How Much Should You Pay For a Drinking Water Filter System?
Shopping for a drinking water filter system can be a real headache. When you see prices for the basic water filters which range from just over $20 all the way up to and over $400, you wonder what can explain this huge variation. Take a minute and read the information we have here. At least it will help you get started.
The quality of the water in your area will determine the type of drinking water filter you need. For example, a drinking water filter using the reverse osmosis principle tends to be more expensive, but performs functions that are not needed by many of us.
When your water supply comes from a public utility company, the liquid that comes from your tap has already been treated in several different ways. Often reverse osmosis is one of the processes used. Regardless of what the advertisers say, RO is not the complete answer.
Chlorine is used by many public utility companies to deal with algae and bacteria which can otherwise cause problems in the distribution network. Some companies use ultra violet disinfection at the processing plant, but this will not inhibit the growth of bacteria in the water pipe in the road outside your house. The main reason why people choose to buy a drinking water filter are to escape the taste and smell of chlorine every time they turn on the tap.
All water filters remove chlorine. Many have underwriter’s laboratory or some other independent certification and yet there is a four hundred dollar price range. Why?
As mentioned above the reverse osmosis method is costly and so it is no surprise that these are the $400 models. Also in the $400 bracket are filter systems available at local retailers who rely on a substantial markup over the wholesale price to cover their overhead expenses. At the bottom end come filters that screw on to the tap or pitchers, both of which are less efficient and need constant replacement.
I believe that to get the best value for your money you need spend no more than $125 for a countertop drinking water filter system. Buy direct from the factory and you will receive a filter that removes the chlorine while retaining the essential minerals in the water.
Hugh Harris-Evans is a writer who researches water purification issues. You may be surprised by his views on botttled mineral water.