Water Filtration Systems

columbus-oh-plumber-residential-kitchens

 

Water filtration systems remove impurities from tap water. Unwanted minerals and contaminates are trapped in a filter (or series of filters) resulting in clean drinking water.

Not all water filtration systems are created equal. There are a variety of water filtration systems available from simple and inexpensive point-of-use water filters to the more elaborate and costly in-line units that mount directly to the plumbing system to purify whole house water supplies. Choosing the best water filtration system starts with the water’s chemistry.

Test the water: The first step in choosing the right water filtration system. Contaminants will differ based on whether your water comes from a municipal supplier (city water) or a well/spring. Obtaining a thorough water analysis will help determine the appropriate type and size of filtration system needed. For city water, request a report from the water supplier. For well and spring water, water analysis will most likely be an out-of-pocket expense.

Point-of-use filtration systems are a cost-effective alternative to bottled water (and tastes just as good). Often times, bottled water is thought of as a more pure drinking water than water filtered at home or in the office. However, this is not true. Point-of-use filters, such as faucet-mounted filters, remove most mineral deposits (lead, ammonia, and chlorine) from tap water, improving the taste and appearance of the filtered water. Point-of-use filters are a low cost and viable option for municipal water users.

In-line water filtration systems benefit well and spring water users. In-line water filtration systems are connected to the main water line purifying all water. Because well and spring water do not have the advantage of the UV sterilization process that city water undergoes, unfiltered well water is not only harmful to drink, the contaminants can also cause damage to the plumbing and water-using appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers.

Activated carbon water filtration and reverse osmosis (RO) are the two most common forms of water filtration used to treat water problems.

Activated carbon water filtration, the most popular choice for office water filtration, is a form of charcoal that absorbs chlorine, ammonia, pesticides, and organic chemicals. Carbon filters are not effective against lead or other heavy metals, fluoride, and some organic contaminants.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) uses a semi-permeable membrane to extract impurities in the tap water. RO removes dissolved solids, such as sodium and nitrates. RO is 98% effective in removing chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, parasites, and other contaminants.

Hire only experienced installers. Regardless of the water filtration system you choose, be sure to have the system installed by an experienced Columbus OH Plumber professional specializing in water treatment services and installation. Improper installation of water filtration systems can not only be detrimental to the plumbing but more importantly your health.