- 1). Compare the effectiveness of different models. For instance, carbon filters that contain more carbon through which the water must pass work better. Larger amounts of carbon eventually trap even the smallest particles. Units with less carbon only filter pollutants of 5 to 20 microns in size. Look for filters with lots of carbon that can successfully stop particles as small as .5 microns.
- 2). Decide if you want a whole-house filtering system or a single-source system. Whole-house filtering systems attach outside your home. They filter water before it enters your home, so all your faucets receive filtered water. Single-source systems hook to one sink or come in a reservoir that you fill and place in your refrigerator.
- 3). Compare the initial purchase price. Whole-house carbon filter systems cost $200 to $700 while single-source filtering systems cost $30 to $50, based on 2010 prices.
- 4). Compare costs of replacement filters. For instance, the carbon filter unit eventually loses its charge and can't attract pollutants. Consequently, you will need to replace it. Single-source replacement filters cost $6 to $25, while whole-house filter replacements cost $10 to $140, based on 2010 prices.
- 5). Compare replacement frequency. Some single-source filters need to be replaced every 90 to 180 days. Depending on your water usage, whole-house carbon filters last 90 days to one year and can filter 200,000 to 400,000 gallons..
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