Clean, safe drinking water is a priority for every household, but with so many filtration options available, knowing which one is right can feel overwhelming. This guide explains how water filtration works and helps you identify the best solution for your needs—from basic pitcher filters to whole-home systems.
Why Water Filtration Matters
Even treated tap water can contain unwanted substances such as chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, or microorganisms. The right filtration approach can improve taste, support health, and help ensure water is safe for drinking, cooking, and daily use.
Summit Water is committed to helping people understand their water quality and make informed decisions about appropriate filtration options.
Popular Water Filtration Methods
Here’s a breakdown of common water filtration technologies and what they’re best for:
1. Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon is one of the most widely used filtration methods. It traps chlorine, bad tastes, odours, and many organic chemicals by adsorption. Carbon filters are often found in pitchers, faucet attachments, and under-sink systems — and are a cost-effective first step toward cleaner water.
Best for: Improving taste and odour, basic chemical reduction.
2. Reverse Osmosis (RO)
Reverse osmosis pushes water through a fine membrane to remove dissolved solids, heavy metals, and many contaminants that carbon filters can’t catch. RO systems can be installed under the sink or as part of a whole-house approach.
Best for: Highly contaminated water, removing heavy metals, minerals, PFAS, and more.
Note: RO systems can produce wastewater and may remove beneficial minerals along with contaminants.
3. UV (Ultraviolet) Purification
UV systems disinfect water by inactivating bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms using UV light. These systems are often paired with other filters for a complete purification approach.
Best for: Microbial safety, especially in well water or untreated sources.
4. Ceramic & Specialty Filters
Ceramic filters trap particles and bacteria, while other specialty systems (like ion exchange or distillation units) target specific issues such as hard water minerals or arsenic.
Best for: Targeted filtration where specific contaminants are a concern.
How to Choose the Right Filter for Your Home
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — the best filter depends on what’s actually in your water.
1. Start with a Water Test
Before picking a filtration method, find out what’s in your water. A water test reveals contaminants like lead, chlorine, hardness minerals, or PFAS that you may need to address.
At Summit Water, we provide detailed water testing and interpretation so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
2. Match Technology to Your Needs
Here’s a quick reference:
Better taste and odor –> Activated carbon
Sediment removal –>Sediment or ceramic filters
Heavy metals & dissolved solids –>Reverse osmosis
Microbial safety –>UV purification
Whole-home protection –> Whole-house systems
Your choice depends on your water quality results, budget, and household needs.
3. Consider Ongoing Costs
Every system has maintenance needs — filter replacements, pre-filters, and periodic checks. Make sure to factor in ongoing costs when choosing a solution.
Summit Water’s Role in Filtration Decisions
Summit Water specializes in helping you:
– Test your water to identify contaminants.
– Interpret results so you understand what your water needs.
– Recommend the right filtration options based on science and your household’s priorities.
We aim to empower you to choose the most effective solution — whether that’s a simple pitcher filter or a professionally installed solution from a third-party provider.
Final Thoughts
The best way to filter water starts with understanding your water. Once you know what’s in it, you can choose a solution that fits your health goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Clean water is peace of mind — and it all begins with testing and education. Summit Water is here to help you make smart, informed decisions about your home’s water quality.a