How to choose a good water filter

Did you know that, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 80% of disease cases worldwide result from drinking contaminated water with over 25 different types of illnesses?

Patrícia Uebe Mansur, managing partner of Cibus Food and Environmental Consulting and sanitary veterinarian, explains that even with the advancement in water treatment by supply networks, which ensure the quality of the liquid to the point of entry of the houses, there are cases of piping old, leaks that contribute to the accumulation of dirt and the aggravating lack of cleanliness in the water tanks.

"Given this situation, filters are an affordable and safe option to obtain drinking water, that is, able to be consumed without causing damage to health and, consequently, well-being for the whole family", highlights the professional Patricia.


Top 5 Types of Filters

Patricia Mansur explains that currently there are several types of filters that treat water? some even at a very low cost. ? Options include clay, plastic or porcelain filter; purifiers; ozonizers; pressure filters installed on tap or wall and central filter ?, he says.

Below, the professional talks about the characteristics of the main types of filters:

1. Clay filter


Made of clay or ceramic, the filters work by gravity, with water passing from one container to another. "Its filter element is a ceramic candle with activated carbon and silver nitrate that holds up to 99% of impurities," says Patricia Mansur. Another plus point of the clay filter is the price, which is affordable.

The disadvantage, according to Patricia, is that some elements do not completely eliminate bacteria. It is very important to check the appliances every week. Many people often wash their candles with sugar or salt, but this is wrong. The right thing is to change it whenever it is dirty so that it does not contaminate the water ?, highlights.

2. Purifier


The purifying appliances work on the tap or the plumbing. They have a pump capable of giving pressure to the water and which, combined with other filter elements, bar small particles and other granules, as explained by Patricia Mansur.

They have long durability and remove excess chlorine from the water. Some more modern even kill bacteria ?, highlights the professional.

The negative point of this type of filter, according to Patricia, is the price, which can reach triple the value of a common filter (or even more).

• Who has the house supplied by artesian wells should bet on purifiers? This is because there is no prior control of water. It is also worth investing in the device if you notice a strong smell of chlorine in the liquid you receive at home ?, explains Patricia.

3. Ionizer

Ozonizers, as Patricia Mansur explains, purify water with ozone gas, and this is a great method. But, it is worth noting, it takes a contact time: let the gas bubbling in the water for 10 to 15 minutes.

"The water flow through the ozonizers is very fast, so it can be said that they fail the exposure time," adds the professional.

4. Pressure filter / tap

This type of water filter is usually a simpler product and is installed on the tap or wall. It is more affordable when compared to water purifiers.

Patricia Mansur explains that filtration has to occur naturally. "When the register opens, the water pressure ends up pushing the dirt forward, which eventually end up passing and contaminating the water," he points out.

5. Center filter

Patricia Mansur explains that this filter has the function of filtering all the water in the house. "It should be installed after the water meter (water clock) or before the water tank," he says.

Among the benefits, according to Patricia, are: keep the box d? clean water, protect the machines (household equipment that use water), do not let clog the shower, among others.

What to consider when choosing the water filter?

But after all, among so many options, how to choose a good filter?

Patricia points out that there is no consensus on which of the products is the most efficient filtering. "The best type of filter is one that not only filters out dirt but also purifies water," he says.

? Clay filters do not have all the technology of modern appliances, but they do their job well: simple and inexpensive, they perform an excellent process of removing impurities. Do they filter water by gravity and at the same time keep it cool ?, comments Patricia.

Already the purifiers have higher value, but are good options for people who have the house stocked by artesian wells? This is because, in this case, there is no prior control of water. "It is also worth investing in the device if you notice a strong smell of chlorine in the liquid you receive at home," recalls Patricia.

Patricia Mansur points out that at the time of purchase, the best way to ensure a good device is to opt for one that has the seal of the National Institute of Metrology, Standardization and Industrial Quality (Inmetro). ? This certificate ensures that the product meets the quality and safety standards required for its marketing ?, highlights.

Besides choosing a good filter, it is essential to clean the water tank every six months, as well as to take care of the maintenance of the pipes. For this, the entire hydraulic system can be sanitized with bleach ?, concludes the professional.

Where to buy water filter?

In the gallery below you can see some water filter options for sale:

Latina Refrigeration Purifier for R $ 866.90 at Leroy Merlin

Avanti Purifier for R $ 119,90 at Leroy Merlin

Acqua Bella Cromado Lorenzetti Faucet Strainer for $ 34.95 at Walmart

Ricozon Arujá Titaniun Water Purifier and Ozonator for US $ 99.99 on Americanas

Central Filter Pirafiltro for R $ 899,90 at Sos da Piscina

Deca Pressure Filter for R $ 604,90 at Leroy Merlin

Forusi Pressure Filter for R $ 79,90 at Leroy Merlin

Lorenzetti Faucet Filter for $ 40.00 at Walmart

Ceramic Filter (Clay) 11 Liters for R $ 123,50 on Aparecida Electro Parts

Care of the gallons of mineral water

It is noteworthy that those who prefer to dispense the filter and use gallons of mineral water should pay attention to the cleaning of the container and the drinker (where it is placed). ? The bottle needs to be transparent and can not come wrapped in plastic film ?, highlights Patricia Mansur.

Hand and nozzle cleaning prior to change is essential. • One to two tablespoons of bleach to one liter of water is recommended and disinfect the nozzle and water cooler by wiping the solution on the spot with an absorbent paper. Then just rinse ?, ends Patricia.

You now have important information for choosing a good filter, and you also know that both filters and gallons of water require cleaning care.

How to Choose a Water Filter | Ask This Old House (May 2024)


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