Filtering water in a home is about so much more than improved taste and clarity. A filtration system can benefit not only the household members but also appliances, plumbing, and even laundry. Water filtration makes a significant difference, especially if you transition from unfiltered hard water to filtered soft water. However, not all filtration systems work for everyone, which is why this guide breaks down how water filters benefit homes and how to find one that helps fit your needs and lifestyle.
In this article:
- Benefits of Filtered Water
- Types of Water Filters and Their Benefits
- How to Choose the Right Water Filter
- Making a Water Filter Work For You
Benefits of Filtered Water
- Reduces Contaminants and Chemicals
One of the biggest benefits of filtered water, regardless of the type you use, is that it helps reduce contaminants, impurities, and chemicals. Some of the harmful contaminants neutralized by filtration include heavy metals, bacteria, pathogens, pesticides, dissolved solids, and even viruses. Commonly removed chemicals include total dissolved solids (TDS), chlorine, fluoride, nitrates and nitrites, arsenic and lead.
- Helps Improve Taste and Odor
Because whole home water filtration systems reduce most contaminants, they can significantly enhance the odor and taste of water. For example, contaminants like chlorine can alter the flavor of your water. Also, if your tap water tastes sweet, it likely has a high calcium and/or magnesium concentration. Filtered or softened water can provide a clean, crisp taste since these contaminants are neutralized.
- Enhances Hydration and Wellness
When your water tastes better, you’re more likely to drink it. That naturally leads to better hydration. Plus, fewer contaminants in your water can help lead to improved overall health. Cleaner water helps support digestion, skin health, kidney function, boosts your immune system, and helps reduce your risk of illness from contaminants like lead.
- Reduces Plastic Waste and Cost
Filtering your home’s water positively impacts your carbon footprint and your wallet. It helps reduce the amount of single-use plastic water bottles purchased annually. People who rely on single-use plastic water bottles consume an average of 156 per year. Switching to reusable bottles and filtered water helps eliminate this waste.
- Reduces Appliance Maintenance Costs
Water filtration helps reduce sediments and minerals that can damage appliances. Hard water can cause buildup in the lines or corrode the inside of your appliances. By helping remove these damaging elements, you’ll reduce appliance maintenance costs and extend their lifespan.
- Cleaner Dishes and Laundry
When your laundry and dishwasher detergent aren’t competing with water contaminants or minerals, they’re more effective. With filtered water, your belongings can emerge cleaner with less residue, soap scum, or potential damage caused by unfiltered water.
Types of Water Filters and Their Benefits
- Point-of-Use Filters: These include pitchers or faucet add-ons. Designed for single access points, they filter water directly where it’s dispensed rather than treating the entire home’s water supply.
- Whole-Home Filters: These filters connect directly to your home’s main water supply, ensuring that every faucet and appliance dispense purified water. Whole-home filters include varieties like carbon filters, softeners, conditioners, UV filters, and activated carbon filters.
How to Choose the Right Water Filter
Assess Your Water Quality
If you’re curious about the quality of your water, DIY testing kits are available. These kits can detect water hardness, lead, pH, and bacteria. However, if you want a more thorough examination with additional contaminant screening, it’s best to reach out to trained professionals like our water experts Leaf Home for a free water test. Our experts can identify a broader range of pollutants and provide solutions tailored to your water needs and budget.
Match a Filter to Your Needs
Although various water filters exist, they don’t all perform equally. Some filter water at the source, while others function like individual outlets. Pitcher filters offer the most budget-friendly solution, but you’ll have to replace the filters far more frequently than with a whole house system. Meanwhile, a whole-home filtration system costs more upfront but saves money over time with less frequent filter replacements.
Making a Water Filter Work For You
There are many benefits to filtering your water. It can help safeguard your health, prolong the life of your plumbing and appliances, enhance clothing longevity, and eliminate the need for single-use plastic water bottles.
Contact our water experts at Leaf Home to help you find the right option for your family.
