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How Do Faucet Filters Reduce Contaminants in Tap Water?

A faucet water filter is a domestic filter installed on any tap water point that features a faucet. A faucet water filter is different from a whole-house water filter, as it only connects to one faucet and not to the entire water line of the house.

A faucet filter has the purpose of eliminating contaminants from tap water. A contaminant is an any physical, radiological, or biological matter or substance that is present within the water. Some contaminants may be harmful either for human consumption or home appliances.

The stages of water contaminant removal with a faucet filter are simple. For the contaminant to be removed, the water is diverted from the main water line into the filter cartridge. The water is then redirected towards the faucet, where it becomes ready for consumption.

On average, a faucet filter can remove 99% of the contaminants from the water. The success and exact filtration capability of a faucet filter depend on the brand used. The type of contaminant removed also depends on the type of faucet filter that is used.

What Are the Different Types of Faucet Filters?

  1. different types of faucet filtersReverse Osmosis Faucet Water Filters: Reverse osmosis water filters can remove 99% of the contaminants from the water, including viruses and bacteria. They can connect to the water supply underneath the sink, delivering the filtered water into the faucet.
  2. Carbon Faucet Filters: Carbon faucet filters use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants from the water. They are very efficient in removing the taste and odor caused by chlorine. This makes this type of filter a common choice for municipal tap water.
  3. Ultraviolet Faucet Water Filters: Ultraviolet faucet filters use ultraviolet rays to kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They are a suitable choice for households where the risk of this type of contaminant is high.

These types of faucet filters differ in their purpose and contaminant-killing properties. Some are more appropriate for removing bacteria from the water, whereas others are a more suitable choice for removing chlorine from the water. A notable model is the Universal Splash Filter Faucet that can remove chlorine and other contaminants from the water. The Universal Splash Filter Faucet may be used directly on an existing faucet.

Where Can a Faucet Water Filter Be Used at Home?

Different faucet filters can be installed in the following places:

  1. Kitchen Faucet Water Filter: Kitchen – A kitchen faucet filter is used for circumstances in which the space is significantly limited. These faucet filters are installed directly onto the faucet, making their installation easy and convenient. They are also portable, which means they may be detached and then used on another faucet in the house.
  2. Under Sink Faucet Water Filter: Kitchen and Bathroom – An under sink faucet water filter can be installed in any place that has a sink. This includes bathroom and kitchen sinks. The filter cartridges are mounted on the wall underneath the sink, taking no countertop space.
  3. Countertop Faucet Water Filter: Kitchen – Countertop water filters are used in homes lacking under-sink space. The filter tank is positioned on the countertop, after which it is connected to the faucet.

What Are the Faucet Water Filter Brands for Removing Contaminants?

Multiple water filter companies have grown a lot in popularity over the last few years. The best faucet water filter brands for removing contaminants are listed below:

  1. PUR: Thorough Filtration – PUR is a brand that is backed up by history and experience. Compared to other brands, it seemingly filters out 10% more contaminants from the tap water. The newer models are popular for the fact that they can even filter out asbestos from the water.
  2. Brita: Long-Lasting – Brita filters are mainly known for their longevity. They provide standard filters, but they can also offer the option of LongLast filters, which last twice as much. They are good for tap water in bigger households because they can filter high amounts of water.
  3. Waterdrop: High Value for Price – Waterdrop faucet water filters are typically affordable. At the same time, they offer very high value for the price. They are very efficient at removing contaminants from tap water. Most models are made from stainless steel, which is known for its durability.
  4. Culligan: Quick Flow – Culligan is highly popular for its quick flow. The latest products can filter half a gallon of water per minute. They provide portable filters that may be adapted to all standard faucets.
  5. CuZn: Easy Installation – CuZn is one of the water filter brands for those who do not want to hire a plumber or bother with a lengthy installation process. They offer solid under-the-sink faucet water filters, but also standalone pieces that can be moved from one tap water point to another.

What Are the Best Faucet Water Filter Products?

The best faucet water filters are those that can provide the cleanest of water in a short period. Below are some of the most popular faucet water filter products.

  1. PUR FM-3333B Faucet Water Filter – The PUR FM-3333B faucet water filter can remove more than 70 contaminants from the water, including lead and chlorine. This makes it an excellent faucet water choice. It can also remove asbestos from the water, making it a superior option to filter municipal water.2.Brita Complete Water Filter Faucet – The Brita Complete Water Filter Faucet is perfect for tap water, as it has a solid filtration system. It can efficiently remove the taste and odor of chlorine from the water, making it a suitable choice for municipally treated water.
  2. Waterdrop WD-FC-06 Faucet Water Filter – With a housing made from stainless steel, the Waterdrop WD-FC-06 faucet water filter is highly durable. It can resist humidity with ease, making it a good option for tap water. It also features carbon block filtration that can remove the taste and odor of chlorine, very common with tap water.
  3. Culligan FM-25 Faucet Mount Filters – The Culligan FM-25 faucet mount filters are a good option for those who do not want to change their faucets. It features a diverter that allows people to switch between unfiltered and filtered water. It can filter out 98.9% of most contaminants, making it a suitable choice for tap water.
  4. CuZn Bath Ball Faucet Filter – The CuZn Bath Ball Faucet Filter is one of the best faucet water filters because it can remove chlorine from the water, but also reshape the magnesium and calcium ions. Their formula is changed so that they no longer stick to one another. The process is a direct result of a recyclable media foam disk, which filters out the contaminants. This makes this filter an ideal choice for tap water.

Are PUR Faucet Water Filters Better Than Brita Faucet Water Filters for Tap Water?

Both PUR and Brita faucet water filters are fully capable of removing harmful contaminants from the water. PUR is slightly more thorough in removing contaminants. Brita can remove a total of 60 contaminants, while PUR can eliminate 70 contaminants. This may suggest that the water quality resulting from PUR filters is higher.

In terms of performance, both PUR and Brita are similar. They can filter up to 100 gallons of water, although both brands recommend changing every 3 months. Brita filters may have a LongLast technology, which can further increase their longevity. Both Brita and PUR faucet filters have LED lighting that will announce when a cartridge change is due.

Brita can filter an average of 10 cups of water in 5 minutes, whereas PUR takes an average of 10 minutes to filter the water. This adds to Brita’s superior flow rate. Installation is the same for both faucet water filters, as there is no significant difference between the two. Comparing PUR vs. Brita, both have their own strong points that make them the “better option.”

What Is the Lifespan of a Faucet Water Filter?

Faucet filters can have different lifespans, depending on various factors. The faucet and tank may last for a long time – years even. The cartridge is the one that must be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on its size.

The usage of the faucet water filter will also influence how long it will last. As a general rule, a faucet filter cartridge can filter up to 40 gallons of water, but some filters may process more water. It all depends on the setting of that particular filter.

So, for economical purposes, consumers should go for larger faucet water filters that can filter high amounts of water. This way, they won’t have to change them that often.

What Are the Faucet Filter Attachments?

faucet water filter partsFaucet filters often have the following attachments:

  • Cartridge: The plastic exterior that envelopes the filtering system.
  • Filter: The material through which the water passes and removes the impurities.
  • Housing Cap: Holds the elements of the filter in place and prevents leaks from occurring.
  • Bracket: Mounted on the wall or underneath the sink to attach the filter cartridge.
  • Housing Sump: A plastic part at the bottom of the housing that has the purpose of holding the water filter cartridge. Also referred to as a “canister.”
  • O-Ring: Used to seal the connection between the housing cap and the housing sump of the water filter, preventing leaks.
  • Faucet: The actual component through which the water flows in the sink.
  • Saddle Valves: A valve that connects the filter tubing to the pipes, releasing or restricting the flow of water. Often accompanied by a faucet water filter adapter.

Can a Faucet Water Filter Make Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Yes, a faucet filter can make water safe to drink. It may remove sediments and lead from the water, along with chlorine, improving the taste and odor of water. From this point of view, faucet filters can make tap water safe to drink.

However, a regular faucet filter cannot remove viruses and bacteria. Only a filter that uses a reverse osmosis system can remove bacteria. Unless a distiller is added alongside the faucet water filter, the water may not be protected against the threat of these pathogens.

Is It Hard to Clean a Faucet Water Filter?

Cleaning a faucet water filter is easy. A damp cloth is enough to clean grease marks, fingerprints, or any dirt on the surface. Refrain from using harsh caustic detergents, as they may damage the faucet. Use a gentle solution instead, treating the surface as if it is glass.

Next on how to clean a water filter is the maintenance of the actual filter. After cleaning the faucet, check the filter cartridge, and if at least 6 months have passed since it was installed, it would be best to replace it.

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