Water is an essential need and your body requires it to stay healthy. Therefore, you want to make sure you and your family are receiving clean water in your home. While city water is usually safe to drink it does not hurt to have a water treatment system installed to improve the taste.
If you are on a well system, it is essential that you have a system install to rid your water of any harmful contaminants. There are many treatment systems available and you want to choose one that is right for you. Following this guide will guarantee you choose a system that will give you and your family a safe and clean water supply.
1. Identify contaminants present
Different treatment systems address different contaminants so your first step is identifying what is in your water so you purchase a system that protects against what is present. In city water, the concerns are usually chlorine and other chemicals added to break down pathogens. These can have harmful side effects. In well water, issues such as bacteria, excessive iron, or hydrogen sulfide may be present which are harmful if ingested enough.
To identify what is in your water, pick up a testing kit where you can fill a test bottle with water and take it to a local health agency to test for contaminants. This test is usually free and results can be received by telephone or mail. Then you can purchase your treatment system based on the results received.
2. Evaluate your water needs
There are many factors that need to be considered before purchasing a water treatment system for your home. In addition to being mindful of contaminants identified in your water, you should base your decision on the size of the home, number of bathrooms, number of people who reside in the home, and any activities that may require excessive water usage such as filling up a pool. Talk to water treatment systems professionals to determine what system you would need based on these factors. They will make sure you get a system that provides safe and clean water for all of your daily needs.
3. Choose a reputable dealer
Make sure the company that you buy the water treatment system from is experienced and knowledgeable. Check reviews online to confirm that past customers were satisfied with product and the work the company completed. Make sure that warranties are offered so your treatment system is guaranteed for parts and labour in case anything goes wrong after installation.
4. Choose filtration system based on your needs
There are two common types of water treatment systems. A point-of-entry (POE) system is installed where the water enters the home and provides clean water throughout the house. This type ensures all of the water you use is safe and clean. A point-of-use (POU) system treats water at the point of consumption such as a sink or shower head. If your water is highly contaminated, purchase a POE system to guarantee all water being used is safe.
If your water is only high in chlorine and you are concerned with taste, a POU system will suffice. Make sure the system you purchase is NSF-certified.
5. Be mindful of costs
You found a system that is suitable for your home and will provide you water for all of your needs, but do not forget about additional costs. You will need someone to install the system for you and monthly maintenance fees such as filter purchases and disposal are required. Some systems require additional pieces of equipment so buying or renting these components will add to your fees as well. Before you purchase the system, ask the dealer what costs are typically associated with owning the model that you are considering.
