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

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