Filters to Improve Kitchen Tap Water Taste
Municipal water supplies are treated to kill germs and contaminants and protect the people who consume them. However, although a home’s water supply may be safe to drink, there might be a chemical smell and taste. It may also contain minerals that harden the water, making it more difficult to do laundry and wash dishes.
A variety of home water purification systems are available to clear up those problems. A homeowner can easily install some systems, while a plumbing specialist should install others.
Here are some common home water filtration systems to consider for a better-tasting glass of water.
Carbon filters
These filters are simple and effective at removing large particles, chlorine, and pesticides from water. The water flows over granules of carbon before coming out of the tap. The carbon granules need to be changed periodically, but they are inexpensive. These filters come in a variety of forms that homeowners can safely install.
To test the effectiveness of carbon on the water, buy an inexpensive water pitcher that contains a carbon filter. Water flows over the filter and into the pitcher. If the results are satisfying, consider a carbon filter attached to the kitchen sink tap or the water supply under the sink.
Carbon filters are so good at what they do that other filtration systems often include a carbon filter as part of the setup. Once a homeowner has experienced the water being filtered through a carbon filter, they may consider additional methods to remove more contaminants from their water.
Ceramic filters
A ceramic filter is used to mechanically remove small mineral particles and some parasites from the water. The water flows into a ceramic sleeve and through tiny pores that trap these contaminants. The pores do clog, so the homeowner must clean the sleeve periodically. These filters soften the water slightly because they remove minerals from the water.
Ultraviolet light filters
Some viruses and bacteria are killed by ultraviolet (UV) light. These water filters use cylinders containing UV light tubes. Water flows through the tubes and around the UV lights, killing harmful microorganisms. A plumber must install these systems to ensure the water flow rate through the tubes is adjusted correctly. The tubes also need to be replaced periodically as they fade. Combine this system with a carbon and ceramic filter to remove more contaminants.
Copper and zinc filters
Copper and zinc work together to create a chemical reaction that removes heavy metals, minerals, chlorine, parasites, and some bacteria from water. The water is softened as the minerals and metals are removed. Homeowners must replace the copper and zinc granules as they lose effectiveness.
A complete home water filtration system using all these techniques will remove chlorine, pesticides, minerals, metals, bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Homeowners can have a safer, softer, better-tasting glass of water. Contact a local reliable plumber for more information.
Clover Valley Home Services is a licensed B2 remodeling contractor with extensive experience in providing kitchen renovations, kitchen countertops, bathroom remodeling, accessory dwelling units, and a wide range of handyman services to the residents of Greater Sacramento, Placer, & El Dorado Counties.