Be the filter or Buy a Filter, that is the question! In other words, chemicals in water will eventually… always… be removed: at the tap or in the body.
In today’s world, people seem to be more aware, and conscious of what they are putting into their body or on their skin. People are investing in the latest or expensive skin care products, subscribing to in-home fitness programs, but when it comes to water filtration it might not be a priority or seen as worth the investment.
When buying a new refrigerator, it is almost standard now to purchase one with a water dispenser and filter. Or “it’s the thing” to purchase the “latest” water pitcher filter. Many people think these filters are enough and are “filtering” the water. And yes, you are filtering the water but to what extent? And, has the filter been changed recently (filters need to be changed much more often than people actually do, causing the filter to not be as effective).
A water treatment solution (like Reverse Osmosis) will remove toxins or minerals from drinking water. If not used, then the body is doing the work to filter out the toxins from the water. Within just seconds of taking a drink of water, our skin absorbs the chemicals present.
What is Reverse Osmosis (RO)?
Reverse Osmosis is a four-stage filtration process delivering ultra-pure water. And one of the most effective water purification systems. Filters are recommended to be replaced annually.
Filtration process:
- Water passes through a sediment filter, which removes sediment like dirt and sand in the water.
- Next, water passes through a carbon pre- filter, which eliminates odors or unpleasant taste.
- Third, goes through a semipermeable membrane to remove any remaining impurities. The water is then stored in a holding tank unit ready for consumption.
- Lastly, the water goes through a carbon postfilter to “polish” the water for household use. The removed contaminates are flushed away.
Cost: $200-2K system, depending on type, not including filter maintenance
Contaminants! What? What is removed?
RO filtration is a sure way to remove the following commonly known contaminants in your water. In fact, RO can remove the most common contaminants in tap water! And the filters only need to be changed annually.
- Arsenic- occurs naturally in rocks and soil and can dissolve into groundwater. Not detectable by taste, see or smell
- Lead- not detectable by smell or taste
- Mercury-seeps into the water as the earth’s crust naturally degasses
- Chlorine-a disinfectant in water, which dries out skin and hair
- Fluoride-a mineral in bones and teeth
Pitcher filter vs refrigerator filter?
With an average of 27 contaminants in the tap water, which filter removes the most?
Water pitchers- minimal investment, easy storage and perception of clean water because it’s kept in a cold fridge. However, most filters are an activated carbon with Ion exchange, which only reduce copper, cadmium, zinc and chlorine; 4 out of 27 contaminants. And the filter needs to be replaced every 2 months.
Cost: $25-300 system, depending on type, not including filters maintenance
Refrigerator Filters- Even though the refrigerator is cleaned on a regular basis, impurities like mold, E. coli and other contaminants from the fridge can get into the fridge filter. Also, many contaminants like Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) are hard to see. Of the 27 contaminates the fridge filter typically removes only two- chlorine and taste/odor. Filters need to be changed every 6 months.
Cost: standard on fridges, if chosen, $40-200 for filter maintenance, depending on style
The choice is yours!
Common household water filters may be convenient and great tasting water however, you and your home deserve better and ultra-pure water! Would you rather have a RO system working to filter out the contaminants in your tap water or would you rather be the filter. Be a filter or Buy a filter!
Water Doctors Water Treatment Company is here to help!
