Benefits of a Home Water Filtration System

People like to make sure that the water they use, whether from a well or municipal system, is safe for their family. It is natural for contaminants to be present in water and granting that their water is free of contaminants; high mineral content can cause it to have an unpleasant taste or make the washing machine and dishwasher less efficient. To address these issues, it would be best to filter household water at the point where it will be used. Here are a number of benefits people can get from a water filtration system.

Consume safe drinking water 24/7.

Drinking water that is not safe can have its dire consequences. Heavy metals and other pollutants that are present in water can give it an unpleasant taste and even worse, cause serious health problems. The majority of US municipal water systems are efficient in treating their water however; there is always the possibility of system failures so people need to take precautionary measures. It would be smart for them to invest in a home water filtration system so they will have safe, filtered water to use and consume.

Save money.

Buying bottled water for a family to be used at home every single day can cost a considerable amount. An average family drinks 2 to 3 bottles a day so their expenses on bottled water alone can cost more than $400. The money spent can be recovered in a timely manner after they have water filtters installed in their home. Bottled water has other drawbacks as well. So help preserve our environment.

More people are more aware of the harm done by the heavy use of plastic to the environment and plastic bottles contribute a lot to the plastic waste stream. Even though many individuals are conscientious about the proper disposal of these plastic bottles, these used bottles are not guaranteed to be recycled. Somehow, removing plastic bottles from their home’s waste stream can contribute to addressing this problem.

Minimize possible plumbing issues.

Chemicals, heavy metals and minerals present in household water can corrode and even damage pipes as well as water-using appliances. To prolong the lifespan of pipes, heaters and other home appliances homeowners need to get rid of these potentially damaging factors at the very source.

Prevent skin irritation.

Individuals that have sensitive skin or skin irritations and health conditions like psoriasis and eczema, are likely to be affected even more by being exposed to chemicals in water like chlorine. To alleviate these problems, it is best to install a water filtration system in their home. Even if there is no one in the household who suffers from such conditions, it is always an advantage to have pure, clean water to drink and use.

Save on soap and use cleaner clothes.

Water with high mineral content can make bath and laundry soap less effective since it takes time to form lather. Installing a water filtration system will let water-using appliances like the dishwasher and washing machine to operate more efficiently. As a result, dishes and clothes will become cleaner and there will be no mineral deposits that will accumulate in their appliances.

Top Reasons Why a Water Filtration System Is a Worthwhile Investment

Tap Water is Dirty

Even if people in charge do their best to filter municipal supplies, tap water remains to be unclean. Firstly, it goes through never ending pipelines, meaning, it picks up lots of nasty things along the way including pesticides and industrial wastes, among other contaminants.

Tap Water is Harmful to Health

Tap water, which is used in drinking and bathing, can be harmful to health. Municipal supplies contain chlorine (about 98% of water systems has chlorine). This is a chemical that helps disinfect it, though it also causes harmful side effects.

A less harmful effect caused by chlorinated water is dry skin however different studies reveal that chlorine has been the culprit behind the rise of breast and bladder cancer, to name a few.

Bottled Water Sucks

Prepackaged bottled water has a 4,000% markup, making it more expensive than gasoline. In addition, whenever bottled water is produced, five bottles of water are wasted, allowing it to also be an environmental disaster.

This can probably be acceptable if there is a guarantee that bottled water is purer and cleaner than tap alternative but this is not quite true. Bottled water, 25% to 40% of it, also comes from municipal supplies.

In the way the industry is being regulated, with its low standards, there is no way to know the amount of water that is really filtered.

A Water Filtration System Offers Convenience, Safety and Cost Savings

The companies that produce bottled water claim that this is safe and convenient to drink everyday. Most people are now aware that this is not true. Luckily, water filtration systems, which are readily available, provide a solution to the long-time problem of having access to clean water. These systems address all of the above mentioned issues.

Cost

Instead of being short changed by a 4,000% markup, people can now enjoy a continuous supply of clean and safe water using a brand new filtration system. They only have to make a primary investment of some hundred dollars plus system maintenance but it is all worth it due to the long-term guarantee as well as the thousands of dollars a year saved from buying bottled water.

Taste

Chlorinated water comes with an unpleasant rate. Water filters can eliminate the chlorine and other contaminants plus it gives a natural water taste. Those who drink water with too much chlorine will know the difference.

Safety

Water filter systems get rid of the chemicals and THMs among other carcinogens, in tap water that are potential risks to a person’s health. Aside from getting clean water to drink, this will also benefit the skin and hair when taking a bath.

Convenience

The moment the system is installed, homeowners can relax. Whenever they open the faucet, they will get the clean water they want. This is certainly more practical than running to the store to buy bottled when they run out of supply.

Benefits of Using Water Filters

Remove the Chlorine from Water

Chlorine is often used to get rid of bacteria in swimming pools as well as tap water. It is added to water so this will not pick up bacteria as it flows through the pipes and into the household. However, Chlorine can be detrimental to health even in smaller quantities. Also, it has been linked to cancer so it is best to prevent its intake.

Maintain Water Quality

When water is filtered, the contaminants in it will be removed. When water is no longer fresh to drink and use, this is probably due to contaminants that are decaying. A water filter can eliminate the substances that can decay or rot over a period of time.

Tastier Drink and Food

Using filtered water for cooking can really create tastier food since the natural taste is preserved even more. The contaminants and bacteria present in unfiltered water can change the taste of food. Filtering water will alter its peculiar taste, which is caused by the chemicals present in it.

Various Techniques Used by a Water Filter

Activated Carbon Filters or Carbon Filters/Pre/filters

This technique makes use of small carbon pieces that are exceptionally porous. The carbon attracts and removes big particles such as sediments and silt from water. The contaminants that are removed by the filter depend on their size, which ranges from 50 microns – 0.5 microns, and efficiency of the filter.The filter can remove smaller contaminants much better since it has the ability to catch both small and large particles.

Active carbon effectively removes chlorine as well as other chemicals that gives water an odd taste. However, it is important to bear in mind that carbon filters do not purify water. The following are substances they cannot filter:

Bacteria

Dissolved solids like metals, minerals and salts

Inorganic contaminants like asbestos, arsenic and lead

Reverse Osmosis or RO and UV Filters

At first, RO was created to separate salt from seawater however, RO is now considered as one of the most effective methods to eliminate several contaminants since water goes through 3 stages before it flows out of the tap.

In the first stage, water goes through a pre-filter, which like a carbon filter, captures larger particles including silt and sediments. Thereafter, pressure is used to force water into the RO membrane, which is known as the heart of the system. This semipermeable membrane aims to get rid of a wide range of contaminants. The moment water moves past the membrane, it goes through one last filter that removes the odor and taste of water to provide clean, odorless and tasteless water.

In addition, an RO filter has the ability to eliminate bacteria, fluoride, heavy metals, microfibers, microplastics and pesticides, among other pollutants.

Water Softener Filter/Attachment

This system aims to reduce if not remove calcium and magnesium from water by replacing it with sodium. While water softeners Princeton are not able to get rid of chemical contaminants on their own, they can be very advantageous when working with other water filtration systems.

A lot of whole house water systems and RO filters include a water softener simply because water softening will protect both systems as well as prolong their lives. It is advisable to have a water softener attachment since hard water can cause damage to filters after using it for a long time. This is since there are a lot more calcium and magnesium in hard water, which forms limescale after some time.

If you’re interested in finding experienced water treatment Princeton specialists, get in touch with us today and let us know what you neeed!

What you should know about living in a home with a well

It is a dream come true for most families to get away from the busy city life. However, if they plan to transfer to the countryside or have already purchased a house in the rural area, they could face a number of surprises.One of the major differences between living in a city and country is the source of water. Most rural homes get their water from a private well instead of being supplied and treated by a municipality. There is a difference in the look, smell and taste of well water as compared to that of a city home. In addition, it may affect bathing, laundry and housecleaning in an unpleasant way.

In the US, more than 15 million homes make use of well water, which is safe to utilize and drink, in general. Nevertheless, there are a number of things people need to know when owning a home that has a private well so that they can minimize health risks and at the same time ensure that their family is supplied with quality water that makes life easier and more enjoyable.
Those who own a home that comes with a private well are responsible for the quality and safety of their water. More often than not, well water requires softening and filtering to enable it for consuming, cooking and cleaning. These are many other things they need to know about drinking water Peoria.

Well Water Comes Directly from the Ground

Water from the well is untreated groundwater. Drillers of wells drill deep down to the aquifer, a permeable rock layer underneath the ground that contains water. They install a pump system to bring water up from the ground then into the home. It is not that difficult to look for potable groundwater. However, ground water is rain water that moves through the soil into an aquifer so it can carry other substances along the way. Well water is not merely water.

Well Water is Hard Most of the Time

Water is a great solvent so groundwater can dissolve organic matter like the minerals present in the soil and rocks underneath the surface of the earth. Calcium and magnesium are minerals that make well water hard.

Homes that have a private well will most likely need a water softener except if the area where it is located has only a few minerals. Those who plan to build a home in the countryside that does not have access to municipal water should have a softening system installed. In case they buy a home that has already been there, chances are it may have a water softener. They should remember to update the equipment to treat well water more effectively.

There May be Contaminants in Well Water

The problem with well water that people complain about concerns the way it looks and tastes however there can be other serious issues. Groundwater in private wells are not as exposed to pollution like surface water but it can possibly be contaminated. Contaminants that occur naturally like arsenic, radon and uranium are dissolved in groundwater as it flows through rock and soil. Such chemicals are present at various levels in different US regions. An expert in well water Peoria can explain the risks that are specific to that area.

A Comparison Between Water Filters, Purifiers and Softeners

Most consumers cannot tell between a filter and a purifier for water, as well as make a distinction between a filter, purifier and a softener. There are industries that use the terms interchangeably by mistake, and think that all of them make use of one and the same process.

Consumers who are in search for cleaner drinking water without impurities – such as lead and chlorine that the filters remove – would be glad to learn that a softener would not be able to meet their needs. Such products are created for a totally different purpose, like for instance, removing minerals from the water to prevent scale build up. In the same way, consumers who are seeking for a way to remove disease causing viruses from the water would benefit from a purification method.

As you read on, you will be able to look into the advantages offered by a filter as opposed to a water softener. You may discover that in treating your water, you may need one, two or all three options.

What does your water contain that you want to remove?

When it comes to comparing filters, purifiers and softeners, the first thing you need to do is find out what is in your water that you want to be removed. You very well know that the purest form of water consists of hydrogen and oxygen (H2O). However, the purest form does not occur naturally. Along the way, it picks up chemical compounds, impurities and minerals.

A number of mineral sediments like calcium and magnesium are desirable, while the others picked up in the ground and municipal water collection cycle are undesirable. As an example, municipal water can consist of traces of chlorine, herbicides, industrial waste, pesticides, and at times, bacteria and viruses.

The Comparison

Filters

They help minimize or remove impurities like chlorine, chromium, copper, hydrogen sulfide, iron, lead, magnesium, mercury and nickel, among others. They keep algae, bacteria and fungi from further developing, but should not be thought of as the final solution for removing bacteria and viruses. Such a claim is set aside for water purifiers.

Purifiers

As per many definitions, purification means that water does not contain any bacterial contaminants or viruses. In this definition, though, this excludes chemical contaminants like the ones removed by filters (refer to the above).

This is the reason why the terms filtration and purification are used in conjunction with each other. While filters effectively remove undesirable chemical components, such as chlorine and fluoride, water filters effectively remove bacteria and viruses.

Softeners

Water softeners are totally different from water filters and water purifiers, but all these three systems can be used in combination to produce the cleanest and purest water. Water softeners can be used on their own, as they are effective in preventing scale build up in pipes and appliances.

The advantages of removing scale from water are clearly seen in clean silverware and glassware, scale-free faucets and shower heads, plus more effective products for bathing and laundry. Keep in mind that water softeners could neither remove impurities from drinking water, nor make it safe to drink, but simply remove the minerals that cause appliances to be inefficient, thus prolonging their life.

Before you purchase any water filters, it would be best to get some knowledge on the topic to understand which type better suits your needs. Another option is to contact a water filtration professional and ask for advice – so contact us today!

What Is Hard Water and Why Should You Care?

You can be excused for assuming that the water coming out of your faucet in its natural state is just the same, whether it is soft or hard. However, it is not so. Water can be classified into two: hard and soft. What is best for you? In this article, you will read about the difference between them.

In general, soft water seems to be more desirable. This is the reason why most people think that a water softener is a more worthwhile investment. As its name connotes, this system changes hard water into soft water. Water is essential in our life, since it has a wide range of uses, the most important of which is for drinking.

Hard Water

This type of water has not been touched by a chemical process of any kind. This is the most natural type of water, just like rainfall. Prior to reaching your faucet, the water seeps by means of the ground, and here it is filtered by means of mineral deposits and stones that make the water hard.

The major advantage of drinking it is the fact that is still consists of all the natural minerals, such as calcium, iron and magnesium, to name a few.

According to research, when these minerals are included in the water we drink, it can be beneficial in preventing and combating some cardiovascular and heart diseases. Considering that soft water no longer has these minerals, it is definitely beneficial to drink the hard variety.

There are claims that, if your hard water is filled with these minerals, you can get the daily dose of essential minerals when drinking it.

In addition to the health benefits you get from drinking hard water, the minerals they contain are said to contribute to its taste. Certainly, this depends on the individual who is drinking it, and personal preference cannot be measured.

On the other hand, some people like to have both hard water supply and water softener, but separate from each other. A possible disadvantage given by it is the scale build up within the plumbing system. This scale lessens the effectiveness of household appliances.

When it comes to drinking hard water, there are some studies linking drinking it with children getting eczema. There is no concrete proof, though, that shows the connection.

A major reason why many people do not like hard water is the smell it gives – it usually releases some scents like an earthy smell or sulfur – that is brought about by the minerals in it. This is also the most common reason why people do not like to drink it.

Looking for a company that offers water treatment Princeton services? Interested in buying water softeners Princeton? Come and visit us today!

What Should We Choose Between Soft or Hard Water?

According to experts, soft water – which is hard water without its minerals, which have been removed through the ionization process – is considered to be harmful when you drink it more often.

People who regularly drink soft water will have increased levels of sodium (salt). Sodium is an essential part of a balanced diet, but if taken in excess, could result to cardiovascular health issues – like high blood pressure. Excess sodium causes water retention in the body.

When an individual retains a consistent amount of water, blood pressure may increase, since the heart works harder to supply blood to the different parts of the body. An average person takes in too much sodium, therefore drinking soft water will just aggravate the problem.

The chemicals included in hard water to let it become soft make the water more volatile. This causes the risks of gaining unwanted elements when it goes through pipes, before going out your faucet.

For instance, elements like lead can easily seep into it to make drinking it more harmful than ever. Lead can cause damage to the blood cells, harming the process by which oxygen is transmitted to the bones, muscles and organs.

Consuming too much of it also has an effect on a person’s water levels. This does not only concern a person as a whole, but his/her individual cells as well. Once these cells get dehydrated, this blocks the movement of water through cellular walls.

People install and require water softeners because treated water prevents the build up of scaling on taps and kitchen appliances that use water.

Which is Better, Soft or Hard Water?

When it comes to consumption, most experts agree that hard water is a lot better than soft. However, the soft variety has its own benefits. This is the reason why majority of experts recommend using a water softener that has a bypass valve system.

This lets hard water flow to some areas in order to be used for drinking and cooking. Or else, people should look for other sources – like bottled water. ​Certainly, both types are expected to provide some benefits.

Distinguishing One from the Other

The best way to know whether you have hard or soft water is by looking at the lather of your soap. This can show if you have bad or good quality water. You can also inspect your sink, utensils and anything that uses it to see what we mean to say.

The moment the water dries up, you will see that it has a different appearance. It is neither clean nor safe to drink such water, especially in the long run. You have to stop doing this due to the health risks concerned. When there are other people who live with you, this just increases these risks.

Looking for a company that offers water treatment Peoria services? Looking to purchase top quality water softeners Peoria at affordable prices? Give us a call today.

Kinetico K5 Certified for Removal of PFAS Chemicals from Household Water

Already considered to be the best Reverse Osmosis system on the market, the K5 with WOW tank has recently been certified by the Water Quality Association (WQA) to NSF/ANSI standard 58 for the removal of PFAS found in household water.

The new certification can be viewed on the WQA’s website: https://www.wqa.org

We’re proud to be an authorized, independent Kinetico dealer. Kinetico has always been on the forefront of not only the highest quality products, but also the most technologically advanced. They’re good for us; we’re good for you!

FAS has been labeled as ‘Our Next Water Crisis’. These compounds don’t break down.  Once they’re present in the environment, they seep into the soil and spread through our rivers and lakes. This contamination isn’t only hurting our ground and lakes but is a serious health issue.

Please share this information about our solution to help protect and give your family peace of mind.

For more information on the K5, call us at:

Peoria area: (309) 691-9287
Princeton area: (815) 875-2506

We’re here to help you!