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Finding the Right Filter Filters can be configured in many ways, and they have varying types of mechanical and chemical reduction capabilities. Although some are designed to filter water for the whole house, a majority of the systems on the market today are designed to treat water coming from a single faucet. Some filters must be filled manually, such as a pitcher, while others, such as faucet filters and under-sink systems, are attached directly to the plumbing. Some filters aim to produce clearer, better-tasting water, while others work to remove contaminants that could affect your health. Many filters use more than one kind of filtration technology. Depending on the design and filter media used in the unit, filters are able to reduce many types of contaminants, including chlorine, chlorination by-products, lead, viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It's pretty easy for a generic filter to catch large contaminants such as dirt particles and bacteria. Viruses are smaller in size and require smaller holed filters. Pesticides and herbicides are the smallest among prominent contaminants, requiring filters that can catch impurities at the submicron level. e approximate size of bacteria is about 0.5 microns, whereas a pesticide chemical is only 0.001 microns. is means it's imperative that whichever filter you choose, it can handle toxins at the submicron level. Otherwise, contaminants will just pass through. It's important that whichever filter you choose, you maintain it well to assure it continues to perform. As contaminants build up, a filter will become less effective, and it can then start to release harmful bacteria or chemicals back into your filtered water. To keep your filter working properly, follow the manufacturer's maintenance directions. Some filters require only a cartridge change, while others are better maintained by a certified professional. Many filter distributors offer maintenance and service contracts for their products. Before buying any water treatment system, compare not only filter prices, but also operating and maintenance costs for the different units. Given your particular situation, you may need to install or use more than one type of filter to cover the contaminants in your water supply. For example, if you have a problem with bacteria and hard water, you can opt for a UV system and a water soener. If arsenic and chlorination by-products are present, you could treat your water with a combination of reverse osmosis and carbon filtration. Don't forget to consider filtration units for shower heads as well. You can find these at your health food store. is will help reduce your exposure to contaminants in the water that can vaporize in the hot, steamy air that you then breathe into your lungs or absorb through your skin. Your skin is your largest organ, and it can also be a welcome mat for toxins that get readily absorbed. Abby's Magazine - Volume 4 Issue 1 | Page 39