Discover the Top 5 Health Benefits of Using Water Filters
We all know drinking more water is important for our health, but the safety of tap water can be worrying. Surprisingly, studies reveal that bottled water isn’t necessarily safer than tap water. So, how can we get clean, safe water in a cost-effective way? One option is installing a water purification system at home. These systems can cover the whole house, just the kitchen faucet, or even sit as a freestanding unit on the counter.
### Is Your Home’s Water Safe?
Before investing in a purification system, it’s crucial to test your water for purity and safety. If you use well water, testing is essential because there’s no city regulation. Even city water can have contaminants. Cities sometimes flush their systems, temporarily affecting water quality. It’s wise to test your water yearly to ensure it remains safe. If you find contaminants, you may need a purification system. The type of system you need depends on the contamination level.
### Choosing the Right Water Purification System
If your water has minerals like iron that stain fixtures and clothes, a whole-house system installed by a plumber might be necessary. However, if the main concern is drinking water, a smaller system could suffice. In this case, water filters attached to faucets or freestanding units on the counter are a convenient choice. Freestanding systems are popular because they are easy to install and come in various sizes and styles.
### How Freestanding Water Purifiers Work
These systems have a top compartment where water is poured in and filtered into a lower section with a faucet. The filters last a long time and are replaceable. They range in capacity from one quart to six gallons. The size you choose depends on your available counter space and water needs. These systems can be portable, which is handy for vacations or camping trips.
### Installing and Using Freestanding Purifiers
A six-gallon unit, for example, is about 30 inches tall and 11 inches in diameter and needs to fit on a counter without upper cabinets. Smaller units, like a 2.5-gallon option, are around 19 inches tall. You may need to plan for adequate space. In some cases, rearranging or removing cabinets might be necessary to accommodate the unit.
### Health Benefits of Purified Water
Here are five health benefits of using filtered water:
1. **Removes Excess Chlorine:** While chlorine keeps city water free of germs, it can be harmful in large amounts. Filters remove residual chlorine.
2. **Eliminates Contaminants:** Filters get rid of substances like limescale, heavy metals, iron, and organic contaminants, making the water healthier.
3. **Environmental and Financial Savings:** Using filters reduces the need for bottled water, lessening plastic waste and saving money.
4. **Improves Overall Health:** Filtered water can enhance skin health, reduce acid reflux, aid weight loss, improve digestion, minimize headaches, and boost general health. Drinking better-tasting water encourages hydration.
5. **Better Taste and Safety:** Filtered water improves the taste of coffee, tea, and food, making everything you prepare safer and tastier.
### What Do Water Filters Remove?
Different filters remove various contaminants. Look for NSF certification and check labels for specifics. Common contaminants removed include:
– Fluoride
– Viruses and bacteria
– Heavy metals like lead and mercury
– Pesticides and pharmaceuticals
Research and test your water to select a filter that meets your needs. Types of filters include activated carbon, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and distillation units. A well-chosen system ensures your water is both safe and delicious.
By pairing your water filtration system with reusable bottles, you’ll always have pure water at a fraction of the cost of bottled water, both at home and on the go.
