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Close up of man filling a glass with clean water from the kitchen faucet.

Home Water Purification Systems: Different Types and How They Work

Clean water is a must. However, the water flowing from our faucets isn’t always as pure as we would like. This is how water purification systems can help.

Types of Home Water Purification Systems

There are several types of home water purification systems, including carbon filters. If you're a coffee enthusiast, for instance, a carbon filter can make a huge difference in the taste of your brew by removing chlorine and other impurities that affect flavor.

Reverse osmosis systems, on the other hand, offer an advanced solution for removing a wide range of impurities, including dissolved salts and minerals. Imagine you live in an older home with lead pipes. A reverse osmosis system would be an excellent choice because it can effectively remove lead to ensure your family's drinking water is safe. Lead can have a significantly negative impact on health, as it has been known to cause cognitive and neurological problems.

Another effective method is UV purification. This uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses, which can reduce how often you and your family get sick.

If you have well water with a high iron content, an ion exchange system can remove the iron to prevent rust stains in your sinks and tubs. It will also improve the taste of your water.

How Home Water Purification Systems Work

Each system operates in its unique way to deliver cleaner water. Carbon filters use activated carbon, which acts like a sponge to trap impurities as water flows through it. Reverse osmosis systems force water through a membrane with microscopic pores, allowing only water molecules to pass while leaving contaminants behind. UV purification systems expose water to ultraviolet light to neutralize harmful microorganisms and make the water safe to consume. Meanwhile, ion exchange systems use specially designed beads that attract unwanted minerals and replace them with sodium ions to create softer water that’s easier on your appliances, skin, and hair.

Benefits of Using Home Water Purification Systems

The benefits of home water purification systems aren’t only about taste. For one, having clean water in your home promotes better health by reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses and improving the condition of your skin and hair. Purified water can also save you money over time. When you no longer rely on bottled water, the cost savings can add up quickly. Additionally, purified water reduces mineral buildup in appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, to help them last longer and be more energy efficient. On top of these personal benefits, using a purification system also has a positive impact on the environment by cutting down on the use of single-use plastic bottles.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a System

Choosing the right water purification system for your home may seem challenging, but it becomes easier once you know what to look for. The first step is to understand what’s in your water. A professional water test can identify contaminants. Another important consideration is the amount of maintenance each system requires. Some systems, such as carbon filters, need frequent replacements, while others, such as reverse osmosis, require periodic cleaning to maintain peak performance.

Installation and Maintenance of Home Water Purification Systems

Installing a home water purification system can seem daunting, but many models are designed to be user-friendly. With clear instructions and patience, you can install the system yourself. For more complex setups, professional installation is often the best option.

Our team at Robert Bair is here to help you find the perfect system for your needs and guide you through installation and maintenance. Contact us so we can help!