What Are The Types Of Water Filters?
If you’ve only recently considered getting a water filter, you may not know a great deal about them, the different types of water filters, or which filter is best for you.
That’s why we have compiled a list of the most commonly used filters to give you an overview of how they differ.
Read on to find out which water filter is the right one for you.
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon water filters are the most common filter, and use activated carbon to adsorb chemicals.
Popular due to their low price, they remove chlorine and organic matter from water to reduce unpleasant odours and make it nicer to drink.
Versatile, activated carbon filters are commonly installed in under sink water filters, faucet-mounted filters, and whole house water systems.
When used for air purifiers, they can last up to six months, while as aquarium filters, they will need replacing every 2-4 weeks. Replacing these filters is generally straightforward.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
RO systems purify water by forcing it through a semi permeable membrane, which blocks impurities, while the carbon filters in the unit remove chlorine, organic compounds, and improve the taste of drinking water.
These systems help remove a wider range of contaminants than other household water filters, effectively making water mineral free.
Often, reverse osmosis systems are installed under the sink, which is a more complicated process than using, for example, an activated carbon filter.
They are also more expensive than other options, but are a strong option if you are looking for thorough water purification.
Ceramic Filters
Ceramics trap sand, mud, and other forms of debris and the filters feature small pores which block harmful germs breaking through.
Ceramic filters with activated charcoal can improve the taste and smell of water due to adsorption.
However, they have a slow filtration rate, are fragile, and do require frequent cleaning.
In a large household they may not be adequate on their own, working best as part of a wider water filtration system.
UV Filters
UV water filters purify water through the use of ultraviolet light, which kills bacteria and viruses in water.
Once harmful microbes in the water are exposed to UV light for long enough, they become harmless.
Typically, they are used alongside other water filtration systems, because on their own they do not have the ability to remove chemicals from water, nor do they affect the taste. They are a popular choice for those travelling or spending time outdoors due to how portable these are.
Gravity Water Filters
Gravity water filters are handy and efficient; particularly if you’re someone who frequently goes on long hikes or camping trips.
When dirty water is poured through the top, gravity pulls the water through a filter which cleans out dirt and bacteria, and the end result is clean water.
These portable filters effectively remove contaminants to improve taste, and don’t require electricity. Maintenance is straightforward because there are no moving parts.
While a convenient and easy-to-use water filter, gravity filters take longer to filter water, and aren’t a solution for removing all viruses.
Sediment Filters
Sediment filters remove suspended particles from water, such as sand, silt, rust, and general debris.
They are not used to enhance the taste of drinking water, but to protect household appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters from sediment, which can have a detrimental effect on the lifespan and function of these appliances.
A sediment water filter can be utilised as part of a multi-stage water treatment system; by breaking down solids, it can help other filters function more effectively.
How to Find the Right Water Filter
Choosing the right type of water filter is subjective, and depends solely on what you need it for.
If you want clean and healthy water to drink while camping, a gravity filter or UV filter will likely suffice. However, if you are looking to remove as many contaminants as possible, a reverse osmosis system could be the best choice.
Filtering water isn’t solely done to enhance taste and reduce odour. A sediment filter could be optimal if your primary aim is to protect your household appliances.
We understand that there are numerous water filtration options available. If you would like some additional support, please contact us. At Finerfilters, we are always happy to help and will use over a decade of experience to match you with the best solution.
For more water filter advice, check out our other blogs here.