Why Is Water Filtration Important: 2 Key Benefits of Clean Water

Even in the US, where public water treatment systems are generally reliable, there can be significant benefits to using a filter at home. While tap may be a safe source according to regulations, it can still contain impurities.

The extra layer of purification improves the quality and taste of your drinking water. But with so many options, from pitcher filters to complex reverse osmosis systems, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

Let's explore the options and find the perfect filter to address your needs and concerns, ensuring you get the most out of your water.

» Want to get the most out of your filtered water? Try a restructuring carafe

1. Fewer Contaminants

Filtered water tackles harmful contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals can linger in the environment and our bodies for years, damaging the immune system, hormones, and fertility.

» Discover if reverse osmosis can remove chemicals from tap water

Public water treatment systems work hard to keep our water safe, but harmful bacteria like E. coli can slip through. A filter certified to remove these microorganisms can prevent this waterborne illness that infects as many as 2.8 million people globally each year.

» Understand whether drinking filtered water is good for your health

Additionally, unfiltered water may contain other contaminants, such as microplastics, which may have long-term health implications. A recent study found their presence in all samples of dog and human testes. While the exact effects are unclear, certain types of these particles might affect fertility.

Filters also remove chlorine and other impurities that can affect water taste and odor. This results in crisp, clean-tasting water that's more enjoyable to drink. Many people find themselves drinking more water when it has a fresher flavor.

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2. Appliance Protection

Limescale is a white, crusty substance caused by hard water rich in minerals. It can accumulate in pipes and appliances, reducing the flow and shortening the plumbing lifespan. Water filters help prevent this buildup, protecting heating elements in appliances like coffee makers and water heaters.

» Check out whether reverse osmosis effectively softens hard water

Different Water Filter Mechanisms

1. Size Exclusion

This mechanism separates particles based on their size using a membrane. A filter medium with a specific pore size will allow only water molecules to pass through.

It's a standard way of removing contaminants in reverse osmosis (RO) filters, such as the one in the MAYU full-cycle package. The device has a four-stage process that purifies 95% of all contaminants. It has a pure-to-drain ratio of 3:1. Plus, it's compact and needs no installation.

» Learn what you should consider when choosing an RO system

2. Adsorption

This method involves attracting dissolved molecules or ions to the surface of a filter media. For example, activated carbon filters use it to remove chlorine, taste, odors, and some organic compounds. You can find them in various filter cartridges, pitcher filters, and whole-house filtration systems.

» Discover whether the carbon dust in water filters is harmful

3. Strainers

These are often used as pre-filters in various systems to remove large debris, sediment, or rust particles before further processing. Depending on the application, they can be mesh screens or have larger openings.

4. Depth Filtration

Some devices in municipal and whole-house filtration systems can trap particles like sediment, debris, and floc—used in coagulation—within their bed. For example, sand filters often use pleated or depth-based media made of cellulose or fiberglass to trap particles within their structure.

5. Electrostatic Attraction

Specialty membrane filters may use electrostatic attraction in filtration and use oppositely charged media to capture contaminants. This targeted approach is efficient for specific particles but may not be widely used due to challenges in maintaining the charge and water molecule interference.

» Check out the essential health benefits of drinking filtered water

How To Choose Your Filtration System

The best water filtration method depends on the specific contaminants you want to remove from your water. Here are some factors to consider:

• Types of Contaminants: Consider what contaminants are known to be in your tap water supply. Most municipalities provide annual water quality reports detailing the types and levels of contaminants in the public water supply.
• Desired Level of Filtration: Do you need to remove a wide range of impurities, or are you primarily concerned with eliminating microorganisms?
• Cost: Prices range from affordable pitcher filters to more expensive whole-house RO systems. Consider your budget and the long-term value proposition.
• Convenience: Some filters are simple to use or install, while others require professional installation or frequent maintenance. Choose a method that fits your lifestyle.
• Water Pressure: Some filtration methods require a minimum water pressure to function effectively. Check your home's water pressure and choose a compatible filter.
• Maintenance: All filter systems require maintenance, such as replacing cartridges or cleaning components. Select a method with manageable maintenance requirements.

» Find out how to remove chlorine from drinking water

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Water

Water filtration empowers you to take control of your drinking water quality. By removing unwanted contaminants and enhancing taste, filters elevate your daily hydration experience. Clean water is the cornerstone of good health, impacting everything from digestion to brain function.

But, some filtration methods, particularly reverse osmosis, can also remove beneficial minerals from the water. While this doesn't necessarily negate the benefits of filtration, it's essential to be mindful of potential mineral deficiencies.

» Don't just settle for clean water; boost its minerals with Electrolyte Drops