Buying bottled water can become an expensive and wasteful practice. In-home water purification systems allow consumers to enjoy healthy and filtered water without the cost of purchasing bottled water and having to recycle the many leftover bottles. In-home water purification systems handle both drinking and bathing water supplies and the entire water system will be filtered and purified. Showering with filtered water is especially important for those with sensitive skin or other issues where regular tap water is less than ideal. Drinking and cooking with filtered water can reduce the amount bacteria that a family is exposed to, and thereby decreasing the likelihood of continual illness. Water purification systems can either be attached to a sink or shower head directly or at the point of supply where the water enters the home.
Everyone should conduct a water purity test in their home to check for contaminants. Even in the absence of contamination, there a lot of reasons to have a water purification system installed in the home. In addition to providing the family clean and healthy drinking water, there are the cost savings of not needing to purchase bottled water.
Water softeners do not remove or filter out contaminants. Water softeners do decrease the levels of magnesium and calcium for better health and cleanliness, but they will not reduce the level harmful bacteria and other contaminating particles.
The most troubling contaminants that are found in a municipality's drinking supply are lead, asbestos, and mercury. These three elements can be toxic at elevated levels, and while they are not typically present at very dangerous levels, they can build up in one's system.
These portable systems can be effective in removing harmful contaminants, they are not always convenient. If the pitcher needs to accommodate a large family, it may not be refilled properly and often enough to meet those needs. The filters do need replacement rather often which can be overlooked, making the pitchers ineffective.
Most water filtration systems that are professionally installed will treat all of the water that enters the home. These systems treat the water from the main water line, and then treat it prior to any water being released into the home for personal use.
There are several third-party and independent organizations that do watch over the water purification industry. The most well-known of these is NSF. This organization will evaluate any water purification system and give permission for its seal to be placed on the packaging of products that meet their standards.
There are several companies and manufacturers that do offer equipment for rental as well as for purchase. This is a good option if a home is not going to be lived in for a rather extended period of time, as the purchased equipment may not be effective in a new home.
Saline, also known as scale, can cause a build-up in pipes as well as household appliances when salt is used to soften water via a total home system. One solution is to use a salt-free water softener which will get results without the worry of any salt build-up.