Water Filters
Water Distillers
Pros
- removes most inorganic contaminants such as lead
- kills any pathogens because it boils water, turning it into vapor
- the steam is then recondensed into water
Cons
- unfortunately, it does not remove benzene and other volatile chemicals
- also processes slowly and uses lots of electricity
- prices start at more than $100
Activated Carbon Filters
Pros
- filters (system attached to pipes under the sink) and carafes (countertop system, eg Brita Water Filter System)
- filters are larger versions of the carafes
- they use filters made of carbon in solid carbon form
- both remove lead and reduce chlorine & sediment
- convenient to use and the filters are easy to install
- price ranges from $5 for some countertop versions to $200 for larger filters
Cons
- countertop versions can take up to 20 minutes to purify a gallon of water; must replace cartridges every 3+ months.
Reverse-Osmosis System
Pros
- filters by forcing pressurized water across semi-permeable membranes
- lead, arsenic, and some pathogens are flushed out
Cons
- removes contaminants along with 50-90% of the water (wastes water)
- requires professional installation
- models start at $750 (expensive)
References:
- 1995, July. Lead in Water: Pipe Nightmares? Consumer Reports: p 463.
- Gorman, C. 1996, June 10. Do Water Filters Work? Time: p 70.
Compiled by Stephanie Price and Elena Tilli../Picture of faucet by David Seydel