How to Determine if You Need a Water Filter

study from the US Geological survey found that almost half of the tap water in the country contains “forever chemicals” - Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Water is a fundamental human need for survival and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Water quality in our homes directly impacts our health, comfort, and expenses. Despite its critical importance, water quality is often overlooked until problems become obvious. This guide aims to help you understand common water issues and contaminants and how to determine if it’s worth investing in a water filter for your home.

 

Water Contaminants and Their Effect on Our Health

Water contaminants can range from naturally occurring minerals to artificial chemicals and by-products. Common water issues include high levels of calcium and magnesium, which cause hard water. You can also find chlorine in water as it’s used as a disinfectant, lead from old plumbing systems, and nitrates from agricultural runoff. These contaminants can affect your tap water’s taste, color, and safety, posing various health risks for you and your family. Polluted water presents significant health risks. For instance, lead contamination can affect children’s mental and physical development and can lead to neurological damage in adults. Pesticides and other industrial pollutants can increase the risk of cancer, damage reproductive health, and cause many other serious health problems.  Not only does contaminated water cause health issues, but it can also impact its taste, smell and can wear down expensive appliances. Many households notice water issues when appliances fail prematurely or when skin and hair become unusually dry. Such real-life signs often prompt homeowners to think about the safety of their water supply.

Initial Signs You Might Need a Water Filter

Unpleasant Taste and Odors in Your Water

A noticeable change in taste or odor is one of the first signs that your home water supply might need filtering. If your water starts tasting metallic, salty, or like chemicals, it's a sign that there are impurities. A water filtration system will help with these issues.

Staining on Clothes or Fixtures

Another telltale sign that your water needs to be filtered is staining on clothes and fixtures. If you notice orange or brown stains on your sinks, toilets, or laundry, it could indicate high levels of iron and other minerals in your water.

Recurring Plumbing Issues and Corrosion

Frequent plumbing problems may also indicate water quality issues. Acidic water or high mineral content (hard water) can cause corrosion of pipes and fixtures, which damages the plumbing and can affect water quality. Hard water can also affect your appliances.

Water Quality Reports: Where to Find Them and What to Look For 

Every municipality in the US provides a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) each year which details the quality of the local water supply. You can access these reports through your local water provider's website or by contacting city hall. The CCR includes levels of contaminants found during testing, compared against EPA-regulated limits. Understanding these parameters can help you determine the specific contaminants in your water and the potential need for a water filter system.

DIY Water Testing Kits and How to Conduct a Water Test at Home

You can use a home water testing kit for a more hands-on approach. These kits, available at most big-box stores, can test for contaminants like lead, pesticides, nitrates, chlorine and pH levels, among others. The testing process is straightforward and usually involves collecting a water sample and adding test-specific chemicals that change color to indicate the presence of contaminants. After testing, you'll compare the results with EPA guidelines to determine whether your water is safe or not. This information can help you choose the right type of water filter.

Whole House Salt-Free Water Softener and Filter Combo

Different Types of Water Filters and Their Benefits

Sediment Filters

These filters remove solid particles like dirt, rust, and sand from water. They are typically used as a first stage in a more comprehensive water filtration system.

Carbon Filters: Adsorption of Chemicals and Odors

Activated carbon filters reduce chlorine, odors, and taste contaminants from water through a process called adsorption. In this process, contaminants bind to the surface of the carbon particles, effectively reducing their presence from the water.

Reverse Osmosis Systems: Comprehensive Solutions

Reverse osmosis systems provide a comprehensive filtration solution, effectively reducing many contaminants, such as dissolved salts and chemicals. These systems use a semi-permeable membrane that only water molecules can pass through while capturing and reducing contaminants in the water.

Water Softeners/Conditioners

These systems treat hard water, which contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. Water softening can prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances, extending their life and efficiency.

Specialty Filters: Advanced Filtration Technologies

Specialty filters are crucial for homes that rely on private wells, which often face unique contamination challenges such as high levels of iron, sulfur, or specific microorganisms. These might include:

• Iron/Manganese Filters: Designed to remove excess iron and manganese using oxidation filtration, which effectively prevents staining and the metallic taste often associated with these minerals.
• Ultraviolet (UV) Purification Systems: UV filters disinfect water, effectively killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens without chemicals.
• Ion Exchange Systems: Beyond softening, ion exchange can be tailored to reduce harmful contaminants like radium or arsenic from water, providing safety for well water users.

What is the Best Water Filter? 

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Water Filter

• Type of Contaminants: The filter choice should be primarily based on the contaminants you must remove, which you would have identified from your water quality report or home test kit results.
• Water Usage: Consider how much water your household consumes daily, as this will impact the type of system you might need. All Kind Water filters can be used for homes with up to 6 bathrooms.
• Flow Rate: Different filters can affect the flow rate of your water. Choosing a water filter that can handle the flow rate required by your household without causing a drop in water pressure is essential.

Filter Capacity and Maintenance Requirements

• Filter Longevity: Check how often the filter needs to be changed. Some might last a few months, while others can last for years, depending on usage.
• Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to maintain the filter. Some systems require professional service, whereas others are simple enough for you to replace the filters yourself. The Kind Water Systems filters only need to be replaced once a year, and with our easy Kind AutoShip option, you can purchase the filter replacement at the same time you purchase the water filtration system. With Kind AutoShip, we’ll automatically send you the replacement filter one year after your purchase - exactly when you need it!

Budget Considerations and Long-Term Costs

• Ongoing Costs: Consider the cost of replacement filters and any energy costs associated with running more complex systems.
• Savings: A more expensive upfront cost might be offset by a longer filter life and lower maintenance costs, not to mention the potential savings from preventing health issues.

Installation: How Easy or Difficult Is It?

• DIY vs. Professional Installation: Some filters, such as faucet attachments or under-sink systems, are easy to install yourself.
• Space Requirements: Ensure you have enough space for the system you choose, particularly for larger systems that include tanks or several stages of filtration.

Installing a water filter in your home can significantly improve your drinking water's taste, safety, and quality. By understanding your household's needs, and the costs related to different types of filters, you can make a well-informed choice that guarantees access to clean water without unexpected maintenance or financial burdens. If you need help, contact our water experts online or call us for assistance. This proactive measure boosts your family's health and offers peace of mind through a reliable source of safe water.