The sink filter is one of the most useful devices for the kitchen. It not only purifies water from all kinds of impurities and harmful substances, but also simplifies the process of its preparation. Through an additional tap, which is mounted in the kitchen sink, you can get clean water instantly, without wasting time and money on buying bottled water or pouring water into the filter jug each time.
On sale you can see many different systems, but not all of them cope with the task of high-quality water purification. To choose a really good filter, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with our rating.
The best inexpensive water filters for washing: a budget of up to 5,000 rubles.
Inexpensive filters for washing cost an average of 1,500 - 5,000 rubles. It is rare to find membrane filtration, softening and mineralization in them, and the number of purification steps does not exceed three. At the same time, most models are quite capable of ridding water of heavy metals, chlorine, phenol, benzene and other chemical additives.
3 Aquaphor Crystal Eco
Three stages of water purification. Ion exchange and ultrafiltration
Country Russia
Average price: 4 950 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Aquaphor Crystal Eco is one of the most popular budget “washable” filter systems. It is equipped with three stages of water purification, ion exchange, coal and ultrafiltration. The latter allows you to remove organic matter, impurities and bacteria from the water. There is no storage capacity in this model, since the maximum filter capacity is 2.5 liters per minute.
The resource of a standard filter module is designed for 8000 liters. Most users, speaking about this filter, name such advantages as low price, ease of installation, cheap cartridges and compactness of the system.
Negative reviews, in comparison with the Aquaphor Crystal model (without the prefix "eco"), have become much less. The number of complaints about the quality of the water softener has decreased. Much less scale began to form. However, for people with kidney disease, it is better to purchase more expensive models that can handle hard water.
2 Barrier EXPERT Hard
The most capacious cartridge. Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 3,183 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
"EXPERT Hard Barrier" is one of the best-selling filter systems in recent years. Among the best budget filters for washing presented in the review, "Barrier EXPERT Hard" stands out in that it has the most resource-intensive filter module. So, the cartridge of the Geyser Prestige 2 filter presented above is enough for 3500 liters, while the EXPERT Hard Barrier cartridge can be used for at least 10,000 liters.
Other advantages of this filter include the presence of a filter for softening water. This will get rid of scale in the kettle. True, there are complaints that this filter quickly clogs and after a couple of months the scale appears again. There is an explanation for this - in areas with very hard water, the filter, for obvious reasons, will clog much faster. You just need to change the cartridge in time.
Feedback from user Eduard:
If you take this filter, then immediately buy a drill for 12, otherwise you will go to the store again to make a hole in the countertop. Everything else is included, only the self-tapping screws for attaching to the chipboard are a bit short. In general, I like the filter, gaining a little more than a liter of water in a minute. This, by the way, is confusing, whether the filtering is going too fast. Maybe it affects the quality?
1 Geyser Prestige 2
The best ratio of price and quality
Country Russia
Average price: 4,990 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
The leading position in the category of budget filters is occupied by the domestic Geyser. The company that supplies water treatment systems to the market was founded back in 1986 and today has a dealer network covering 120 cities in Russia. There are even European offices in Riga, Prague and Belgrade.
The Geyser Prestige 2 filter system is considered one of the best in quality in the budget price segment. With an average price of only 5000 rubles. the device has a reverse osmosis membrane for water purification, which dramatically improves the quality of filtration. Not many budget systems can boast of having a membrane.
Also in Geyser Prestige 2 there are stages of water purification from dissolved iron (iron removal) and purification from soluble hardness salts (softening).
Video review
Speaking about the advantages of this system, almost all users note the high quality of water purification, compactness, ease of installation and, of course, reasonable price.
The disadvantages of this model include a rather weak performance - only 0.3 liters of clean water per minute. For the needs of a small family of 2-3 people, it may be enough, but for larger families you will have to purchase a storage tank (it is not included in the kit), where purified water will be stored.
The best filters for washing: a budget of up to 10,000 rubles.
This category contains more expensive and efficient models. The increased cost, as a rule, affects not only the degree of water purification, but also the quality of materials and workmanship.
4 Siberia-Zeo Aquarius-BKP
High performance, use of zeolite
Country Russia
Average price: 9,060 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Compact (42x38x14 cm), but very powerful filter with three filter stages. The maximum output of the device is 3 l/min. The package includes a filter module, designed for 6000 liters. There is a separate faucet. The quality of water after passing through the filter is significantly improved - it is purified from free chlorine, mineralized.
In the reviews, users note that when using this water, scale does not form in the kettle. Among the advantages compared to other filters of the same price category, the use of zeolite is noted. The first flask is transparent - it can be used to assess the degree of contamination. In one of the reviews, the user says that he carried water for analysis before and after passing through the filter - the quality of the liquid at the outlet turned out to be excellent.
3 AQUAPRO AP-600P
The largest storage capacity
Country: Taiwan
Average price: 9 931 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
High-quality, efficient filter model with five stages of purification. Of the features - reverse osmosis, iron removal, purification from free chlorine, water softening. The package includes a storage tank with a volume of 10 liters, a separate tap, a pump to increase pressure, a filter module. Replacement cartridges are inexpensive.
In the reviews, users note the excellent quality of water purification, its pleasant taste after passing through the filter. They like the possibility of additional installation of a mineralizer, the use of filters from any manufacturer - they have a standard size. During operation, the device does not make noise, does not leak, filters need to be changed no more than once every six months. Of the minuses, only a higher cost is distinguished compared to similar models, but the difference in price is compensated by inexpensive cartridges.
2 ECOSOFT MO 5-50
High quality materials and components
Country Ukraine
Average price: 7,169 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Popular and high-quality model with five stages of cleaning. It is installed under the sink and does not take up much space - the dimensions of the product are 35x45x15 cm. The device kit includes a storage tank with a volume of 9 liters, a filter module, and a separate tap. Productivity makes 0,13 l/minute. With the help of a filter, even the worst tap water becomes drinkable without boiling. It is iron-free, cleaned of free chlorine, foreign mechanical and dissolved impurities, softened. The principle of charcoal cleaning is applied.
In the reviews, users note the high quality of materials and components, the reliability of the filter, and the good quality of water after cleaning. Even after a long time of use, it is not necessary to deal with leaks. Many people like that the filter can be installed independently, without resorting to the services of specialists. Of the shortcomings, only the high cost of cartridges is noted, but in terms of bottled water it still turns out cheaper.
1 New Water Econic Osmos O300
Compact size, easy installation and maintenance
Country Russia
Average price: 7 690 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The first place in the ranking of the middle price category goes to the Novaya Voda Econic Osmos O300 filter. This is a fairly popular model, about which not a single negative review can be found - all users are completely satisfied with the operation of the device. Water after cleaning becomes softer, acquires a pleasant taste, you can drink it without boiling. The filter is easy to install, reliable, well made. Compact dimensions (23.5x29x22 cm) allow you to install the device under a sink of any size.
This sink filter is suitable for both apartments and private houses, for cleaning the hardest water. Eliminates all common pollutants - mechanical impurities, dissolved impurities (heavy metals, phenols, bacteria, viruses, hardness salts). The kit includes a filter module, a separate tap, a 3.25-liter storage tank. The maximum filter capacity is 0.7 l/min. Of the additional advantages, users note a quick-release membrane, ease of maintenance. If necessary, you can easily add a mineralizer or a post-filter with shungite.
The best filter systems for washing with reverse osmosis (membrane)
Membrane filtration is considered to be of higher quality, since the output is almost ideal in terms of purity of water. The pores of the osmotic membrane are very small and retain most of the contaminants, iron, oil products, and so on. It is important to note that the membrane is very dense and good pressure is required for water to pass through it. If the pressure in the water supply system is low, the filtration rate will be extremely low. In such cases, it is recommended to pay attention to models with a built-in pump to increase the pressure.
3 GEYSER PRESTIGE R
Built-in booster pump
Country Russia
Average price: 11,900 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
It is recommended to buy this filter system for washing if you have poor water pressure in your apartment / house. "Geyser Prestige P" is one of the few models that is equipped with a pump to increase water pressure. This will allow you to start the filtration process even in places with extremely low pressure (reverse osmosis requires at least 2 atmospheres to work, otherwise the system will not work).
Otherwise, Geyser Prestige P has everything that competitors have: 5 stages of cleaning, iron removal, softening, reverse osmosis, storage capacity of 12 liters. It is a pity, of course, that there is no water mineralizer, since for about the same money the competitor Atoll A-550m STD has a mineralization function.
Of the positive reviews, users note the high quality of filtration, inexpensive and very affordable cartridges (except for the membrane for 2000 rubles) and moderate drainage consumption (0.3 liters per 1 liter of pure water).
2 AQUAPHOR OSMO 50
Best price. 5 cleaning steps
Country Russia
Average price: 7,490 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Aquaphor OSMO 50 is one of the most affordable reverse osmosis filter systems in terms of price. In addition to the membrane, there are 5 stages of water purification, a storage capacity of 10 liters and the functions of softening and cleaning from dissolved iron. In principle, this is enough to obtain high-quality water, as evidenced by user reviews. Water tastes better, scale and odors disappear.
There is, however, a significant disadvantage characteristic of many models with reverse osmosis - a high side flow of water into the drainage. For one liter of clean water, at least 6 liters go into the drainage. If you consume 300 liters of water in a month, then at least 1800 liters (almost two cubic meters) will go down the drain. For owners of houses with private sewerage, such a pleasure will result in a "penny".
Also, do not forget about the cost of replacing filter elements. Depending on the intensity of use, it may take 1500 - 5500 rubles to replace Aquaphor OSMO 50 filters. in year.
1 ATOLL A-550M STD
mineralization function. Price quality
Country Russia
Average price: 11,400 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The ATOLL A-550M STD model was included in the rating of the best reverse osmosis filter systems. This is the most expensive filter system presented in the review. But the price, as they say, is justified. Atoll A-550m STD is equipped with two very useful elements: a mineralizer and an oxygen enrichment function. What is the use of this? As it was said at the beginning of the article, the membrane makes the water crystal clear, cleaning out both harmful and beneficial substances (minerals) for the human body. The water turns out almost like distilled, which is not good. So, in Atoll A-550m STD, after all the purification procedures (and there are 5 steps here), the water is additionally enriched with useful mineral elements. And the water becomes much more useful than after conventional reverse osmosis (membrane) purification.
Other useful features of the Atoll A-550m include a water deironing device (removal of dissolved iron) - it will be useful for residents of areas with very hard water. Also, the filter system is equipped with a very capacious storage tank of 12 liters, which will be more than enough to provide clean water to a family of 2 to 6 people.
As for the reviews, for the most part they are only positive. Users praise Atoll A-550m primarily for very high-quality filtration - the water becomes really tastier. Of the not entirely pleasant moments, quite expensive cartridges can be distinguished. They last for a long time, but after 2-3 years (depending on the intensity of use) you will have to pay almost as much for the cartridges as the entire system costs. Atoll A-550m STD - the best value for money!
How to choose a filter system for a sink?
Before choosing a specific treatment system, it is good to have information about the chemical composition of the water that flows from the tap. This will allow you to choose the filter that will purify the water as efficiently as possible. So, if you have very hard water in your apartment, you will have to take a more expensive filter with a membrane (reverse osmosis). Purification of very hard water is mandatory if there are people with kidney disease in the family. For less hard water, a budget ion exchange filter may suffice.
There are many ways to find out the chemical composition of water. For example, ask the local Vodokanal or conduct your own "mini laboratory study". Water hardness can be determined using a special test strip, and chlorine content can be determined using starch iodine paper (available at aquarium stores).
When buying a filter for washing, in addition to the price, you need to look at two important components: cleaning methods and the presence of a water softener. There can be several ways to purify water for each system for washing, and their quantity and quality directly depend on the cost of the entire system.
Membrane filtration
For example, in budget filters up to 3000 rubles. as a rule, there is no membrane filtration. Membrane filtration (ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis) is used for ideal water purification from viruses and bacteria. Only very fine water particles (up to 0.0005 microns) pass through the membrane, while all other impurities and bacteria are retained. The output is very pure water, almost like distilled. But the membrane has a significant disadvantage - useful minerals are filtered along with bacteria. Therefore, there will be no harm or benefit from such water. Buying a filter system with a membrane and a built-in mineralizer will help solve this problem. Thus, water completely purified from metal ions will be re-enriched with minerals.
Ion exchange
To purify hard water from heavy metal ions, only ion exchange is used in budget filtration systems. To purify water with the same quality as reverse osmosis does, ion exchange will not work, but still it is better than nothing.
Carbon filtration
Carbon filtration is a very useful feature that is present in most filter models. Coal serves to absorb chlorine, phenol, benzene, toluene, petroleum products and pesticides. It cleans from everything that is added to the water for disinfection. Even budget sink systems have carbon filtration, but some models may not have it.
Water softening
Water softening is an extremely useful function of the filter system. With it, you can reduce the content of calcium and magnesium ions in the water, which stimulates the formation of scale in the kettle, dishwasher and washing machine. This will not only save the housewife from unnecessary trouble with descaling, but also significantly extend the life of kitchen appliances.
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Increasingly, people are faced with the problem of poor quality tap water. And if in cities where there is a central water supply, it is still at least somehow cleaned (although not ideally), then in private territories there is none of this. In mountainous areas, with many springs, the situation is better, but in general, water from there often requires high-quality filtration. Nowadays, many different installations for such cleaning have appeared on store shelves. And in this huge assortment of types, firms and models, it is not surprising to get confused. Today we will try to figure out how to choose water filters for a private house and which of the devices is necessary in a given situation.
A water filter for the kitchen is a must these days.
It has long become not a luxury, but a necessity. In addition, now a person with any income can purchase such equipment. After all, manufacturers offer both quite expensive models and budget ones, such as filter jugs, which can be bought for 500-700 rubles. Of course, more expensive filters connected to the water supply system provide better cleaning, but there are nuances here too. After all, if you choose the wrong cartridges, then the quality of the water will not change.
Important information! Before purchasing a treatment plant, it is necessary to call specialists for the production of an examination of water. Only she can determine which elements in the water are overabundant. It is on the basis of the results of such an examination that a conclusion is made about the need to purchase filter elements with certain properties.
Household filters for water purification can be placed under the sink or on the wall, located directly on the inlet pipe to the living room, or even stand separately, without mounting to the mains. It all depends on the quality of the necessary filtration and the financial capabilities of the person. It should be understood that the purification of drinking water is very important. The health of everyone living in the house depends on this. This means that the need for filtering should never be underestimated.
What is the reason for the need for a water purification system in private homes
The main problem of the private sector is that wells, like some wells, make it possible to draw groundwater. And human waste can freely get into them. For example, not far from a well or well there is a small garbage dump. It rains and everything that is washed out of the waste ends up in the soil. Water with harmful impurities comes through the soil to the first solid layer of the earth and rushes to the well or well. Of course, the soil itself filters it a little, but such natural cleansing does not last forever. Over time, the soil itself, on the way to the water going to the well, is saturated with harmful substances. As a result, even pure water that has passed through it is saturated with pathogens.
Modern home water filtration systems are pretty good at dealing with these kinds of problems. At the same time, along the way, cleaning the liquid from excess iron, chlorine and other impurities, and even softening too hard. If we talk about pitcher filters, which are a budget option, they can be placed anywhere, they do not require a specific installation location. Of course, such a device will only be enough for one or two people. If there are more residents, then it is worth taking care to purchase a flow or storage water filter for the house. This acquisition may well provide several people with clean drinking water.
Even if the quality of water from a well or a well suits you, it is not always suitable for dishwashers or washing machines. Indeed, in any case, although rarely, some particles can get into it. For such cases, water treatment in a private house can be carried out using main coarse filters. They cost a little, but they also hold only fairly large fractions.
We will talk about the types of water filters for a country house, but for now we will figure out how things are with this in the apartments of Russian cities.
Do I need water purification systems in apartments with centralized water supply?
This question can only be answered unequivocally - it is necessary. With the rapid pace of construction of apartment buildings, as well as the lack of modernization of treatment facilities, the quality of tap water in our time leaves much to be desired. Water in the system requires purification from excess iron, chlorine, limestone, and sometimes even hydrogen sulfide and other rather harmful substances. Do not forget about the old age of communications. After all, rust from pipes also does not add purity. It is for these purposes that coarse and fine filters are installed in apartments.
Water purification systems for an apartment can be just as diverse, which means that choosing the right one in one case or another can be quite difficult. In this case, many parameters must be taken into account. Water filters in an apartment, as well as in a private house, can be classified according to various criteria, namely:
- By installation method– accumulative, main or flowing;
- According to the degree of purification- it can be coarse or fine;
- According to the fundamental structure- cartridge or disk.
Also, filters for water purification in apartments and private houses are distinguished by the method of purification, of which there can be a lot. Today we will definitely analyze each of them in detail, but first things first.
To begin with, let's try to figure out the classification of water filtration systems for apartments and private houses.
How water filters are arranged and their classification
First you need to understand how water filters work. Depending on the number of degrees of purification, the water in them passes through the elements (there can be from 1 to 5), which trap certain contaminants or saturate it with the necessary substances. Most often, with a five-stage purification, the water to the last of the elements is almost distilled. At the last stage, it is saturated with salts and minerals in the amount necessary for a person.
If we are talking about jugs, then such a household filter for purifying tap water combines all stages in one cartridge. At the same time, it is very important to choose a filter element with exactly the qualities that are needed. Otherwise, the water will not be purified as it passes through the cartridge.
Important information! Filters for water purification from wells must necessarily be equipped with coarse cleaning elements. If such water is poured directly into the same filter jug, then its cartridge will instantly become clogged with larger particles that will prevent it from performing its functions.
Classification of water filters by installation method
Filters for water purification can be installed on the inlet pipe to the living room (main) or directly under the sink (flow or accumulative). At its core, a flow filter differs from a storage filter only in the presence of a special tank in the latter. Such devices allow you to use purified water for some time even if its supply to the system is stopped.
Now our main task will be to understand what kind of work each of these devices does, what difficulties can arise when installing such equipment, and what you should pay attention to when purchasing.
The nuances of using main filtering devices
The main water filter for a private house is considered preliminary. Of course, it purifies water from sand particles, and some models are able to remove harmful microorganisms, soften water and improve its taste. But it should be understood that such installations will not be able to clean to the extent that flow or storage type devices will do.
Important! Main filters for water purification in an apartment are recommended to be used in conjunction with flow filters. In this case, the water quality will be ideal. However, with a small amount of pollution, such installations can quite cope with filtration alone.
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A rather significant advantage of main filters is the presence of a water pressure regulator in them. You should definitely pay attention to this when choosing and purchasing. The pressure regulator allows you to extend the life of not only faucets, but also household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. The regulator eliminates the danger of water hammer that occurs when the pump is turned on, which are detrimental to household appliances.
The maximum number of purification levels for main filters is 3. If a device with one degree is selected, then here we can only talk about the removal of large particles, such as sand and rust. Such filters require replacement of cartridges at least once every six months. In addition, they should be washed periodically, especially with sufficiently dirty and “rusty” water.
Features of flow and storage water treatment devices
The most common location of such filters is under the sink or not far from the faucet on the wall. It all depends on the availability of the tank and its volume. Until recently, plants with five stages of purification were considered the most effective, but now there are even models with six.
Flow filters for water purification in apartments are usually equipped with an additional faucet, which is mounted on the sink next to the main one. At the same time, if main filters are installed on both hot and cold water, then flow filters are more often installed only for drinking water.
Important information! Not all flowing water filters for private houses and apartments are capable of operating at normal pressure in the water supply system. Some models require an additional pump installation. This is the only way to sometimes create a water pressure of 2.5-3 atm., Necessary for the normal functioning of the cleaning device.
And here is how netizens respond about one of these devices of the Aquaphor brand:
olga655, Russia, Koryazhma: After its installation in 2013, we used water for cooking and drinking, it has been used for a long time, we changed the filter only in April 2015. We coped with the installation easily on our own, it is advisable to treat the connecting hoses with a sealant to prevent leakage. From the company Aquaphor, fast delivery was ordered from the site. The support service is fast and efficient. The only drawback is that the faucet began to flow after six months. Convenient flow design. Did not regret the money spent. We change the filter cartridges every six months, the water has ceased to be hard, it has become pleasant to the taste, it has ceased to wash the kettle from scale every day. More on Otzovik: http://otzovik.com/review_3390663.html
Classification of devices according to the degree of purification
Here we can distinguish 2 possible degrees - it is coarse and subtle. Surely the designations of the degrees themselves speak for themselves, but it’s still worth considering devices with different cleaning for a more complete understanding of all the nuances of the choice.
Important information! When installing a filter with multi-stage cleaning, one should not think that its first stages, which are considered coarse, can function for a long time without installing an additional main filtration device or at least settling tanks directly after emergency taps.
Coarse water filtration devices
Such devices are a fine mesh that can trap particles. These devices can be either washable or non-washable. A feature of coarse washing filters is that they have a special tap. By attaching a hose to the fitting and opening the valve, you can drain all the dirt contained in it. This makes cleaning the mesh easier. If you pay attention to non-flushing ones, then they do not have such a function, which forces you to periodically disassemble the device and clean the grid. It is to such coarse water filters that sedimentation tanks can be attributed, which are available in almost every apartment or private house. They are installed directly behind the emergency tap or water meter. Such elements are also called filters for the purification of technical water, which contains many large particles.
Important information! Even if the water in your apartment or private house meets the standards, then no one is immune from sand, lime or rust getting into it. And this can have a detrimental effect on household appliances connected to the system. It is for this reason that the installation of coarse filters is necessary.
Fine water purification: how it is achieved
The main task of devices that carry out fine cleaning is disinfection, iron removal and softening of water. Separate devices can have the functions of aeration, ionization and adding the necessary salts and minerals to it.
In fact, a great job is being done with fine water filters for apartments. First, various elements gradually purify water to a distilled state, and then give it the necessary properties and taste. Of course, such devices require periodic maintenance and replacement of filter elements, but this is a secondary issue. But at the same time, the quality of water (with the right selection of cartridges) becomes close to ideal.
Most often, the installation of filters for fine water purification is carried out by specialists, although, having some knowledge in this area, you can install them yourself. You can find information on how to do this in one of our articles.
Important! When purchasing such devices, pay attention to the terms of the warranty. Some manufacturers will void their warranty if they install it themselves. Their requirements contain a clause stating that installation should be carried out only by qualified specialists.
The difference between filters according to the principle device
According to the principle device, such filters can be divided into cartridge and disk filters. We can only say that the latter are used much less frequently, although they are in no way inferior in terms of characteristics to the former. But this applies only to rough cleaning. It is for this reason that such elements are applicable only for the main type of devices. Let's try to understand what are the fundamental differences between these filters and what is their principle of operation.
Cartridge filtration systems and how they work
With such systems, everything is more or less clear. Water passes through tanks filled with various substances, which first purify it from impurities of a particular composition, and then bring it to the desired state.
Activated carbon is traditionally considered the main element of fillers for cartridges. It can be cheaper (birch) or high cost (coconut shell charcoal). Various chemicals and minerals can also be added.
If we talk about rough cleaning, then often a winding of the thinnest metal wire or thicker cotton thread is used as a filter element in the cartridge. Such a material is quite capable of retaining particles with a size of 20 microns. This is enough to filter the smallest dust particles, sand or rust.
Cartridge water filters have one drawback - the elements must be replaced after a certain period of time. And if at the same time more expensive and high-quality models are chosen, then such a replacement can result in a decent amount. But at the same time, the range of cartridge filters for water purification is quite large, compared to disk filters, which we will also dwell on in more detail now.
Features and composition of disc filters
Less common, but not inferior, and in some cases superior in performance to the previous elements. The filter itself is a bag containing many polymer discs. On their surfaces are notches in the form of a trapezoid. Thanks to such design features, under water pressure, a kind of mesh is formed, which traps small particles.
The peculiarity of such an element is that in case of clogging, it is enough to rinse the bag under running water, squeezing and unclenching it a little. At the same time, all the dirt accumulated in the grooves is removed and the filter is ready for use again.
Here are some technical characteristics of disc water filters.
Table 1. Characteristics of disc water filters
Thus, it becomes clear that all cleaning performance is identical to the characteristics of the cartridge elements. In addition, in our time, the manufacturer offers similar filters with automatic flushing, which is quite convenient.
How filters are separated by cleaning method
There are quite a lot of types according to this parameter. It:
- Mechanical cleaning filters;
- Ion exchange devices;
- With reverse osmosis;
- Aeration installations;
- Ozonation systems;
- ultraviolet;
- Coal.
Which filter for cleaning is better to buy, everyone will have to decide on their own, but we will try to help with the choice. And for this it is necessary to more fully understand which of the household filters for purifying drinking water is intended for what and what functions it performs. Of course, the purpose of some elements can be understood already judging by the name, for example, such as filters for hard water for a private house. But many varieties are not so simple, so let's start.
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Mechanical water filters and their purpose
Mechanical cleaning is most often called primary, coarse filtration. All main filters can be attributed to this type. Let's try to understand which manufacturers present goods from this segment on the shelves. The most popular brands here are Atoll, New Water, Geyser and BWT.
Table 2. Popular mechanical water filters
| Make and model | A photo | Filtration speed, l/min | Maximum pressure, atm | Cost, rub |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geyser 1P 3/4 32009 |  | 10 | 7 | 9000 |
| Atoll AFR-1/2CB (set of 2 filters) |  | 25 | 16 | 10000 |
| BWT Protector Mini 1/2 H604R11 |  | 27 | 16 | 5000 |
| PRIO New Water A082 |  | 15 | 26 | 6000 |
As you can see, the price range is quite large. And that doesn't necessarily mean lower quality cheaper products. The point here is more about the brand and its recognition. After all, at first any company works for a name, and then, regardless of the quality of its products, the name works for it.
In general, mechanical filters for water purification nowadays are sold out very quickly. From conversations with the seller of one of the outlets specializing in such a product, we managed to find out that most often a queue of people who want to purchase main filters is already formed by the weekly delivery. At the same time, there is not enough such products for the whole week.
Ion exchange filters: how they differ from the rest
- Ultra-high level of cleaning;
- Removes all bacteria, heavy metals and viruses;
- Removes dissolved gases of residual chlorine, petroleum products, pesticides, phenol, hazardous metal compounds and other toxic substances;
- Household filters for softening water retain the mineral composition in it after cleaning;
- Stabilizes the pH level to the optimum for humans;
- Helps water to be charged with negative ions;
- Converts organic salts for easy absorption by the body;
- Provides high filtration speed, up to several liters per minute;
- Durable to use cartridges and easy to replace them;
- Has a variety of options for installation;
- Allows visual control of the degree of contamination;
- Provides the possibility of setting additional degrees of purification.
In fact, ion exchange is water purification by replacing heavy metals with neutral ones. Of course, we will not go into a full course of chemistry, but consumers consider this method to be quite effective. On average, the cost of such filters in the Russian market stopped at around 1500-3000 rubles. However, you can also find premium models at a price of 90,000-100,000 rubles. The main manufacturers are still the same - Aquaphor, Geyser, New Water and Barrier.
Reverse osmosis filters for the home - the most common type
Such reverse osmosis devices for water purification are installed under the sink or above it. The quality of cleaning systems with reverse osmosis reaches 99%. The cost of such devices is distributed as follows.
Table 3. Atoll filters
| Make and model | A photo | Productivity, l/min | Number of cleaning levels | Price, rub |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atoll Patriot A-550 |  | 0,09 | 5 | 8000 |
| Atoll A-310E/D-30 STD |  | 2 | 3 | 5200 |
| Atoll A-211E/D-21 STD |  | 3,8 | 2 | 5000 |
| Atoll Premium A-560Ep/A-550 MAXp |  | 0,18 | 5 | 22000 |
Table 4. "Aquaphor"
Aeration system - what is it
The name itself speaks for itself. Aeration means saturation of water with oxygen. Many may ask - how is oxygenation related to filtration? The answer is simple. Aeration by itself does not purify the water, but with the help of other substances, by saturating it with oxygen, it helps to improve the quality of the final result. For example, aeration of water from a well improves not only its taste, but also increases the level of oxygen in the blood, which has a positive effect on human health. Surely many people know what an “oxygen cocktail” is. This same principle is applied here.
The use of a water aeration system is indicated for people with heart disease, hypertension and hypotension, as well as diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. But, in any case, you should first consult with a specialist.
Ozonation: what is the principle of such a system
Surely every student knows that ozone promotes oxidation. That is why water in some cases is purified by ozonation. So it is directed to a greater extent on iron removal. If there is no excess of iron in your water, then such cleaning is clearly useless. Ozone increases the intensity of iron oxidation, as a result, the particles begin to become covered with additional processes. In simple terms, they "rust". Having increased, such particles can no longer pass where simple water seeps freely.
Important information! Water ozonation is contraindicated for allergy sufferers. Ozone, in addition to its main work, partially remains in the water. As a result, an allergic person, consuming such water, automatically increases the risk of a reaction.
Whether ozonation is beneficial or harmful - this issue should be left to the competence of the doctor. But reviews of such devices speak volumes.
Denissasha, Ukraine, Chernivtsi: Ozone, in acceptable concentrations, has a lot of useful properties. You can ozonize drinking water, air, process food, places of cuts, burns and trophic ulcers. Ozonation of water and products is safe, all microflora and microfauna die in water, even those that survive chlorination, and the remains of drugs, hormones and other gifts of great chemistry are washed out of meat during processing. It has been verified that the processing of homemade village chicken practically does not give results, chicken meat bought in stores after processing is almost always covered with nasty mucus that must be washed off. How, what and how much to process is written in the instructions for the ozonator. More on Otzovik: http://otzovik.com/review_167392.html
Ultraviolet and its effect on the body
Here we can say with confidence that such devices quite effectively fight pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms. For example, we can cite UV lamps that can be seen in the treatment and operating rooms of clinics and hospitals. Like them, ultraviolet water filters completely disinfect the liquid. But there are also negative sides. All useful substances contained in the water also die.
Carbon filter and its properties
Coal itself is an absorbent substance. This means that any resins, formaldehydes and other similar substances are retained by them. Today, the carbon water filter is considered the best in terms of cleaning.
In fact, if you think about it, no cartridge can do without such a layer. This suggests that the use of a carbon filter for water purification provides purification from the most common harmful substances.
The average cost of water filters in private homes
Prices for water filters in private houses and apartments may vary. If we compare the most famous manufacturers, we can understand the average dependence. An example is reverse osmosis filters.
| brand | Average cost in Russia, rub. |
|---|---|
| Atoll | 19000 |
| Geyser | 16000 |
| Aquaphor | 11000 |
| New Water | 10000 |
Of course, all prices are given in the average equivalent, but this table is able to show an approximate concept.
It turns out that buying a water filter for a country house, cottage or apartment is not so difficult. After all, the cost of such equipment is low. And in general, is it worth saving on health?
Article
Everyone knows that drinking tap water is contraindicated, since the flowing liquid is heavily contaminated with various impurities. It is better to drink it only after it has undergone additional purification. For these purposes, there are filters for water purification. But how do you know which water filter is best? Our article is devoted to finding an answer to this question.
From this article you will learn:
What is the best water filter
What are water filters
How to choose the best water filter
How to choose a main water filter
What is the best water filter
It is better to say right away that there are no ideal filters that would purify water from absolutely all impurities at once. Nevertheless, the modern market offers a huge number of options. There are both separate filters and complex solutions that provide high-quality water purification.
In order to figure out which water filter is better, let's get acquainted with the main characteristics of these devices.
When choosing the water treatment equipment that suits you best, consider the following aspects:
how safe is the material from which the water filter is made;
whether the water treatment device is able to reduce the level of concentration of harmful substances during operation;
whether the water filter is able to prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria and other dangerous microorganisms.
Also, the material from which the water filter is made should not have an extraneous "chemical" smell. Moreover, devices connected to the water supply must be of a durable and reliable design: in modern models, as a rule, glass-filled plates are used.
Professionals say that it is better not to save on a water filter, because with the help of cheap equipment you will not achieve the required degree of purification, and you can also add extraneous pollutants to the water.
In order to decide which water filter is better to choose, you should pay attention to:
Number of cleaning steps- the higher this indicator, the better the quality of water treatment.
Filtering features- it is necessary to determine from which impurities the water should be purified in your case (from chlorine, iron, etc.). In order to understand which water filter is better to choose, a preliminary study of the composition of the water should be carried out.
mineralizer- quite often it is set by default, but at the moment its useful properties have not been confirmed by science.
Performance– this property depends on the number of people who will use this equipment. For example, for one or two people, a jug-type filter will be enough, and for a large family, it is better to use a stationary model, since the water in the jug will not have time to settle.
Confirmation of a high level of cleaning. In the technical data sheet of the equipment you will find information regarding the certification of the filter, the acceptable cleaning standards should also be indicated.
In order to decide which water filter is better to choose for an apartment, check out the rating of filters, the reputation of companies and the results of examinations of household equipment on the website of the Russian Federal Control Service.
Which water filter is better: TOP-5
The modern Russian market offers five options for water purification devices, and you have to determine which water filter is best. Each of these models has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Filter jug, consisting of two containers. The first is a jug, and the second is a volumetric lid of this jug, through which water is poured. This lid is equipped with a replaceable filter in the form of a cylindrical cartridge, passing through which the water flows into the jug.
Nozzle for a water faucet. This type of filter is attached directly to the water tap. Purified water can be poured into any container.
Flow filters installed on the sink. In this situation, only a tube is mounted to the water tap, through which water enters the filter located nearby. Passing through it, the water is purified and exits through a special tap, which is installed in this filter.
A flow filter that is installed under the sink. It is connected directly to the water supply, and a small separate faucet is taken out to the sink, through which purified water flows. So you can pour purified water directly into the glass.
Reverse osmosis system. In this case, only one tap is taken out to the sink. And under the sink, the filter itself is installed, as well as an additional container in which cleaning of a higher quality is carried out.
Let's take a closer look at each of the above models of water filters.
Filter jugs
The easiest and cheapest option. These devices are the most popular in our country due to their low cost, as well as mobility. For example, you can easily take a filter jug to your country house to purify water.
The disadvantages of a water jug filter are a limited resource, volume and choice. The first disadvantage is that the water filter you purchased will last you no more than a month and a half. After the expiration date indicated on the package, the removable cartridge must be replaced with a new one. However, the resource of the cartridge does not depend on a certain period of time, but on how much water you clean daily with it. Therefore, the more liters of water you purify, the more often you will have to change the cartridge.
The volume of this filter is limited by the volume of the jug. In order to make a large supply of water, you will have to pour it from a jug into another container. Which water filter pitcher is better to choose? It all depends on the composition of the water. For example, one jug-type filter softens water better, another reduces the level of iron in water, etc.
Such filters are not able to provide a high level of purification. It is better not to use such a model for residents of those cities where tap water is highly polluted.
The filter jug for water is suitable for those people who live alone, or young families who rent an apartment. And for a family consisting of several people and actively consuming clean drinking water, it is better not to use this option.
This kind of water filters is not the most popular in the Russian Federation, however, they can still be found on sale. As a rule, these models are produced by foreign companies.
The advantages of this filter are inexpensive and affordable price and compact size. Due to these characteristics, this device is best suited for people who are often on the road. In this case, they can easily carry the filter in any travel bag, and it will also fit most faucets, except for those that have a non-standard shape.
Also, these water filters have their drawbacks. Due to their compact size, they contain a small amount of purifying substances, therefore, this leads to a decrease in the degree of water purification. Also, these filter models are characterized by a low level of performance. For example, using this device, you can clean no more than half a liter of running water per minute. If the filter cleaning speed is higher, then the cleaning quality is reduced.
The filter installed on the sink is also not very popular in our country. As well as the filter nozzle, this model is produced, as a rule, by foreign companies.
This model, in contrast to the above options, has several advantages. This filter is able to provide deeper water purification, and also cleans more liquid than previous models.
But you can also highlight the disadvantages associated with discomfort. The main inconvenience of this water filter is that during operation it is necessary to connect and disconnect a flexible hose from the tap, through which water enters the filter, and then the purified liquid enters the glass. This water filter is large and generally not suitable for small kitchens.
This option is best used by family people who rent housing. This filter has such qualities as a deep degree of purification, a long service life and a high degree of performance, while no complex installation is required. You can turn off the water filter at any time and move it to another location.
This type of water filter, like the filter jug, is best sold in stores. It consists of rather voluminous replaceable cartridges, which are fixed on a base installed under the sink. The tap of this device is taken out into a hole specially cut out in the sink, while the filter is connected directly to the water supply.
This sink water filter has a number of advantages. The first plus is represented by a sufficiently large resource that allows you to replace nozzles once every 6 months or even a year. Another advantage of this water filter is the deep degree of purification. It is better to install a filter equipped with two, three or even four cartridges, each of which is designed to perform its function. At the same time, the water becomes not only clean, but also enriched with useful properties. Moreover, you have the opportunity to collect purified water in any container.
This type of water filter has its drawbacks, the main of which is the lack of mobility. If you want to take it with you in the event of a move, then a hole from a special tap will be visible in the sink. In addition, this water filter model, as well as replacement cartridges for it, are quite expensive.
This type of filter, despite its size and complexity of design, is very popular in Russia. The peculiarity of the reverse osmosis system is that the water is cleaned not only with conventional filters, but also with the help of a special reverse osmosis membrane, which purifies the water better, helping to eliminate not only various impurities, but even the smallest bacteria and microorganisms.
The main advantage of such water filters lies in the ideal degree of purification. Water will be filtered from various impurities and dangerous, pathogenic bacteria. Such a system allows you to use water in its purest form. Another advantage is the long life of this model. For example, the conventional filter cartridge, also part of this system, must be replaced once a year, while the osmotic membrane will need to be changed no more than once every three years.
The disadvantage of such a system is its high cost; any other water filter model will cost several times cheaper. Oddly enough, but an excessively deep degree of water purification can also be classified as a disadvantage, since the membrane prevents the penetration of not only harmful microorganisms, but also minerals contained in the water.
So you can also incur additional costs for the installation of a mineralizer and a water structurer, which, in turn, are also very expensive. Do not forget that the design of this system is quite voluminous, and you can no longer place a trash can under the sink.
A reverse osmosis water filter is best for a wealthy family living in an apartment with a large kitchen or in a private house.
Water treatment kits in our catalog
Main water filter: which one is better
A very popular model is the main water filter. It is installed on water mains. Accordingly, if the house provides for hot and cold water supply, then two devices will be required.
With the help of these devices, preliminary water purification is carried out, as well as:
Chemicals, various bacteria, pesticides and other hazardous substances are eliminated from the water.
The taste of water becomes better and therefore the taste of cooked food improves; unpleasant odors and turbidity are eliminated.
Softens hardness. Many complain that tap water dries out the skin. This filter is best suited for hard water.
The equipment is protected from a variety of contaminants.
Each water treatment device has its own operating principles. And in order to decide which water filter is better, you need to understand which one is most convenient for you to use.
For the manufacture of the filter housing, reinforced plastic, metal and stainless steel are used. The material is selected depending on the characteristics of the water to be treated. There are various models designed for cold or hot water, as well as universal devices.
The water in the filter is cleaned thanks to special cartridges. They need to be changed over time. Fine cleaning involves the use of backfill, which is chosen based on the composition of the water.
Main water filters are distinguished:
single stage, which are capable of only the weakest level of water purification. In this case, it is necessary to change the cartridge every six months. Remove rust, sand, coarse suspensions and particles.
two stage have better water quality. The filter has a built-in carbon block and a mechanical barrier. Remove both large particles and organics, chlorine and unpleasant odors.
Three-stage the best way to purify water. These filters are equipped with three cartridges - a sedimentary one, a layer of activated carbon and an ion-exchange element that softens the water.
There are main filters for mechanical, chemical, biological and hard water treatment.
It is important to know that it is better not to use chemical cleaning to purify water at home, as an unpleasant odor may appear, and harmful impurities will remain. This method of water purification is best used for a well.
Many filter elements tend to perform some type of water purification, it is best to use several stages for a more efficient result.
The plumbing systems of private houses and apartments may differ. For an apartment, it is best to choose a water filter with two rust cleaners - for hot and cold mains, you can also use fine cleaning. To understand which water filter is better to purchase, you should analyze the following characteristics:
The main device for cleaning hot water in the country should be distinguished by the optimal degree of mechanical cleaning, due to which the water will be transparent. It is better to give preference to a filter with a fine mesh, which retains dirt well.
The body type of the "geyser" design can be metal, transparent or matte. The former is usually best used for hot water so that plastic materials do not melt.
Hydraulic loss is an important factor, so it is best for an apartment to use a water filter with minimal hydraulic loss. The flow of water is usually slowed down when the filter is installed in the pipeline.
In order to understand which water filter is better, you need to pay attention to the filter module. The cartridge can be equipped with absorption material (activated carbon), silver ions, membrane material and osmotic composition, and is intended only for mechanical type of cleaning.
Such a water filter is best suited for wells or wells. Each cartridge differs in its own principle of operation, and the result is a completely different composition of water.
Advantages of pipeline water filters:
the main filter provides all types of filtration, including coarse mechanical, fine ionic, etc.;
elimination of unpleasant odors - the filter makes the water taste better thanks to the activated carbon contained in the cartridge;
most main filters provide a deep degree of water purification.
Disadvantages of main water filters:
if there is no backwash in the filter, and a well is used as a source of water, then it is necessary to constantly clean the system and water supply;
as a rule, it is necessary to constantly change the filter modules if the water comes from a contaminated well.
our company Biokit offers a wide range of reverse osmosis systems, water filters and other equipment capable of restoring tap water to its natural characteristics.
Our specialists are ready to help you:
connect the filtration system yourself;
understand the process of choosing water filters;
select replacement materials;
troubleshoot or solve problems with the involvement of specialist installers;
find answers to your questions over the phone.
Entrust water purification systems from Biokit - let your family be healthy!
How often do we think about the question of what kind of water we use at home for drinking or for cooking? Alas, we have to admit that not everyone has yet fully understood the need for its purification and filtration. But this is by no means an idle question: the quality of water from autonomous sources or from the city network very often lies outside the limits of permissible sanitary standards. Simply boiling or settling can only help a little, and is unable to deal with the overwhelming amount of pollution or even infection.
It is gratifying that the number of supporters of a reasonable attitude to health, one's own and the immediate environment, is still constantly growing. Direct evidence of this is the growing popularity and demand for household appliances for water purification. Filter manufacturers are constantly working to improve their products and expand their product range. But the variety presented for sale can easily put into a "stupor" the buyer who purchases such products for the first time, and is not too well aware of the question of how to choose a water filter.
Where does the choice begin?
In this publication there will be no detailed story about the factors polluting water, about the technologies for cleaning it from certain substances, about the principles of operation of various filtering devices.
How are coarse and fine filters arranged and how do they work?
It is very important to know this, but it is not worth repeating. A separate large article of our portal is devoted to the issue of the device and functioning of various devices.
Therefore, today the emphasis will be placed mainly on consumer problems - what to choose for a person in order to provide their homes with clean water. Let's take "out of brackets" and complex powerful water treatment plants assembled from several column-type filters - only specialists should be engaged in their selection, assembly and installation. Let's consider the problem in the context of purchasing a ready-made filter or filtration complex in a specialized store, designed for the needs of one average family.
The implementation of any task should always begin with a clear understanding of what you want to get as a result. By purchasing any, in fact, things or products, a person usually already knows what functions or qualities he hopes to receive for his money spent. The water filter is no exception in this matter. It is required to confidently imagine what properties it should have.
The simplistic “just purify the water” approach is, of course, sheer amateurism. Along with obvious signs of pollution (which also need to be dealt with skillfully), water may contain substances or microorganisms that are completely invisible to the eye, smell or taste, posing a threat to human health.
You should not trust either your superficial feelings, or, even more so, the advice of your neighbors. Subjective opinions can lie in a wide range - from "we have been drinking this kind of water all our lives" to some far-fetched "horrors" that are more likely to be classified as "urban legends". And, besides, the quality of water from nearby nearby sources, or even in neighboring urban buildings, can vary significantly.
As a result, you can fall into one of two extremes:
- Purchasing a filter that does not have the required cleaning functions will simply be a waste of money.
- Taking advantage of the consumer's apparent ignorance, shop assistants will try to impose an expensive filter system that is absolutely not needed. As a result, it is also lost money.
The best solution is to take a sample of water from a source or water supply for laboratory analysis. This, of course, also costs money, but such expenses will be justified.
The most correct decision is to conduct a laboratory study of water from your source The analysis solves a lot of questions at once:
- One can immediately assess the fundamental suitability of an autonomous source for use in food needs.
- The results of the analysis will help you choose the right filter system. Repeated analysis, after installing the filter, will give a clear picture of the effectiveness of its work.
- Regular testing will allow tracking the dynamics of changes in the biochemical composition of water - an extremely important event for autonomous, especially newly equipped sources.
- Having a laboratory test protocol in hand can become a document on the basis of which it will be possible to make claims against city utilities.
By the way, many thoughtful people, when purchasing a new home, immediately require the presentation of a document on the quality of drinking water.
To carry out the analysis, it is necessary to decide on the laboratory. You should not resort to the services of laboratories working with water supply organizations (they can easily underestimate pollution indicators), and with companies involved in the installation of filtering and purification systems (there, of course, there may be another extreme). It is best to choose an independent organization that has the appropriate government certification.
Laboratory analyzes are divided into two types - chemical and microbiological. For autonomous, especially surface sources, both are mandatory. For tap water, which, in theory, should already go through the stage of disinfection, often only a chemical test is limited, although a microbiological study will also never become superfluous.
It is most reasonable to agree in advance with laboratory workers on the time of delivery of the collected water samples, since there are certain restrictions on their shelf life (2 ÷ 3 hours).
Water intake also requires compliance with certain rules:
For chemical analysis, it is necessary to pass 1.5 liters.
- The optimal solution is a clean plastic bottle, but only from non-carbonated drinking water. It is forbidden to use containers for sweet drinks or beer.
- The tap opens, and the water is given at least 15 minutes for free exit. (If the source has not been used for a long time, it will even take 2 hours).
- The bottle and cap are thoroughly rinsed with the same water that will be analyzed. No detergents are used.
- Then the pressure is made minimal, so that when entering the bottle, aeration is not created - - the appearance of bubbles. Excess oxygen can greatly distort the overall picture.
- The container is filled completely, with overflow, so that there is no air left under the tightly screwed stopper.
For biological analysis, the requirements are completely different.
- The required volume is about 0.5 liters. The container must be absolutely sterile - if, for example, a glass jar is used, then both it and the lid to it are thoroughly steamed. Many laboratories practice taking samples for microbiology exclusively in their sterile disposable containers, which are issued to the customer.
- For water intake, hands must be dressed in sterile medical gloves.
For the “purity of the experiment”, water sampling for biological analysis is carried out with sterile gloves - Even before the tap is opened, the spout cut is either burned through with fire, or carefully treated with medical alcohol - it is required to completely exclude the entry of microorganisms into the sample from the side.
- A faucet is opened, and water is circulated under maximum pressure for at least 10 minutes.
- After that, the sterilized container (cold) is filled to the top, and immediately hermetically closed.
Usually, the term for fulfilling an order for a qualitative laboratory study of water is about 5 ÷ 7 days. By the way, if they promise to do it literally in a day ÷ two, this should alert. It happens that not entirely conscientious offices conduct a superficial express test, which is then passed off as an in-depth study.
As a result, the customer must receive a protocol certified in accordance with the established procedure, which has the force of a legal document.
As a rule, this is a table in which, for clarity, the maximum allowable norms for water established by SanPiN and the actual indicators obtained are indicated.
Having such a document in hand and highlighting positions that require adjustment, it will be possible to select filters of the appropriate direction of action.
The protocol of the laboratory study will help determine the “strategy” for water treatment, and can also be of help in making claims against utilities. Is it possible to limit ourselves to conducting independent rapid tests, kits for which can be purchased in stores?
Experts have a common opinion on this matter - such an analysis is not a full-fledged alternative to a laboratory one. Of course, he will show the presence of a problem, but he will not be able to determine the exact quantitative and component indicators of pollution, that is, there will be clearly not enough data for a qualitative selection of a filtering system.
And one more parameter that should be determined in advance is the required filter performance. If the article discusses devices for drinking water purification and for cooking, then we can proceed from an average rate of 3 liters per day per person. Of course, the filter should not work at the limit of its capabilities, that is, it is desirable to increase this rate, say, by half.
Thus, if, for example, five people live in a house (apartment), then it is easy to determine that approximately 30 liters of purified water per day will be required. Accordingly, the purchased device must cope with such a load.
We now turn to the consideration of various models of household
The simplest option: filter - jug
Filter jug device
For those who do not want to spend a significant amount on the purchase of a filter, do not need large volumes of purified water, or do not want to get involved with any installation or connection of the system to the water supply, we can advise you to get a "light option" - a jug. Of course, such a solution is possible only if the quality of the incoming water allows it.
The simplest and most inexpensive, but far from the most effective solution is to purchase a pitcher filter. Although outwardly in shape and color design, filter jugs can seriously differ. The basic design of the is always the same, and does not differ in great complexity.
In fact, these are two containers separated by a partition and communicating only through a filter cartridge.
The body of the jug (pos. 1) serves to collect purified water. It is always made of a transparent food-grade polymer, and a volume scale is often placed on its walls - for ease of use. The capacity of the jug may vary - usually a number of models are on sale with a volume of filtered water in the range of 1.3 ÷ 4 liters. The choice for this parameter depends on the family's need for drinking water.
The upper container (pos. 2) is an insert in the body. It is also made of impact-resistant food-grade plastic, but usually has a darker tone (the color may be different - depending on the design idea). This compartment is designed to receive water to be filtered, and its capacity, as a rule, is about half the usable volume of the jug.
At the bottom of the insert, where it forms a kind of funnel, there is a socket into which the filter cartridge (pos. 3) is tightly inserted and fixed. The purpose, that is, the functionality of the cartridge may be different - this is selected based on the existing "clinical picture" of the state of the water.
It is important to know that the locking or threaded connection of the cartridge with the upper container can vary significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer. Apparently, this is a method of stimulating the purchase of only branded components.
There is a spout in the upper part of the body - for the convenience of directed draining of filtered water (pos. 4). The design is such that even with a strong inclination of the jug, water from the upper and lower compartments does not have the opportunity to accidentally mix.
The collection of water for filtration is carried out with the cover folded back (pos. 5), which can be equipped with a convenient lock (pos. 6), or through the intake hatch, which also necessarily has its own cover to prevent accidental ingress of dust or debris inside.
The filter jug always has a convenient handle (pos. 7). A “reminder” can be placed on top of the lid or on the handle - a mechanical calendar that will prompt the owner about the timing of the filter cartridge replacement. There are also expensive models that have electronic indication. Moreover, when selling some branded models, registration of customers is practiced, who will subsequently receive Internet or SMS messages about the need to replace.
The scheme of work is obvious - the water poured into the upper container independently, without any influence, only due to gravity, passes through the filling of the cartridge, receives the required cleaning and accumulates in the jug. As water is consumed for drinking or kitchen needs, new portions are poured into the receiving container.
Applicable cartridges
It is the cartridge that is the most important element of such a filter, so special attention should be focused on its choice.
The shape of the cartridge and its lock part can be different, and there is almost no talk of interchangeability, unless, of course, this is specified by the manufacturer.
But cartridges for one filter model can have a different purpose:
- Replacement elements for water of standard quality are sold - they help to cope with possible unpleasant odors, normalize taste, remove heavy metal ions, impurities of chlorine, organic compounds, etc. The usual sorption material for them is granular activated carbon.
- There are cartridges with a pronounced softening effect - a certain amount of ion-exchange resins is additionally introduced into them.
- You can also choose a cartridge for a source with a high iron content - they use a reagent-free iron removal and filtration technology.
- For sources, water from which does not pass the stage of disinfection, there are special elements with a bactericidal effect.
- Cassettes are produced, the refilling of which involves a healing fluorinating effect on water.
Most companies use some form of silver in cartridge fillers to prevent bacterial colonies from growing inside them. And besides, each of the manufacturers tries to surprise the consumer with their own original developments.
Usually at the inlet and outlet of their cartridge there is a mesh or membrane that performs the function of mechanical filtration. In addition, usually in replaceable elements it has a special throttling device that equalizes the speed of water passing through the filler, regardless of the filling level of the upper part of the jug.
Advantages and disadvantages. Filter pitcher selection options.
The following can be said about the positive qualities of filter jugs:
- Their operation is the simplest, which anyone can handle.
- There are simply no installation operations, except for connecting the cartridge. Ideal for work, dorm or rental housing.
- The jug can be easily taken with you as needed, for example, for a vacation trip.
- Low cost, available to any family.
There are also significant disadvantages of such filtering:
- Cleaning goes only in certain portions. For example, to fill a five-liter kettle, you will have to fill the filter twice.
- The cleaning rate is low, rarely reaching the threshold of 400 ml/minute, and more often even much less.
- Frequent (about once a month and a half) replacement of the cartridge is required. the period may be even shorter.
- Relatively high operating costs in terms of the volume of filtered water, if you look at the future. So, already in a year and a half - two years, the total costs can equal, or even exceed the costs of a really powerful and high-quality multi-stage filtration unit.
When choosing a jug filter, care should be taken, as the market is replete with cheap fakes.
In no case do not buy them in random places - there are specialized stores for this. It is best to choose models of well-known brands.
Carefully inspect and, literally, sniff the body. The polymer should not emit any odors. Food grade plastics must be labeled appropriately as shown in the figure.
This sign says that "food" plastic was used to make the jug. You should immediately evaluate the possibility of acquiring original replacement cartridges with the required functionality, in accordance with the quality of the water source, and their affordability.
It is necessary to reasonably approach the choice of a jug by volume. Remember - such a filter is not a "carafe" at all, but serves only to purify water. The capacity of the vessel should correspond to real needs with a small margin. It is not recommended to store filtered water for more than a day. This means that you will have to simply drain the excess, wasting the resource of a replaceable cartridge in vain.
Usually for a single person or for a couple, a jug of one and a half liters is enough. It is fashionable to think about buying a filter of maximum capacity, about 4 liters, only if it will be used in a large family.
Purchased cartridges must be in their original sealed packaging. Be sure to check their expiration date.
The convenience of the jug and its external design are certainly important criteria, but they should still be evaluated last.
To complete the section on jug filters - a small overview of popular models from well-known manufacturers and some cartridges for them.
| Model, short description | Illustration | Capacity (jug/funnel) or cartridge yield (liters) | approximate cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| MANUFACTURER - "BARRIER" | |||
| Jug "Barrier-Style", compact layout, mechanical resource indicator | 2.5 / 1.0 | 490 rub. | |
| Jug "Barrier Grand NEO Ruby", volume scale, mechanical resource indicator | 3.7/2.0 | 550 rub. | |
| Cartridge "Barrier - 7 iron" for standard and water purification and iron removal | 350 | 250 rub. | |
| Cartridge "Barter-ultra" for water filtration and bactericidal treatment | 200 | 400 rub. | |
| MANUFACTURER - "AQUAPHOR" | |||
| Jug "Aquaphor Line" classic design, compact size | 3.2 / 1.4 | 350 rub. | |
| Jug "Aquaphor Prestige", mechanical indicator | 3.0 / 1.35 | 540 rub. | |
| Cartridge B100-15, universal action | 170 | 155 rub. | |
| Cartridge B100-6, softening | 300 | 320 rub. | |
| MANUFACTURER - GEYSER | |||
| Jug "Geyser Matisse-Chrome", graphite or deep blue color, high temperature resistant plastic | 4.0 / 1.5 | 840 rub | |
| Jug "Geyser Dolphin" - a stylish model, a choice of 5 shades | 3.0 / 1.4 | 380 rub. | |
| Cartridge "Geyser 502", universal, with softening effect | 300 | 210 rub. | |
| Cartridge "Geyser 301", universal type | 300 | 170 rub. | |
| MANUFACTURER - «ВRITA» | |||
| Jug "Elemaris XL", with electronic cartridge life indicator | 3.5 / 1.5 | 1450 rub. | |
| Pitcher "Marella XL", electronic indication | 2.2 / 1.2 | 790 rub. | |
| "Brita Classic" is a universal cartridge. Suitable for some models of Aquaphor jugs | 150 | 290 | |
| "Brita Maxtra" - a cartridge with four stages of water purification | 150 | 360 rub. |
Video: an overview of filter jugs of the Barrier brand
Faucet attachment filters
Another type of filter, which can be attributed to the simplest water purification systems.
As the name implies, these devices are simply put on the top of the faucet spout. Water is filtered in a flowing way, due to the pressure in the pipes. This makes it possible to use carefully compacted sorbent backfill in such filters, in contrast to jug cartridges, that is, to improve the quality of water purification.
The advantages of such desktop filters-nozzles are an increased resource and productivity. The device does not clutter up the space directly above the sink.
However, there are also many disadvantages. The design is quite voluminous and will take up a lot of usable space near the sink, to which it is “tied”. When using a coupling connection, the inconvenience is the same as with a compact nozzle - the need to connect and disconnect with each set of filtered water. If a connection with a diverter is used, then the tube extending from it may be an obstacle.
A set of water from such a filter requires care - careless inclusion will result in liquid spilling onto the surface of the table. The probability of accidental release of hot water into the filter is fully preserved.
| Model | Short description | Illustration | average price |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Aquaphor Modern" | Spindle-shaped body, spout placed on the side. Dimensions 273 × 117 mm. Filtration speed - up to 1.2 l / min. The resource of the replaceable cartridge B200 is up to 4000 liters. Mechanical calendar - memo. | 770 rub. | |
| "Barrier Optima" | Original design, microprocessor control over the residual life of the filter module. Revolving spout. Cartridge resource - up to 1500 l. Filtration speed – up to 1 l/min. | 1200 rub. | |
| "Rodnik-3M" | Model for wall mounting. Dimensions 315×120 mm. Weight in the state not filled with water - 1 kg. The resource of the replaceable module is 3600 liters. Filtration speed - up to 2 l / min. | 790 rub. | |
| "Geyser 1 UZH EURO" | A modern model with a wide selection of filter modules of various functionality with the possibility of regeneration. Module resource - up to 25,000 liters, including without regeneration - up to 7,000 liters. Filtration speed - up to 1.5 l / min. | 1500 rub. |
Under sink filter systems
Universal installations for filtration and fine purification of water, which are usually located under the kitchen sink, are gaining more and more popularity among users.
The most rational solution is to hide the filter system under the kitchen sink Structurally, such systems usually represent a series of cartridge-type filters, each with its own cartridge of a certain type of action. (The design of such filters is described in detail in the article, the link to which is placed above). Water on the way from the water supply to the point of analysis sequentially passes through all the modules, which ensures comprehensive cleaning of the highest class.
All filters are usually assembled on one console with a system of channels or tubes for transferring water from one module to another. There are models with case design, in which the entire system is covered with a casing.
The location of the filter flasks is most often linear. In some multi-stage systems, it is possible to arrange in two rows or in two tiers, with vertical and horizontal placement of modules.
The number of modules, that is, the cleaning steps: from the minimum - one, to four, and sometimes even five. This causes the highest "flexibility" of the system - the mounting dimensions of replaceable cartridges, as a rule, are the same for one manufacturer, which allows you to accurately select the general characteristics of the entire complex, depending on the results of a laboratory study of water.
Such complexes are very easy to use. When they are installed, the water supply is immediately connected to the water supply, and a separate tap is installed at the sink, connected to the last filtration stage. At any time, you can substitute the container, open the faucet and draw the right amount of purified water. Moreover, the diameter of the connecting tubes, connecting channels and the parameters of the external tap provide the optimal pressure for high-quality filtration - there is no risk of exceeding it. In addition, the possibility of accidentally letting hot water into the filter modules is completely eliminated.
The disadvantages of such complexes can only be considered a certain complexity of the initial installation, although for the owner, who is familiar with basic plumbing techniques, there should not be any special problems. And the relatively high cost of such complexes can hardly be attributed to disadvantages - the high quality of cleaning is worth such costs, and a considerable resource of replaceable modules ensures a quick payback of the filter unit.
The choice of such filter systems has its own characteristics.
- Since the installation is supposed to be hidden under the sink, external design issues, as a rule, are not among the primary ones. Much more important is the correspondence of the dimensions of the complex to the actual dimensions of the space allotted for its installation.
- Since the system involves, most often, multi-stage cleaning, one should be guided not by the persuasions of the sales assistant, but by the available results of a laboratory study. It is important to prioritize in advance in order to correctly select the modular content of the kit.
- Some complexes have extended functionality - after the first stage of mechanical cleaning, there is a branch to a conventional mixer or to a dishwasher, heater, etc.
- Assessing the performance of the complex as a whole, you should focus on the readings of the "slowest" cartridge. Usually, at the outlet of the faucet, a flow rate of the order of 1.5 ÷ 2 liters per minute is provided - a completely acceptable characteristic.
- Filtering modules can also differ in the size of their resource. The owner will have to follow this on his own, since, perhaps, the change of cartridges will sometimes need to be done not at once, but “in steps”. Some modules are amenable to periodic regeneration.
Of course, you should check the completeness of the delivery. Usually the system is supplied with everything necessary for its complete installation - a hanging or floor console, flasks, a set of cartridges (you can often choose it at your discretion), a tee for tapping into the water supply system with a pressure regulator, connecting pipes, a faucet for installation on a sink, a key for "Packaging" flasks with cartridges. Sometimes the kit also includes additional accessories - all this is indicated in the product passport.
| Model | Short description | Illustration | average price |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Aquaphor Solo Crystal" | The simplest single-stage sorption purification system. Dimensions 260×340×90 mm. Productivity up to 2.5 l/min. | 2500 rub. | |
| "Aquaphor B510-08" | Replaceable module for deep water purification. Resource - 4000 l or 6 months. exploitation | 350 - 400 rubles. | |
| Atoll A-211Eg (D-21s STD) | Two-stage system with mechanical and sorption filtration and softening of hard water. Dimensions 355×365×145. Productivity - up to 3.8 l / min. | 7300 rub. | |
| Atoll A-211E + Atoll A-211E g | An additional set of cartridges designed for 2 years of operation with a change every 6 months | 4000 rub | |
| "Barrier Expert Complex" | Three-stage purification system - mechanical filtration, sorption purification, water softening and iron removal. Dimensions 368×267×95 mm. Productivity - up to 2 l / min. | 3700 rub. | |
| "Expert Complex" | Set of cartridges. Resource 10000 liters or 1 year of operation | 1400 rub. | |
| "Aquaphor Crystal ECO N" | System with four stages of purification, including disinfection, softening, iron removal, mineralization and water conditioning. Dimensions 377×342×92 mm. Productivity - up to 2.5 l / min. | 4800 rub. | |
| "Aquaphor" K3, KN, K7 and K7V | A set of four replaceable cartridges with an increased resource - 8000 liters or 18 months. exploitation | 2200 rub |
Video: advantages of the Aquaphor-Trio water filter
Flowing main filters of the "Fibos" type
Another type of filter in which water is purified by passing through the filter element under the influence of pressure in the water supply system or pressure generated by the pump if the water source is autonomous. These filters are built directly into the main, that is, into the pipe through which water is supplied to the tap. This is convenient, since the procedure for the initial connection of the filter is one-time and, as a rule, is performed by a plumber. But anyone with basic plumbing skills can easily handle it.
The advantage of main filters is that already clean water flows from the tap, which can be used for any purpose. In addition, you can install one filter for several points of water analysis (kitchen, bathroom, toilet, washing machine and dishwasher, etc.).
We will analyze the operation of these filters using the Fibos filters as an example.
- Untreated water enters the outer flask of the filter.
- Under pressure, it passes through the filter element - a cloth wound with an ultra-thin microwire. The distance between the turns of the microwire is 1 micron.
- Contaminants remain in the outer part of the flask.
- Clean water from the filter element is supplied to the tap and to household appliances.
- Impurities are removed from the outside of the flask by simply opening the drain cock.
The microwire is the main thing in the filter. What is it and how does it filter?
Currently, the world's only mass production of microwires is located in Russia. The technology of its production was effectively developed back in the USSR. The main areas of microwire use are the military and space industries.
A microwire is an ultra-thin metal thread that is covered with glass insulation. Its thickness is not more than 25 microns, which is 40 times less than a millimeter.
In the filter element, the microwire is wound with a distance between the turns of 1 µm. Only water passes through it, and contaminants remain in the outer flask of the filter, then they are removed when the drain valve is opened at the bottom of the Fibos filter. The glass coating of the microwire is necessary so that impurities do not stick to the filter element and are easily washed off during washing.
If you look at the photo of the Fibos filter element under a microscope, you can see a metal core and a glass shell covering it. Looking closely, you can see the gap between the turns, which is about 1 micron.
In addition to fine purification of water from impurities of a mechanical type, Fibos type filters protect against bacteria. Bacteria attach to mechanical particles, forming a thin biofilm on them. Thanks to its ultra-fine filtration, the Fibos filter stops them completely.
If necessary, to soften water, remove chlorine, reduce the iron content in water, after the main filter of the Fibos type, you can put an inexpensive cartridge filter with the appropriate properties. Cartridges last much longer, change less often, as the Fibos filter does preliminary fine cleaning.
In terms of performance, there is a line of Fibos filters from 5 l / min for the kitchen, 16.5 l / min for an apartment or cottage, 50 l / min for a cottage, 83 l / min for a cottage, pool to industrial designs of 1000 l / min .
Fibos filters work with water pressure from 0.5 to 16 bar. They come with a pressure gauge that shows the pressure in the system.
Another plus to these filters: they practically do not reduce the pressure in your water supply system.
For ease of use, devices for automatic washing are attached to Fibos filters.
The filters are compact, from 146 mm to 183 mm high without a pressure gauge and a flush tap.
| Model | Description | average price |
|---|---|---|
| A handy little filter for the sink. Produces 5 liters of water per minute. Fineness of a filtration is 1,0 microns. Accession to the highway 3/4 inch or 1/2 inch (with an adapter). Water temperature up to +95°C. | RUB 6,990 | |
| Compact filter for a summer house or an apartment. Produces 16.5 liters of water per minute. Fineness of a filtration is 1,0 microns. Accession to the highway 3/4 inch or 1/2 inch (with an adapter). Water temperature up to +95°C. | RUB 8,990 | |
| An excellent filter for a country house or cottage. Produces 50 liters of water per minute. Fineness of a filtration is 1,0 microns. Accession to the highway 1 inch or 3/4 inch (with an adapter). Water temperature up to +95°C. | RUB 13,990 | |
| The filter is ideal for cottages, swimming pools. Produces 83 liters of water per minute. Fineness of a filtration is 1,0 microns. Accession to the highway 1,25 inch or 1 inch (with an adapter). Water temperature up to +95°C. | 23 990 rub. |
Filters with reverse osmosis system
The highest rates of water purification from any inclusions, chemical or bacteriological contaminants are shown by filtering installations, in which, in addition to conventional purification, a stage operating on the principle of reverse osmosis is used.
For the "apologists" of crystal clear water - installations with a purification system based on the principle of reverse osmosis First, what is reverse osmosis?
If the vessel is divided by a membrane with microscopic pores, and then a liquid with different concentrations of impurities is poured into these sections, then the system will not be in equilibrium. Liquid from a compartment with a lower concentration will spontaneously tend to the opposite one in order to equalize the overall concentration. This phenomenon is called direct osmosis.
But if an external influence is applied to the volume of a more concentrated liquid - to increase its pressure, then the flow through the membrane will begin to be carried out in the opposite direction. And it will depend only on the size of the cells of the membrane what will go to the next section.
This is how reverse osmosis filters work.
Schematically - what is the process of reverse osmosis Water enters the filter module under pressure (arrow No. 1). The module itself is divided into two parts by a membrane (red arrow) whose micro-holes are only about 0.3 nm in size, so that they allow water molecules to pass through. Thus, small water molecules penetrate into the second half, from where the filtered water enters the points of accumulation or consumption (arrow No. 3). All larger molecules, not to mention mechanical suspensions, bacteria and even most viruses are reliably retained on the membrane, and are removed together with a concentrated solution into the drain (arrow No. 2). A common occurrence is the proportion of ⅓ of the total volume - purified water and ⅔ - discharged concentrate.
In principle, such a scheme is able to independently purify water of any degree of contamination. However, in order not to "overload" the membrane, and so that its pores do not overgrow, several stages of pre-filtration are provided. In addition, some molecules (for example, free chlorine, which is constantly present in tap water) are smaller than water molecules and must be disposed of in advance. Therefore, preliminary filtration includes not only mechanical, but also sorption purification.
The output is water, which, according to its characteristics, approaches distilled water. From the point of view of cleanliness - this is excellent, but from the standpoint of consumer qualities - not very. Such demineralized water is devoid of even the slightest taste and smell, it is of little use for drinking, and the dishes prepared from it will not be the most delicious. Moreover, many doctors agree that water of this degree of purification can even be harmful to the human body.
To eliminate this drawback, for domestic purposes, additional modules are usually installed after reverse osmosis. Usually it is a mineralizer that enriches water with mineral salts necessary for a person. A carbon post-filter can also be installed, a biothermal module that normalizes the bio-composition of water. And if special sterilization is required, then an ultraviolet lamp can also be used at the end of the cycle.
The cost of such installations is quite high, so you need to immediately decide how much there is a need for it. In addition, when choosing, a number of important criteria are taken into account.
- The reverse osmosis process requires a minimum pressure of around 2.8 bar. Not always plumbing systems meet these indicators. This means that either the installation of a pump that increases the pressure in the system will be required, or it will be necessary to purchase a complex equipped with a built-in pump. That is, there will be a need to organize power supply as well.
- Very "how much" is the question of the performance of the filter installation. Here it is important to find a “golden mean” so that the need for clean water is met and unnecessary surpluses are not created. We should not forget that in order to get a liter of purified water, about two liters will have to be drained into the sewer. That is, it would be extremely unreasonable to use such water for economic purposes.
Even the smallest installations are capable of delivering up to 100 liters per day - this is more than enough for any family. So chasing high performance is hardly worth it, especially since this affects the cost of the installation itself.
- It should be decided which installation will be more convenient to use - storage or flow. In flow systems, filtration occurs only when the tap is open - more efficient membranes are installed. In another option, the system has its own storage tank - the filtration process occurs only when necessary - with a decrease in the total volume of accumulated purified water to a certain level. Very convenient - the owners always have a supply of clean water. The disadvantage is the considerable dimensions of the assembly assembly. But the price of such complexes is much lower.
The most expensive module, of course, is reverse osmosis, but its resource is quite large - the membrane usually withstands up to three years of operation. The rest of the replaceable cartridges change more often, as the resources embedded in them are depleted. Typically, pre-filters last up to six months, and a carbon post-filter cartridge lasts up to a year. After its depletion, the water can "signal" a bitter taste.
| Model | Short description | Illustration | average price |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Aquaphor OSMO 100 PN version 6" | Three-stage pre-cleaner, mineralizer and post-filter. Accumulative tank of 10 l. Built-in pump. Productivity is 15,6 l/hour. | 14000 rub. | |
| Geyser Prestige PM | Six steps pre and post. cleaning. Storage tank 12 liters. Productivity - 12 l/hour. Two tap positions - for clean and mineralized water. | 14100 rub. | |
| "Barrier Profi Osmo 100 boost" | Five-stage cleaning, built-in pump. Accumulative tank on 8 l. High productivity – up to 20 l/h. | 11000 rub. | |
| "Atoll A-560E SailBoat" | Original monobloc design that simplifies the installation of the system in the space under the sink. Dimensions 410 × 420 × 240 mm. 5 stages of cleaning. The built-in membrane tank on 8 l. Productivity - up to 6 l / hour. | 20000 rub. |
Video: household filtration plant with a reverse osmosis system "Aquaphor - Morion"
In the filters for washing, replaceable modules are used, through which water is filtered sequentially. The cleaning method is determined by the “stuffing” of the modules and the technical device of the model:
- . Water is forced through the membrane cartridge using the pressure of the water supply network. With impurities, water cannot pass through the membrane, and is drained through the outlet drain tube.
- use activated coconut charcoal. It, like a sponge, absorbs harmful impurities from the water stream: chlorine and organochlorine. At the same time, like a sieve, it retains rust, silt, sand and other particles. Such a filter is suitable for removing the main contaminants of drinking water.
- Aquaphor offers another type of filter for washing:. DWM are models based on reverse osmosis technology for convenient home use. They take up 2 times less space than classic reverse osmosis systems, and can operate at low pressure: 2 atm is enough (“classic” requires 3.5 atm).
If you choose a filter by type of contaminant, please note:
- Any good wash filter will deal with major water contaminants. For specific impurities it may be necessary to install special systems.
- Not all contaminants can be identified by the look, taste, or smell of water. To be sure that you are solving exactly the problem, it is better to first hand over the water for analysis.
