First Time Water Filter Buying Guide

If you are looking to buy a whole house water filtration system, you should first know the difference between basic water filters and water conditioners or softeners.

Water softeners are used to remove the iron, calcium, and magnesium ions that make water hard. However, whole house water filters can be used in conjunction with water softeners. They help remove chlorine byproducts, chemical contaminants, pathogens, and harmful microorganisms from your tap or well water.

Here are a few essential and expert tips to help you buy the perfect water filtration system for your home.

Why is it important to filter your water

Remove contaminants from your water

All tap water contains contaminants that are invisible to the naked eye. The EPA determines safe levels of pollutants for consumption.

But, if you have a private well or drink tap water, you may be exposed to many pathogens. Things like lead, nitrates, radon, disinfection byproducts and hormone disruptors or pesticides may be lurking in your water.

Ensure that your water is safe to drink and use

How do you know if you have a water quality problem? You should taste, smell, and examine your tap water to determine any obvious issues in your water supply.

In addition to instances of illness due to drinking contaminated water, the EPA reports that staining of your fixtures and clothes may be a sign of water quality problems.

Putting it all together

How to determine if you need to buy a whole house water filter.

1. 1. Get a copy of the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). A CCR provided by your local or municipal water supplier will help you understand what type of contaminants you have in your water.
   2. Take a water sample to a local water laboratory. If you do not have access to your CCR, a water-testing laboratory can determine whether your water is hard or if you have contaminants that exceed EPA standards.
   3. See if you have a hard water problem or a contaminant issue. If your test results reveal that you have no contaminants or a hardness level between 3 to 7 grains of minerals per gallon, you can use a charcoal water filter to improve your drinking and cooking water taste.
   4. If your hard water results range from 7.1 to 10.5 and above, you have hard or very hard water. A whole house water filter will help to reduce your water hardness to manageable levels. By installing this device, you can soften your water and reduce mineral buildup at your faucets and appliances. You can also install an under sink water filter to complement your whole house water filter and soften your kitchen water.
   5. If your testing reports reveal that your water contains pathogens or other contaminants, do not drink or cook with the water. While a whole house water filter will help t0 soften the water, it will not address these life-threatening problems. Instead, hire a water treatment service, or contact your local water authority to take care of this critical water issue.

Do you use a water softener?