The simple yet effective carbon water filters

These systems are easy to install, relatively inexpensive, and cover the basic functions of filtration. Water filter charcoal medium carbon is derived from coconut husk . This absorbs impurities as the water passes through. This form of filter comprises possibly 95% of those in use domestically. They are simple to install, relatively economical, and depending on micron level, will filter out the most deadly of contaminants, Cryptosporidium and Guardia.

An average charcoal filter will last a family 6-9 months. Some charcoal filters are enhanced by the use of activated nano-silver, which provides extra antibacterial protection, killing around 650 known types of organisms.Minerals in solution can still permeate a charcoal filter. These minerals are essential to health.

 

In situations where sediment is a problem it is worthwhile to add a second separate in-line sediment prefilter. Otherwise the more expensive charcoal filter will become clogged up long before its normal lifespan.

 

Charcoal water filters come in various forms

a. Carbon Block is a solidified form of honeycombed carbon. It is the best form of filter but flow rate is significantly slower than with loose charcoal.

b. Activated Silver Impregnated Charcoal. Sometimes called Chlorgon, this adds chloramine exclusion and bacteria killing ability to the basic carbon.

c. Micron Rating.

 

Anything 1 micron rating or below will inhibit Cryptosporidium and Guardia as the cysts are larger than this in size. Viruses cannot be inhibited by a filter with a micron rating of more than 0.01 microns.

 

Carbon filters cannot change the pH balance of the water. If you have acidic water, you will still have acidic water, as the minerals causing the acidity will be dissolved and therefore will pass through the carbon filter.

 

Carbon filters may be susceptible to mould attack if left unused over extended periods. It is important to realize that a filter gathers the ¡¯garbage¡¯ in your tap water, and the organic component of this garbage is quite capable of rotting. Add a little summer humidity to the already damp internals of a carbon filter and you may have a mould attack. Taste will always be the deciding factor, and if the taste of the water suddenly changes after an extended period of non-use, such as your annual vacation, change the filter.Reverse osmosis water filter | Undersink water filter

 

Note also that carbon filters reduce in efficiency the longer they are in use. For this reason regular filter replacement is essential

 

Related Questions:

1   Ceramic water filter

2   How to Choose a Home Water Filter

3   Emergency drinking water

4   Algae 'no longer a threat' to water

5   Tibetan water supplier crystal clear on strategy

6   Wetlands to be built in suburban Shanghai