The Word on Water Filters
(Page 3 of 8)
May/June 1999
By Natural Home Staff
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems use pressure to force water through a semipermeable membrane whose tiny openings separate contaminants from the water. As in the distillation process, some contaminants can pass through the membrane, so it’s wise to add a GAC filter
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at the end of the process to capture these materials. Unlike the distillation process, however, RO systems leave water well-oxygenated, so it tastes more like “spring water.” RO water also is essentially mineral-free, so taking mineral supplements is recommended to counterbalance the leaching effect of drinking it.
KDF resin is a limited technology used primarily for removing chlorine from water. Since a large amount of KDF and a long contact time with water is needed to do the job, the resin is best used in commercial applications.
Ultraviolet light systems use this portion of the light spectrum to kill bacteria, but this technology does nothing to eliminate such protozoa as cryptospordia and giardia. Light systems can be expensive and are normally combined with carbon technology to provide more complete purification.
Ozone water filters super-oxygenate water, killing bacteria with adequate contact time. Like UV systems, they are expensive and must be combined with carbon filtration to be effective. Ozonated water also can contain high amounts of such toxins as formaldehyde, a created byproduct that allows for bacterial growth.
The type water filter you choose will depend on the quality of your local water source. Let’s review the options on a water-quality continuum from good to bad. If your water source is good, the easiest and least expensive solution is to select a charcoal filter that removes the chlorine taste and smell. A good charcoal filter also is an option for water that is not contaminated with microorganisms but hosts excess minerals and possibly some heavy metals.
For water that’s contaminated with all of the above—plus microorganisms and other pollutants such as pesticides and harmful chemicals—consider a multi-system filter with micro-filtration screens, a charcoal filter, and systems for reverse osmosis and distillation. A multi-system filter that incorporates all these processes will cover all your bases when water is contaminated with a wide array of toxic pollutants. Or, in such a case, you may choose to use bottled water exclusively.
Once you’ve opted for the best type of water filter system, you need to decide on the size system that works best for your household. Water filtration products currently on the market range from portable filters for campers to counter-top systems to under-the-sink units to whole-house filters. Your choice will depend upon the quality of your water, the expense you’re willing to undertake, and your space needs.
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