Water Filters Get Rid of Contaminants

The features and functionality among water filters are not too different, since most filters work on the same general process. They typically work by allowing water to pass through a filtration agent of some sort; either physical, chemical or ultra-violet in nature. This is where contaminants are either neutralized or removed and then the treated water is either dispensed from the system or is stored in tank for future use.

First up, let’s look at filtering technology. The most common type of water filter uses a physical barrier to remove particles like mud, silt, rust or sand that are suspended in the fluid, as well as microorganisms like Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Physical filters are actually measured by microns, so the finer the filter, the smaller the micron number and the more kinds of particles can be removed from the untreated water.

The newest form of water filtration uses ultraviolet light to destroy viruses, bacteria and other pathogens in water. The ultraviolet light is usually encased in a tank where the water is treated either while in storage or when it is run through an ultraviolet canister. The ultraviolet light deactivates the DNA of the organisms, which stops their ability to reproduce and spread disease.

Generally speaking, a good water filtration system will have more than one type of filter, since each filter has its own particular focus. Together with other types of filters, a much wider spectrum of filtration can take place. There are a few basic types of water filtration systems that range from small units that are portable to units that supply an entire home or business. Here are a few of the more common types of filtering systems.

Countertop filters are conveniently placed on top of the counter and are connected to the faucet. The system generally has limited capacity, since the filtered water is only available at the faucet.

Whole house water filter systems are typically the most comprehensive, yet costly water filter types that are used in a home or business. This type of system attaches to the main water pipe before entering the building, which means that all the water entering the building is treated. Though this type of water filter is generally quite expensive to purchase and maintain, all the water in the building is treated.

Pitcher water filters are systems that are typically very simple. They are filter assemblies that are built into a pitcher or dispenser. This type of filter is also very simple and cheap to purchase, however they do not filter contaminants as well as other, more comprehensive models.

Water softeners are types of filters that are used to remove only specific types of contaminants; namely unwanted elements like magnesium, calcium, lime, and iron from the water supply. These elements make water taste salty and metallic as well as deposit buildup onto pipes and fixtures.

Capacity is generally indicated with two measurements for water filters that actually use measurements. Capacity is used as an indicator to factor how much water the filter can treat before the filter needs replaced. Capacity is also used as a measure of the storage tank if the water filtration system has a storage tank. This always goes hand-in-hand with the flow rate and is normally read in gallons per minute.

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