How to Select a Water Purifier

Let's face it - filtered water just tastes better. And it's better for us. Many products are available to help us filter and purify our water in our homes, and the choices can become confusing. With a little bit of research, you can find the water purifier product that is best for your home.

Faucet-Mount Water Filters

These types of water filters attach to your kitchen faucet. They are simple to install and easy to maintain. An indicator light tells you when to replace the filter. If you do not want to filter water all the time, these filters usually allow you to switch to unfiltered water. This choice is inexpensive and easiest to install, but only protects the water from the kitchen faucet.

Refrigerator Filters

Most modern refrigerators with in-the-door water dispensers come equipped with a water filtration system. Some filter just the water, while others also filter the water that becomes ice in the ice maker. Again, an indicator light is usually located somewhere on the refrigerator to indicate the need to change the filter. Filters usually pop out easily for replacement.

Filtration Pitchers

This water purifier option is the most inexpensive. The water pitcher simply contains a water filter. Fill the pitcher with tap water, and then store the pitcher of filtered water in the refrigerator. Once again, a light indicates when the filter requires changing.

Under-the-Sink Water Filters

This type of water purifier sits in the cabinet under your sink to purify the water out of sight. This type of system is similar to the sink-mounted water filter, but eliminates the bulky faucet-mounted unit.

Whole-Home Filtration System

If you want to filter all the water in your home, including kitchen, bath, and laundry, this is the system for you. This much larger system purifies water at the main waterline as it enters your home. Of course, this option can be quite pricey, but can greatly improve the overall quality of the water in your home and even extend the life of those appliances that use water.

Water Softener

If your home has hard water, this is an excellent option. The water softener removes specific minerals from the water at the main line as it enters your home. This is, again, a pricier option, but can save your pipes and appliances from long-term mineral buildup, and improve the cleaning power of your clothes washer and dishwasher. If you are unsure about the hardness of your water, you can purchase test strips at your local home improvement store.