When comparing drinking water filters, how do you find the best? Here are 3 things you MUST think about prior to making a decision...
What's are the best drinking water filters? There are so out there that it's hard to know which to go with.
So how do you make the decision?
There are a number of things you have to think about. Here are the 3 most critical, in order of importance:
#1) Effectiveness
Quite simply, what does it remove from the water supply? It doesn't matter how cheap or stylish a filter is... if it doesn't improve your health, it is worthless.
Look for filters that improve your health-NOT just taste.
Some filters just improve the taste without doing much for your health. These should be avoided.
What contaminants should be removed?
It's well documented that there are more than 2000 different contaminants in water. However, some are more harmful than others.
In general, chlorine, lead, fluoride, and THMs are some of the more important things that MUST be removed. However, there could be more.
Ideally you should first find out the main hazards in your cities' water supply (it's different from city to city) and then look for a filter that eliminates those.
And make sure it's NSF tested.
This means a 3rd party organization has tested it and verified it lives up to the companies' claims. If it doesn't have this rating somewhere on the box, look for another model.
#2) Per gallon cost
Do NOT worry too much about the original cost-per gallon price is the ONLY one that matters.
Quite simply, this is how much you will be spending on replacement cartridges. For every model this is a different amount.
For instance, many pitcher models have to be replaced once every 40 gallons used. For bigger purifiers like countertop or undersink models, this number is usually closer to 100 gallons. However, the replacement cartridge is also pricier.
How do you figure out the cost per gallon?
Simply divide the cost of the replacement cartridge by the amount of gallons it can handle. For instance, if a new cartridge is $15, and it must be replaced every 100 gallons, your cost per gallon is $.15.
What's a good price?
Look for models that are close to $.10. If it's significantly more than this, forget it.
#3) Size
Quite simply, some purifiers take up more room than others, like countertop models. If your room is limited, consider getting either an undersink or faucet purifier.
The bottom line--these are 3 of the most important things you MUST think about when evaluating drinking water filters. Keep these guidelines in mind and you will find the right model shortly.
