How to Choose a Water Filter

In this video, Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey explains the many options available for filtering drinking water.

Steps:

1. The simplest way to filter tap water is with a pitcher-style water filter, which has a granulated carbon filter that improves taste and odor, and removes some chlorine and sediment.

2. Faucet-mounted filters have a switch that diverts tap water through a granulated carbon filter. Turn on the switch for filtered drinking water; flip it off when washing dishes.

3. For greater water filtration convenience and capacity, install an under-sink, dual-filter system that has its own gooseneck faucet.

4. For optimum point-of-use filtration, consider a reverse-osmosis system. Water passes through a series of three filters, resulting in extremely clean, pure drinking water.

5. Whole-house water filters are installed near the water main and are ideal for delivering clean, filtered water to every faucet throughout the entire house.

6. There are a variety of filters available to remove a wide range of impurities.

7. Sediment filters contain a stainless-steel pre-screen filter and back-flush system that automatically cleans the filter.

8. For the highest level of water filtration, first have your tap water tested, then call in a water-treatment specialist to install a whole-house filtration system designed specifically to treat your water.

Learn more about the cost of an RO water filtration system.