Mercury is a metal that occurs naturally, is found in numerous household goods, and unfortunately is emitted by some factories. When people drink water that contains a high level of mercury, they expose themselves to various health problems — the most severe being kidney damage. True mercury removal treatment can only be done by NSF certified mercury water filter systems, that’s why we recommend the Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis System for all your water purification needs.

#1 Undersink

• Waterdrop Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

• 
  295 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Removes up to 99-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds healthy minerals back
  
  Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
  
  Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
  
  NSF-Certified, EPA approved
  
• 
  Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Countertop

• Berkey Countertop Water Filter

• 
  1,083 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Light-weight, portable, and easily moved around the counter top
  
  Removes viruses, protozoa, TMHs, drugs and other chemicals
  
  Safe to use, durable and long lasting
  
  The system has been tested countless times to produce brilliant results
  
• 
  Needs to be broken in properly to ensure filtering correctly
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Whole House

• Aquasana Whole House Filter System

• 
  719 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Filters an astounding one million gallon of water and is expected to last a decade
  
  The UV filter protects against viruses and bacteria from festering and growing
  
  Multiple filtration systems provide your whole house with clean water for all needs
  
  Easy to install and easy to function
  
• 
  More expensive than smaller systems but lasts much longer
  
  May need professional assistance depending on current plumbing system
  

 Check Price Now

#1 for Fridge

• Culligan Inline Fridge Filter

• 
  455 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Long lasting and durable, this system can pump around 3,000 gallons of water
  
  No cumbersome maintenance required
  
  Filters out heavy chemicals, metals and chlorine compounds with its 4-filtration systems
  
  One of the cheapest water filtration systems for homes and offices
  
• 
  May run into minor leaking issues
  
  Easy installation unless your fridge is over 20 years old
  

 Check Price Now

Why Trust Waterful.org?

Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .

Learn more about our team of water experts

What is Mercury in Drinking Water?

Let’s talk about mercury in general. What are some of the things in which mercury can be found? Thermometers, dry-cell batteries, barometers, fluorescent light bulbs, switches and various other electronics. Mercury from such devices can’t exactly get into the water, but there are plenty of ways through which it can happen. It’s possible that certain devices are discarded improperly, which results in them breaking and releasing the mercury.

Perhaps, the most dangerous place where mercury can be found in abundance is where the level of natural deposits in the earth crust’s are pretty high. When toxic waste is dumped by factories or landfills, mercury mixes water and makes it undrinkable. The maximum containment mercury level currently regulated by EPA is two parts per billion.

Mercury is a metal that occurs naturally, and when it combines with external elements, it forms inorganic compounds. As mentioned earlier, a major source of mercury is the natural degassing of the earth’s crust. When people drink water that contains a high level of mercury, they expose themselves to various health problems — the most severe being kidney damage.

When this toxic pollutant is exposed to the environment, it takes on a different form— methyl mercury— and affects everything that comes in contact with it. Mercury affects not just the water but also the food chain (aquatic life). This form of methyl is more poisonous because you are ingesting it. The chemical enters your bloodstream and then spreads to every part of the body. This causes numerous mercury health effects and the longer the exposure, the more severe they become. When fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas or oil are burned, mercury disperses in the air and pollutes everything in its path. Not only that, but it can also enter the water through the burning of forests, medical waste that is not disposed of properly, according to the NCBI rule book, and municipal solid waste.

What’s amazing is that even though this chemical poisons your body, it also helps with medical problems. Even the smallest exposure to mercury, such as from a broken thermometer, can cause problems with brain development. This poses a huge problem for babies as it affects their mental health growth.

Once mercury is released in the air, it travels for miles with the flow of the wind and gets deposited on the surface of the earth. It may take five days to a year for the area to get polluted and cause side effects. Don’t forget about running water or melting snow, which cycles back and forth between the earth and air. Organic methyl mercury stays for decades in the soil, which can cause long term side effects. Let’s have a look at these side effects in detail.

When it comes to tap water and well water, there are plenty of ways through which mercury pollutes the supply. As mentioned earlier, when factories throw their toxic waste into a stream, the chemical leaks into underground water supplies. As a result, your water line gets polluted and causes health problems. According to the Environmental Working Group, around 2.4 million people were served in 2015, who were exposed to mercury through drinking water. Today, numerous filtration systems have been developed that can help provide mercury-free water. One thing that people need to understand is that boiling water doesn’t remove mercury. In fact, it changes the chemical composition of mercury and releases it into the air. This causes mercury to travel with the wind and increases the levels of inorganic mercury in the water.

How Do You Remove Mercury From Water?

We have already established why boiling water is not a good idea. True mercury removal treatment can only be done by NSF certified mercury water filter systems. Before we discuss the different types of filtrations systems, let’s discuss why its removal is important:

The side effects of mercury poisoning depend on a number of factors that include:

• The form in which mercury is present in your water
• The level of contamination
• The age of the person who is exposed to the contaminated water (kids are more vulnerable)
• How the person came into contact with mercury and how long they were exposed to it
• Does the person have any health problems

The composition of mercury changes the extent of the side effects. When talking about inorganic mercury— which is the form this chemical takes in water— the number one health problem it causes is kidney damage. As mentioned above, children bear the brunt of mercury in drinking water. Other side effects include:

• Hearing dysfunction
• Brain damage
• Irritability
• Memory loss
• Impaired vision

Let’s have a brief look at what side effects other forms of mercury can cause:

Methyl mercury poisoning is a result of eating fish that was captured from mercury water. The chemical seeps into the shellfish and enters your blood stream upon ingestion. The side effects include:

• A pins and needles feeling around the mouth and in the hands and feet
• Lack of coordination
• Peripheral vision loss
• Impairment of hearing, speech and walking
• Muscle weakness

When it comes to children, a baby is affected in the womb by mercury, which can impact the following skills:

• Memory
• Attention
• Cognitive thinking
• Language
• Visual spatial skills
• Fine motor skills

Last, we have elemental mercury, which you come in contact with when an electronic device breaks and spills this chemical. The side effects include:

• Nerve response changes
• Tremors
• Insomnia
• Emotional changes (mood swings, excessive shyness, irritability, nervousness)
• Neuromuscular changes (weakness, twitching, muscle atrophy)
• Disturbances in sensations
• Headaches
• Poor mental function

Now that we know the side effects of mercury, let’s see how water filters can remove mercury from water.

From reverse osmosis to distillation and simple filtration, water can be easily treated to remove mercury and other chemicals. Thanks to technology, there are plenty of other system designs that help remove this chemical, but one filter that has emerged as quite the winner is a granulated activated carbon (GAC) filter.

Reverse Osmosis

A reverse osmosis mercury water filtration system works by cleaning the water through a thick membrane that blocks the larger ions like mercury and lead. The semi-permeable membrane used is made of a polyamide film. Only water molecules pass through this membrane. There was a time when this process could only deliver a limited amount of water. However, thanks to technology — today, we can produce several gallons of water every day. This system is now also available in portable designs, which are known as point-of-use systems. They can be installed near the sinks and external water taps too.

Distillation

A distillation system works by removing solid contaminants that are dissolved in water. The process involves boiling the water so that condensation separates mercury from the water. The distillation design is great for small systems such as a countertop mercury water filter and a refrigerator mercury water filter. One drawback of this system is that since it uses electricity to work, the cost of maintaining it is pretty high.

Granulated Activation Carbon (GAC)

A granulated activated carbon mercury filter has a carbon medium, which is quite porous. The water runs through this medium and the contaminants get trapped on the surface. This system not only removes toxic metals from the water but also maintains its pH sensitivity. The only problem is that the charcoal filter needs to be replaced frequently. This can become quite expensive in the long run.

Lime Softening

Lime softening is primarily for lowering the hardness of water, but it is also used for removing mercury. This is one of the most reliable and cost-effective systems for purifying water.

Filtration

Filtration systems use AISO4 (a form of aluminum) that reacts with mercury and separates it from the water through precipitation and coagulation. The sludge then has to be disposed of afterward. There are plenty of other water purifiers that work in the same manner. A few include under sink mercury water filter, well mercury water filter andwhole house mercury water filter.

Now that you have a clear idea about the types of water purifier systems, let’s talk about a few that are currently making the rounds in the market.

Recommended Mercury Water Filters

Now that you’re aware of the dangers mercury water poses to your health, it’s time to be proactive and invest in a water filter that will remove contaminants and compounds alike.

Water filters for mercury don’t only remove just mercury. They remove its derivatives and other compounds that are similar to it and bind with it too. An added advantage of using water filters is that besides eradicating sources of mercury, they also cleanse water from other impurities like bacteria, pathogens, viruses, metals and other harmful compounds.

In other words, water filters are lifesavers!

Best Counter Top Mercury Water Filter

Crown Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

If you have a medium sized family or are into outdoor activities, then this Gravity-Fed Water Filter by Royal Berkey will be right up your alley. The system is constructed of highly polished AISI 304 stainless steel (AISI 304). It can store up to 3.25 gallons of water. It stands 15.25″ in height. It’s a pretty simple filter that you can place on your kitchen counter. It is NSF certified and the best countertop filter for mercury. This water filter is the best for removing mercury, arsenic and fluoride.

Pros

• The lower and upper stainless steel chambers help remove fluoride and other chemicals that pollute water
• The filtration system comes with a small kit, which makes installation easy
• It is great for formal use and serves up to 4 people
• It reduces 99% of the contaminants
• The PF-2 reduction elements can be used with other purification elements. This will absorb more of the unwanted elements and give you clean and odor-free drinking water
• The advanced technology of the filter allows it to remove chlorine resistant cysts such as giardia and cryptosporidium

Cons

• The filter is not durable. Once the original setting of the filter is changed, it needs to be cleaned regularly or it will clog
• After a few weeks of use, the water gets a rubbery taste
• Easy installation is the biggest feature of this product, but the attachments are of poor quality. However, it does not work well with industrial rubber washers

Best Pitcher Mercury Water Filter

Aquasana The Clean Water Machine

This is perhaps the sleekest looking water filtration system that you will ever come across! The reason why we call it the best pitcher filter for mercury is that it claims to remove 99% of the contaminants. The filter also reduces acidic compounds and improves the alkalinity of water. The Claryum’s® filtration technology is made of activated carbon, which reduces pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, MTBE and VOC. The catalytic carbon targets chloramines, Ion-Exchange helps filter heavy metals such as lead and mercury, and the Absolute Sub-Micron Mechanical Filtration removes chlorine resistant cysts and asbestos, like giardia and cryptosporidium, from the water.

Pros

• Retains all the minerals that give water its taste
• Is ten times more powerful in reducing contaminants than other leading pitcher filters
• Has a slim profile, which maximizes counter space
• Has a modern design, which makes it look like an ordinary water pitcher
• Holds up to 16 cups (1 gallon) of water
• Is NSF certified and operates on power filtration to give you clean and better tasting water

Cons

• The filtration process is quite slow, which takes time to fill a cup of water
• Is prone to leaks from the bottom part of the appliance

Best Under Counter Mercury Water Filter

Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter

Aquasana 3-Stage Under Counter water filter is the best under sink filter for mercury that can be placed right under your sink counter. It uses smart technology to filter out heavy metals from the water before it reaches your taps. It has Bluetooth filter tracking that allows you to keep track of the water coming into your home. It also alerts you with the amount and type of metal that was filtered out of the water.

Pros:

• It can handle heavy water flow in the taps, gives 44% faster water flow
• It offers an additional capacity of 200 gallons
• It can eliminate up to 77 contaminants from the water within minutes
• It is a highly eco-friendly filtration system as it eliminates plastic waste
• The filters are made of claryum technology, which purifies water 10X more than a regular water filter
• The water after filtration is delicious in taste
• The filters are easy to replace and can be done at home without professional help
• It is highly convenient and worth the price as it is a smart technology system that needs fewer replacements
• It also comes in different sizes and shapes so you can match it with your trendy kitchen faucet
• Certified to NSF standards 42 and 53

Cons:

• It may be difficult to reach as it is placed under the sink
• If there is a leakage in the water, there is a chance of seepage and mold growth
• Requires maintenance

Best Reverse Osmosis Mercury Water Filter

Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

The Waterdrop filter is the best Reverse Osmosis filter for mercury you need in your home. Reverse Osmosis is the best proven water filtration system to get rid of heavy metals like mercury and lead to make your drinking water safe for your kids. It combines premium filtration technology and the reverse osmosis method to purify water. This filter is tested and removes 5X more contaminants than other reverse osmosis systems.

Pros:

• It filters the water while maintaining the healthy minerals that other reverse osmosis systems remove
• It removes 95% of lead from the water without demineralizing it
• It improves the water flow and makes it ultra fast
• It is easy to change and replace
• It is NSF certified for all health standards

Cons:

• Installation may be costly as it needs to be connected to several tubes and pipes
• Maintenance may be difficult as it is placed below the sink counter

Best Whole House Mercury Water Filter System

Aquasana Whole House Filter System

This filtration system covers all your needs from the kitchen to the bathroom and laundry room. Breathe easy because with the Rhino filter installed in your house, you don’t have to worry about bathing in hard water or drinking water laced with traces of mercury. This filtration system is so powerful that it removes 97% of all contaminants from your main water line. This is the best whole house filter for mercury because it has a powerful UV filtration feature that sterilizes 99.99% of different viruses such as cryptosporidium, giardia and E. coli! The product is NFW certified, so you can expect great results from it.

Pros

• The filtration system’s dual tank design, with its unique up-flow, increases contact time with the filter and contaminants. This encourages finer cleaning and prevents clogs
• The product claims that it will filter 1,000,000 gallons of water over a course of 10 years
• SCM salt-free technology safely reduces any scale buildup on the pipes
• You can also buy the pro-grade installation kit at a small price that will make the installation easier

Cons

• The water pressure keeps changing, which causes problems in some areas. It also results in water wastage
• Some of the brackets that come with the standard installation kit do not fit

Best Inline Refrigerator Lead Water Filter

Culligan IC-EZ-4 EZ-Change Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System

This EZ-Change Filtration System provides clean, clear and great tasting water. Isn’t it annoying to keep changing trays for ice water again and again? With this filtration system, you can easily get ice cold water in just a matter of minutes. It has a simple filter that can be easily changed. This is the best refrigerator filter for mercury because it reduces contaminants like chloroform, cyst, mercury, lead and MTBE. In fact, it also removes any kind of bad odor and gives you clean and great tasting water in every sip.

Pros

• The product comes with a replacement filter cartridge that can be easily connected with just a twist on and off action
• The RC-EZ-4 filter cartridge has been certified by NSF and is the best in the industry to reduce chlorine odor and taste from water
• The filter cartridge can be upgraded for faster flowing water
• Comes with a small kit that makes installation easier

Cons

• The system is prone to leaks if the filter is not replaced accurately

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Conclusion on Lead Water Filters

These are some of the best NSF certified mercury water filters. Depending on your filtration needs, you can now choose one for your safety and health.

Happy and clean drinking!

Every year there are as many as 12 million cases of waterborne gastrointestinal illnesses reported in the US. These illnesses are caused by contaminated drinking water that consists of cysts, bacteria, viruses, or other harmful elements. Make sure your water is free of these harmful contaminants with the best reverse osmosis water filtration system, the Waterdrop Tankless Filter.

#1 Undersink

• Waterdrop Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

• 
  295 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Removes up to 99-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds healthy minerals back
  
  Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
  
  Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
  
  NSF-Certified, EPA approved
  
• 
  Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Countertop

• Berkey Countertop Water Filter

• 
  1,083 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Light-weight, portable, and easily moved around the counter top
  
  Removes viruses, protozoa, TMHs, drugs and other chemicals
  
  Safe to use, durable and long lasting
  
  The system has been tested countless times to produce brilliant results
  
• 
  Needs to be broken in properly to ensure filtering correctly
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Whole House

• Aquasana Whole House Filter System

• 
  719 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Filters an astounding one million gallon of water and is expected to last a decade
  
  The UV filter protects against viruses and bacteria from festering and growing
  
  Multiple filtration systems provide your whole house with clean water for all needs
  
  Easy to install and easy to function
  
• 
  More expensive than smaller systems but lasts much longer
  
  May need professional assistance depending on current plumbing system
  

 Check Price Now

#1 for Fridge

• Culligan Inline Fridge Filter

• 
  455 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Long lasting and durable, this system can pump around 3,000 gallons of water
  
  No cumbersome maintenance required
  
  Filters out heavy chemicals, metals and chlorine compounds with its 4-filtration systems
  
  One of the cheapest water filtration systems for homes and offices
  
• 
  May run into minor leaking issues
  
  Easy installation unless your fridge is over 20 years old
  

 Check Price Now

Why Trust Waterful.org?

Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .

Learn more about our team of water experts

Cysts and bacteria in water are highly dangerous as they are microorganisms that are present in the water already or make their way into the water through the pipelines or other sources. These contaminants usually survive in the environment for months as they are self-sufficient. They contaminate the tap or well water and enter our bodies when we drink unfiltered water.

No matter how well-operated water treatment systems are, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that they are not enough to ensure that drinking water is entirely free from all bacteria and viruses. Moreover, even boiling water doesn’t remove cysts and bacteria completely. Water filtration systems are your best bet when it comes to making drinking water pure and safe for your family. Many advanced technology filtration systems have gained popularity recently, promoting contaminant-free drinking water. Before we discuss the best filters available in the market, let’s understand what cysts and bacteria are and how they are harmful for us.

What are Cysts and Bacteria in Drinking Water?

Cysts and bacteria are microorganisms that cannot be seen, felt, or tasted in water. While many of them are harmless, some types of cysts and bacteria accumulate in the body and lead to severe health conditions. It is not wise to assume that your tap water is free from bacteria and viruses as you cannot rely on a community water system. Cysts and bacteria health effects are numerous, and the best way to avoid unclean water is to consume water directly from a filter that decontaminates and purifies glass water.

Types of Microbial Cysts Found in Drinking Water

Microbial cysts found in drinking water are Giardia and Cryptosporidium that live in cold water and are able to survive for several months. They enter lake and river waters through human or animal feces. Cryptosporidium is a small infectious microorganism that is resistant to disinfection, which means simple chlorination is not to remove it. Giardia is another type of cyst found in drinking water. Both types of cysts highly contaminate the water and may cause health issues.

The Environmental Working Group highlighted that the presence of such cysts in water lead to several short-term stomach diseases, nausea, intestinal distress, or gastrointestinal problems. Even though there are no long-term health effects reported from such cysts, EPA suggests that even a single Giardia outbreak in water requires testing and filtration.

According to research, Giardia is released in bowel movements of an animal or individual who is infected. This human/animal waste can enter the water supply in many different ways, for instance, through sewage overflows, agriculture runoff, etc. Giardia can be found in private well water too, and can make its way to the taps.

When the cyst enters the human body, it develops into the adult protozoan life stage and sticks to the intestine walls. It covers the outlet of the stomach and reproduces more cysts. Studies show that as little as one gram of feces from an infected animal contains up to two million cysts. The incubation period is 3 to 25 days, after which an individual may face some common symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, intestine pain, and other stomach problems. The worst part is that Giardia is contagious.

Types of Bacteria Found in Drinking Water

Bacteria, the free-living, single-cell organisms, are decomposers that break down dead organisms and make them available for reuse. Surface or ground water is most likely to contain bacteria. Bacteria cells are present everywhere on the earth and may contaminate drinking water.

Different types of bacteria are found naturally in water. Surprisingly, up to six harmful bacteria types can fill up your next glass of water. They are as follows:

• Escherichia Coli (E. coli)
• Hepatitis A
• Giardia Lamblia
• Campylobacter Jejuni
• Salmonella
• Legionella Pneumophila
• Shigella
• Cryptosporidium
• Norovirus

These bacteria types may cause stomach infections with symptoms of fever, pain, cramps, etc. In the long-term, these problems may result in weakness, a weaker immune system, and other side-effects. Legionella Pneumophila is the most dangerous bacteria that can cause the Legionnaires disease. It usually results in hospitalization and even loss of life. A bacterium that has cultivated from human and animal feces is extremely dangerous. If this bacterium is found in water, it indicates that the water has been contaminated by human and animal waste. Such contamination contains pathogens that pose health risks to humans, especially the vulnerable population. Some studies show that there is also a risk of cancer from cysts and bacteria.  

How Do You Remove Cysts and Bacteria From Water?

EPA requires community water systems to provide clean and safe drinking water to the public. All public water systems must have chlorinated water to kill the cysts and bacteria that come from the environment.

Many communities put their water systems through the required tests and chlorination, but these processes don’t always make the water 100% bacteria-free. This is because microorganisms can survive chlorination or make their way into the water through pipelines. Since up to 500,000 people die from diarrhea related illnesses every year, according to WHO, homeowners should take the responsibility of drinking clean water in their own hands.

Microbial Testing of Drinking Water

You must always know the type of water that your family is consuming. The first thing to do is to test the water in your taps. A microbial testing lab checks the water for harmful bacteria. This will tell you whether your water is safe to drink or not.

Distillation of Cysts and Bacteria

The method of distillation produces pure water through air-cooled distillers. The process requires a high amount of energy input. The boiling chamber traps the impurities and flushes them out, giving clean, flat tasting water.

Chlorination of Cysts and Bacteria

The method of chlorination is a common and effective way to deal with microbes as it can kill bacteria and active cysts. Adding sufficient chlorine will kill all the microbes, but you will also have to remove all the chlorine before you can consume the water.

UV Light of Cysts and Bacteria

Ultraviolet light method kills microbe cells by damaging the DNA. It ensures clean and safe drinking water. However, the method is costly.

Filtration of Cysts and Bacteria

Water filtration systems with advanced technologies are the best and most effective solution to pure drinking water. These filters come in various shapes and sizes and can be installed with the taps. The water is filtered straight out of the tap and into the glass.

There are different types of water filters to remove cysts and bacteria. Some of them are:

• Reverse Osmosis water filtration system
• Countertop water filter
• Refrigerator water filter
• Under sink water filter
• Well water filter
• Whole house water filter
• Granulated activated carbon filter

Is Bottled Water Cyst and Bacteria Free?

According to a research published by The Telegraph, bottled water contains more bacteria than tap water. Since it is expensive and secured in a bottle, it is commonly mistaken to be pure and free from microorganisms. The truth is that once water is bottled, the plastic container itself rapidly starts producing bacteria in contact with the organic material already present in the water.

Importance of NSF-Certified Water Filters

A filtration system for drinking water ought to be certified by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the US. The NSF ensures that such appliances and systems are safe to use for homeowners and effective in providing clean drinking water. It is important to have NSF-certified cysts and bacteria water filters as they have undergone several tests and meet all quality and health standards. If you are opting for a water filter, you have to ensure that it is the best one. To make your task easier, we have listed the best water filters below.

Recommended Cyst and Bacteria Water Filters

Water filters are essential for your home. No matter which state, city, or town you live in, you can never compromise on the quality of water that your family consumes. Waterborne diseases are on the rise and the only solution is water filtration— as it is a cost-effective and convenient way to keep your family safe. The best part is that there are many water filtration systems in the market today. You can choose the one that would suit you and your family. We have reviewed some of the best products in the market here for your convenience.

Best Counter Top Cyst and Bacteria Water Filter

Crown Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

The Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter is the best countertop filter for cysts and bacteria that you will find. This product is a highly-recommended and is one of the popular choices for consumers. It has a superior-quality filtration system that removes cysts and bacteria from water up to 99.99%. The filtration technology also helps maintain healthy minerals in the water. In addition to cysts and bacteria, it also removes harmful heavy metals and other elements from water.

This gravity-fed filter can be kept on the counter as it doesn’t need to be plugged in. It can be used easily for travel or emergency situations. With this filter, you don’t have to worry about compromising on water quality, anywhere anytime. It is a portable filtration system, so you can carry it with ease.

Pros:

• It can store up to 3.25 gallons of water at a time, which is good enough for 2-4 people a day.
• Even though the water filter is small and handy, it has a good flow rate.
• The purification system is highly powerful as it uses advanced technology to filter and purify water from all sorts of contaminants. It is one of the only few water filtration systems in the market that actively kill pathogenic bacteria and removes Giardia and cryptosporidium.
• The water filter can last up to 6,000 gallons of water before it needs a replacement.
• It is highly durable and long-lasting.
• It is NSF-certified, ensuring safe and pure water.

Cons:

• It is not suitable for large families
• It is only available in a few states

Best Pitcher Cyst and Bacteria Water Filter

Aquasana The Clean Water Machine

The Clean Water Machine is the best pitcher filter for cysts and bacteria. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of getting a water filter installed and maintaining it, then this is the most convenient option for you. This Water Machine is a dispenser that can be placed anywhere around your house. Not only is it easy to use for children, but it is also highly safe. It has a jug-like structure that stores the clean water from the tap and then pours it into your glass. You can get clean and pure drinking water at the touch of a button. It is power-activated, which means you can rely on it.

The best feature of this system is the professional grade filtration technology that kills heavy metals, cysts and organic chemicals.

Pros:

• It has claryum technology, which consists of activated carbon, catalytic carbon, and absolute sub-micron mechanical filtration. This technology is known to remove 10 times more contaminants than other systems, providing you with clean water that still consists of healthy minerals.
• The water is ultra delicious as the filter has the potential to retain the healthy minerals in the water.
• The filtration system is ultra fast. The water purifies instantly at the touch of a button.
• The product is NSF-certified to meet health standards 42, 53, and 401.
• Aquasana provides great customer support services.

Cons:

• The holding capacity is comparatively less than other water filtration systems
• The warranty comes with an additional cost

Best Under Counter Cysts and Bacteria Water Filter

Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter

The three-stage under counter water filter is the best under sink filter for cysts and bacteria for your home. It is the best way to ensure that all the water coming in from your tap is clean and pure – whether you need it for drinking, cooking, or washing. As mentioned earlier, boiling the water doesn’t kill bacteria and microorganisms completely. Hence, if you want to ensure clean water for your family in every possible way, this three-stage under counter filter is the best option for you.

The filter comes with the Claryum technology that contains activated carbon, catalytic carbon, ion-exchange, and absolute sub-micron mechanical filtration that cleans and purifies tap water quickly. The water from your main pipeline will be stored into the filter that has a capacity of up to 200 gallons. When you open your tap, the water from the storage goes through the filters and flows from the tap. This filter system removes 15 times more contaminates than other standard solutions and also removes 97% of chlorine.

Pros:

• The filter kills all the bacteria and microorganisms instantly and removes up to 77 different contaminants
• It is eco-friendly as it minimizes plastic waste
• The water is ultra delicious as the minerals are retained
• The filters are easy to replace, and you can do it on your own
• The system is convenient and worth its value.
• It is more durable than other systems.
• The filter comes with Smart technology, which identifies when there is a need for filter replacement. You don’t have to make guesses or keep a track of the filtration system anymore.
• NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, 401 + P473s

Cons:

• The filter life is only 6 months
• The installation can be costly
• It requires professional maintenance
• The area under the sink needs extra care to avoid any leaks

Best Reverse Osmosis Cysts and Bacteria Water Filter

Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

The Waterdrop is the best Reverse osmosis filter for cysts and bacteria. The reverse osmosis technology has proven to be the best way to clean and purify drinking water in homes and offices. The technology uses UV light to kill bacteria and microorganisms by up to 99%. It is the best way to clear your water from all contaminations.

It works in a three-stage process, where the filter first uses the reverse osmosis technology to filter the heavy metals and elements from the water. Then, the claryum technology reduces contaminants further. Lastly, the remineralization technology adds healthy amounts of potassium and magnesium to give you pH balanced water.

This system comes in different sizes and systems, which can be installed over the counter or under the sink, according to your convenience. The reverse osmosis systems are easy to maintain.

Pros:

• The filter guarantees ultimate purity as it offers filtration, purification, and remineralization
• It is tried and tested by several labs to be 5x better than other reverse osmosis systems.
• It is NSF-certified to standards 42, 53, 58, 401, and P473
• It has an easy filter replacement system that you can do at home
• It gives ultra fast water flow in the taps
• Aquasana offers free shipping in the US

Cons:

• The fittings need to be upgraded every now and then
• Additional parts will come at an additional cost

Best Whole House Cysts and Bacteria Water Filter System

Aquasana Whole House Filter System

The 1,000,000 Gallon Rhino is the best whole house filter for cysts and bacteria. This water filtration is a one-time installation in your home to purify and filter contaminants from all the water that comes in your taps. This water filter is a huge investment for those who don’t want to have water worries often. Furthermore, it also gives cyst and bacteria-free water in showers for bathing and prevents any harmful side-effects. Certain bacteria are harmful when exposed to the skin or inhaled into the lungs.

Pros:

• It offers a long-term solution to water contamination problems as it can last up to 10 years
• The filter can purify water up to 1,000,000 gallons
• It gives you a cleaner, healthier, and more convenient system for your home
• The advanced technology filtration system kills bacteria and microorganisms
• The innovative technology filters reduce build-up in your house plumbing system
• Reduces body exposure to harmful cysts and bacteria, resulting in healthier skin and hair
• It is NSF-certified

Cons:

• It is highly costly
• You require a professional plumber to install the system
• Any clogging or replacement will require additional costs
• Maintenance and repair costs are high

Best Inline Refrigerator Cysts and Bacteria Water Filter

Culligan IC-EZ-4 EZ-Change Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System

The CulliganRefrigerator Filtration System is the best refrigerator filter for cysts and bacteria in the market. The water filter is installed in your refrigerator as a cold water filter and icemaker. This technology offers filter cartridges that kill bacteria and cysts before giving you filtered and purified water. The best part is that it gives you cold water right in your glass. It can filter up to 500 gallons of water. The filter lasts for up to 6 months. This smart technology can be fitted into your refrigerator easily.

Pros:

• It is convenient as you get cold water and ice
• It has a twist-on and twist-off filter mechanism that you can change on your own
• It is portable and easy to fix
• The replacement cartridges are available with the product
• NSF-certified

Cons:

• Slow water flow
• Cartridge only lasts for a few months

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Conclusion on Cysts and Bacteria Water Filters

Contaminated water is harmful, and as discussed above, it can lead to many health problems. Take the matter of contaminated water in your own hands and pick the best water filter to ensure clean and pure drinking water.

Any amount of lead is not safe for humans, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The health effects of lead are determined by exactly how much lead in going inside the body and where it is being stored. Make sure there is no lead in your water with the Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis Filter System.

#1 Undersink

• Waterdrop Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

• 
  295 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Removes up to 99-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds healthy minerals back
  
  Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
  
  Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
  
  NSF-Certified, EPA approved
  
• 
  Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Countertop

• Berkey Countertop Water Filter

• 
  1,083 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Light-weight, portable, and easily moved around the counter top
  
  Removes viruses, protozoa, TMHs, drugs and other chemicals
  
  Safe to use, durable and long lasting
  
  The system has been tested countless times to produce brilliant results
  
• 
  Needs to be broken in properly to ensure filtering correctly
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Whole House

• Aquasana Whole House Filter System

• 
  719 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Filters an astounding one million gallon of water and is expected to last a decade
  
  The UV filter protects against viruses and bacteria from festering and growing
  
  Multiple filtration systems provide your whole house with clean water for all needs
  
  Easy to install and easy to function
  
• 
  More expensive than smaller systems but lasts much longer
  
  May need professional assistance depending on current plumbing system
  

 Check Price Now

#1 for Fridge

• Culligan Inline Fridge Filter

• 
  455 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Long lasting and durable, this system can pump around 3,000 gallons of water
  
  No cumbersome maintenance required
  
  Filters out heavy chemicals, metals and chlorine compounds with its 4-filtration systems
  
  One of the cheapest water filtration systems for homes and offices
  
• 
  May run into minor leaking issues
  
  Easy installation unless your fridge is over 20 years old
  

 Check Price Now

Why Trust Waterful.org?

Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .

Learn more about our team of water experts

Lead in drinking water is a common problem in many areas such as Flint, Michigan, where tap water and well water are used. Homeowners use lead water test kits to ensure that the water they are drinking is safe for them and their families.

A good water filtration system cleans the water from all contaminants such as lead, chlorine, or arsenic. They make water healthy and drinkable to avoid health problems and side-effects of such harmful metals.

What is Lead in Drinking Water?

Lead is a heavy chemical element that is found in small amounts in our environment. When lead enters water, it makes the water highly contaminated as EPA says exposure to lead – in drinking water – is highly dangerous for human health. The American activist group, Environmental Working Group, urges homeowners to be aware of lead in water as it is extremely harmful, especially for children.

Homeowners must know all about the water coming in. All community water systems in America are required to submit an annual water quality report to ensure the water in homes is safe.

Lead could enter drinking water in many different ways. You cannot taste, smell, or see lead in water. Thus, the best way to find out is to test the water coming into your home. The testing can be conducted for merely $20-80 from certified state or local laboratories. The next thing you should know is where the lead is coming from.

Where Does the Lead in Drinking Water Come From?

In its simplest forms, lead doesn’t occur naturally in well water, but it gets in it through the delivery system such as lead pipes and corrosion. Even if your community water system is clean and safe, you may have lead in your drinking water due to the home plumbing system.

The most common source of lead in tap water is through corrosion of lead pipes, fixtures, and faucets. Despite the low levels of lead in brass, the lead easily dissolves and contaminates the water.

Most homes in Michigan and New Jersey have underground water lines that are made of lead pipes. Even though lead pipes were more common in the 1980s and 1990s, they are still found in houses today. When the soil expands or contracts due to weather changes, corrosion takes place and lead is released into the water the pipes carry to the taps. New construction materials include brass or chrome-plated brass with lead solder that dissolves in water.

There are also other plumbing fixtures and fittings other than pipes that contain lead such as the surface of water tanks, hoses, hand washing sinks, etc. The water that goes through these fixtures and fittings is also contaminated with lead due to corrosion.

According to EPA, the amount of lead that is acceptable in drinking water is 0.25 percent calculated across the surface of pipes, fittings, and fixtures. The extent to which lead enters the water depends on various factors such as:

• The acidity and alkalinity of the water
• The types of minerals present naturally in the water
• The temperature of the water
• How long the water stays in the pipes
• The protective layers and coatings present inside plumbing fixtures.

Health Effects of Lead in Drinking Water

EPA has set the maximum contamination level goal for lead at zero because lead is a toxic element even when it is absorbed by the body in small amounts. Since lead is persistent, it can accumulate in the body and have adverse physical and behavioral effects.

Lead Water Health Effects on Children

A minor dose of lead may have little or no effect on an adult, but it can have a severe impact on the child’s health and wellbeing. The harmful level of lead in a child’s blood is 5 micrograms per deciliter or more.

While there are other ways in which children are exposed to lead, drinking water is the most common and direct way. The lead that goes directly in the stomach with water is spread across the body quickly. A child can be exposed to lead through paint, soil, air, dust, and food. However, up to 60% of all exposure to lead is through drinking water.

Lead can affect young children, infants, and even fetuses from developing. A small dose of lead can result in:

• Behavioral problems
• Learning disabilities
• Lower IQ and hyperactivity
• Peripheral nervous system
• Hearing impairments
• Formation impairments
• Slowed growth
• Anemia
• Dysfunction of blood cells
• Seizures (rare cases)

Lead Water Health Effects on Pregnant Women

As we said, even fetuses can be affected by lead exposure since it accumulates inside the body. Lead is stored in the bones along with calcium. This is why, during pregnancy, it is released alongside maternal calcium and contributes to the formation of the fetus’ bones. If a woman doesn’t have enough natural calcium in the bones, lead releases and activated in the body. The fetus exposed to lead may result in:

• Premature birth
• Reduced growth

Lead Water Health Effects on Adults

Adults who are exposed to lead may suffer from:

• Cardiovascular diseases
• High blood pressure
• Hypertension
• Decreased kidney function
• Reproductive problems

Lead health effects are dangerous. However, when lead interacts with the body externally, it doesn’t have any effect. Washing or bathing in lead contaminated water is not harmful as lead doesn’t absorb in human skin. However, if the water is highly corrosive, you may need to take some precautions. The way to stay safe from lead water is to ensure you don’t swallow it or inhale it through your nose while showering.

How Do You Remove Lead From Water?

Given the health risks and problems that contaminated water is causing, a water filtration system is the most convenient, low-cost solution for lead polluted water.

While many people have adopted bottled water as their main source of drinking water, it is not a cost-effective solution. It also causes environmental degradation due to the excessive use of plastic bottles.

A water filtration system can be the best option for homeowners. Because of advanced technology, water filters have the ability to make water entirely lead free and safe.

There are many types of water filtration systems that can be installed around your home for different purposes. Some of the types from which you can choose are:

• Reverse osmosis lead water filtration system
• Countertop lead water filter
• Refrigerator lead water filter
• Under sink lead water filter
• Well lead water filter
• Whole house lead water filter
• Granulated activated carbon lead filter

These water filters can be placed anywhere in the house according to their size and functions. They are convenient as they are installed with the tap or the faucet, so you receive filtered water directly from the tap. Water filtration systems need to be changed after every six months or one year to ensure safe and clean water.

Importance of NSF Certification for Lead Water Filters

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an organization in the US founded in 1944 to improve and protect human health. NSF regulates different products and appliances to health standards and certification. All products and appliances used in a commercial kitchen undergo certification, including dishwashers, cutting boards, and even water filters. The purpose is to ensure these appliances comply with the safety rules and health standards.

It is important for water filters to be NSF certified because of the product testing requirements that NSF stands by. They have different categories through which they judge the product in affiliation with other regulatory agencies such as the EPA. The certification is issued after a detailed administration of the appliances.

When choosing the best water filtration system for your homes, you must look for filters that are NSF approved and certified. If a filter meets NSF standards 42 and 53, then the filter is certified to reduce lead and other contaminants from water.

Distillation of Lead From Water

Distillers are the simplest protection against lead contamination in water. The process involves separating substances from a mixture by using varying temperatures. The purification occurs when the liquids boil and condense under the shifting temperature.

Although effective, this process isn’t as thorough as modern-day filtration systems. So you should consider it as your last option.

Reverse Osmosis Filtration System for Lead in Water

 RO systems are the most popular choice to tackle the lead water situation. The systems are designed to removes minute contaminants from your water supply with the help of specialized semi-permeable membranes.

It’s a feasible option for households because RO systems can be hooked to various parts of the household. This includes under the sink water filters and whole household water filters. 

Activated Alumina Adsorption Filters for Lead in Water

Activated alumina effectively gets rids of traces of lead, fluoride, arsenic, and other impurities present in drinking water. High-quality filters can change 10ppm herbicides and pesticides levels to a minimum of 1 ppm. The system leaches the contaminants depending on how long they come in contact with the core alumina filter media.

The good thing is that installing one of these fixtures can regulate your lead consumption. Most of them improve water quality by eradicating other harmful chemicals, sediments, and other impurities in your main supply. Thus, these water filters give you free access to fresh, clean, and healthy drinking water.

It’s important to note that boiling lead from water or substituting tap water for drinking water isn’t a solution. It’s because boiling water doesn’t have any effect on the lead levels. Similarly, bottled water is often mineralized during the treatment process. That means it might contain traces of lead too.

Recommended Lead Water Filters

Now that you’re aware of the dangers lead water poses to your health, it’s time to be proactive and invest in a water filter that will remove contaminants and compounds alike.

Water filters for lead don’t only remove pesticide and herbicide. They remove its derivatives and other compounds that are similar to it and bind with it too. An added advantage of using water filters is that besides eradicating sources of lead, they also cleanse water from other impurities like bacteria, pathogens, viruses, metals and other harmful compounds.

In other words, water filters are lifesavers!

Best Counter Top/Pitcher Lead Water Filter

Crown Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

This is the best countertop filter for lead with the best features you were looking for. The water filter is ideal for large families as it has a large storage unit and can be used to filter treated and untreated water. It can take water from lakes, streams, and even stagnant ponds and filter it to make it safe for your family. This water filter is gravity-fed, which means that you can use it in outdoor environments where there is limited or no electricity and water pressure. The following are the pros and cons of this product:

Pros:

• It has a capacity of 3.25 gallons of water, which is why it is perfect for large families
• It is portable so you can take it for outdoor events, when traveling or in unexpected emergencies. It is also the perfect size, just 23” tall and 9” in diameter
• It has high intensity, powerful purification system as it is equipped with Black Berkey Purification Elements. This means that the water is not only lead-free but also purified. It filters out 99.99% of viruses and bacteria. It also filters other heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury
• It is an economical option as it is long-lasting, purifies large amounts of water, and is strong
• It also comes with additional elements that can be replaced
• It doesn’t require electricity or any other tools
• It is certified by NSF

Cons:

• Replacement elements need to be bought separately

Runner Up Pitcher Water Filter

Aquasana The Clean Water Machine

The Aquasana clean water machine is the best pitcher filter for herbicides and pesticides that you can use in your home. This water filter claims to be 10 times stronger and lasts 8 times longer than other brand pitcher filters. It is a pitcher or a jug that you can place anywhere in your home. It is power-activated and forces water through the ultra-dense carbon. The filter removes 96% of the contaminants from water, including heavy metals and all sorts of herbicides and pesticides. It is available online on the Aquasana website.

The Aquasana clean water machine is the best pitcher filter for lead. It is a portable jug-like machine that can store up to one gallon of water. It is one of the trendiest designs for water filters that release water directly in your glass. It is the perfect sized system that will give you and your family lead free water as well as look good in your kitchen.

Pros:

• It removes 96% of the contaminants and bad chemicals from the water, including lead
• It also kills bacteria and cysts present in the water, making it even safer to consume
• It purifies water instantly. Tap water is directly filtered and collected in the jug
• It is power activated so you can simply control its usage
• It is long lasting and durable as it lasts up to three months
• Good value for money as it comes with a 15% discount on replacements, free shipping, and lifetime system warranty
• It is laboratory and NSF certified

Cons:

• It is not suitable for large families as it would take a while to refill the jug again and again

Best Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Lead Water Filter

Waterdrop Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System

Health-conscious persons who are looking for water purification systems with exceptional capabilities should take a look at the Home Master TMAFC Artesian. The unit can give you water with a high level of purity whilst retaining essential minerals. The filter is engineered to give you a high flow rate and to minimize leakage problems.

The Home Master TMAFC Artesian water filtration system gives you a high level of protection against contaminants thanks to in-built RO technology.

In case you are worried that the reverse osmosis process will filter out magnesium and calcium, then you can rest assured knowing that the unit introduces these minerals back again once the reverse osmosis process is complete. You are left with high-quality mineral water that is as healthy as it is pure. The Home Master is a highly rated under-sink reverse osmosis water filter.

Before adding back the essential minerals, the efficient reverse osmosis process can about 98 percent of harmful contaminants, sediment, heavy metals, and chemicals.

Since the hoses are easy to attach to your water supply you do not need a wrench for connecting the hoses. Installation is, therefore, a simple and straightforward process that you can do on your own with just the user manual in front of you.

The filters can purify 2000 gallons of water before they need replacement. They will also need to be replaced after they have operated for a year. Hence, the filters have high capacity and you can enjoy peace of mind with the knowledge that filter changes are infrequent. The filters are also very easy to replace since you need to turn their fittings to unscrew them.

The unit passes your tap water through no less than 7 stages of filtration to give you exceptionally pure water. Thanks to the rigorous purification process, the model can bring down pharmaceuticals, dissolved solids, heavy metals, chemicals, chlorine, chloramines, and other toxic contaminants by as much as 99%.

Homeowners will be glad to know that the unit has a catalytic carbon filter to remove stubborn chloramine. This chemical is now being added to water to disinfect it. Ordinary carbon filters cannot remove this persistent chemical easily but the catalytic carbon media certainly can.

Thanks to the design of the filtration system, water wastage is reduced by 80 percent. Additionally, it gets around the problem called ‘TDS creep” to give you pure water.

Other filtration systems simply rely on a filter change so that the unit performs according to expectations. Unfortunately, this can lead to the buildup of biofilm, microorganisms, and sediments on the container walls that are not changed. The Home Master resolves this issue by making modular filters. Rather than replacing just the filter, you replace the entire module itself which includes the housing beside the filter.

The 5-year warranty is quite a statement since it indicates the confidence that the manufacturer has in the reliability of the unit.

Runner Up Best Lead Water Filter

Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter

Aquasana 3-Stage Under Counter water filter is the best under sink filter for lead that can be placed right under your sink counter. It uses smart technology to filter out heavy metals from the water before it reaches your taps. It has Bluetooth filter tracking that allows you to keep track of the water coming into your home. It also alerts you with the amount and type of metal that was filtered out of the water.

Pros:

• It can handle heavy water flow in the taps, gives 44% faster water flow
• It offers an additional capacity of 200 gallons
• It can eliminate up to 77 contaminants from the water within minutes
• It is a highly eco-friendly filtration system as it eliminates plastic waste
• The filters are made of claryum technology, which purifies water 10X more than a regular water filter
• The water after filtration is delicious in taste
• The filters are easy to replace and can be done at home without professional help
• It is highly convenient and worth the price as it is a smart technology system that needs fewer replacements
• It also comes in different sizes and shapes so you can match it with your trendy kitchen faucet
• Certified to NSF standards 42 and 53

Cons:

• It may be difficult to reach as it is placed under the sink
• If there is a leakage in the water, there is a chance of seepage and mold growth
• Requires maintenance

Runner Up Reverse Osmosis Lead Water Filter

Aquasana OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

The Aquasana OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis + Claryum filter is the best Reverse Osmosis filter for lead you need in your home. Reverse Osmosis is the best proven water filtration system to get rid of lead and make your drinking water safe for your kids. It combines premium filtration technology and the reverse osmosis method to purify water. This filter is tested and removes 5X more contaminants than other reverse osmosis systems.

Pros:

• It filters the water while maintaining the healthy minerals that other reverse osmosis systems remove
• It removes 95% of lead from the water without demineralizing it
• It improves the water flow and makes it ultra fast
• It is easy to change and replace
• It is NSF certified for all health standards

Cons:

• Installation may be costly as it needs to be connected to several tubes and pipes
• Maintenance may be difficult as it is placed below the sink counter

Best Whole House Lead Water Filter System

Aquasana Whole House Filter System

The 1,000,000 Gallon Rhino whole house filtration system is the best whole house filter for PFAs. As the name suggests, this product is perfect for those who have large families and who wish to purify all the water coming into their homes so that their families stay safe. This filtration system is the best solution to all your water contamination problems in Michigan and New Jersey.

Pros:

• It is a high performance water filtration system that purifies and cleans all the water in all your house taps
• It gives you clean water up to one million gallons for 10 years
• It is long-lasting and durable
• It removes lead and other contaminations up to 97% and makes the water safe for drinking as well as for your skin
• The smart design fits perfectly with the main lines
• It uses innovative salt-free technology that reduces build up inside the pipes and avoids corrosion
• It is NSF certified

Cons:

• It is a huge system, so it is highly technical to understand and maintain
• It may take time to install
• The system is costly

Best Inline Refrigerator Lead Water Filter

Culligan IC-EZ-4 EZ-Change Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System

The Culligan Refrigerator filtration system is the best refrigerator filter for lead free water in your home. The trusted brand offers an inline refrigerator and icemaker filter that makes the water cold and safe to consume.

Pros:

• It comes with an easy replacement filter that you can change yourself.
• The RC-EZ-4 filter cartridge clears water from herbicides and pesticides up to 99.99%.
• It gives tasty and odorless cold water.
• The filter can purify up to 500 gallons of water and lasts up to 6 months.
• The water flow rate is super fast.
• It is NSF certified.

Cons:

• It is only limited to purify refrigerator water.
• It’s only for cold water.
• The filter might reduce your fridge space, which can be a problem for big families

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Click Your City/State for Tap Water Safety

---

---

WARNING: Utilities Do Not Test What Comes Out of Your Faucet

Learn Exactly What’s In Your Water

---

Conclusion on Lead Water Filters

Thanks to the products mentioned above, it is now possible for homeowners to take care of their health. Choose the best water filtration system for your family and contribute to their health and wealth!

Herbicides and pesticides present in drinking water are a serious cause for concern across the world. Even though farming techniques have revolutionized, herbicides, pesticides, and other toxins are still used, and often, herbicides and pesticides easily find their way into water supply lines. Make sure to take them out with a high quality water filter, the Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis System.

#1 Undersink

• Waterdrop Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

• 
  295 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Removes up to 99-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds healthy minerals back
  
  Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
  
  Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
  
  NSF-Certified, EPA approved
  
• 
  Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Countertop

• Berkey Countertop Water Filter

• 
  1,083 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Light-weight, portable, and easily moved around the counter top
  
  Removes viruses, protozoa, TMHs, drugs and other chemicals
  
  Safe to use, durable and long lasting
  
  The system has been tested countless times to produce brilliant results
  
• 
  Needs to be broken in properly to ensure filtering correctly
  

 Check Price Now

#1 Whole House

• Aquasana Whole House Filter System

• 
  719 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Filters an astounding one million gallon of water and is expected to last a decade
  
  The UV filter protects against viruses and bacteria from festering and growing
  
  Multiple filtration systems provide your whole house with clean water for all needs
  
  Easy to install and easy to function
  
• 
  More expensive than smaller systems but lasts much longer
  
  May need professional assistance depending on current plumbing system
  

 Check Price Now

#1 for Fridge

• Culligan Inline Fridge Filter

• 
  455 Reviews
  
  
  
• 
  Long lasting and durable, this system can pump around 3,000 gallons of water
  
  No cumbersome maintenance required
  
  Filters out heavy chemicals, metals and chlorine compounds with its 4-filtration systems
  
  One of the cheapest water filtration systems for homes and offices
  
• 
  May run into minor leaking issues
  
  Easy installation unless your fridge is over 20 years old
  

 Check Price Now

Why Trust Waterful.org?

Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .

Learn more about our team of water experts

Herbicides and pesticides health effects are still a major concern in areas where groundwater is the major source of water supply in homes. The health hazards range from short-term flu to long-term diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Herbicides In Drinking Water

The main purpose of herbicides and pesticides is to kill weeds, insects, and other harmful bacteria from crops. They are either sprayed or added to the soil-bed, after which they make their way into groundwater.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued strict guidelines to all those using these chemicals in farming areas situated near residential areas. For all homes in those areas, EPA recommends water testing and installation of NSF-certified filters for herbicides and pesticides free water.

Herbicides are widely used in farming techniques ever since they were introduced in the 1940s. They are meant to kill insects and bacteria from plants, but these chemicals are toxic to mammals. The common types of herbicides that cannot be diluted are glyphosate and atrazine.

Glyphosate in Drinking Water

Glyphosate is a new type of herbicide that can kill any weed, not just specific weeds. Due to its effectiveness, it’s now used commercially in the agriculture industry of the US. However, when glyphosate finds its way into aquatic environments, groundwater, and well water, it becomes highly toxic and dangerous. It doesn’t degrade easily, which is why it becomes a major threat to health.

It can enter drinking water through two pathways: through the wind when sprayed in fields and through irrigation runoff into bodies of water. Humans are exposed to the chemical through inhalation and skin contact, as well as drinking water. In all ways, exposure to this chemical is not safe.

The number of health diseases caused by glyphosate contaminated water has increased in recent years, especially in Florida and Louisiana. According to the Environmental Working Group, the acceptable amount of Glyphosate in drinking water is 5 parts per billion (ppb).

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has declared Glyphosate as a Group 2A chemical, which is “probably carcinogenic to humans”. The risk of developing cancer from herbicide glyphosate is one-in-a-million. Glyphosate is classified as genotoxic, which means it can damage DNA directly and lead to cancer. It also induces oxidative stress in the body and hurts the natural aging process.

Atrazine in Drinking Water

Atrazine is another harmful herbicide used in farming to kill weeds. This chemical is highly toxic for humans and is commonly known to find its way into tap water.

A research shows that up to 7.6 million Americans are potentially at a threat of drinking water contaminated with Atrazine. According to a research published by the Environmental Working Group in 2015, up to 800 public water systems in 19 states of the US were found to be contaminated with atrazine. This herbicide is most commonly used in up to 75% of all cornfields across the US, from where it enters ground and well water.

Atrazine has become a federal threat in the US and many agencies are working to combat this threat. The Safe Drinking Water Act has regarded atrazine as a chemical that all public and residential water needs to be tested for. In fact, in many parts of Europe, atrazine is banned due to its ability to contaminate drinking water. In the US, however, there are restrictions on its use imposed by the federal government, but it is not banned.

The health effects of atrazine are severe, especially for females as it affectshormones. Research shows that women who consume atrazine-contaminated water are more likely to have hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, and low estrogen levels. Atrazine alters, disrupts, and harms hormones in women, resulting in long-term fertility issues. There is also evidence of atrazine affecting male hormones. The legal limit of atrazine in drinking water is set to 3ppb by the EPA. Its exposure also increases the risk of developing cancer in both men and women. It’s also dangerous for the DNA and immune systems of infants and children.

Pesticides In Drinking Water

Pesticides are used in farming to kill all types of insects, fungi, weed, and other pests. They include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, etc.

Even though they are essential to protect crops from unwanted elements, they are highly toxic for humans. Exposure to pesticides through contaminated tap or drinking water leads to acute and chronic health effects, depending upon the exposure.

There are thousands of different types of pesticides that are used in agriculture. Some of them stay on the soil for longer periods of time, from where the remains enter ground or surface water, while others pollute water in the form of microbes.

The toxicological elements in pesticides can be either soluble in water or insoluble. Some of them have mobility properties in the soil structure, from where they make their way into groundwater, while others may be invisible as they are soluble and cannot be seen. Remember that the higher the solubility of the pesticide, the higher the risk of it making its way into drinking water.

Other ways these pesticides contaminate water is through irrigation channels and rainfall. One study says that cleaning pesticides from groundwater is usually a difficult and sometimes impossible task. Those who use private wells are at a higher risk of utilizing contaminated water due to nearby fields.

There are many health effects of pesticides depending upon the quantity, type, and level of exposure. Pesticides such as cabamates affect the nervous system, while others may cause bacterial infections.

Stomach illnesses, flu, nausea, and headaches are common short-term health effects. Long-term health effects may include weaker immunity, hormonal imbalance, and lifetime risk of cancer. Skin and eye irritation are also common effects.

How to Avoid Herbicides and Pesticides in Your Drinking Water

Even though the risk of developing any type of cancer from herbicides and pesticides in drinking water is rare, you must take all precautions necessary to ensure the water coming into your home taps is clean and pure.

It is to be noted that boiling water doesn’t remove herbicides and pesticides; hence, the recommended precautions are water testing and installing water filters in homes. Even if small amounts of herbicides or pesticides enter the water, they can cause severe health hazards. Buying NSF certified water filters is the best way to make sure that the water is herbicide and pesticide free.

How Do You Remove Herbicides and Pesticides From Water?

As we have discussed, natural sources of water are not always safe due to the contaminants that make their way into the water. Whether you live in an area where farming takes place regularly or not, there are many ways in which herbicides and pesticides can reach the tap water.

Waterborne diseases contribute to a large percentage of total health problems. Clean drinking water is the right of every individual. While local authorities ensure that public water systems are clean, you need to have a filtration system that ensures that the water reaching your taps is safe too. In order to get quality drinking water, installing a water filter is a great idea.

A National Science Foundation (NSF) certified herbicides and pesticides water filter is a good option for you as it has the capability to remove contaminants by up to 99%. Water filters remove chemicals and elements, such as lead, arsenic, chlorine, bacteria and cysts, and even herbicides and pesticides from the water. They are also known to improve the taste of water.

NSF-certified filters are essential as they meet certain standards that certify the appliance as safe and harmless to use. The filtration technology installed in these filters is tested and approved by NSF standards.

Water filters are also more cost-effective for residential use than relying on bottled water. Water filters can be installed with taps and with the main lines of the water coming into the house. This way, you get clean water without any hassle. This prevents any dangerous contaminants from reaching your house altogether and saves you from potential skin rashes or irritation caused by exposure. Some types of water filtration systems that we will be reviewing are the following:

• Reverse osmosis herbicides and pesticides water filtration system
• Countertop herbicides and pesticides water filter
• Refrigerator herbicides and pesticides water filter
• Under sink herbicides and pesticides water filter
• Well herbicides and pesticides water filter
• Whole house herbicides and pesticides water filter
• Granulated activated carbon herbicides and pesticides filter

Distillation of Herbicides and Pesticides From Water

Distillers are the simplest protection against herbicides and pesticides contamination in water. The process involves separating substances from a mixture by using varying temperatures. The purification occurs when the liquids boil and condense under the shifting temperature.

Although effective, this process isn’t as thorough as modern-day filtration systems. So you should consider it as your last option.

Reverse Osmosis Filtration System for Herbicides and Pesticides in Water

 RO systems are the most popular choice to tackle the herbicides and pesticides water situation. The systems are designed to removes minute contaminants from your water supply with the help of specialized semi-permeable membranes.

It’s a feasible option for households because RO systems can be hooked to various parts of the household. This includes under the sink water filters and whole household water filters. 

Activated Alumina Adsorption Filters for Herbicides and Pesticides in Water

Activated alumina effectively gets rids of traces of herbicides and pesticides, fluoride, arsenic, and other impurities present in drinking water. High-quality filters can change 10ppm herbicides and pesticides levels to a minimum of 1 ppm. The system leaches the contaminants depending on how long they come in contact with the core alumina filter media.

The good thing is that installing one of these fixtures can regulate your herbicides and pesticides consumption. Most of them improve water quality by eradicating other harmful chemicals, sediments, and other impurities in your main supply. Thus, these water filters give you free access to fresh, clean, and healthy drinking water.

It’s important to note that boiling herbicides and pesticides from water or substituting tap water for drinking water isn’t a solution. It’s because boiling water doesn’t have any effect on the herbicides and pesticides levels. Similarly, bottled water is often mineralized during the treatment process. That means it might contain traces of herbicides and pesticides too.

Recommended Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filters

Now that you’re aware of the dangers pesticide and herbicide water poses to your health, it’s time to be proactive and invest in a water filter that will remove contaminants and compounds alike.

Water filters for pesticide and herbicide don’t only remove pesticide and herbicide. They remove its derivatives and other compounds that are similar to it and bind with it too. An added advantage of using water filters is that besides eradicating sources of pesticide and herbicide, they also cleanse water from other impurities like bacteria, pathogens, viruses, metals and other harmful compounds.

In other words, water filters are lifesavers!

Best Counter Top Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filter

Crown Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

The Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter is the best countertop filter for herbicides and pesticides that you can buy for your home. This filter is easily available online and is popular due to its distinctive features. It is portable and requires no electricity or additional tools to operate. It is battery operated. The water is purified with the Black Berkey Purification Elements. The filter is 23” tall and 9” in diameter. It is also economical. It’s perfect to use while traveling and in emergencies.

Pros:

• It’s economical. It removes contaminants from up to 6,000 gallons of water.
• It is efficient in removing herbicides and pesticides from water. It removes 99.9% of the contaminants from water.
• Uses independent testing technology to ensure that the water is clean and pure from all toxins.
• It is easy to carry and convenient due to its size. You can keep it on your countertop.
• Good for homes with children as it doesn’t involve wires or electric current. Children can safely pour water in their glasses directly.
• The filter technology provides a good flow of water.
• It is NSF-certified and complies with the required standards.

Cons:

• The battery life may suffer as the purification elements need more battery power to operate efficiently.
• May require quick filter changes due to its outdoor usage. The chances of catching dirt and dust are more.

Best Pitcher Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filter

Aquasana The Clean Water Machine

The Aquasana clean water machine is the best pitcher filter for herbicides and pesticides that you can use in your home. This water filter claims to be 10 times stronger and lasts 8 times longer than other brand pitcher filters. It is a pitcher or a jug that you can place anywhere in your home. It is power-activated and forces water through the ultra-dense carbon. The filter removes 96% of the contaminants from water, including heavy metals and all sorts of herbicides and pesticides. It is available online on the Aquasana website.

Pros:

• The pitcher water filter is portable and convenient to place anywhere in your home. It is easy to refill.
• The water filter provides pure and clean drinking water immediately. It is operated by a single button.
• It has a professional grade filter that removes 73 different contaminants.
• It works with the claryum technology, which uses activated carbon, catalytic carbon, ion exchange, and absolute sub-micron mechanical filtration that results in better tasting water.
• The filter retains the minerals in the water.
• It gives a really fast flow of water.
• It is NSF certified.

Cons:

• The filter doesn’t indicate when it needs to be changed. So you have to keep a track manually.
• The pitcher holds up to one gallon of water at a time, hence you need to refill it again and again.

Best Under Counter Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filter

Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter

The Aquasana 3-stage under counter water filter is the best under sink filter for herbicides and pesticides for your kitchen. This filter can be installed under your kitchen sink so that you can get contamination-free water directly in your tap. This way, you can ensure that no herbicides or pesticides enter your water at all. The 3-stage filter cleans water from up to 77 contaminants and makes it 99.99% pure for drinking and cooking. This means that you can use water directly from the tap without the need to filter it later or boil it. The filter offers increased performance with a smarter system to improve efficiency. Aquasana offers the best technology filtration systems; hence, this filter is a smart choice.

Pros:

• The filter purifies water in three steps. The pre-filter stage captures sediment, rust, and silt that come with water. The claryum technology uses activated carbon, catalytic carbon, ion exchange, and absolute sub-micron mechanical filtration to give better-tasting and clear water.
• The filtration technology used is NSF-certified and independently tested.
• The filtration technology is eco-friendly as it reduces plastic waste and minimizes plastic parts.
• The Smart technology system gives alerts when the filter needs to be replaced.

Cons:

• It requires professional installation, which can be a costly ordeal.
• Needs maintenance as the place under the sink needs to be clean always. Any leakage may cause mold growth or wall seepage.

Best Reverse Osmosis Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filter

Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter

The Waterdrop technology water filter is the best reverse osmosis for herbicides and pesticides. This filter combines two premium technologies for water filtration and effectively removes up to 87 different contaminants. The system is tested and proven to be 5 times more efficient in removing contaminants than other RO systems. The Waterdrop water filter also comes with a warranty  and free shopping offer from the website directly. This filter is installed with your sink tap or near any water faucet.

Pros:

• The RO and claryum technology removes 95% of fluoride and mercury, 97% of chlorine and arsenic, and 99% of lead and asbestos. It also removes herbicides and pesticides from water completely.
• The filtration system first removes impurities, then remineralizes the water to retain its rich minerals and balance the pH level.
• The filter comes with a 1 year RO membrane life and 2 year warranty.
• It can be replaced easily through the twist off system.
• The water in the tap is ultra fast, clean, and smells good.
• It is NSF certified.

Cons:

• The water takes slightly longer to go through the filtration process.
• The water filter is costlier than other filtration systems.
• There is a high risk that the RO membrane will break off; hence, it requires additional maintenance and care.
• It consumes more electricity.

Best Whole House Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filter System

Aquasana Whole House Filter System

The Aquasana Whole House 1,000,000 gallon rhino water filter is the best whole house filter for herbicides and pesticides. The purpose of the whole house water filtration system is to ensure that all water coming into your home is clean and pure. Since herbicides and pesticides can cause rashes and irritation if exposed to the skin, a whole house filter is a good option to eliminate all such risks. The water filtration system will be installed with your main water line and all outlets will give you premium quality water. This is especially suitable for those who have children in their homes.

Pros:

• It will give you pure water for up to 10 years. It is long-lasting and durable so you will not have to worry about pure water.
• Requires one-time installation with your mainline, after which you don’t have to worry about any other filtration systems.
• It purifies up to 1,000,000 gallons of water.
• The UV filter is intelligently designed using innovative technology to maximize potent filtration media. The system purifies contaminants up to 97%.
• The filtration technology also ensures a reduction in scale buildup in internal pipes.
• It is NSF-certified.

Cons:

• The filter is difficult to install, so you have to hire a professional, which is a costly procedure.
• It is costly in the long-run as it requires maintenance and filter replacement by professionals. It also takes up power.

Best Inline Refrigerator Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filter

Culligan IC-EZ-4 EZ-Change Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System

The Culligan refrigerator filtration system is the best refrigerator filter for herbicides and pesticides that you can install in your refrigerator. This filter is an advanced technology system that is fixed in-line with your refrigerator and icemaker.

Pros:

• It comes with an easy replacement filter that you can change yourself.
• The RC-EZ-4 filter cartridge clears water from herbicides and pesticides up to 99.99%.
• It gives tasty and odorless cold water.
• The filter can purify up to 500 gallons of water and lasts up to 6 months.
• The water flow rate is super fast.
• It is NSF certified.

Cons:

• It is only limited to purify refrigerator water.
• It’s only for cold water.
• The filter might reduce your fridge space, which can be a problem for big families

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Conclusion on Pesticide and Herbicide Water Filters

In conclusion, buying an efficient and NSF certified water filtration system for your home is the best way to reduce the risk of exposure to herbicides and pesticides. So invest in one of these filters to enjoy pure drinking water and to keep your family safe from waterborne diseases.