Top Considerations to Think About – Water Filters

Now that I am starting my Kitchen Remodel, I have to consider every type of gizmo to put in the kitchen. One of the first things that comes to mine is a water filtration system. Personally, I drink tap water, use a Brita Filter and it’s just fine. But this remodel is not all about me! It’s about re-selling and providing as many non-toxic, and green options available on the market today. As usual the question comes up, is it really necessary to put in a water filter? 

I have friends that swear by their reverse osmosis systems, friends that drink tap water and others that only buy the bottle. Personally, people have lived for thousands of years without water filtration and bottled water, it is a luxury item in many cases and anyone can get used to the taste of tap water. 

So Filtrate or Not to Filtrate is the question? That said, after much investigation, and reading reviews, I’m not going to put in a water filtration system. I don’t believe it will add much value to my home, and if whoever wants one, they can be installed readily enough. My opinion might change on this later, but I drink tap water! 

Consider all your options before you put in a water filter. 

1.) Do you really need it? 

2.) Are you and your family highly susceptible to illness? 

3.) Is your local water safe? You might consider if you get your water from a spring, will or untreated source. 

4.) Are you unhappy with local water taste or smell? 

5.) Will you stop buying bottled water if you install a filtration device? 

6.) Will it add value if you are selling your home? If you think about renting, will the tenants do the maintenance? 

Why put in Water Filter?

1.) Can Save Money if you stop buying bottled water. According to Aspen Water Filters the cost of a home filtration system is 78% less per gallon than bottled water  

2.) Can Save the Environment- somewhat- if it lessens plastic bottles in landfills although there is an environmental cost with every kind of filter. 

3.) Filtered Tap water is better than most bottled water 

5 Things of Consider Before You Purchase 

1.) Become Educated about your Water Supply

2.) Consult the EPA – For acceptable levels for drinking water 

3.) Match the Filter Type to your #1 Water concern . 

4.) Consider filter style to what works best for your lifestyle. Drinking, showering, family, washing and more. 

5.) Think Long Term- filter changing, maintence, drought conditions. 

6.) Determine What kind you need and make sure it certified by the National Sanitation Foundation

Water Treatment Systems

$ 

Filtration/Absorption, Carbon 

Pro: Removes bad tastes and smells.

Con: Requires frequent changing of carbon filter- going into landfills    

Boiling Water:

Pro- Eliminates microorganisms, requires no purchase

Con: Time and Energy exspence. Water lost thru vaporization 

Brita Water Filter

Pro: Inexpensive jar of water with filter

Con: Filters go into landfills 

For the record, here are some recommendationd to extend the life of your Brita Filter 

$$

Water Softener/Exchange System:

Pro: Soft Water requires less detergent

Con: Bad for those on diets restricting potassium or sodu. Banned in some areas

$$-$$$$

Distillation:

Pro: Best for very poor water quality

Con: Significant enery use: water lost through Evaporation 

Ozone or Ozonation

Pro: Controlls microorganisms. Oxides contaminats. 

Con: Can create unwanted byproducts susc as formaldehyde nad bromates. Requires additional filtration system 

$$$

Reverse Osmosis:

Pro: Most recommended for those with comprised immune systemsn 

Con: Slow Filtration, Consumes more water than it filters 

$$$$

Ultraviolet 

Pro: Effective at removing microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and protzoa. 

Con: Continuously consumes electricity The Best Source: 

Water Filter Comparisons 

Resources: 

PRWeb: Water Filters are Better for Your Health, Your Wallet and the Planet 

Filtering Examples using Brita Filter (Funny)