How to Compare the Best Whole House Water Filter for city (municipal) water:
- What contaminants does the unit filter? Most systems will filter chlorine. Does it also filter chloramines and heavy metals such as lead, mercury, copper, nickel, and chromium. Also check if it will effectively filter pesticides, herbicides, Benzene, and THMs (see below for more information on THMs).
- Is there a pre-filter to filter any sediment before it goes through the main tank of the unit? This will significantly extend the life of the unit and effectiveness of the filtration. It requires a minimal amount of maintenance to change and/or wash the filter. The size of the filter will be measured in microns. The smaller the micron rating, the finer the ability to filter.
- What is the filtering agent used in the system? Is it media such as Carbon or KDF55?* (see information below on KDF). Different types of carbon perform different filtration functions. For example, most regular carbon will not filter chloramines. Look for more expensive, yet more effective centaur carbons to do this.
- How long is the system guaranteed to work for? You’ll want a minimum of 5 years. Some are rated to last for 10 years. Just be sure to change the filter media when recommended.
- Choose a system that has the lowest cost of total ownership, rather than buying the cheapest system. How much are replacement pre-filters? How long will the media last? What gets replaced when you need to change the filtration media? Just the media or the whole tank. You need to evaluate these factors before making your purchase decision.
- Is it an upflow or downflow system? An upflow system is preferred to prevent channeling in unit. Channeling is when water takes the path of least resistance within the unit. In a downflow system, water will take that same path over and over again, significantly decreasing the effectiveness of the water filtration. Be sure to choose an upflow system.
- Does the whole system need to be replaced over time or just the media? Different companies have different recommendations. Be sure to understand the choices so you get a system you are comfortable with its maintenance schedule and maintenance requirements.
- What does the warranty cover? And is there a satisfaction guarantee if for some reason you are not happy with the whole house water filtration system performance? Get at least 60 days, but preferably six months to evaluate the system and be sure you are getting the filter performance you need.
- Does the system require electricity? If so, why? Most filters for city water do not require it. So why use electricity if it’s just not necessary.
- Is there any water waste? (i.e. backwashing) Backwashing is a process where the unit cleans itself on a regular (as frequently as nightly) basis. City water systems should not require backwashing. It is however necessary for nearly all effective well water filtration systems.
To learn more about the features and benefits most important to get an effective water filter for your house, go the home page to learn more.