Getting a water filter fitted on a town supply can improve the flavour and quality of your drinking water and remove chemicals and impurities that could cause an issue for sensitive skin. Water filtration of bore and rainwater tank water is important to protect your health.
If you’re wondering if you should fit a water filter in your home; you might first want to understand how they work. Let’s take a close look at what a water filter does.
The Basics of Water Filtration
Water filters are designed to remove impurities, including sediments, chemicals, bacteria, and more, from your tap water. They function on the principle of physical or chemical filtration. The specific type of water filtration will depend on the water filter you choose for your home.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common methods of water filtration.
1. Physical Filtration:
Physical filtration involves the use of a physical barrier to trap and remove larger particles from the water. The filter medium can be made of various materials like ceramic, activated carbon, or even fine mesh screens.
Water is forced through the filter, and the larger particles become trapped in the medium while the purified water flows through. This method is effective in removing sediments, debris, and some microorganisms.
2. Chemical Filtration:
Chemical filtration uses adsorbent materials, typically activated carbon, to attract and remove dissolved contaminants from the water. When water passes through the filter, chemicals, such as chlorine, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds, stick to the surface of the carbon. This process effectively eliminates unpleasant tastes and odours from the water.
3. Biological Filtration:
Biological filtration is employed in some advanced water filters to remove bacteria and other microorganisms. In this method, beneficial microorganisms are cultivated on a filter medium. These microorganisms feed on and neutralise harmful bacteria, thus improving the overall quality of the water.
4. Reverse Osmosis:
Reverse osmosis is a more complex method of water filtration. It uses a semi-permeable membrane that allows only water molecules to pass through, blocking larger molecules and contaminants. Reverse osmosis is highly effective in removing a wide range of impurities, including heavy metals, salts, and microorganisms.
5. Ultraviolet (UV) Filtration:
UV (ultraviolet) water filtration is an effective and environmentally friendly method for disinfecting and purifying water. It uses ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may be present in water.
Maintenance and replacement of water filters
Water filters have a limited lifespan, and their effectiveness decreases over time as they become clogged with trapped particles or saturated with contaminants. To ensure your water filter continues to provide clean and safe water, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for replacement of filter cartridges or media.
Ultraviolet (UV) water filters require the bulb to be monitored and replaced as needed. Most UV bulbs have a lifespan of 9-12 months.
All water filters benefit from regular servicing and maintenance by a trained, experienced professional. Ask your plumber how regularly you should service your water filter based on the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Install or maintain a water filter with East Coast Plumbing and Gas
Water filters give access to clean, safe, and healthy drinking water. Depending on your needs and the source of your water supply, you can choose a water filter that uses physical, chemical, or biological processes to remove impurities and contaminants from your tap water.
Regular maintenance and replacement of UV or filter components is an essential part of maintaining their effectiveness. Understanding how water filters work makes it easier to make informed choices and choose the right water filter for your home.
Are you ready to install a water filter in your home? Whether you’re filtering water from a tank or bore supply, or removing chemicals from your mains water: East Coast Plumbing and Gas can help. We have experience providing smart water filtration solutions to homes and businesses across Hawke’s Bay. Contact us today and explore your options.