Water filtration removes contaminants from water to make it safer for drinking, cooking, and everyday use. Whole-house filtration systems connect to the main water line and filter all the water entering your home. They target harmful substances like heavy metals and volatile organic compounds, helping improve your health and protect your plumbing.
Benefits of Filtration Systems
Filtration systems offer many benefits:
Better tasting and smelling water
Reduced exposure to chemicals and contaminants
Longer appliance lifespan
Healthier skin and hair
Lower reliance on bottled water
Understanding Your City Water: Start With Testing
Review Your Consumer Confidence Report (CCR)
Your local utility provides a yearly CCR that lists contaminants found in your water. This is a crucial first step.
Use At-Home Water Testing Kits
These kits detect contaminants that may not appear in the CCR and can provide real-time results for your household.
Key City Water Contaminants
Chlorine and Chloramine: Common disinfectants that can alter taste and may pose health risks.
Heavy Metals: Lead and iron can come from aging pipes.
PFAS: Also called "forever chemicals," PFAS are difficult to remove.
Hardness (Salts and Minerals): Calcium and magnesium can cause scaling.
Types of House Water Filters
Whole-House Filters: Treat all the water in your home.
Under-Sink Filters: Target drinking and cooking water.
Countertop Filters: Portable and easy to install.
Best Whole House Filter Systems for Chemical Removal
Activated Carbon with Catalytic Coconut Shell Carbon
This media removes chlorine, chloramine, pesticides, and some PFAS. Benefits include:
Broader contaminant removal
Longer lifespan
High flow rates
When to Add a Water Softener or Conditioner
Salt-Based Softeners: Replace calcium and magnesium with sodium.
Salt-Free Conditioners: Prevent scale without adding sodium.
Why Use Reverse Osmosis (RO) for Drinking Water
RO systems remove:
Lead and heavy metals
PFAS
Fluoride
Nitrates
Combine whole-house filtration with under-sink RO for full protection.
Eco-Friendly Filter Options
Look for systems that use carbon or UV filtration. Many models are low-maintenance and energy-efficient, reducing environmental impact.
Health Benefits of Clean Water
Filtered water can:
Reduce waterborne illness
Improve food and drink quality
Support healthier skin and hair
Minimize chemical exposure
How to Choose the Right System
Match the system to your water chemistry:
High chlorine: Choose catalytic carbon
Hardness over 12 GPG: Use a softener
PFAS: Opt for RO or advanced carbon
Low pH or bacterial concerns: Use UV and pH correction
Consider Maintenance Costs
Evaluate how often you need to replace filters and how long the system lasts.
Installation: DIY or Professional?
Some systems are DIY-friendly. For whole-house systems, professional installation is often best.
Common Questions About City Water
Is city water always safe? Not always. It can contain chlorine, lead, nitrates, and PFAS.
Does city water have chlorine? Yes. It kills pathogens but may cause taste and odor issues.
What are chloramines? Chlorine + ammonia. Harder to remove. Use catalytic carbon.
What do PPM and PPB mean? Measurements for contaminant concentration.
What are DBPs? Disinfection byproducts like THMs. Linked to health risks.
How can I check for lead? Use a certified test kit or send a sample to a lab.
What if there's a violation? Utilities must notify you. Look for corrective steps.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know what’s in my water?
Read your CCR or use a testing kit.
2. Is a whole-house filter enough for drinking water?
Not usually. Add an RO system for drinking.
3. Can one filter do it all?
No. Combine systems for full protection.
4. Do I need a pro to install it?
Whole-house systems usually require a plumber.
5. Are RO systems wasteful?
New models are efficient and reduce waste.
