You’ve done your best to make sure there is no lead in the water that comes into your home. You’ve had it tested. You’ve made sure there is no lead in the solder and pipe fittings in your home. There are no brass valves or fixtures that could contain lead.
But if you want an extra degree of safety, you can install a water filter. A water filtration system will not only remove lead, but also other types of contaminants.
In our most recent blog, the plumbers at Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric discuss the different types of filtration methods to remove lead and the benefits of having a system installed in your home.
Ensure Your Filtration System Is Certified by NSF
First, make sure the filter you get is certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). That certification should be on the label.
The NSF International certification ensures that a water filtration system has been tested for safety and it can remove special contaminants including lead and won’t leach contaminants into your drinking water supply, according to the NSF. This certification is the best way to know that the water filter you choose for your home is safe for your family and pets.
Different Types of Water Filtration Methods to Remove Lead
Here is how different water filtration methods work to remove lead from your drinking water supply.
Carbon Filtration
Activated carbon filtration absorbs heavy metals including lead, among others. These require filter cartridges that need replacement every six to 12 months. These systems also improve the taste, take up a small amount of space, and are very inexpensive, making them the most widely used method. The lead-removing capabilities of the filters also erode over time.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis systems use carbon block filters and a semi-permeable membrane that pushes water through under pressure. Filters need to be changed every six to 12 months and have several different filter cartridges. These systems are more expensive and can also waste water. For every gallon of water that is filtered, two to four gallons go down the drain. They also take up more space because they come with a storage tank. Reverse osmosis systems, however, provide a very high level of filtration.
Distillation
Distillation provides very pure water but is the most expensive method to remove lead. This method also uses a lot of electricity and takes time to process.
Faucet Mount Units
Faucet mount units are installed right over the faucets and remove lead and chlorine, in addition to other substances. They do not require electricity. The filter cartridges would need to be replaced frequently. While they are inexpensive, they are low-quality filters.
Benefits of Installing a Water Filtration System
Aside from protecting your drinking water supply from the threat of lead, installing a water filtration system in your home can offer many other benefits, including:
Cleaner, Healthier Drinking Water
While most municipal water utility companies do a great job of filtering out lead and other harmful contaminants, a water filtration system can ensure no toxic chemicals sneak through. Water filtration systems can filter out 99.9% of chemicals in your home’s water supply. Some of the harmful matter that can be found in tap water include lead, chlorine, chloramines, and volatile organic compounds. Consumption of these can cause health issues.
Healthier Skin and Hair
Water free of chemicals is healthier for your skin and hair when you bathe. Chemicals can cause your hair to become brittle and cause your skin to dry out. Absorbing or inhaling chlorine can also negatively impact your lungs and exasperate asthma conditions.
Savings
It’s estimated that the average family of four spends about $400 a year on water bottles. This is harmful to the environment and your pocketbook. Ditch the water bottles, and switch to a whole house water filtration system for savings.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing for Water Filtration Systems
Ensure you have safe water for your family to consume by installing a water filtration system in your home. The plumbers at Ravinia Plumbing would be happy to discuss the various types of water filters and what one might be best for your home and family. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
