Clean drinking water is essential to healthy living. However, our tap water may be contaminated with chlorinated water, lead, bacteria, PFAS, or forever chemicals. Water filters are an excellent means of ensuring safe, purified drinking water. PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are toxic substances that get stuck in the water supply.
There are different types of water filters. All are used for different purposes and for different filtration needs. From the extremely basic carbon filter to the advanced reverse osmosis systems, the right choice depends on your water quality, household needs, and budget.
In this guide, we will first discuss the best filter to prevent PFAS-like toxic elements and the types of filters.
Best Water Filter for PFAS
The best filters to utilize for PFAS removal are activated carbon filters (granular activated carbon or “block” filters or systems) and reverse osmosis systems. Your best option is to use filter products that are NSF-certified to reduce PFAS. Look for the best water filter for PFAS that is certified to reduce PFOA and PFOS (two of the most commonly studied PFAS).
- NSF/ANSI 53 and NSF/ANSI 58 certified filters are best
- Reverse osmosis and granular activated carbon are the most effective filters for PFAS
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters use a type of carbon treated to be very porous. The filters effectively filter chlorine, sediment, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving taste and odor in your water. They do not remove heavy metals or dissolved solids, but they are affordable and easy to maintain; therefore, they are well-suited for home use.
- Removes chlorine and bad taste
- Recommended for aiming to improve the taste and smell of water from the tap.
- Not suitable for heavy metal filtration
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
RO systems utilize a semi-permeable membrane to remove up to 99% of contaminants like fluoride, nitrates, arsenic, and some PFAS. While RO systems are incredibly effective at deep filtering, they waste more water than other types. RO filters generally get installed beneath sinks and serve families with significant water quality issues.
- Removes a range of contaminants
- Very effective for complete filtration
- Wastes some water during filtration
Ultraviolet (UV) Purifiers
UV purifiers kill bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms using ultraviolet light. These filters are great to kill viruses, bacteria, and pathogens, but they do not remove chemicals and sediments. UV purifiers functionally supplement other types of filtration systems and can provide additional microbiological safety in areas experiencing microbial-related water safety issues.
- Kills 99.9% of pathogens
- No chemicals or taste modifications
- Great for homes worried about biological pollutants in their water source.
- Requires electricity and clear water
Gravity Filters
These filters use gravity to move water through ceramic or carbon elements without using plumbing and electricity. These filters are perfect in outdoor, emergency, and low-resource situations. They are also easy to place, portable, and effective against sediments, bacteria, and some chemicals. They are a great option for taking water from one place to another in off-grid purification.
- No electricity required
- Good option for emergency and travel use
- Slower rate of filtration
