How Does A Home Water Filter Work?
Home water filtration systems are a great way to filter all the water in your home, providing you and your family with clean water regardless if you’re using the bathroom, sink, or shower. There are two main types of filtration systems that homeowners choose to install. The first type of filtration system is an “under sink” model, in which the filter only has one location (typically under your sink). The other kind is a “whole home filtration system” that is installed near the water source for your home’s water supply. Both of these filtration systems function on the same principle, in which they use activated carbon and ion exchange to mechanically filter your water and leave only healthy minerals behind.
Under Sink Systems
Under sink water filtration systems use a combination of activated carbon, catalytic carbon, sub-micron mechanical filtration, and ion exchange. The activated carbon prevents any organic chemicals, such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, or other by-products, from entering your water. The activated carbon also helps eliminate any odors while improving the overall taste of your water. The catalytic carbon mechanism prevents any chloramine particles from entering your water.
Chloramine particles are an unsafe byproduct from chemical treatments used in municipal water sources, such as ammonia and chlorine. The ion exchange is important because it removes any heavy metals from your water, such as lead or mercury. The sub-micron mechanical filtration helps reduce any asbestos or unwanted particles from your water that make it look murky and cloudy.
Whole Home Systems
Home water filtration systems are a bit more complex. These systems have sediment pre-filters, which help remove any rust, silt, or unwanted sediments from your water. Like the under the sink systems, they have activated carbon filters and submicron post-filters that function in the same way. Whole home systems also have softeners and descalers. The salt-free water softener helps remove any hard minerals from your water, while the descaler uses advanced technology to do the same.
Most home systems also have a copper-zinc or mineral stone filter, which removes excess heavy metals and chlorine from your water. This mechanism also helps prevent any bacteria algae from growing within your water supply. One unique feature of whole-home systems is the UV filter. Water passes through the UV filter at the end of the process, which uses UV light rays to kill any bacteria or viruses that can still be floating around in your water.
Investing in a Water Filtration System
These water filtration systems are great devices if you are looking to remove any chemical impurities or excess minerals from your water. Although your tap water is most likely safe to drink, home filtration systems give you a higher peace of mind and ensure that you are providing your family with the safest and healthiest water. Depending on what your concerns are or if you’re looking for something specific, make sure you choose the right water filtration system for you.
ACE Home Services carries a variety of different filtration systems for your home.