5 Easy Steps to Finding a Water Filter That Works For You

 

 

 

When it comes to water filtration, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Everyone has different wants and needs. Water filters vary widely on type, cost, performance, etc., and with so many brands on the market, trying to figure out what the best option is can easily become overwhelming. Where do you begin your search?

Here are 5 easy steps you can follow that may help you decide what water filter is best for you:

 

1. Determine your needs. 

A major factor to consider is the size of your family and how much water you use on a daily basis. Ask yourself questions. Are you looking for a drinking water filter or shower filter? Do you want a whole house or countertop filter system? Maybe you need a water filter that’s portable and easy to travel with or one that uses little to no electricity.

2. Do your homework.  

A little research goes a long way when it comes to water filtration. Learn about your local water quality. Familiarize yourself with the various types of filters and weigh their pros and cons. Use reputable sources like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Environmental Working Group (EWG), and Water Quality Association (WQA) when gathering information.

3. Decide on filter type? Good, time for more homework.  

Look into any brand you find that offers the type of filter you’re looking for. At this point, the most important thing is to find out if their filter can do what they claim. If so, they will have 3rd-party certified laboratory testing to prove this. If not, it’s best not to purchase from them; some manufacturers like to claim their filters have certain abilities yet lack any actual evidence to prove its efficacy.

4. Compare performance.

Once you’ve found some good options with 3rd-party certified testing, compare their performance claims to determine the best one. Choose the brand that removes the maximum amount of contaminants.

5. Consider cost and maintenance.

Be sure to read manuals or user guides to see what the maintenance requirements are and how often the filter needs replacing. While some water filters can last an entire year, others need to be replaced every few months. (You may need to calculate your daily water usage to find out when to replace the filter.) What might seem like a cheap water filter for the initial purchase could end up costing you hundreds of dollars a year to maintain.

We all want what’s best for ourselves and our families. Clean, filtered water is one the most important things you can provide. By following the steps above, we hope to make it a little easier for you to make a well-informed decision in purchasing a quality water filter that meets your specific needs.