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Water Purification Systems
Carbon Filters: Carbon block or granular activated carbon filters absorb or physically screen out industrial chemicals and common herbicides and pesticides. Carbon is an effective material, but if particles are loose, water doesn't have sufficient contact time and the water "channels" through, taking the path of least resistance. The effectiveness of carbon can be quickly exhausted by continuously filtering water through "yesterday's" contamination. Block filters are made of powdered activated carbon and are more effective at removing smaller sediment particles. They are held together with adhesives or binders.
Reverse Osmosis ("RO"): RO systems pass water through a synthetic semi-permeable membrane that rejects most contaminants down to the molecular level. Virtually all RO units also have carbon pre or post filters to provide additional treatment. This method, in combination with a large whole-house carbon filter is effective at purifying most public water supplies.
Distillation: Distillers heat water in a chamber where it turns to steam. The steam then passes through a coil where it condenses back into water and drips into a new holding chamber. This is 99% effective for removing lead, some heavy metals, bacteria and cysts from the water. However, if the water is contaminated with organic chemicals that have the same or lower boiling point as water, it will transfer and concentrate those chemicals in the holding chamber. Most industrial chemicals, herbicide and pesticides have boiling points below that of water.
Hybrid Systems: Water purification systems using microstraining, molecular capture or electrostatic removal are able to remove most industrial and pesticide products as well as harmful bacteria. These systems are chemical-free and to not use electricity. Be sure to read our section on Bottled Water.
Product Information
Cuno Incorporated (203-237-5541) − Reverse osmosis water systems.
General Ecology, Inc. − Manufacturer of "Structured MatrixTM" Drinking Water Purifiers.
Krudico, Inc. − Manufacturer of whole-house activated carbon filters.
Ozark Water Service and Environmental Services
(800-835-8908) − Water filters and water testing kits.
NSF International − Detailed product and service listings for certified products for drinking water, plumbing systems and wastewater treatment.
Pure Water Inc. - Manufacturer of distillers for drinking water.
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