Dear Respect6,
It seems that when it comes to water quality "best" is a relative term
based on your precise needs and the amount you are willing to spend.
Below I include information on three different filtration methods
ranging from least expensive to most.
1)If you aren't overly concerned about contaminants but want to filter
for taste, then a carafe-style filter may be for you. Most models run
between $20-$50. Consumer Reports gives the Ecowater 25001 and Brita
Standard 35507 models good reviews. These reviews are also referred
to by the Southern Nevada Water Authority and ConsumerSearch. I
particularly like the ConsumerSearch site because it offers a lot of
supplementary information (see link below).
The problem with carafe models is that they generally only hold about
1/2 gallon at a time so you have to refill them often. The average
filter insert lasts about 2 months (or 40 gallons). You can buy the
Brita refill filters at most grocery or discount stores in 3 packs for
about $20.00.
http://www.brita.com/202i.html
I have never seen the Ecowater model in stores but the website allows
you to search for a local dealer or order online.
http://www.ecowater.com/residential/res_products_counter.htm
2)If you are concerned about contamination from cryptosporidium cysts
and giardia, or you want more output than the carafe model can offer,
think about a faucet attachment filter. The models that consistently
get good ratings are made by Pur. The Ultimate FM-4010L model runs
about $50.00 and filters 100 gallons/filter. Replacement filters can
be purchased in hardware stores or on-line for about $25.00/filter.
http://store.yahoo.com/purstore/faucetmounted.html
3)The reverse osmosis filters offer the most protection from a wide
variety of contaminants. The Kinetico system receives the highest
ratings. The system must be installed into the plumbing at an average
cost of $1000. The filter and membrane should be changed once a year
at a cost of about $200.00. The website will help you find an
installation professional in your area.
http://www.kinetico.com/Merchant3/merchant.mv?Screen=SFNT&Store_Code=KIOS
The problem with reverse osmosis filters is that they take up a lot of
space (often the entire under the sink area) and they waste a lot of
water for the amount they purify (Southern Nevada Water Authority,
2002). The filters can also be difficult to change but, again, they
only have to be changed once a year.
All of the products listed above have been approved by the National
Sanitation Foundation, which maintains the standards for testing water
filtration products. You can find these requirements at:
Water Quality News
http://www.water-filter-news.com/filters.html
The Southern Nevada Water Authority site provides reviews from
Consumer Reports:
http://www.snwa.com/html/cr_models.html
ConsumerSearch also provides reviews as well as some information from
the E.P.A.
http://www.consumersearch.com/www/kitchen/water_filters/
The E-opinion site offers star ratings of various products.
http://www.epinions.com/hmgd-Small_Appliances-All-Water_Filters
Search Strategy:
Water Filters Reviews
Water Filters Consumer Reports
Water Filters NSF
I'd be happy to answer any other questions you might have. I hope
this is helpful.
Bottoms Up,
gitana |
