Having a water filtration system in your home or office is an important way to ensure the quality of the water you and your family or employees use and consume. With more pollutants going into the water every day, water quality is becoming more of an issue when it comes to the health and wellness of your family or coworkers.
On Time Experts has been serving the Greater Dallas area for more than five decades. As a leading plumbing company, we understand the importance of good quality, safe, and drinkable fresh water throughout the home and work environment.
So, what are the two most common types of water filtration systems? There are a variety of different types of water filtration systems available on the market, but two of the most common are activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters.
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters are typically used in whole-house filtration systems or under-sink systems. These filters work by using a process called adsorption, which is when molecules of contaminants are attracted to and adhere to the surface of the activated carbon filter. This helps to remove contaminants from the water, making it safer and purer.
Activated carbon filters are the type usually found in just about every department store water-pitcher filter. The carbon filters remove organic contaminants, lead, chlorination byproducts, copper, and some pesticides as well. They reduce the chlorine taste and odor that come from the municipal water treatment facility.
Reverse Osmosis Filters
Reverse osmosis filters are also common in many filtration systems. These filters work by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, which helps to remove contaminants from the liquid. This type of filter is often used in conjunction with another type of filter, such as an activated carbon filter, to provide even more protection from contaminants.
The reverse osmosis process has proven to be very popular among filtration systems because these types of filters remove a large amount of water impurities. This includes some pretty dangerous substances like hexavalent chromium and asbestos. Additionally, reverse osmosis filters work to trap water-soluble toxins like bacteria, pyrogens, heavy metals, and certain organics.
The Importance of Choosing a Good Water Filtration System
When it comes to choosing a water filtration system for your home or office, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your family or business. Do you use a lot of water on a daily basis? Is the water used only for drinking, or does it serve any other purpose?
Clean water is imperative, and not only can toxins make you sick, but they can also cause long-term health problems. Installing a reliable water filtration system is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from these harmful contaminants. If you’re not sure which type of water filtration system is right for you, our team of experts at On Time Experts can help. We offer a variety of different types of filtration systems and can assist you in choosing the one that best meets your needs.
Pros and Cons of Activated Carbon Filters Versus Reverse Osmosis Filters
There are a number of differences between activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters. Obviously, both of these filtration systems clean water, but as you consider which is right for you and your family, keep the following pros and cons in mind.
Activated Carbon Filter Pros
- Attracts and removes contaminants from water
- Can be used in whole-house systems or under-sink systems
- Typically less expensive than reverse osmosis filters
Activated Carbon Filter Cons
- Does not remove all contaminants from water
- Needs to be replaced more often than reverse osmosis filters
Reverse Osmosis Filter Pros
- Forces water through a semipermeable membrane, which removes contaminants
- Can be used in conjunction with another type of filter for even more protection
Reverse Osmosis Filter Cons
- More expensive than activated carbon filters
- Can be less effective if not used in conjunction with another type of filter
No matter which type of water filtration system you choose, the most important thing is that you are taking the right steps toward protecting yourself and your family from any harmful contaminants found in typical running water.
Not All Water Filtration Systems Are Equal
There are a number of different approaches when it comes to filtering water. The most popular systems include activated carbon and reverse osmosis, which are not the same as filtration systems that include UV filters and mixed media. That said, many systems tend to pull together a combination of filtration methods for the best possible outcome.
When it comes down to it, the system that you choose for your home or office depends on the general water quality of your region, the municipal water treatment facility involved, and the infrastructure in your town or community. To help navigate all of your choices when it comes to water filtration, it’s best to contact a specialist.
The Importance of Maintaining Your Water Filtration System
Regardless of which type of water filtration system you choose, it is important to regularly maintain your system to ensure it’s functioning properly. Scheduling a regular maintenance service call about once every year is recommended. When a water filtration system service person inspects the system, they will look for any potential problems and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
If you have a whole-house water filtration system, the service person will also check to make sure that the system is properly sized for your home and that it is operating at maximum efficiency. They may also recommend replacing the filters if these are more than half clogged.
It’s also important to be aware of any changes in your water quality, such as a change in taste or odor. These changes could indicate that the filters need to be replaced sooner than scheduled. If you have any concerns about your water filtration system, be sure to contact a professional right away.
For reverse osmosis filters, it’s also essential to regularly check the storage tank for any leaks. If you notice a leak, contact a professional immediately because this could indicate that the system is not operating properly.
Regularly changing or cleaning filters and making sure there are no blockages in the system will ensure that the water filtration system will continue running smoothly and reliably. Expect to change water filters every three to six months to prevent any bacteria or contaminants from building up and potentially causing health problems.
Local Experts You Can Rely On
Our highly trained team at On Time Experts provides outstanding water treatment to customers throughout Dallas and the surrounding areas, but that’s not all we do. We also offer a complete line of plumbing services, including installations, repairs, drain cleaning, and water heater maintenance. There’s no need to look further than us for your HVAC services either. Our technicians perform heating, cooling, and indoor air quality equipment installation, repair, and maintenance.
Water quality is one of the most important considerations you may have when it comes to your family’s well-being. To learn more about our water quality services or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, give us a call today.