to know what the best water purification method is. It really depends on what you need, are you looking to keep your drinking water clean in your home or kitchen? Or do you want a filter that works on the go? What contaminants do you want to see removed and at what cost?
Think about what you really need and review the types of water filters we mentioned above. It's important to choose a filter that will remove all of the unwanted germs from your drinking supply.
We've put together a list of some of our favourite water filters. Check it out below!
If you love to brew coffee at home and you need the purest water for your brew, or you have a specific health concern that requires the majority removal of unwanted contaminants you may want to consider getting a reverse osmosis system.
Membrane technology allows the reverse osmosis filter to remove unwanted chemicals from the water. The RO system removes 98% of chlorine, minerals, chloride, calcium, and any other impurities that can be found in local drinking supplies.
Reverse osmosis uses water pressure through a special synthetic membrane. The membrane attracts water molecules which dissolve and flush impurities.
The RO system is successful at removing foul smells from water and producing a fresh and delicious cup. Most brewers prefer using RO water over distilled water.
Carbon filtration
Carbon filters are often utilised in both residential and commercial applications due to their ability to both absorb and separate a wide variety of contaminants. The internal structure of Carbon allows it to absorb chemicals such as Chlorine, Chloramine etc. The structure of Carbon blocks also allows the filter to mechanically remove Sediment, dirt, sand and Grit to a specific micron size.
Sediment Filtration
Sediment reduction filters are particularly suited to areas that experience high amounts of silt, sand, dirt and rust. The pore structure of the filter can vary from a very tight 0.5 micron right up to a very open 250-micron size and every size in between, each chosen to suit a specific application need or purpose. Sediment filters can be made from pleated Polypropylene if they are to be used in a process that requires them to be washable. Other variants can be made from graded density Polypropylene for a high capacity and more specific targeted removal. Sediment filtration is often chosen to protect both Carbon and Reverse osmosis alternatives which can be highly sensitive to sediment contamination
The quality of the water you drink is very important. Remember, unfiltered water can contain unwanted sediments, chemicals, chlorine, and parasites.
Have high standards for your water supply, whether you are taking a shower or drinking from your supply, it's important to maintain those standards by purchasing purifier and keeping it clean and updated.
Visit Discount Fridge Filters for a variety of fridge filters that will keep your family safe from unwanted parasites and chemicals.