Filters by Type
Here’s a brief overview of the different filter types:
• Adsorption: These filters run water past an adsorbent medium—like carbon, charcoal, KDF (a copper-zinc formulation), and ceramic—to which liquids, gases, and dissolved or suspended matter will adhere. These are best at removing organic contaminants and chlorine, and they may also make your water taste better. They won’t remove nitrates, some heavy metals, and fluoride, and they can become bacteria havens if you don’t change your filter cartridge regularly. Types: Whole-house and point-of-use kitchen-sink, shower, and faucet filters, as well as pitcher filters like Brita and built-in refrigerator filters.
• Distillers: These systems heat water to the boiling point and then collect the water vapor as it condenses, leaving many of the contaminants behind, particularly the heavy metals. Some contaminants that convert readily into gases, such as volatile organic chemicals, may be carried over with the water vapor, so some distillation systems also use carbon filters to remove some of those contaminants. These are best at removing inorganic contaminants, like heavy metals, nitrates, and hardness (i.e. calcium and magnesium). They can remove some bacteria. Some consumers complain that the water tastes “flat” after distillation. These filters won’t remove chloramines. Types: Point-of-use sink filters.
• Filter membranes: These consist of a membrane or series of membranes that trap particles above a certain size and allow everything else to pass through. The filtration openings are generally larger than reverse-osmosis membranes, and they can be used in conjunction with other filter types, such as UV. A “1 micron” filter will remove particulates and most bacteria, cryptosporidia, and viruses. Types: Point-of-use and whole-house filters.
• Reverse osmosis filters use normal household water pressure to force water through a semi permeable membrane, which separates contaminants from the water. These are best for removing bacteria. However, for every three gallons you run through the filter, you’ll only get one gallon of water. You can redirect the waste water to a graywater system. Types: Point-of use kitchen sink filters.
• Ultraviolet treatment filters use ultraviolet light to disinfect water or reduce bacteria. They’re great for removing bacteria and viruses, but they won’t remove chemical pollutants. Types: Whole house filters, and point-of-use sink filters.
Visit our Shower and Water Filters.
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