If you are wondering “how do I know what’s in my water?” and want to make sure you are keeping the water in your home clean on a regular basis, this guide can help. Here are common water filter mistakes and how to avoid them.
Water Filter Mistakes
You’ve decided to get a water filter. Great! Tap water can have some scary stuff in it. Filtered water is healthier and tastes better. For such a crucial element of life and health, it is surprisingly common that people have not considered their water source.
If you have never purchased a good water filter, you might not know what to look for. Use the following tips to avoid common mistakes.
1. Not Evaluating Your Water
Before buying a filtration system, do not forget to do a little homework on your water first. Get a water sample tested if possible. Often your county government or a local university can help you test your water.
Even more simply, take a look at the available information about water quality in your area. Many rural areas have high nitrates, for example. Some areas may have high lead content. Knowing what contaminants you’re dealing with will help you purchase an effective filter.
2. Buying Too Much… or Too Little
As you evaluate your water, make sure to apply what you find to the type of filter you need. If you’re in the market for a quality filter, you know that the pitcher filters likely won’t get the job done. You need to spend more than that.
You also don’t need to assume you need the absolute biggest, most expensive water filter system around. That’s probably not true. A good filter or water softener will cost in the $1,000 range. Take a look at some specific water softener prices before you buy.
3. Buying Bottled Water
Whatever system you get will be better than buying bottled water. If you’re doing this to get “good” water you should stop immediately. Not only is it more expensive and produce more trash, but there’s a very good chance your bottled water is not different than tap water.
The bottled water industry is about the convenience of a bottle you can throw away. The water content is not regulated well, and so you can never be sure of what you’re actually drinking. Don’t make this mistake; take the plunge and buy a good filtering system.
4. Buying from a Big-Box Store
Make sure that you talk to professionals who know about water quality issues and water filters. It’s worth it to make sure you’re getting the right product. Just going to your local big-box store won’t give you any assurance you’re getting the right product.
Water filter professionals can let you know about options such as a no-salt softener or whole-home filter. They know exactly what options and installation process will work for you.
Getting a water filter can be about the best thing you can do for the health of your household. Don’t make the above water filter mistakes as you shop. Do your homework and let the professionals give you some guidance. You’ll be glad you did!
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