The Different Types of Residential Water Filters

Depending on what part of the country you live in, a water filter may be an excellent way to increase the quality of the water in your home. Problems with ground water vary greatly, so before buying anything you should always check with a professional in your area. You should also contact the local health department or even a public university in your area to find out what specific water problems you should address.

Once you know what problems your water has, a built in water filter will often correct the problem. Below are five main types of filters and what type of problems they are often used to correct.

Sediment

A sediment filter, like the name implies, is used to prevent excess sediment from entering the water in your home. Sediment filters can protect other appliances in your home from needing frequent cleanings, and as such are often a good investment if you have a sediment problem.

There are two types of sediment filters, both of which consist of a filter body, a reservoir, and a filter medium. A less expensive model will require that the filter be replaced often; how often will depend on your area. However, a more expensive model will have a screen that can be cleaned by flushing water through the filter.

Carbon

Organic or inorganic water contamination can often be treated by a carbon filter. A low volume carbon filter can be installed to cover a single appliance, such a faucet. A higher volume carbon filter is installed in a supply line but service the whole house.

Carbon filters do an excellent job if they are properly maintained. It's hard to know when the filter is saturated and needs to be cleaned, so many carbon filters have timers to let you know. If you procrastinate on cleanings, it is possible that the unit will release dangerous levels of contaminates, so be sure to commit to cleaning if you use carbon.

Reverse osmosis units

Chemical contaminants such as nitrates are often addressed using a reverse osmosis unit. Although a reverse osmosis unit cannot be used in areas with hard water or remove biological contaminants, they do a good job of filtering the water.