Water Filtration Systems & Factoids About H2O

Water filtration systems can improve the quality of the fluids that we drink. Here are some tidbits about the universal beverage.

Water filtration systems are designed to create a purer product for our consumption. There are various types from reverse osmosis mechanisms installed by professionals, to those that can be purchased at the local hardware store and installed by a DIYer. Some systems are as simple as a pitcher and filter that tap water is poured through or buying bottles of it at the store. There are pros and cons to the various models as well as just drinking tap water. Some of the fluid that comes from municipal taps may be better than others although every city in America must adhere to certain minimum standards of safety. Here are some factoids about H2O:

- Human body: Most people have heard that their bodies are mostly comprised of H2O. The exact breakdown of what each body part contains is:

o Bones: 22%

o Blood 92%

o Muscles and brain 75%

- Usage: American (United States) consumption is nearly 4 trillion gallons per month; their usage for all purposes such as bathing, laundry, etc. is 176 gallons per day. An average family in Africa uses only 5 gallons per day.

- Global lack: It was estimated by UNICEF in 2004 that 1.1 billion individuals don't have access to clean and safe H2O. In developing nations, women walk an average of four miles each day to collect water for their families.

- Costs: Prices for this necessary fluid has been rising. In the last decade, rates charged by municipalities have risen 27% in the U.S., 45% in Australia, 50% in South Africa and 58% in Canada. Three main factors determine the price including transportation charges, the demand and the amount of processing fees needed. Subsidies also play a part in the cost factor.

- Filters: Different types of filters are used for various purposes. Some examples of purposes include drinking, swimming pools, irrigation and landscaping ponds. For drinking, these types are used:

o Faucet mounted fixtures: These devices are attached to the faucet to purify the liquid as it emerges from the tap.

o Under sink devices: These systems are placed under the sink.

o Pitchers: These have replaceable filters that the water is poured through each time a glass is poured for drinking.

o Coolers: These are free standing coolers with a built in filtration system as the liquid passes through the nozzle.

o Professionally installed systems: These are highly effective mechanisms installed by companies that specialize in this purification process.

- Having yours tested: If there's any question about the drinking H2O in your home, companies can test it to give specifics about particulates, contaminants and more. This can be a healthy investment in your future.

- Wells: Many rural homes or neighborhoods have individual or joint wells to obtain this necessary liquid. It is wise to have it tested to decide whether it's safe for drinking. Some well water is best only for bathing, washing and laundering.

Water filtration systems come in a variety of models and levels of efficiency. A consumer would be wise to do research online and via Consumer Reports. Hiring a local company to test and install a purifier in your home can be a sound investment in your family's health.

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