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What Is a Water Filtration System?

Water filtration systems connect to your water supply and work by filtering out elements and particles that include bacteria, sediment, mercury, chlorine, lead, and a variety of pollutants that can alter the taste and quality of the water you drink and utilize for day to day activities, ranging from cooking to bathing. Water that smells and tastes like chlorine is a common issue among homeowners, and this is due to the fact that chlorine is often a necessary additive to keep harmful bacteria and microbes at bay. Water with a rusty color and odor may indicate sediment build-up in your hot water heater, while a metallic taste or cloudy appearance may be due to various pollutants. In order to determine whether your water is potable and if your home or office would benefit from water filtration, it is always best to schedule a water testing appointment with a professional plumber. Once your test results are analyzed, your plumber will advise on the best water filtration system options to ensure safe, clean water in your environment.

Types of Water Filtration Systems

There are a variety of water filtration options available, from small, do-it-yourself attachments to intricate systems installed throughout your home or office, depending on your specific needs.

Tap Filters

A tap filter system is simple and easy to install, and is typically recommended for those who want to improve the taste of their tap water and eliminate common odors. Tap filters are sold at most home supply stores, and they most often feature activated charcoal filters that help to minimize odors and taste due to chlorine. These basic filters do not eliminate microorganisms that may be present, and most models require filter replacements after approximately 100 gallons of water.

Countertop/Undercounter Water Filters

A countertop or undercounter filtration system is a good choice if you require cleaner water for consumption and cooking. These intricate systems process between 400 and 1,500 gallons of water before filter replacement is needed, and they work to filter out chlorine, cysts, mercury, lead, and various contaminants to keep your water safe for consumption. In most cases, these filters are what’s referred to as Point of Use, or POU, which means they filter water from a single location, such as the kitchen or bathroom. An experienced Arlington, TX plumber can help you in determining the best location in your home or office to install the system, and you can also install more than one for versatile use.

Point of Entry/Whole House Water Filtration Systems

Whole house/point of entry systems are ideal for large homes, apartment complexes, and businesses that require clean water from every faucet and showerhead throughout your space. These systems work by filtering water prior to it entering the dwelling’s plumbing, and they help reduce sediment, chlorine, particles, and various chemicals in your water supply. This type of water filtration system can also be installed in conjunction to water softening systems, and you can also request additional ultraviolet light features that help to eliminate unhealthy microorganisms. Whole house and point of entry systems are complex, and your professional Arlington, TX plumber can assist to ensure proper installation and maintenance.

Shower Filters

Shower water filtration systems are a simple solution for those looking for cleaner water for bathing and showering. Similar to kitchen faucet filters, these filters attach to shower heads and work to filter out chlorine and chloramines, both of which can be harsh against the skin. Shower filters are easy to install in a do-it-yourself fashion, and you can also enlist a plumber to assist with installation.

Reverse Osmosis Filter Systems

Reverse osmosis systems offer multiple benefits, as they work by filtering out chlorine and harmful chemicals without eliminating beneficial minerals such as calcium and magnesium that are naturally found in water. Reverse osmosis filters reduce a wide range of chemicals and contaminants, including arsenic, fluoride, copper, radium, cysts, lead, and total dissolved solids. 

Benefits of a Water Filtration System

Water filtration systems are extremely beneficial to your overall health and well-being, especially when installed in homes and offices where hard water and chemicals may pose risks. Reducing chlorine improves the taste and smell of treated water, while eliminating sediment and harsh chemicals ensures the water you consume, cook with, and bathe with is safe and sanitary. Filtered water is considered better for health than straight tap or bottled water, and the per-liter price is considerably less than bottled water. From basic faucet attachments to intricate models that start filtering water before it enters your plumbing, water filtration systems of all types offer a wide range of positive benefits.

Getting Started

If you’re interested in improving the water quality in your home or office with a water filtration system, it’s always best to start with water testing to determine the best model for your needs. Water testing is the quickest way to measure chlorine levels and detect the chemicals, particles, and microorganisms that may be present, and a professional plumber has the appropriate tools to ensure the testing is performed correctly. Once testing is complete, your Arlington, TX plumber can recommend a suitable system and assist with installation if necessary.

For help with water testing and system installation in Arlington, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers a wide range of both residential and commercial water filtration services to ensure your water is clean and safe. All plumbers are educated and certified, and the team is available seven days a week to accommodate your schedule. Contact the Arlington office at 817-478-4119 to schedule an appointment.