Plumbing filters are devices installed within water systems for residential and commercial properties. Their primary role is to cleanse out unwanted particles like dirt, rust, chemicals and potentially even bacteria before hitting taps, showers and appliances. Filters can be installed for an entire house or specifically for individual taps.

Why Plumbing Filters Are Important

Sometimes, water may contain harmful particles, chemicals or germs. If unfiltered, they can wreak havoc on plumbing, taste horrible and even affect health. The right filter can enhance water quality, protect expensive appliances and guard families against waterborne illness.

Types of Plumbing Filters

There are various types of plumbing filters. Each is designed to tackle different water problems. Picking the right filter depends on what contaminants need to be taken out of the water.

Sediment Filters

The first line of those defenses is sediment filters. They trap coarse particles, such as sand, dirt and rust, before they can clog the plumbing system and damage other water-using household appliances.

• Typically constructed of polyester, polypropylene or ceramic.
• Filters are sized in microns, typically from 1 to 50 microns. The lower numbers indicate that the filter can trap smaller particles.

Activated Carbon Filters

Carbon filters are designed to improve the taste of water. They do so by filtering out chemicals such as chlorine, pesticides and organic compounds.

• Granular Activated Carbon (GAC): It has loose carbon granules and good water flow.
• Carbon Block Refill: Solid compressed filter media that removes finer sediment and cations.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filters

The RO filter is one of the most complete water filtering systems. Pushing water through a special membrane, they remove as much as 99 percent of dissolved salts, heavy metals and germs.

• The water goes through several stages beginning with a sediment filter, followed by a couple of carbon filters and finally through the RO membrane.
• Some water is wasted in the process, generally 3 to 5 gallons for every gallon of clean water.

Ultraviolet (UV) Filters

Germs are killed with UV filters, but no chemical is added. They illuminate the water with ultraviolet light, obliterating the bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms.

To be ready for UV, the water must be clear, so typically runs through a sediment filter first.

Scale Inhibitor Filters

Scale inhibitor filters also help prevent mineral buildup. They do not remove minerals but transform them so that they do not adhere to pipes or appliances.

• Polyphosphate Filters: Chemicals are added to prevent scale.
• Template-Assisted Crystallization (TAC): Transforms minerals to harmless crystals.
• Electronic Descalers: Utilize electricity to inhibit scale.

Key Features to Look For

There are a few key features to look for before purchasing a plumbing filter. This helps ensure the filter performs adequately for the home’s water needs.

Micron Rating and Filtration Capacity

The micron rating indicates how small particles a filter can catch.

• Large Particles: 50-microns is large enough to catch large pieces of sand and dirt.
• Fine Particles: A 1-micron filter is needed for very tiny particles like some bacteria.

Flow Rate

The flow rate indicates how much water can move through the filter in a minute. Homes with more people or larger appliances will require filters with higher flow rates, typically 5 to 20 gallons per minute.

Material Quality and Certifications

Good filters are made from safe, robust materials. Choose filters that are BPA-free and certified by groups such as NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) to ensure they are safe and effective.

Maintenance and Replacement

Filters also need to be changed out on a regular basis for them to be effective.

• Sediment and Carbon Filters: The replacement interval is every 3-12 months.
• RO Membranes: Change every couple of years.
• UV Lamps: Change once a year.

Benefits of Using Plumbing Filters

There are many benefits to installing plumbing filters. They guard against health risks and damage to appliances; they can save money in the long run.

• Better Water Quality: Filters will erase dirt, chlorine, and similar harmful substances. This creates cleaner, clearer, better tasting water from every tap.
• Protects Appliances and Plumbing: Filters block sediment and minerals from degrading appliances and causing issues in water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines. This makes appliances last longer and reduces repair expenses.
• Health Benefits: It helps in removing dangerous contaminants such as lead, bacteria and PFAS from water and keeps the family safe and healthy. Filtered water decreases the likelihood of stomach issues and long-term illnesses.
• Cost Savings: Even though filters cost money to buy and install, they save money in the long run. Homeowners spend less on bottled water, fewer repairs, and lower energy bills because appliances work more efficiently.

Installation and Maintenance

Regular maintenance and proper installation are necessary to keep plumbing filters working well.

• Whole House vs. Single Tap: Determine if the filter is for the entire home or for a single tap.
• DIY or Professional Help: Some filters, such as basic sediment filters, can be mounted by the homeowner. Anyway, the more advanced systems, such as RO or UV filters are best installed by a professional.

• Regular Checks: Examine the filter housing and seals every six months.
• Scheduled Replacements: Follow the recommended replacement frequency for each part of the filter system.

How to Choose the Right Plumbing Filter

The best filter for a particular home depends on the quality of the water and the home’s needs.

Test the Water First

Have the water tested before purchasing a filter. A water report can tell what they’re dealing with, so they can make an informed decision about the type of filter to use.

Think About the Budget

Some filters are more expensive up front but save money in the long run. A more cost-effective option to purchase and maintain is basic sediment or carbon filters. RO and UV systems provide greater protection but are costlier in terms of placements and maintenance.

Conclusion

A plumbing filter is a smart home improvement. They purify or filter water, making it cleaner, safer to drink and better tasting. Homeowners who know the different types of filters and the features to consider, can identify the ideal solution to their water issues. Good filtration is health- protective, makes appliances last longer and saves money in the long run.