How to choose a good water filter

Did you know that, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 80% of disease cases in the world result from drinking contaminated water, with more than 25 different types of diseases?

Patrícia Uebe Mansur, managing partner of Cibus Consultoria Alimentar e Ambiental and veterinary health practitioner, explains that even with the advance in water treatment through the supply networks, which guarantee the quality of the liquid up to the point of entry of the houses, there are cases of pipes old, leaks that contribute to the accumulation of dirt and the aggravating lack of cleanliness in the water tanks.

“Given this situation, filters are an affordable and safe option for obtaining drinking water, that is, suitable for consumption without causing damage to health and, consequently, well-being for the whole family”, highlights professional Patrícia.

The 5 main types of filters

Patrícia Mansur explains that, currently, there are several types of filters that treat water – some even at a very low cost. “Among the options are clay, plastic or porcelain filters; purifiers; ozonators; pressure filters installed on the faucet or wall and central filter,” she says.

Below, the professional talks about the characteristics of the main types of filters:

1. Clay filter

Made of clay or ceramic, the filters work by gravity, with water passing from one container to the other. “Its filter element is a ceramic candle with activated carbon and silver nitrate that retains up to 99% of the impurities”, says Patrícia Mansur. Another positive point of the clay filter is the price, which is affordable.

The disadvantage, according to Patricia, is that some elements do not completely eliminate bacteria. “It is very important to check the appliances every week. Many people often wash candles with sugar or salt, but this is wrong. The right thing is to change it whenever it is dirty so that it does not contaminate the water”, she highlights.

2. Purifier

Purifying appliances work connected to the faucet or plumbing. They have a pump capable of giving pressure to the water and that, combined with other filtering elements, stop small particles and other granules, as explained by Patrícia Mansur.

“They last a long time and remove excess chlorine from the water. Some more modern ones even eliminate bacteria”, highlights the professional.

The negative point of this type of filter, according to Patrícia, is the price, which can reach triple the value of a common filter (or even more).

“Whoever has a house supplied by artesian wells should bet on purifiers – this is because there is no prior control of the water. It is also worth investing in the device if you notice a strong smell of chlorine in the liquid you receive at home”, explains Patrícia.

3. Ozonator

Ozonators, as explained by Patrícia Mansur, purify water with ozone gas, and this is a great method. But, it is worth mentioning, a contact time is necessary: ​​leave the gas bubbling in the water for 10 to 15 minutes.

“The passage of water in the ozonators is very fast, so it can be said that they fail in the exposure time”, adds the professional.

4. Pressure filter/tap

This type of water filter is usually a simpler product and is installed on the faucet or wall. It is more affordable when compared to water purifiers.

Patrícia Mansur explains that filtration has to occur naturally. “When the valve is opened, the pressure of the water ends up pushing the dirt forward, which eventually ends up passing through and contaminating the water”, she emphasizes.

5. Central filter

Patrícia Mansur explains that this filter has the function of filtering all the water in the house. “It must be installed after the hydrometer (water clock) or before the water tank”, she says.

Among the benefits, according to Patrícia, are: keeping the water tank clean, protecting the machines (household equipment that uses water), not letting the shower clog, among others.

What to consider when choosing a water filter?

But after all, among so many options, how to choose a good filter?

Patrícia points out that there is no consensus on which of the products is the most efficient filtering. “The best type of filter is one that not only filters out dirt, but also purifies the water,” she says.

“Clay filters do not have all the technology of modern appliances, but they do their job well: simple and cheap, they perform an excellent process of removing impurities. They filter the water by gravity and, at the same time, keep it fresh”, says Patrícia.

Purifiers, on the other hand, have a higher price, but are good options for people who have their home supplied by artesian wells – this is because, in this case, there is no prior control of the water. “It is still worth investing in the device if you notice a strong smell of chlorine in the liquid you receive at home”, recalls Patricia.

Patrícia Mansur points out that, at the time of purchase, the best way to guarantee a good device is to choose one that has the seal of the National Institute of Metrology, Standardization and Industrial Quality (Inmetro). “This certificate ensures that the product meets the quality and safety standards required for its commercialization”, she highlights.

“In addition to choosing a good filter, it is essential to clean the water tank every six months, as well as take care of the maintenance of the plumbing. For this, the entire hydraulic system can be sanitized with bleach”, concludes the professional.

Where to buy water filter?

In the gallery below you can see some water filter options for sale:

Caring for mineral water bottles

It is worth mentioning that those who prefer to dispense with the filter and use gallons of mineral water should pay attention to the cleanliness of the container and the drinking fountain (where it is placed). “The bottle must be transparent and cannot be wrapped in plastic film”, highlights Patrícia Mansur.

Hygiene of hands and the gallon nozzle before the exchange is essential. “One to two tablespoons of bleach is recommended for a liter of water and disinfection of the mouthpiece and drinking fountain, passing this solution on the spot with an absorbent paper. Then, just rinse”, concludes Patricia.

Now you have important information to choose a good filter and you also know that both filters and water gallons require cleaning care.