Over 200 million people globally are exposed to arsenic on a regular basis. The chronic exposure to arsenic is becoming quite common and the health effects of arsenic exposure include high blood pressure, heart attacks, circulatory disease, and even death. True arsenic removal treatment can only be done by NSF certified arsenic water filter systems, that’s why we recommend the Aquasana Rhino Whole House Water Filter, it is the only sure way to remove contaminants for every water use in your home with a 10 year guarentee.
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
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
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
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
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Arsenic is mostly found in soil, pest killing chemicals, agricultural produce and animals that feed on land which has arsenic in its soil or has been cultivated using water that has arsenic in it. For the common person, the largest source of arsenic in our bodies comes from the public water supply.
The largest means of ingesting arsenic is through water. Whether it’s water from a well, the ground or reservoirs, arsenic is prevalent due to the natural material around water bodies and even through airborne means. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) claims that arsenic should be limited to only 10 parts per billion in water bodies and that private sources of water should be monitored because they have higher levels of arsenic than expected.
In fact, many of the grains we eat contain minute amounts of arsenic because they’re cultivated using water sources that have arsenic in them.
Arsenic also comes in two forms. The most dangerous form of arsenic is the Inorganic one. Known as a highly cancerous and toxic compound, inorganic arsenic is devoid of any carbon and is extremely dangerous when consumed. The other form, which is not so safe either, is the Organic arsenic, which is a combination of more refined molecules – however, this does not make it any safer.
Public health sectors and even individuals are now taking an active interest in their health and well being and trying to find ways to promote better health. Research and trials have been done to find mechanisms and devices that will filter out a large number of toxins from water used in homes. Luckily, as technology is advancing, homeowners are now taking charge of their water purity. Technological companies are coming up with brilliant at-home filtration systems that help homeowners filter out over 99% of arsenic and other harmful compounds and dangerous derivatives of toxins. Education has also become a great weapon in the fight against arsenic – by understanding what it is and how it enters the food chain, individuals are able to protect themselves better from the dangers of arsenic.
What is Arsenic in Drinking Water?
Arsenic in water is one of the most dangerous things to happen. Highly toxic and used in the manufacturing of herbicides, pesticides and other toxic products, arsenic and its compounds, unfortunately, find their way into the water supply. Although it’s naturally occurring and is found in soil, air, food and water, it’s not safe to consume arsenic.
There are two forms of arsenic— organic and inorganic. It is most toxic in its latter form. Public health administrations are actively working to clear arsenic from water sources though it’s almost everywhere. Arsenic is most commonly found in ground water, where it finds its way to the water through rocks, soil, chemicals, preservatives, tobacco and other things. It also reaches ground water through environmental devastations like volcanic eruptions and mining processes.
That’s not all– arsenic is also found in other water sources besides ground water. Traces of arsenic have been found in wells, lakes, reservoirs, dams and other water bodies that are exposed to chemicals and natural compounds that contain arsenic. This is especially common in rural areas, too, where arsenic levels can reach up to 3,000ppb! Arsenic is also used as an alloy in industrial processes, which means it makes its way into water bodies like lakes and ground water in the form of industrial waste.
One of the most alarming things about arsenic is that it’s odorless, tasteless and colorless, which means you won’t be able to detect its presence in water, food, fresh produce and even meat. According to research, over 7% of the wells in the United States have arsenic levels that exceed the EPA’s standard of 10ppb.
Finding out whether your drinking water has arsenic or not is not an easy feat. In fact, you’ll need to take water samples to a lab and get them tested to see if there are traces of arsenic or not. Unfortunately, boiling water doesn’t remove arsenic— nor do other chemicals. However, because arsenic health effects are pretty adverse, it’s advised to filter your water using different kinds of methods to get rid of any and every impurity that might be present. By taking your health in your own hands, there are remarkable differences you’ll notice, especially because of the dangers arsenic poses when ingested via water.
Health Effects of Arsenic in Drinking Water
Arsenic is a carcinogenic compound, which means it is deadly and can cause cancer. However, besides cancer, contact with arsenic can deteriorate human health and pave the way for a host of other health issues.
Why should arsenic be removed from water? Here are various conditions caused by arsenic that shed light on the matter.
It Causes Severe Skin
Problems
Arsenic can cause several skin issues when individuals are exposed to water that
has arsenic in it. Some of the most common skin problems attributed to arsenic
exposure are benign Kerasotes, which can become malignant later on, Mee’s lines
on the nails, hyperpigmentation, and severe patchiness of skin tone. Arsenic
exposure can also lead to the appearance of dark brown patches on the skin with
scattered pale spots on various large areas.
It Implicates The
Nervous System
Turns out, arsenic targets the nervous system when it enters the body. The
nervous system is one of the most important parts of the human body. It helps
to regulate emotion, orientation and movements and is also responsible for the
senses. Unfortunately, too much exposure to arsenic can cause nervous system
issues like polyneuropathy, disorientation, EEG abnormalities, agitation and
restlessness – issues which can develop into chronic problems later on as
studies have explored.
It’s Responsible for Respiratory
Issues
Around 2013, researchers found out that low exposure to arsenic can also cause
lung damage. Aside from inhalation leading to lung cancer, arsenic and its
compounds can irritate the mucosal passages and the nasal septum perforation by
causing inflammation and erosive lesions in these areas. It can also trigger
asthma and other breathing issues when individuals ingest and/or are exposed to
water bodies that contain arsenic.
It Affects the
Cardiovascular System
Arsenic, in any dose, is not safe for the cardiovascular system. Depending on
an individual’s age, exposure and susceptibility, exposure to arsenic can cause
vasodilatation, transudation of plasma, hypotension, delayed cardiomyopathy,
capillary leakage, cardiac arrhythmias and even hypertension. In other words,
consuming water with even the lowest amounts of arsenic can put your
cardiovascular health in jeopardy.
It Harms Vital Organs
Like the Liver, Kidney, Bladder and Prostate
Arsenic isn’t easy on vital organs either. Enough research has been done to
prove that arsenic can cause liver disease, liver hemorrhage, liver cancer and
tumors in the liver. It can also hamper the liver’s ability to detox your body.
The kidney also suffers weakened function and is susceptible to cancers like
the bladder and prostate, which are also prone to developing tumors when
exposed to arsenic.
It Hijacks The Immune
System
Arsenic exposure can greatly affect the immune system by causing
immunosuppression, to name one of the adversities. Arsenic exposure can also
cause inflammation and limit the ability of the immune system to fight back
against threats, rendering the immune system weak. A weakened immune system is
the most dangerous health risk of arsenic toxicity and exposure.
It Creates Endocrine
System Issues (Diabetes)
Arsenic was discovered to be an endocrine disrupter and studies even found a
correlation between arsenic exposure and diabetes. Arsenic also implicated
androgens and various women suffer from fertility issues. The endocrine system
is also responsible for producing hormones and chemicals, like glucocorticoids,
that help your body fight cancer, regulate hormonal activity, maintain blood
vessel activity and blood glucose levels, which arsenic unfortunately
suppresses.
It Hampers
Developmental Processes
One of the scariest dangers posed by arsenic exposure is that it hampers
developmental processes. It causes fetuses to have low birth weight, toddlers
to have lesser glia and neurons and disrupted neurotransmitter activities.
Studies have also been done to show that arsenic has effects on memory and
intelligence in growing children, and various other Neurocognitive consequences
come about later in life. Over exposure to arsenic can also cause neurotoxicity,
which affects healthy brain functioning, highlighting just how important it is to
get rid of arsenic and other toxic compounds alike from water sources.
It Causes Cancer
Arsenic, in its inorganic and organic forms, is considered a carcinogen. Since
1985, the American Cancer Society has advocated against arsenic because of its
DNA altering effects. The toxic metal inhibits healthy functioning and
developing of the human body, and the following are the most common cancers
caused by arsenic exposure:
- Lung
- Kidney
- Liver
- Prostate
- Bladder
- Skin
- Pancreas
- Bone marrow
In short, arsenic is not something you want to ingest orally or through the skin. The metal should be flushed out thoroughly before water is used in agricultural practices, sports activities and even in homes.
How Do You Remove Arsenic From Water?
Arsenic is a carcinogen, especially inorganic arsenic, which is mostly found in water, unlike its organic counterpart, which is found in seafood and grains. Either way, you should not ingest arsenic. So how can you remove arsenic from water?
Filtration is one of the most common ways of getting rid of arsenic and its compounds. By filtering the water you drink and use, you’re reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals and compounds like these and are also ridding your water supply of other innumerable impurities. Here are some of the most common ways through which appliances and devices remove arsenic from your water supply.
1. Reverse Osmosis to Remove Arsenic from Water
Reverse osmosis is a process in which water is forced to pass through a membrane where all the impurities and compounds are left behind. This process lets treated water pass through, and the reverse osmosis mechanism is usually installed at the starting point, which is the place where water enters the main line – this ensures that the water passing through the main plumbing grid is treated and clean.
Luckily, reverse osmosis arsenic water filtration system units are easy to procure, install and use. They only require seldom membrane changes. The unit also removes other contaminants besides arsenic, making it a popular choice for homes and offices.
2. Ultra-Filtration to Remove Arsenic From Water
With more power than other methods, the ultra-filtration process can filter out tinier molecules of arsenic and other impure compounds from your water supply. The raw water enters the unit and molecules and particles as tiny 0.2 um are trapped and removed before letting the treated water pass through.
This process is usually used before reverse osmosis to filter out the major chunk of toxins and compounds. The name ultra-filtration is self explanatory – over 99.999% of arsenic, chlorine and other dangerous chemicals are eradicated from your water supply when you invest in a mechanism using this technology.
3. Ion Exchange to Remove Arsenic From Water
Another popular mechanism that removes arsenic from water is the ion exchange. This process uses ion resin to remove various types of arsenic from water. The contaminated water is passed through the resin, which replaces arsenic and other contaminants ions with ions in the resin.
The process of using ion exchange to remove arsenic is one way to purify water for household use. It removes various forms of arsenic from water, making it usable and safe. The best part about ion exchange is that there are many varieties of resin to choose from.
Recommended Arsenic Water Filters
If you’re looking for ways to improve water purity in your home, check out the following products. Bringing the power of filtration and other means of purification in the form of compact, safe and easy-to-use units, the following products have made innumerable homes happy and healthy.
Best Counter Top Arsenic Water Filter
Crown Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter
This large water purifier is equipped with the Royal Berkey’s special Black Purification elements that purify your water from 99.9990% more viruses, bacteria, toxins and carcinogens like arsenic. Able to handle a load of 6,000 gallons, this water purifying unit is one of the best countertop filters for arsenic removal in the market and NSF certified for targeting stubborn pharmaceuticals, caffeine and harmful cysts. Available in sizes ranging from 1.5 gallons to 6 gallons, the Royal Berkey unit is definitely one of the best out there.
The Pros:
- Large capacity of holding water.
- Powerful purification system, courtesy of Berkey’s own technology.
- Economical and durable, the unit is a great cost for money and is long lasting.
- Easy to install and function; the unit doesn’t require any tedious set up.
- Additional elements are available to double the system’s purification process.
The Cons:
- The unit is pretty bulky.
- No way to know when the elements need changing or replacement.
Has a slow flow rate.
Best Pitcher Lead 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 Counter Lead Water Filter
Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter
This water filter is the best under sink filter for arsenic. It removes over 77 contaminants and its filtration power is 15 times stronger than other units in the market. It is also NSF certified for removing all kinds of arsenic traces, toxins, cysts, viruses and other contaminants that can decrease water quality. Easy to use and devised using Claryum Filtration technology, this Aquasana unit provides you with clean water anytime. Definitely one of the best units out there, the durable faucet is constructed using hygienic materials and modern design.
The Pros:
- Unit is made using eco friendly material and uses minimal plastic to reduce wastage.
- Activated carbon filters filter out 15 times more contaminants.
- The unit can filter 600 gallons of water quite easily.
- Unit also removes sediment, rust and other types of debris.
- The unit also alerts users when filters need changing.
The Cons:
- The unit requires professional fitting.
- Unit must be monitored for leaks and mold.
The under sink area must be kept clean at all times to prevent mold and mildew.
Best Reverse Osmosis Lead Water Filter
Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter
The best reverse osmosis for arsenic removal unit is this amazing Waterdrop creation. Primed to filter out over 87 contaminants which include radium fluoride, nitrates and arsenic, this advanced water filtration system removes five times more toxins than its other counterparts. Certified by the NSF and using reverse osmosis coupled with Waterdrop technology, this powerful system provides users with the cleanest water – up to 13 gallons a day!
The Pros:
- The unit is very easy to install and use.
- Unit improves water pH levels and keeps water at its most alkaline level.
- The unit removes dangerous metals and leads – targets arsenic and its derivatives.
- The unit also replenishes drinking water’s potassium, magnesium and calcium sources to remineralize it.
- Unit also uses carbon filtration to target stubborn toxins and removes them from the water.
- Proven to eradicate 74 common contaminants.
The Cons:
- The bulky unit requires space.
- The system does not have automatic alerts to inform when filters need changing.
- Tanks need to be cleaned and maintained for optimal results.
Best Whole House Lead Water Filter System
Aquasana Whole House Filter System
If you’re looking for the best whole house filter for arsenic, this Aquasana unit is designed to run for over ten years and filter over a million gallons of water. With technology that is twice as strong and powerful, this system removes metals like arsenic and toxins like viruses and chlorine from the water supply. It’s also designed to remove impurities and debris like rust and sediment to provide clean water for household use. The salt-free water conditioner included in the unit prevents build up and maintains water quality, post-filtering, and the active carbon filters remove the smallest of particles. Approved by the NSF and customers, this is definitely a great investment.
The Pros:
- The unit has multiple filtration systems to clean every impurity from the water.
- Contains a UV filter to the prevent growth of bacteria and viruses.
- Filters over one million gallons of water, making it ideal for large homes and commercial places.
- Very durable and long lasting.
- Easy to install and use.
- The unit filters and pumps water within minutes and has a great flow rate.
The Cons:
- The unit requires professional installation.
- No automatic way of knowing when the unit needs maintenance or when filters need changing.
- The unit comes with pricey add-ons.
Best Inline Refrigerator Lead Water Filter
Culligan IC-EZ-4 EZ-Change Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System
The best refrigerator filter for arsenic is this creation by Culligan. Super cheap and easy to install, this unit can pump between 500 and 3,000 gallons of water and also removes all kinds of arsenic compounds, contaminants, toxins and other harmful chemicals. It is easy to install inside your fridge and provides you with clean and drinkable water at all times. It is NSF approved for filtering out harmful bacteria, cysts, viruses, and debris. The unit also produces clean, odorless and great tasting ice in a no-mess way.
The Pros:
- Economical and easy to install unit.
- Provides unlimited access to clean and drinkable water.
- The unit is long lasting and durable.
- Cartridges don’t need frequent changes and no cumbersome upkeep is needed.
- The twist on and twist off mechanism is easy and safe to use.
- The unit has 4 filtration systems and stages to clean your water and remove impurities and metals.
- Great for home use and commercial office use.
The Cons:
- The ice maker is not as efficient.
- Unit may encounter minor leakage issues.
- System needs to be fitted properly so prior knowledge is an advantage.
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Conclusion on Lead Water Filters
The aforementioned products have been absolute lifesavers in the homes that they have been installed in. By providing access to clean water devoid of any arsenic or arsenic compounds, families are now able to take charge of their well being on their own terms.
Say hello to clean water!
Best Whole House Water Filters: Buyers Guide 2021
When selecting a whole house water filter, you will come across several great models available on the market. In order to decide the best one for your needs, you need to take a close look at their performance level, functions and features. Our extensive research resulted in the Aquasana Rhino Whole House Water Filter receiving the highest rating due to its capacity and excellent filtering ability.
Complete water filtering system including UV sterilizer, salt-free water softener, and 1,000,000 gallon capacity
Aquasana Rhino's unique upflow, dual tank design increases water contact time with contaminant grabbing media and prevents clogging or media channeling
SCM salt-free technology naturally and safely reduces scale buildup on internal pipes and plumbing without the use of harsh salt or chemicals
More expensive than smaller capacity options but filters more contaminants with less replacement needs
Installation can be complicated depending on home's setup
Filter Sense Technology automatically flushes and cleans its filter every 14 days
The WHELJ1 whole home system is NSF certified to reduce water contaminants as small as 40 microns, which includes sediment, chlorine and other contaminants
Comes with a bypass valve that will maintain optimal water pressure throughout your home and is easy to install
Slower water flow than the Aquasana whole house water filter
Does not filter as many contaminants as the Aquasana
No pumbing knowledge required to install
Certified to reduce sediment, scale, dirt and rust in your water, appliances and plumbing fixtures
Includes 1" plumbing connection, pressure relief valve, bypass option, mounting bracket and remote filter reminder light for simple installation and filter change
3 month filter life
Filters a small subset of contaminants compared to larger, more expensive whole house water filters
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Best Overall Whole House Water Filter
Rhino 1,000,000 Gallon Whole House Water Filter
The Aquasana Whole House Water filtration system stands out as a leading high-performance system that can last for several years. It is capable of purifying and filtering large amounts of water so that you enjoy pure refreshing water uninterruptedly for years. To be precise, you are looking at a system that can purify a million gallons of water, which is capable of lasting up to a decade.
As the system is flexible, you can select your own choice of filters as per the conditions of your local water supply. No matter how bad the water quality in your area, you no longer need to fret since the model has heavy-duty filters that can render even muddy looking water clean. The design of the system is such that you can add and remove components to suit your water conditions. The model is based on a total of 4 components.
The 3-stage filtration process can remove all kinds of impurities from your water supply. The first stage is the sediment prefilter that can reduce big particles, sand, dirt and rust from your water. The second stage takes out heavy metals and chlorine from the water. It also inhibits the growth of algae, bacteria and pathogens.
The third and last stage is the activated carbon filter that can reduce volatile organic compounds, pesticides, herbicides and pharmaceuticals that commonly pollute tap water.
On average, you may have to spend about $20 per year on the sediment filter. However, if the water quality in your area is bad, you may have to spend a little more. The next stage filters need less frequent replacement since they can last longer. Hence, you will incur low maintenance costs while the unit works for you. The filtration system is NSF-certified so you can be assured of getting pure water at par with standards.
Runner Up Whole House Water Filter
Whirlpool WHELJ1 Central Water Filtration System
Whirlpool is one of the biggest names in home electronic appliances. The company has designed several great filters over the years and the Whirlpool WHELJ1 is their best whole house water filter.
One of the reasons why this great model is held in such high esteem by satisfied customers is that it is capable of lasting for several years. It can provide reliable operation for up to 10 years without the need for any maintenance work, such as changing filters. It can even self-clean so that you won’t have to do anything as it quietly does its job in the background while you and your family enjoy fresh pure water every day. The filtration system also has a one-year warranty.
Since it is maintenance-free and very simple to install, this model is a top choice for many conscientious homeowners.
While some of the best performing filter models require a filter change every few months, this model can last for years without any intervention. Not only is this model hassle-free, it is also cost-effective in the long term. It can clean up to a million gallons of water and last for 10 years without a hitch in most conditions.
The system is able to clean itself and perform self-maintenance via the FilterSense technology. The system will clean itself after 2 weeks elapse. You can even adjust the time period after which the system will clean automatically. This flexibility is particularly useful if you live in an area where the water is full of sediment and dirt. You can make the changes to the cleaning schedule by means of the user-friendly 4-button interface.
Budget Whole House Water Filter
GE GXWH40L High Flow Whole Home Filtration System
This filtrations system has a number of innovative features that have made it a highly rated model for homeowners. This heavy-duty filtration system has a clear sump so that you can easily view the condition of your filters. Maintaining and replacing the filters is much easier as a result.
The model is designed to be compatible with the piping systems commonly used in houses. You can install it easily in the basement and thus keep it out of sight.
The premium quality filters are certified to conform to standards and can reduce rust, dirt, scale and sediment from your water supply. This will protect the plumbing systems and components at your home and extend their lifespan.
The package has all the connections and parts that you will need for easy installation on your own without any professional assistance. There is the mounting bracket, bypass option, pressure relief valve and plumbing connection that will enable you to fit the unit seamlessly. The remote filter reminder light tells you when filter change is due. You will also get the necessary accessories so that you can start using the filtration system right away. The box has a wrench, installation kit and filters.
The entire system is ANSI and NSF-certified to provide you the water quality that you desire for your household.
The filters come in 5 and 10-inch sizes. You also have the option of buying different filters from Amazon for better performance. You can choose lower micron size filters to remove finer and smaller impurities. The system has a high flow rate and pressure rating so that the entire household can consume fresh pure water whenever needed.
Also Reviewed Whole House Water Filters
Culligan WH-HD200-C Whole House Heavy Duty Water Filtration System
The Culligan WH-HD200-C water filtration system is a heavy-duty unit with a clear body. Since it has compact dimensions, you will have no problems connecting it with your water piping.
The filters in this model can purify water for 6 to 8 weeks before needing replacement. You may get a longer lifespan if the quality of your tap water is not too bad. One big advantage of the filters is that even if they become clogged with dirt, silt and sand, you can take them out without any problems, clean them up with water and put them back in. This is where the clear unit body comes in. The body is fully transparent so that you can conveniently view the internal state of affairs. You won’t have to pry the whole thing open to understand when your filters have accumulated too much dirt.
To make things even easier, there is also an LED indicator that indicates when filter maintenance is due. The filters can remove sediment, silt, sand and rust to give you crystal clear water for the entire household. The fine filters are capable of removing chorine and chlorinated compounds that are possibly health hazards and can ruin the taste of beverages. You can brew coffee and tea for yourself as well as family and guests with peace of mind knowing that the taste will not be marred by the foul stench and bad taste of chlorine.
The unit is versatile, allowing you to use all kinds of filters that Culligan manufactures. You can choose some of the high-performance filters available. There is also the option of installing carbon filters.
The model is WQA-certified to comply with ANSI and NSF standards for lead so that you can be sure that your drinking water has negligible amounts of this heavy metal. There are also other certifications for mineralization, integrity and other aspects of water. The product does not disappoint in terms of water filtration quality.
The filtration system itself is fairly cost-effective. You can choose to install high-end filters for increased protection and contaminant removal. The costs will rise accordingly. As the unit is WQA-certified, you can be certain that it conforms to all the necessary standards that qualify it for home use. You can install this system to ensure that your entire household can receive water from any part of your home that meets the necessary standards.
iSpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System
The iSpring WGB32B can remove all kinds of contaminants from your home water supply like chlorine, dirt, sediment, silt, rust, volatile organic compounds, industrial solvents, herbicides, pesticides and other toxic chemicals that commonly taint municipal water.
The system is capable of removing 99% of chlorine and around 95% of other toxins so that the impurities remaining in your water are negligible. You can install this filtration unit at the main water supply line to ensure a continuous flow of fresh and clean water.
The filters are of high quality and performance. Not only can they remove a wide range of toxins, they can also sustain a high flow rate of 15 gallons per minute so that your entire household is guaranteed a generous supply of pure water at all times. The filters are very easy to install as is the entire unit. The user manual and available YouTube videos will show you all the steps of DIY installation so that you can save money on professional help.
Quality and high performance are the hallmarks of this exceptional system. The first stage filter has a 5 micron size to remove all kinds of sediments from water. The second and third stages comprise carbon block filters that conform to ANSI and NSF standards for removing a vast array of toxins.
The filters are capable of cleaning up to 100,000 gallons of water so that you can enjoy several months of pure water continuously without having to perform frequent maintenance.
The company stands behind its product through an extended warranty and free lifetime technical support.
Since this is not a reverse osmosis filter, it does not reduce the total dissolved solids from your water. The upside of this is that the healthy, beneficial minerals stay in your water. The filters have an exceptional lifespan. The sediment filter needs replacement after 6 months while the remaining filters require replacement just once a year under normal conditions.
3M Aqua-Pure Whole House Sanitary Quick Change Water Filter System AP904
The 3M Aqua-Pure unit is ideal for removing all sorts of toxins that may be damaging for your health and your plumbing system. You can install this system at the point of entry of your municipal water supply so that it can remove scale and hardness that can clog up and choke your pipes. The high performance sediment filters have a size of 5 microns so that they can remove any particle that is 1/10th the width of your hair. Hence, the system can eliminate most particles as well as chlorine which can spoil the taste of water and give off a bad odor as well.
The filter body is strong and durable since it is manufactured from stainless steel. The filter cartridges are durable and long lasting as a result of which they can process over a hundred thousand gallons of water before replacement is required. You don’t need any special tools to replace the filter cartridges. The time and effort required for cartridge change is minimal due to which you can do it on your own without a problem. You just need to turn the cylindrical cartridges a quarter turn and they become free from the main body.
The unit also has a system for reducing the hardness of the water. This system can inhibit the formation of scales along the inner surface of your water pipes, thereby preventing the need for expensive repairs and time-consuming replacements. The water softening system utilizes small amounts of polyphosphate for binding hardness salts so that they don’t settle and harden on the inner surfaces of your metal pipes.
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Conclusion
Depending on your home requirements and personal preferences, you can select from the above high quality whole house water filter systems to ensure a steady supply of fresh and clean water.
Best Under Sink Water Filters: Buyers Guide 2021
Health-conscious persons who are looking for water purification systems with exceptional capabilities should take a look at the Waterdrop Undersink Tankless Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System. The unit can give you water with a high level of purity whilst retaining essential minerals.
Removes up to 98-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds good minerals
Long lasting and easy change filters
100% satisfaction guarentee
Twist and seal filters last longer than most (up to 2 years!)
Slightly more expensive than other options but removes more contaminants with less installation requirements
Filters out dissolved solids smaller than 1 micron like fluoride and arsenic.
Reduces organic chemicals like herbicides, pesticides, VOCs and MTBE.
Eco-friendly carbon and Claryum filter housings easily twist off so replacing your filters is a snap
Designed to provide healthy amounts of calcium, magnesium and potassium for optimally alkaline, pH balanced water.
Be careful tightening fittings, overtorqueing can lead to breakage
Easiest to install on the market
High capactiy lasts minium of 3 years of normal use
Filters 99.9% of contaminants found in typical municipal and well water
Reduces flow slightly but still acceptable
Does not filter the hard to remove substances that reverse osmosis systems are capable of
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The best under-sink water filter reviews will give you a good idea of which filters will meet your expectations and filtration requirements. Make sure that you read about the top under-sink water filters to make an informed decision that will give you the best value for your money.
Why Do I Need a Under Sink Water Filter?
Though tap water goes through the normal chemical process before getting to our homes, it is not always safe to drink. Statistics show millions of US citizens are exposed to unsafe water every year. Though the problem is prevalent in rural areas, a few cities report such cases from time to time. Some contaminants in tap water make it unsafe for human consumption.
One way in which drinking water gets contaminated is through local land usage. For instance, some of the pesticides that farmers use on their farms tend to leak into water sources leading to contamination. Apart from that, manufacturing processes such as sewer overflows and malfunctioning septic systems also lead to the contamination of drinking water.
Recommended Under Sink Water Filters
Now that you’re aware of the dangers of unfiltered water, let’s look at the best reviewed undersink water filters according to our water experts.
Best Overall Under Sink Water Filter
Waterdrop Undersink Tankless Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
Health-conscious persons who are looking for water purification systems with exceptional capabilities should take a look at the Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis System. 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 Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis System 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 Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis System 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 Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis System 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.
Best Budget Under Sink Water Filter
Woder WD-S-8K-DC Under Sink Water Filter
The high-performance standards of the Woder WD-S-8K-DC are impressive. The filtration system can extract 99.99% of chlorine and lead. It can also dramatically reduce the concentration of mercury, chromium, lead and other heavy metals. The Woder is wonderful for removing carcinogens, volatile organic compounds, as well as other contaminants.
You can relish the taste of pure drinking water with the Woder since it efficiently eliminates bad taste, odor and turbidity from your municipal water. Turn your tap into a spring of fresh and pure water that is fit to drink and healthy for your entire family.
Since this model is compliant and certified for NSF/ANSI 42, you have the reassurance of knowing that it greatly reduces chlorine and takes out its repulsive odor and taste from your drinking water.
The selective filters that are deployed in this unit can remove as much as 99.99% of certain impurities. One very positive aspect is that the filtration is highly selective. So while the system substantially reduces heavy metals and other harmful toxins, it leaves other minerals behind that are essential for your health. There are many reverse osmosis filters available in the market that remove all metals and elements including those that are essential for your health. Hence, you can enjoy safe, healthy and good tasting drinking water with the Woder WD-S-8K-DC.
Installation is a very simple process. You don’t need professional plumbing help to put this water filtration system in place correctly. You just need to directly connect the hoses on the filter to a standard faucet and hose fittings of 3/8”.
You can feel good about purchasing this premium product since it is designed and manufactured in the US.
The high capacity of this water filter means that you can use it without any worries for a long time. The filters can work for 3 years or process 8,400 gallons of water before they become due for replacement. Since the filters are so long-lasting, you can enjoy years of uninterrupted use with the Woder WD-S-8K-DC.
The “YOU’LL LOVE IT” guarantee is as bold and straightforward as you can get. You either love it or leave it. It is as simple as that. The company will provide a full refund in case you are not satisfied with the product. You can use this product with full confidence as a result of this money-back guarantee. And the chances that you will not like this product are minimal since the unit is compliant with the relevant NSF/ANSI standards. Bear in mind that this product will work for municipal water supply or disinfected water. You cannot use this device for well-water, softened water, and saltwater.
Most Effective Undersink Water Filter
OPTIMH2O® Reverse Osmosis + Claryum Under Sink Water Filter
You should know from the very outset that the OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis + Claryum is tested and proven to remove 5 times more pollutants than other RO filters.
The OptimH2O utilizes a sophisticated filtration system plus RO technology to remove as many as 87 contaminants. Such capabilities render this model the ideal solution for hydration and health. Other ordinary filtration systems have far more modest capabilities being able to remove just 5 to 15 contaminants. The high-performance Aquasana OptimH2O is a filtration system par excellence.
It can eliminate up to 99% of lead and asbestos, 97% of chlorine and arsenic and 95% of fluoride and mercury. The OptimH2O is one of the best water filters that remove fluoride and chlorine.
Fluoride is known to be highly toxic at elevated levels. Many consumers are concerned about removing it since there are many other sources of fluoride besides tap water to which it is routinely added. The toxic effects of fluoride include dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, thyroid problems, neurological problems, and cognitive decline.
The Aquasana OptimH2O will allay your fluoride concerns since RO technology is the only proven method for effectively reducing fluoride levels. The unit can bring down fluoride levels substantially without substantially removing beneficial minerals. The water that you get is optimal for your health and pure at the same time.
To maintain mineral balance in your drinking water, the unit adds back potassium, magnesium, and calcium to filtered water. The device also shifts the pH to optimal alkaline levels that are ideally suited for your health making it a good alkaline under-sink water filter.
Here are the different filtration processes that the unit deploys to bring down harmful contaminants.
- Reverse osmosis – pollutants under 1 micron like arsenic and fluoride are removed
- Activated carbon – targets harmful organic chemicals like MTBE, VOCs, pesticides, and herbicides
- Catalytic Carbon – reduces ammonia disinfectant, chloramines and chlorine
- Ion Exchange – filters out heavy metals such as mercury and lead
- Absolute sub-micron filtration – filters chlorine-resistant pathogens like cryptosporidium and giardia
- Remineralization – adds back beneficial elements like potassium, magnesium, and calcium that also improve pH levels
Thanks to its ability to substantially bring down arsenic levels, the unit is a reliable arsenic under-sink water filter.
The high-performance filters are easy to detach and replace. You just need to twist and turn them to unscrew the used filters. You can attach the new filters with similar ease.
With a flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute, you won’t need to watch and wait for your water to trickle through drop by drop. You will have enough purified water every day which should be sufficient for all your drinking needs. The total amount of water that you get every day is determined by the inlet water pressure. The OptimH2O has a 3 stage filtration system. Since other systems rely on 5 or 7 stage systems, you might think that the OptimH2O will fall short. However, this is not the case. The unit combines certain stages into one. It is more efficient than other systems and it outperforms them since it removes far more contaminants than the average model.
Also Reviewed Under Sink Water Filters
CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter – 50K Ultra High Capacity
An under-sink filtering unit like the CuZn UC-200 is just what you need to keep wasted water to a minimum. Due to its compact dimensions, this model does not need a large amount of space under the sink. The performance characteristics and efficiency of the model are such that it can rival and surpass other RO systems with ease.
If you are looking for the highest-rated filter made in the USA, look no further than the CuZn UC-200. Your quest ends here. Superior performance, high capacity, low waste, and other highly desirable properties, make this unit the system of choice for American households.
Take, for instance, the durable high-performance filters.
The unit is also so easy to install. You just need a wrench to connect the model to your kitchen water line. Full instructions are provided in the user’s manual for this simple process. The average consumer couldn’t ask for more.
An important point to know is that the filters are bacteriostatic. This simply means that the filters do not allow the growth of bacteria and mold. This quality is highly imperative since you do not want nasty pathogens to proliferate on your filter.
The system utilizes a 3-stage process for efficient water filtration. The unit has a KDF-55 filter and a micro sediment membrane. The KDF-55 works well to keep most of the harmful chemicals found in water supplies out of your drinking water. The CuZn UC-200 can remove harmful heavy metals like chromium, nickel, mercury, lead, and others.
Since the filter has a coconut shell layer, it does not permit the growth of bacteria that it collects and filters out of your water. Another good feature of this system is that it does not remove healthful elements that make the water healthy, like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. One drawback of this is that the system does not reduce water hardness.
The CuZn UC-200 is also capable of substantially reducing the presence of toxic chemicals like pesticides, herbicide, and other organic compounds. The system also keeps out mold, algae and other harmful pathogens. The foul odor and bad taste will be a thing of the past with this unit. You will get purified water that tastes great and is crystal clear.
Chorine test strips are available so that you can check the performance of this unit periodically. If the strips indicate the presence of chlorine then it means that the filters need replacement. If you are looking for chlorine under-sink water filter, then be sure to consider the CuZn UC-200. The heavy-duty water filter needs replacement after 5 years or after it purifies 50,000 gallons of water – whichever comes first. The durability and longevity of this filter make it the ideal choice for homeowners who want a unit known for its long service life and reliability.
Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System
The Frizzlife filter utilizes a 5-micron filter to trap sediments and an ultra-fine carbon block filter that is only 0.5 micron for removing 99.99% of chlorine, lead and other heavy metals.
One of the key advantages of the Frizzlife filter is that essential minerals remain intact. Unlike RO filters, it does not remove these beneficial minerals from your water.
The filter life is 1,600 gallons of water, which is quite high. Also, the manufacturer recommends filter changes every 6 months so that its performance remains largely unaffected.
Changing the filters is a breeze. You just have to twist the filter to unscrew it so that it comes loose. Replacing the new filter is also very convenient and takes mere seconds. While changing the filter, you do not need to shut off the water supply line. Instead, you can use the built-in shut off feature so that you can continue to use municipal water supply while changing the filter.
Included in the package are a 3/8” water adapter and a stainless steel faucet for easy installation. There is also a plastic wrench to make the installation job quicker and more convenient. Water tubing and system are part of the unit so that you can carry out the full installation without problems.
The flow rate at 40 PSIG turns out to be 1.5 gallons per minute. This is a fairly high flow rate due to which you will not have to wait for your water. You will have as much drinking water as you need on demand.
To ensure satisfactory and efficient removal of lead and chlorine, Frizzlife has had its filtered certified and tested by 3rd parties for compliance with NSF standards 53 and 42.
You will get great tasting water with the Frizzlife water filter system since it does well to remove chlorine, the disinfectant chemical that gives bad taste and odor to your drinking water. Thanks to the efficient filtration mechanism, the unit can remove 99.99% of contaminants. The Frizzlife takes care of toxic substances like carcinogens, volatile organic compounds, rust, mercury, chromium 6, chlorine, lead, and other heavy metals as well as contaminants.
Filtrete Maximum Under-sink Water Filtration System
The Filtrete Maximum Under-sink Water Filtration system has great performance features and compact dimensions.
The superior-grade filters can remove 975 of chlorine, 99% of microbial cysts and 99% of lead. They can also capture soil, rust, sediment and sand particles that are 0.5 microns thick.
As this unit is so efficient at removing bacteria and chlorine from your water, you will have an abundance of crystal clear water with great taste and quality.
The unit performs as it claims since it verified and tested by independent bodies. The model complies with NSF/ANSI Standard 42 & 53. NSF International has tested and certified this product to validate the performance shown in the datasheet.
At 1.5 gallons per minute, the flow rate of the device is well above par. At this rate, you will have all the drinking water that you require for you and your family.
Installing the unit is also a very simple job. You can connect the unit easily to your kitchen waterline using the push-fitting connections that require minimum skills for installation. You can do the job easily even if you have no prior experience working with hardware. The installation process should not take you more than a few minutes.
Here is the 3-step process for installation.
- Step 1. Turn off the water supply. Connect the hose from the faucet to the output connection located on the filter head.
- Step 2. You must now connect the input connection on the filter head to the water supply hose.
- Step 3. Connect the filter by revolving it a quarter turn to screw it securely in place.
Filter replacement is a cinch. You just have to twist the filter fitting by a quarter to unscrew it. You can then place a new filter and screw it back on with convenience.
The filter lifespan is 6 months. Hence, you just need to change the filter twice per year and not worry about replacing them too frequently. The relatively long lifespan is also great for keeping running costs low and saving your hard-earned money.
The 6 month replacement time frame for the filter is a long time and there is a risk that you may not remember it. If you fear that you will forget to change the filter after 6 months have elapsed, then you are in luck. You can sign up for a text reminder which will send you a text message when the replacement is due. This product is designed to work for municipal water supply only and is therefore not meant to be used with any other source of water.
APEC WFS-1000 Super Capacity Premium Quality 3 Stage Under-Sink Water Filter System
The APEC WFS-1000 water filtration system is a great choice for those who are shopping on a budget and need an under-sink filter that does the job well.
It delivers high value for money since it is very efficient at removing the contaminants that it has listed.
The APEC WFS-1000 uses a 3-stage process to filter out contaminants and harmful contaminants from your tap water.
Stage 1: The 5-micron polypropylene filter traps sediment, rust, dirt, sand, etc.
Stage 2: The activated carbon block filter is efficient at removing VOCs, chlorine and other organic compounds that are harmful and give your water bad taste and smell.
Stage 3: Repeat the same process in stage 2.
You may notice that the first and second stages are the same. If you want to remove additional contaminants from your drinking water then you can think about getting another filter for the 3rd stage.
For instance, you can opt for the fluoride removal filter that is also good at trapping bacteria. The fluoride filter will bring down the fluoride content to under 0.1 parts per million. The filter makes use of alumina which relies on an oxidative reaction to remove the fluoride. This component is a reliable fluoride under-sink water filter.
You can also deploy the WFS-1000-PB carbon filter which is good for lead removal.
The filter complies with NSF Standard 53 and is, therefore, a viable method to substantially reduce lead content in water. It can last for 2,500 gallons after which it must be replaced.
There is one final upgrade that you can also select. The WFS-1000-CHLORM will work where chloramines are used for disinfection instead of chlorine. Besides chloramines, the catalytic component also removes hydrogen sulfide through oxidation. A cartridge can filter 1,500 gallons of water before it needs replacement.
The unit is engineered and assembled within the United States. The manufacturer provides a 1-year guarantee for the product.
The mineral composition of the water will remain constant besides the listed elements and compounds that product removes. Therefore, essential elements like potassium, magnesium, and calcium are not filtered out during the purification process. Essential minerals therefore remain in your water and leave it as nutritious as it was.
Since the flow rate is very good, you do not have to wait a long time for purified water. The system is suitable for municipal water supply and water that has been correctly disinfected.
iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Superb Taste High Capacity Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System with Alkaline Remineralization
The iSpring RCC7AK is an alkaline under-sink water filter that provides comprehensive protection against a wide spectrum of toxins and contaminants. Not just that, it also has a spacious tank and the ability to replenish essential minerals for a low cost. If the value for money is what you seek, then the iSpring may be the ideal choice.
Under optimal settings, the iSpring can deliver 75 gallons of purified water each day. Not only is this enough for your drinking needs, but it will also prove sufficient for several other domestic needs if not all. You will be hard-pressed to find a better bargain at its price level.
The iSpring deploys no less than 6 stages for thorough filtration that will protect your loved ones against hundreds of harmful substances found in municipal water.
The Water Quality Association has conferred the WQA Gold Seal to the iSpring on account of its superior performance and reliability. The company has used FDA-approved food-grade materials to manufacture all components. This product has been independently tested and certified for compliance with NSF standards.
The iSpring has the full range of options and features that a homeowner can ask for from an under-sink water filter system. It is hard to find any good feature that has not been included.
- An alkaline filter helps to enhance the pH and add back essential minerals to the RO treated water.
- For easy installation, there are 4 colored tubes that you can connect quickly without the need for a wrench.
- The metal feed water adapter is designed and upgraded to be leak-proof
- The full set of parts and accessories are included in the package like quick fitting lock clips, elbow fitting, O-rings, and spare housing just in case you need it.
- The faucet is made from brushed nickel and is lead-free
- The see-through containers allow you to inspect them for any buildup of sediments
Since the unit leverages state-of-the-art reverse osmosis technology, it is very efficient at removing a vast range of pollutants in the range of 99%.
The alkaline filter has plenty of tiny mineral stones that can add back potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium ions to the RO treated water. The water will taste refreshing and be more palatable. With the iSpring, you can have a spring of fresh, pure and crystal-clear water right in your kitchen!
Under ideal conditions, the iSpring can pour out 2 to 3 gallons of purified water each hour. Thus, in one day it can provide 75 gallons of water.
The device also has a 3.2-gallon tank fitted with an automatic shut-off valve that is activated when the tank fills up.
Here is how the 6-stage process works.
- Stage 1. The polypropylene sediment filter traps particles, dust, sand, rust, and sediment.
- Stage 2. The granular activated carbon filter eliminates chlorine, poor taste, bad odor, discoloration, and turbidity.
- Stage 3. The carbon block finishes off any odor, discoloration or taste that remains. It also works to extend the membrane service life and improve the efficiency of the pre-filter.
- Stage 4. The RO membrane can remove several contaminants like bacteria, chlorine, chromium, lead, arsenic, radium, fluoride, asbestos, arsenic as well as many other toxins.
- Stage 5. The carbon filter removes tastes and odors that might come from the storage tank.
- Stage 6. An alkaline filter for including essential minerals in your drinking water and balancing its pH to optimal levels for your health.
One reason why the unit enjoys such a high rate of customer satisfaction is because of the rigorous quality assurance process. All components and the full unit must conform to premium quality standards and are tested extensively against air and pressure leaks.
Even though the model is built for top-class quality, there is always the possibility of a problem with your product. In case that happens, you need not worry because reliable and friendly customer support is available to resolve your issue quickly. You can also some DIY videos on water filter installation and maintenance.
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WARNING: Utilities Do Not Test What Comes Out of Your Faucet
Learn Exactly What’s In Your Water
What Is Soft Water – Everything You Need to Know About It
Water is just water, right? Not really!
There are actually two types of water – hard and soft water. Hard water is water that has a large amount of calcium and magnesium in it, which it absorbs when it repeatedly runs through deposits of chalk, limestone, or gypsum. So, what is soft water, then?
Our Picks for the Best Water Softeners
Super-efficient filtering system with double backwash mode
Made from fiberglass-lined polyethylene to prevent corrosion
Multiple cleaning and regeneration options for flexibility
5 year warranty
The programming guide should be more comprehensive
More expensive than GE brand but features higher grain count
Adjustable settings help control water consumption rate
Consistent water flow rate of 12 GPM
Metered filtration system enhances its accuracy
The installation process is tedious
It doesn’t come with a complete kit
Keeps the water pressure regulated while cleansing the water
95% purification guaranteed
Tackles minerals, rust, and sediment
Provides the whole house with odorless and tasteless water
Bulkier than most units
Not suitable for all city water sources
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 .
What Is Soft Water?
Water in its natural, unadulterated form is soft water. It is surface water that contains a low amount of ions, especially ions of calcium and magnesium. It naturally occurs in areas where rain falls into drainage basins of rivers that are formed of impervious rocks, which have a poor calcium ratio.
Additionally, hard water can also be turned into soft water or rather softened water by using a water softener. In the US, most states have ancient sea beds with high concentrations of limestone. This is why as much as 85% of water is hard, and many people need water softening treatment.
With that said, have you ever wondered why exactly you need to soften hard water?
Why You Need to Buy a Water Softener for Your Home
If you happen to have dry hair, scaly skin, scale-ridden pipes, rough laundry, kitchenware with scale buildup, soap scum in your washroom and kitchen, and endless broken appliances, then you definitely have a hard water problem on your hands.
Without a good water softener, your appliances will inevitably breakdown sooner than their usual lifespan. Additionally, the scale buildup in pipes will affect the water flow and pressure throughout your house. If you continue to use hard water, you will inevitably incur home management and repair costs upon yourself, which you can simply avoid by using a water softener.
Using a water softener to turn your hard water into softened water will change your life around. It will ensure that you have clog-free pipes, spotless kitchenware, well-functioning appliances, and cleaner hair and skin. It will also save you a lot of your time, money, and energy.
Now, let’s see how to soften water for home use.
How to Soften Water
The best way to soften water is to invest in a water softener. It’s a filtration system that will remove the calcium and magnesium minerals from your water via the ion exchange process. It’s usually a tank that you can attach to your home’s water supply line. The tank has special resin beads that are charged with the negative sodium ion. Water enters the tank and infiltrates the beads. The negative ions attract the positively charged minerals in the hard water. The minerals cling to the beads, leaving softened water to make its way into your home.
Is Softened Water Safe to Drink?
The water softening process requires the use of sodium. This means that the resultant softened water has a small amount of sodium in it. Consumption of too much sodium, aka salt, is not good for the human body. So, is softened water safe to drink?
The salt content usually present in soft water is too little to cause any damage to your body, which makes it pretty safe to drink. However, in areas where water is excessively hard, the resultant softened water has higher sodium content in it. This is because more sodium is used to soften the water. Rest assured, there is a limit set on the recommended level of sodium in drinking water at 200 mg/l. This is far below the recommended daily intake of sodium, which is 2,300mg.
Even though it is generally safe to drink soft water, it’s not ideal for someone who’s on a low sodium diet. Additionally, don’t use softened water to prepare your baby’s food, especially if they are under six weeks old. This is because the sodium in the water can have an adverse effect on their kidneys.
For someone who’s watching their sodium intake, it’s better to simply invest in a potassium water softener. This is because potassium chloride is virtually sodium-free. You can simply add potassium chloride pellets in your tank rather than the usual sodium pellets.
Even though they are more expensive and harder to find than salt pellets, they are a safer alternative for infants and heart patients on a low-sodium diet. However, potassium chloride is not as effective as sodium at softening the water, so when using it make sure to set the water hardness on your softener at least 20% higher for the same results.
Benefits of Soft Water
Let’s take a look at the major water softener benefits.
Clog-Free Pipes
Hard water contains a high amount of calcium and magnesium minerals that tend to cause unsightly buildup on your pipes over time. If left untreated, the buildup is pretty dangerous as it clogs your pipes. Clogged pipes lead to a decrease in the water flow and pressure through your entire home.
However, this decrease usually goes unnoticed until you find a leaky or burst pipe. This then leads to you spending a lot of money on replacing the broken pipes. If you simply invest in a water softener, you won’t have to worry about clogged pipes. This is because soft water has a significantly lower mineral content, which doesn’t lead to any buildup.
No Extra Expenditure
Soft water also preserves your cleaning supplies, such as bleach or detergent. This is because less soap is required to clean things with soft water. Additionally, less scale buildup also leads to lesser time spent cleaning kitchenware and washroom floors.
Long-Lasting Appliances
Hard water also has a negative impact on the lifespan of your appliances. The mineral deposits affect the functionality of dishwashers, washing machines, coffee makers, water heaters, etc., and cause them to breakdown sooner than their expected lifespan. If you have soft water running through these appliances, you will increase the likelihood of them surviving till the end of their lifespan.
Healthier Skin and Hair
Soft water feels much cleaner on the skin as compared to hard water. This is because it is easier to form soap lather with soft water than it is with hard water. Additionally, soft water is also gentler on your skin. Plus, it even revitalizes lifeless and dull hair by balancing its natural pH level.
The Difference between Hard and Soft Water
The major difference between hard and soft water is that hard water has excessive amounts of calcium and magnesium in it, while soft water only has trace amounts of these minerals. The higher the content of calcium and mineral in water, the harder it’s going to rank on the water hardness range.
The Bottom Line
Soft water is free from minerals that can cause damage to your pipes, appliances, and skin. It can save you a lot of cleaning, time, energy, and money by simply cutting down on the damages caused by using hard water. To enjoy soft water at home, you can invest in a water softener. It will be worth it!
What is Acidic Drinking Water?
A lot of brands of bottled water center their marketing on the pH level of water. As a result, it is pretty hard to believe what kind of water is best for drinking. Read on to unlearn the most common myths about the water’s pH level.
Our Picks for the Best Acid Water Filters
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
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
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
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
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 .
What is Acidic Drinking Water?
Water has a pH of 7 in its purest form. The particles in the water affect the pH of the water and, therefore, the pH of the drinking water is often between 6.5 and 8.5. Water with a pH value less than 6.5 is acidic, corrosive, and soft. It is also known as electrolyzed water and contains metal ions such as iron, zinc, copper, lead, and manganese. The presence of these metal ions suggests that acidic water has elevated levels of toxic metals.
How Does Drinking Water Become Acidic?
The sediments in the soil, as well as the sedimentary rocks, are natural water filters that neutralize the acidity of the water. This is the reason why water that’s deep underground is pure and suitable for drinking. On the other hand, water from a shallow water body is acidic, since metamorphic and igneous rocks cannot neutralize the pH of acidic water.
Other natural causes of acidic water include acidic rain and emission of CO2 from trees and roots. The rain which is mildly acidic affects the pH level of water. Trees and soil microbes produce carbon dioxide and acids that can also cause the acidic content in water.
The artificial causes of acidic water include be acidic mine drainage and spills or chemical dumps from factories. These human activities lower the water’s pH level further.
Effects of Drinking Acidic Water
Drinking acidic water can be a cause of many health problems including vomiting , diarrhea, nausea, kidney, and liver diseases to name a few. There can be other adverse effects of acidic water in our lives. Let’s find out how drinking acidic can be a problem for your health and lifestyle:
Exposure to Toxic Metals
Drinking acidic water exposes us to heavy metals and toxic compounds in the water. Acidic water often damages the pipes as it can be highly corrosive. With that kind of effect on the pipes, you can imagine the damage it can do to our bodies. Metal ions like iron, copper, zinc, etc. can be toxic for our bodies. Long exposure to these toxic compounds can result in diseases and even poisoning. The metal ions also affect the taste of drinking water. As a result, you might notice unsavory and metallic tasting water.
Prevents the Body from Retaining Calcium
Acidic drinking water lowers the body’s ability to absorb calcium. This effect of drinking acidic water for a long time can lead to rapid bone loss in our bodies. Our body absorbs some of the minerals like calcium more from water than food. So, while alkaline water encourages calcium retention, acidic water prevents it.
Harmful for Children
Acidic drinking water is especially harmful to young children. It contains metals and contaminants that can lead to several health issues. Since the bodies of young children grow and develop very rapidly, they are more at risk than adults. Their body is readily absorbing nutrients from food and water for growth. This also makes their body absorb contaminants at a faster rate as well. The contaminants in acidic water are a major cause of diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, etc. in children. Many health problems that arise a result of drinking acidic water can be fatal or debilitating for children.
Corrosion of Teeth
Our mouth contains many natural acids that help in breaking down food and bacteria in the mouth. So, when you brush your teeth or clean your mouth with acidic water, it only intensifies the effect. This means that the acid in your mouth works harder and, as a result, corrodes your teeth. Drinking acidic water for a long time can lead to the damage of both the teeth and gums.
Causes Gastrointestinal Sickness
The metal ions in acidic drinking water can cause gastrointestinal sickness. The zinc residue from pipes along with the zinc content in acidic water can cause overexposure to zinc. The overexposure leads to an stomach upset and causes nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Overexposure to copper also results in the same health problems.
Other Effects of Acidic Water
Other common effects of using acidic water are corrosion of the plumbing system and damage to aquatic life. The high acidic content in water damages and corrodes the pipes and dissolves the copper from pipes into drinking water. Copper is important for our bodies but overexposure can lead to serious health problems. Kidney and liver damage are the most serious health issues related to overexposure to copper.
If the water’s pH level falls down to 4.5, it can be fatal for fish. The contaminants in acidic water increase the levels of ammonia, bacteria, and parasites. This can be the major cause of fish death in an acidic water body.
Should Drinking Water be Acidic or Alkaline?
It’s no surprise that people today are confused about what the pH of drinking water should actually be. It is important to understand that the most suitable drinking water has a pH between the ranges of 6.5 and 8.5. The drinking water with a pH less than 6.5 is acidic and harmful for health. Similarly, water with a pH greater than 8.5 is alkaline and can also cause other problems.
Bottom Line
Most of the public supply of drinking water comes from shallow sources of water. Water from these sources is likely to be acidic, which means most of us have had acidic water at some point in life. It is best to check your pipes for any signs of acidic water. The blue-green stains on copper pipes, red stains on galvanized iron, and corrosion problems all suggest that your water might be acidic. Like alkaline water filters, you can also find acid-neutralizing filters in the market. They help in neutralizing the acid in water to provide pure and healthy drinking water.
Alkaline Water vs Acidic Water: Which One Should You Drink?
Water is essential for life. Every cell, tissue, and organ in our body needs water to survive. This is why you should always stay hydrated throughout the day. Here, the question arises, what is the best water to drink? Many research studies have shown that high alkaline water is much better than the acidic water you get from your tap.
Our Picks for the Best Alkaline Water Filters
Removes up to 98-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds good minerals
Long lasting and easy change filters
100% satisfaction guarentee
Twist and seal filters last longer than most (up to 2 years!)
Slightly more expensive than other options
Easiest to install on the market
High capactiy with forever manufacturer warranty
The Internal 2 Stage Water Filter System gives you cleaner more purified drinking water
Reduces flow slightly but still acceptable
Requires minimum water pressure of 20lbs Per Square Inch of Constant water pressure (20psi) supplied by tap or well water pressureBudget Pick
Removes contaminants commonly found in tap water, like chlorine, sediment, and radon
It is simple to install, and connects easily to most standard kitchen faucets
Proudly made in the USA, APEX makes all of their products according to the National Safety Foundation certified water filter safety standards and requirements
Each filter can filter up to 750 gallons of drinking water before a replacement filter is needed
Does not remove as many contaminants as more expensive units
#1 Pitcher
XA water filter utilizes 7 stage cartridge of ion exchange resin, activated carbon, ion ceramic ball, far infrared ceramic ball, mineral balls and PP pad
Includes TWO long-life filters! = 2400 cups / 153 gallons / 600 litres.
The Pitcher comes equipped with a simple and convenient easy-fill lid to allow you to fill the reservoir without removing the cover
Limited capacity compared to other options but still affordable
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The Case for Ionized Alkaline Water
Water molecules are a combination of hydrogen and oxygen. This is why water is called H2O. Drinking water depends on the pH level of the water to determine its acidity and water meant for human consumption typically ranges from 0 to 14 pH. 7 pH is considered to be completely neutral.
In other words, it is the pH of balanced water that will ensure that you may drink it without any adverse side effects. However, any rating below 7 on the pH scale will mean that water is too acidic. On the other hand, a rating higher than 7, will mean that your water supply is alkaline.
The environment protection agency (EPA) guidelines state that your drinking water should be between 6.5 and 8.5. The higher rating is more important because it means that the water has a higher alkalinity level. This can help to deactivate pepsin, the enzyme that is the causative factor for acidity and heartburn.[1]
Another study concluded that there is evidence linking the consumption of ionized alkaline water with decreasing cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes.[2]
How to Make Alkaline Water
In order to make alkaline water, you will have to determine the pH level of your water supply. If it is above 7 and below 8.5 you don’t need to do anything. However, water below 6 needs to have its alkalinity improved.
You can easily get plenty of fresh and clean alkaline water by using a small water ionizer that you can attach to your water faucet. This is a user-friendly electronic device that runs your drinking water over positive and negative electrodes in order to ensure ionized alkaline water.
You can also make high alkaline water by using baking soda. Adding 600 mg of baking soda to a glass of water (about 250ml) can get the job done. Baking soda has a very high alkaline content that also increases the alkalinity of your drinking water. Just make sure you shake the container vigorously so that all of the baking soda is evenly dissolved into the water.
What Does Acidic Water Do to the Body?
There are many disadvantages of consuming acidic water over an extended period of time. Some of them include the following:
o Heavy Metal Exposure
Drinking acidic water will expose your body to harmful heavy metals and minerals that are present in the water. These corrosive minerals are capable of eating through your water pipes. If they can do this much damage to the pipes, you can just imagine what they will do to your body!
Long term exposure to these metals can also lead to disease and in some cases metal poisoning. Apart from that, acidic water also has a typically unsavory taste which makes it even more difficult to drink.
o It Can Seriously Damage Your Teeth
The human mouth is filled with natural acids as it is, and they help to break down food and bacteria. Adding even more acid to the mix will prove to be counterproductive and can lead to the corrosion of the enamel on your teeth. In the long run, it can also lead to soft gums and Periodontal Disease.
o It Can Give You an Upset Stomach
Constant exposure to the metals present in acidic water leads to illnesses in the gastrointestinal tract and the stomach. If you are overexposed to zinc or copper (for instance) you will start feeling nauseous and might suffer from sustained bouts of diarrhea and vomiting.
Key Benefits of Drinking Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has a very large number of benefits that can help you to fight disease and remain hydrated all day long. Some of them include the following:
o Rapid Hydration
Alkaline water can hydrate you much faster in comparison to acidic water. If you work out a lot every day, you will definitely need alkaline water to ensure that you don’t become dehydrated. This is due to the fact that alkaline water molecules are much smaller than their acidic water counterparts. I.e., they can be absorbed more easily by your body, which will allow you to rehydrate much faster.
o It Boosts Your Auto-Immune System
Alkaline water has been known to boost the body’s natural immunity against many common ailments. If your body is producing more acid because of environmental toxins, stress or poor diet, your alkaline drinking water will neutralize it.
o Makes Sure That Your Bones Stay Strong and Healthy
Alkaline water usually contains trace elements of important minerals such as magnesium and calcium that are crucial for maintaining healthy bones.
o Fights Esophagus Reflux
This is one of the most important benefits of drinking alkaline water. It can act to neutralize the excess acid in your stomach and the gastrointestinal tract.
o It Contains Antioxidants
Alkaline or ionized water has many highly potent antioxidants that can actively help prevent the growth of cell-damaging free radicals in your body. If left unchecked, they can speed up the aging process. However, drinking alkaline water will ensure that you remain younger for a longer period of time.
Conclusion
The above alkaline water benefits
show that this type of water is always much better than acidic or normal tap
water for drinking purposes. Check the pH level of your water supply and if it
is below 6 you should switch to alkaline water to derive all of these great
benefits.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22844861
[2] http://en.cnki.com.cn/Article_en/CJFDTOTAL-SHYI200112005.htm