Best Water Filters–Investigation on Tap Water, Toxins & Microplastics

It’s estimated that most Americans are drinking water that has contaminants above the public health goal, meaning certain populations could be impacted by harmful chemicals in their water. Getting a water filter is a really good idea regardless of where you live, but which ones won’t accidentally expose you to plasticizers leaching out of their product over time? We found out. You’ve trusted Mamavation to bring you topics like safest cookware, best organic mattresses, and best probiotics, now join us as we explore water quality in the United States, the best water filters, and what our recommendations are. Make sure to stick around for our product investigation of all the brands at the end.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links and was fact-checked by Rebecca Elizabeth Sherrick Harks, RN-BSN

Legal Doesn’t Mean Safe–Legal Limits of Chemicals in Water Don’t Always Reflect Public Health Goals

Water from your water district is likely safer than bottled water, however, some chemicals may be above the public health goal yet completely legal. In a study published this year in Heliyon, researchers estimated that over 100,000 cases of cancer are due to public water that is legal, yet harmful. This means that some tap water may contain chemicals in levels that could be causing harm to certain parts of the population, particularly, pregnant women & children. Researchers also added these levels are high enough to cause cancer in certain individuals. Therefore, the only way to protect the public would be to change the law.

Case in point–Mamavation has been pressuring the California State Water Board to lower the legal amount of perchlorate in California’s water. Perchlorate is a chemical used in rocket testing, food packaging, and matches. According to one of our advisors, Dr. Tom Zoeller, who is a world authority on perchlorate and its impact on the development of children says, “It’s [perchorate] incredibly problematic to pregnant women and children because it blocks the uptake of iodine to the thyroid at extremely low levels.”

In 2018, The American Academy of Pediatrics listed perchlorate as a chemical that is not safe for children as a food additive. The AAP is now lobbying for stricter chemical policies in terms of children because perchlorate is used as an indirect food additive in cereals and infant formula packaging. So if it’s not safe for children in their cereal and infant formula, what’s it doing in our water?

Water Filters Can Protect Your Family as Government Agencies Catch Up To The Science Behind Contaminants

The most frustrating part about all this is the amount of time it takes for government agencies to catch up. In the meantime, water filters can protect your family as government agencies catch up to science, which can take years or decades.

Going back to our work on Perchlorate in California because its representative of what you see in other places. Perchlorate is an example of when the public health goal does not match up to the maximum containment limit (MCL), which is the legal limit. The public health goal for perchlorate in California is 1 part per billion (ppb) in water, but the maximum containment limit (MCL) is actually 6 parts per billion (ppb). So that means it’s very possible you could be drinking water with perchlorate above the health goal if you live in an area with perchlorate in the groundwater in California, where it’s more common.

Again, it’s politics. The discrepancy primarily has to do with what California laboratories were able to accurately test for years ago when the ruling was made. They couldn’t accurately test below 4ppb, which was the current Detection Limit (DL). However, today that is a very different story. Bringing that legal threshold to a place where pregnant women and children are protected is very complicated because it takes years of data analysis, expectations of what laboratories can accurately test for, public comment, and the public advocating for change.

In the meantime, we recommend you just pick up a water filter to solve your problem. Every home could benefit from some type of filtration.

How Close is Your Water District to the Public Health Goal? Which Chemicals Should You Be Concerned With? Take a Look.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) analyzed records from close to 50,000 water districts. Records for over 280 million Americans reside inside the EWG’s Tap Water Database. Collecting data from state agencies and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from 2010 to 2015 resulted in disappointing results. Hundreds of potentially dangerous chemicals were found inside public and private utility tap water districts across the United States including:

• 93 chemicals linked to an increased risk of cancer
• 78 chemicals associated with brain and nervous system damage
• 63 chemicals connected to developmental harm to children or fetuses
• 38 chemicals linked to fertility problems
• 45 chemicals linked to hormonal disruption

But in the case of 40,000 different systems, there were detections of chemicals of known or likely carcinogens exceeding levels that pose health risks but are not legally enforceable, similar to what is happening in California with perchlorate. That means it’s completely legal and would need to be changed state to state. States with some of the worst pollution problems were

• California
• Wisconsin
• Arizona
• Florida
• North Carolina
• Texas
• New York
• Nevada
• Pennsylvania
• Illinois

13 Reasons Why Your Water May Be Polluted

Mamavation has covered water issues several times over the years. There are several ways that drinking water can get polluted. Here are the top 13 ways drinking water can get polluted.

• Industrial waste release. This is when companies dump toxic chemicals into the water ways and they pollute.
• Tank farms. These are areas where dangerous petroleum products are stored, can be in danger from toxic spills.
• Agricultural fertilizer runoff and dead zones. Scientific American published an article about fertilizer runoff and the dead zones they can create. Fertilizers are heavy in nitrates and runoff can eventually find its way into our water systems. These nitrates help algae to overgrow and deplete the oxygen in an area, creating “dead zones,” where no fish or sea life can survive. Those toxins pose a serious threat to drinking water as well.
• Fracking. Natural gas companies claim that fracking does not affect drinking water because it takes place much deeper than where drinking water is mined. The LA Times is reporting on a new study published by Stanford University scientist, showing that fracking occurs at shallower depths than believed – even through underground drinking water sources. While this is not against any regulations, companies have maintained deep fracking poses no threat to drinking water. We now have research that shows those claims to be incorrect.
• Coal residue. The Denver Post reported Duke Energy “illegally pumped 61 million gallons of contaminated water from a coal ash pit into the Cape Fear River” in North Carolina. The company was cited for 7 other environmental violations in the month surrounding that incident.
• Air pollution. Even though air pollution happens in the air, some of it ends back up in the water when it travels back down to the ground.
• Birth control and pharmaceutical drugs. The active ingredient in most birth control pills, ethinyl estradiol, creates quite a problem for water districts. The costs to filter it out are quire astronomical. Synthetic estrogens are incredibly problematic to the hormones of wildlife and humans in our water supply. Fish develop as “intersex” – being neither male or female – with a mixture of both male and female parts.
• Consumer products. Everyday consumer products contain certain chemicals that break down into other more dangerous chemicals like 1, 4-dioxane and pollute waterways.
• Discharge of radioactive waste. Radioactive chemicals can be either directly discharged into water OR radioactive chemicals can be created through discharging other chemicals that break down into radioactive chemicals. Japan has discharged it’s radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean.
• Acid rain. Acid rain is another issue we need to address. The EPA defines acid rain as acidic compounds that form when gaseous pollutants enter the atmosphere and rain down on us. Some are caused by natural events like volcanoes, but many, like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, are the result of electricity generation from burning fossil fuels. According to the EPA, it is a serious environmental issue affecting water across the US and Canada, damaging key waterways and ecosystems.
• Plastic waste. Plastic are forever chemicals, but they have been known to break down into microplastic and nanoplastics overtime and pollute waterways. Scientists are unsure what affects these microplastics have on us.
• Groundwater contamination. When chemicals are spilled on the land, they are absorbed by the soil and travel down to groundwater beneath the soil. This is very common in areas that have military bases, dry cleaners, gas stations, airports, or industrial parks.
• Biosolids aka “Sewage Sludge.” Biosolids are treated waste sent to farmers from household, hospitals & industry with the hopes of bringing nutrients back into the soil. However, they can also be polluted with heavy metals, triclosan, pharmaceuticals, asbestos, arsenic, chemicals that break down into dioxins, PCBs, hormones and flame retardants. This goes into the soil, down to the groundwater, and into our water.

What’s Lead Got To Do With It? Lead Still Leads As Major Water Issue in America

While the usage of lead in the US has decreased dramatically since the 1990s, it is still a problem. Once used as gasoline and paint additive, in addition to a whole host of other products including pipes, the United States cracked down on the ways lead can be used as we learn more about the health risks of lead. However, for people who live in old houses, lead poisoning can still be a real threat to their health.

And here’s what you didn’t know about these “lead free” plumbing systems: pipes, solder, or flux can still be used in the installation or repair of public water systems, or any plumbing in a residential or non-residential facility that provides water for human consumption, which is connected to a public water system. “Lead free” plumbing may contain traces of lead. The term “lead free” means that solders and flux may not contain more than 0.2 percent lead, and that pipes and pipe fittings may not contain more than 8.0 percent lead. Faucets must be tested and certified against the ANSI – NSF Standard 61 to be considered lead free.

Does Alkaline Water Work? Science Says 🤷‍♀️. Not Enough Evidence Yet.

I’m sure you’ve heard various health claims about alkaline water and it’s health benefits. Alkaline water refers to it’s pH level. The pH levels measure how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale from acidic 0 to alkaline 14. There are several claims from slowing the aging process to preventing certain diseases. However, it’s Mamavation’s official stance that no one really knows yet.

What we are going to do here is go over the pros and the cons so you can decide for yourself if you want to purchase an alkaline water system. Here are some of the recent studies that demonstrate that alkaline water is good for your health:

• A 2012 study found that drinking naturally carbonated artesian-well alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 may help deactivate pepsin, the main enzyme that causes acid reflux.
• A Chinese study suggested that drinking alkaline ionized water may have health benefits for people with the following health problems: high cholesterol, high blood pressure, & diabetes.
• A recent study including 100 people found significance in whole blood viscosity after consuming alkaline water after a strenuous workout.

However, there are some dangers to consuming too much alkaline water because it lowers your natural stomach acidity, which is used by your body to kill bacteria and expel pathogens from entering your bloodstream. Alkalosis is a condition that can happen when someone consumes too much alkaline water, which can decrease the free calcium in the body and affect bone health. Additional symptoms include nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching, confusion, tingling in the face or hands, hand tremors. Too much alkaline water can also cause gastrointestinal issues and skin irritation.

Good News: People Experiencing Water Problems Can Benefit from Water Filtration

The EWG may have had bad news, but the vast majority of these problems can be solved with water filtration. Below are some of the more glaring examples that sound impossible but can be solved with water filtration.

• Chromium-6 / hexavalent chromium: Over 250 million Americans are exposed to the “Erin Brockovich” chemical, hexavalent chromium. It’s an industrial chemical made notorious by the film Erin Brockovich, yet is still unregulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. California state scientists say it poses a negligible risk of cancer for people who drink it every day for the rest of their lives, but the good news is this chemical can be filtered out by a reverse osmosis water filter.
• 1,4-dioxane: 1,4-dioxane was detected in tap water for over 7 million people in 27 states. 1,4-dioxane is a byproduct in consumer goods like shampoos, laundry detergents, and cosmetics that are flushed down the drain. It’s also used as an industrial solvent. It was found in tap water at levels above those the EPA considers to pose a negligible cancer risk. This chemical can be filtered out by a reverse osmosis water filter.
• Nitrates: More than 7 million Americans over 48 states from 1,800 water systems have levels of nitrates above what the National Cancer Institute considers safe. Their research shows an increased risk for cancer for people at about half the government’s legal limit for nitrate in drinking water. This chemical can be filtered out by a reverse osmosis water filter.
• Fluoride: About 66% of US residents drink fluoridated water, which has recently come under controversy again as new studies are strengthening the link between fluoride and some developmental problems in children. This chemical can be filtered out using reverse osmosis, activated alumina, and ion-exchange resins.

Microplastics Detected In All Bottled Water. Could Plastic Water Filters Also Leach Microplastics? It’s Possible.

When it comes to microplastics, you’re likely to find them in plastic water bottles. Last year, Orbmedia.com published a report looking into microplastic in water bottles. They found microplastics in 93% of the 250 water bottles collected from all over the globe, including microplastics of polypropylene, nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

So what’s the big deal? Well, the concerns about ingesting microplastics stem from their ability to accumulate high concentrations of pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These highly toxic and persistent contaminants can then be absorbed into gut tissue according to a study published in June of 2016 by the European Food Safety Authority Journal.

Because of these studies, Mamavation is using the precautionary principle and avoiding water filters where there’s unneeded use of plastic. Because we can’t see all the moving parts inside the filter, we can’t say ALL plastic, but we are avoiding it as much as humanly possible.

Warnings About “BPA-Free” Plastic Water Filters

Lots of the pitchers we evaluated were made of a “BPA-Free” plastic known as “Tritan.” Note that at this time, we cannot recommend products made with Tritan on food contact surfaces because there is conflicting information on its safety.

Eastman, the manufacturer of Tritan copolyester, has posted safety information on their website which provides details on its estrogenic activity (EA)-free testing methods and results, however, in 2013 the scientific peer-reviewed journal Food Chemistry tested Tritan and discovered the migration of DMIP (dimethyl isophthalate), BBP (benzylbutyl phthalate) and detectable BPA from Tritan. Two other non-intentionally added substances (NIAS), 4-nonylphenol and 2-phenoxyethanol, were also found to leach from Tritan during this testing. In addition, Biomed Central’s Environmental Health journal conducted testing that showed estrogenic activity present in 3 Tritan resins with exposure to UV radiation in natural sunlight resulting in an increased release of EA chemicals. The journal also states that triphenyl-phosphate (TPP), an additive used to manufacture some thermoplastic resins such as Tritan, exhibited EA in both testing assays.

Additionally, Mother Jones notes that the 200-plus samples of Tritan resins that were tested consistently leached estrogen-like chemicals after being exposed to a type of ultraviolet ray found in sunlight (UVA) and another kind that some parents use to sterilize baby bottles (UVC). In some cases, samples that hadn’t even been exposed to UV light also seeped estrogenic compounds.

In general, Mamavation recommends avoiding plastic when filtering your water.

Mamavation’s STEP BY STEP PLAN–How Do I Choose The Right Water Filter?

Step 1: Figure Out What’s In Your Water First

Here’s where things get complicated when you’re looking for the right filter: what is right for you may not be for me. The United States is a big place and each area has its own problem with contaminants.

Luckily, there’s a ton of available types of water filters available on the market that will meet your needs. So where do you begin?

First you’ve got to figure out what’s in your water. Where does your water come from?

• If you have a water bill, your water is removed from a local community source where it should be regulated according to the National Primary Drinking Water Standards. Every year, you should get a report about your water (usually in the summer with your water bill) that details what they tested and how much they found.
• If you get your water from a private well, it’s your responsibility for making sure your water is clean and safe. You should and continue to make sure your water is safe by testing it regularly: if your local health department doesn’t perform tests on water quality, the EPA has a hotline that you can call to find local places to test your water. Most of these water testing places provide their own containers for testing the water quality, so be sure to ask for these.

Second, get your water tested or check the EWG database.

• The EPA hotline is 800-426-4791 and also have links to EPA certified laboratories for drinking water testing in a state-by-state format.
• A quick shortcut for reference would be checking the  EWG’s Tap Water Database to see what types of contaminants your water district typically has. When you get a report directly from your water district, they aren’t going to mention the public health goal standards, so this is a good reference for cross-checking to see how close they are to the public health goal.

We DO recommend that you have your water tested before you get or install any type of water system in your home no matter where the water comes from. Your report will detail contaminant levels in the water coming specifically from your tap that you’ll need to address.

Step 2: Identify And Decide Which Types of Water Contaminants You’re Going To Filter

We’ve broken up water contaminants into two basic categories: known carcinogens and other contaminants of concern.

Known Carcinogens

• 2,4,5-TP (Silvex) is a carcinogenic herbicide that is linked to liver damage after chronic exposure. EPA has listed the maximum contaminant level (MCL), at 0.05 mg/L or 50 ppb (parts per billion).
• Alachlor is another carcinogenic herbicide that is linked problems with kidneys, adrenal glands, or liver after chronic exposure. EPA has listed the maximum contaminant level (MCL), 0.002 mg/L or 2 ppb.
• Arsenic is used in wood preservatives, paint, drugs, soaps and chronic exposure is linked to cancer, problems with skin, and problems with the heart and circulatory system. MCL = 0.010 mg/L or 10 ppb
• Asbestos is a known carcinogen used in the construction of roofing materials and cement pipes used for transporting water from one place to another. MCL =MCL = 0.010 mg/L or 10 ppb.
• Benzene is used in making plastics, rubber, resins and synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester. Long term exposure is linked to anemia, other blood disorders, and cancer.
• Bisphenol A (BPA)/Bisphenol S (BPS) is a chemical produced in large quantities for use primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Long-term exposure cis linked to endocrine disorders, heart problems, cancer risks, and diabetes.
• Cadmium used primarily for metal plating and coating operations, including machinery and baking enamels, photography, and television phosphors. Long-term exposure to lower levels of cadmium in air, food, or water is linked to a buildup of cadmium in the kidneys and possible kidney disease. Other long-term effects are lung damage, fragile bones, and cancer.
• Carbon Tetrachloride was once used as a chlorofluorocarbon propellant and refrigerant, as well as a host of other things, the use has been banned – except in the cases of certain industrial applications. In addition to being linked to cancer, carbon tetrachloride is also linked to liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage that may lead to coma and death.
• Chromium (0), (III), (VI) are naturally occurring elements found in rocks, animals, plants, and soil that exists in several different forms.  The most common forms are chromium(0), chromium(III), and chromium(VI) and these are the types that we looked into when evaluating water filters. While chromium III is necessary for our bodies in certain doses, chromium VI is a known carcinogen.
• Dibromochloropropane (1,2-Dibromo-3-Chloropropane) is an insect killer and flame retardant. At high levels, it is a known carcinogen and is also linked to male infertility.
• Ethybenzene is naturally found in coal tar and petroleum and is also found in manufactured products such as inks, pesticides, and paint and used primarily to make another chemical, styrene. Ethylbenzene is also a probable carcinogen and is linked to damage of the central nervous system.
• Ethylene Dibromide is primarily used in anti-knock gasoline mixtures, especially aviation fuel. It is also a known carcinogen and is linked to major health problems in the kidneys, liver, skin, and reproductive system.
• Heptachlor/Hepatchlor Epoxide is an insecticide that is banned in the US and has been since 1988. It’s linked to major damage to the liver and liver cancer.
• Lead is a cancer-causing metal that is used to create batteries, gun ammunition, and pipes. While its use has drastically diminished, lead is still found in our water supply. Long-term exposure to lead can lead to a whole host of medical concerns including physical and mental defects, as well as a decreased attention span in children. Adults who are suffering from lead exposure may experience troubles with their nervous system, kidneys, and liver.
• Linuron is a pest control insecticide that is linked to cancer. While Europe is banning its usage, the US has yet to crack down on this carcinogenic pesticide.
• Nitrate/Nitrites: nitrates are used as a fertilizer. Once taken into the body, nitrates are converted to nitrites and are linked to cancer. Infants below six months who drink water containing excessive nitrates can become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
• O-Dichlorobenzene is a chemical intermediate for making agricultural chemicals, mostly herbicides. Other present and past uses include: solvent for waxes, gums, resins, wood preservatives, paints; insecticide for termites and borers; in making dyes; as a coolant, deodorizer, and as a degreaser. High exposure levels can lead to liver, kidney, heart, circulatory system problems. It also is a probable cancer-causing agent.
• PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) were formerly used in the United States as hydraulic fluids, plasticizers, adhesives, fire retardants, way extenders, de-dusting agents, pesticide extenders, inks, lubricants, cutting oils, in heat transfer systems, carbonless reproducing paper, these 209 individual mixtures of chlorinated compounds (known as congeners) are now understood to be carcinogenic.
• PFAS: PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid), Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)), and PFOS are compounds used to make non-stick/frictionless surfaces such as pots and pans and are now known to be carcinogenic.
• p-Dichlorobenzene isomers ( 1,2-dichlorobenzene, 1,3-dichlorobenzene, and 1,4-dichlorobenzene) are insecticidal fumigants against clothes moths and as a deodorant for garbage and restrooms. It is now believed that these chemicals can cause cancer as well as anemia, liver, kidneys or spleen damage, and/or changes in their blood.
• PERC – Tetrachloroethylene is a component of aerosol dry-cleaning products that is known to be carcinogenic. High rates of exposure to PERCs is also associated with developmental delays as well as damage to the central nervous system.
• Radon (isotope of health concern is radon-222 (²²²Rn) ) is a radioactive byproduct of uranium that is linked to cancer, especially lung cancer.
• Radium 226 and Radium 228 (combined) are formed when uranium and thorium break down in the environment. Radioactive, both radon 226 and 228 are considered to be carcinogenic over long-term exposure. More immediate concerns with these isotopes include damage to the muscles and respiratory tract.
• Selenium is widely used in glass, pigments, rubber, metal alloys, textiles, petroleum, medical therapeutic agents, and photographic emulsions. Carcinogenic, selenium can exposure can also lead to hair or fingernail losses, numbness in fingers or toes, and/or problems with circulation.
• Simazine is another cancer-causing herbicide.
• Styrene is used to make plastics and rubber. Other products containing styrene include home insulation, fiberglass, plastic pipes, automobile parts, shoes, drinking cups and other food containers, and carpet backing. Reasonably assumed to cause cancer, styrene exposure may also lead to central nervous system problems such as changes in color vision, tiredness, feeling drunk, slowed reaction time, concentration problems, or balance problems.
• Tetrachloroethylene is used as a solvent to remove grease from metal parts and an ingredient in adhesives, paint removers, and stain removers. Exposure to TCE increases the likelihood of developing cancer in the long run. Short term exposure is linked to liver problems
• Trihalomethanes (TTHM) are a group of four chemicals formed along with other disinfection byproducts when chlorine or other disinfectants used to control microbial contaminants in drinking water react with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter in water. The trihalomethanes are chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform, and exposure to them may lead to liver, kidney, or central nervous system problems and increased risk of cancer.
• Toxaphene was a widely used pesticides in the 1970s and 80s that has been banned due to its health effects, which include increased cancer risk. Breathing, eating, or drinking high amounts of toxaphene can damage the nervous system, liver, and kidneys. Toxaphene exposure may even lead to death.
• Trichloroethylene is a metal degreaser that is known to cause cancer in humans. Exposure to moderate amounts of trichloroethylene may cause headaches, dizziness, and sleepiness; large amounts may cause coma and even death. Exposure to high levels of trichloroethylene can change in the rhythm of the heartbeat, and is linked to liver and kidney damage.
• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are comprised of a great number of compounds including uses in cleaners, cigarettes, furniture, air fresheners, deodorants, cosmetics, pesticides, and gasoline. Some are carcinogenic while others are not.

Other Contaminants of Concern

• 2,4-D is an herbicide that is linked to problems with their kidneys, liver, or adrenal glands. EPA has listed the maximum contaminant level (MCL), 0.07 mg/L or 70 ppb.
• Atenolol is one of the emerging threats to drinking water – prescription medication contamination. As a beta blocker used to decrease high blood pressure, long term chronic exposure to those who do not have hypertension can lead to many problems, including decreased blood pressure, heart rate, as well as coma and even death. The EPA has no maximum contaminant level yet for atenolol.
• Atrazine is a possible carcinogen (not all the data is in on this water contaminant) that can cause cardiovascular system or reproductive difficulties with chronic exposure. EPA  has listed MCL = 0.003 mg/L or 3 ppb
• Barium is used in well drilling operations where it is directly released into the ground, which leaches into our drinking water. Long term exposure to barium, while unlikely to cause cancer, is linked to serious problems such as changes in heart rhythm, paralysis, and possibly death.
• Carbofuran is a broad-spectrum insecticide sprayed directly onto soil and plants just after emergence to control certain beetles. Chronic exposure, while likely not cancer-causing, is linked to problems with blood, nervous, or reproductive systems.
• Chloramine is a water additive used to control microbes. This disinfectant is used distribution system pipes, and exist in different types; monochloramine, dichloramine, trichloramine, and organic chloramines. Generally, chloramines are excellent in killing off waterborne disease outbreaks. While chloramines are a known carcinogen, most common effects to exposure include irritating effects to eyes and nose, stomach discomfort or anemia.
• Chloradane is another insecticide that has been banned from the US in all products since 1988 as exposure to this affects the nervous system, the digestive system, and the liver. While not identified as carcinogenic, long-term exposure is linked to seizures and even death.
• Chlorine is also used for water disinfection, although the chlorine itself is quickly transformed into other chemicals at the beginning of the process. Low levels of chlorine can result in nose, throat, and eye irritation.
• Chlorobenzene is used as a solvent for some pesticide formulations, as a degreaser, and to make other chemicals. High levels of chlorobenzene can damage the liver and kidneys and affect the brain, but no longitudinal studies suggest that chlorobenzene causes cancer.
• Copper is used to make many different kinds of products like wire, plumbing pipes, and sheet metal.  Copper is also combined with other metals to make brass and bronze pipes and faucets which is how it contaminates drinking water. Copper at low levels is necessary for humans to  live, but at higher levels ingesting high levels of copper can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Very-high doses of copper can cause damage to the liver and kidneys, and can even cause death.
• Cyst refers to one of four types of microorganisms: Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Legionella, Viruses (enteric). While unlikely to cause cancer, these microorganisms can lead to incredibly serious infections and even death in the elderly or immunocompromised. Water filters must filter out these microorganisms.
• DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is a very popular insect repellent. While more studies need to be completed – especially longitudinal – DEET is not a carcinogen, and given the vast array, consumer use of products containing DEET on the skin, the risk of health effects due to exposure to DEET in water is low.
• Class B Disinfectants was another thing evaluated by this investigation as this class of disinfectant, but we’ve learned that no microbiological health effects can be made on Class B systems.
• Endrin was used as a pesticide to control insects, rodents, and birds until 1986, when the US banned it for general use as it is known for causing extremely serious toxic effects on people. While not known for causing cancer, exposure to endrin can lead to death and severe central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) injury, and swallowing large amounts of endrin may kill a person in a few minutes or hours.
• Estrone is a part of an emerging problem: prescription medication contaminating the water supply. Estrone is used for birth control as well as being a major postmenopausal estrogen. As estrone is an emerging threat, the EPA hasn’t done many studies on the effect of estrone in our water system, however, anecdotal evidence indicates it could be linked to obesity and infertility.
• Fluoride at lower levels can help prevent dental cavities. At high levels, fluorides can result in tooth and bone damage. As reported by CNN, new studies have emerged pointing to a possible developmental delay in children exposed to fluoride.
• Lindane lotion is a pediculicide and a scabicide used to treat head lice, pubic lice (“crabs”), and scabies. While minor usage can lead to skin irritation, major exposure to lindane can cause tremors, seizures, vomiting, and/or anaphylaxis.
• Nonphenol/Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs) are produced in large volumes, are used for industrial processes and in consumer laundry detergents, personal hygiene, automotive, latex paints, and lawn care products. Long-term exposure to NPEs are linked to hormone disruption, irritation to skin, eyes, mouth, and birth defects.
• Nominal Particulates – I – IV – this is simply referring to the size of the microns that can seep through. I is the smallest and VI is the highest size. Most of the filters we looked at have the lowest level of nominal particulates.
• Phenytoin is another chemical compound that is used for treating seizures and seizure disorders. While the EPA hasn’t shed light on the environmental effects of this prescription drug, we do know that high levels of phenytoin causes symptoms including lateral nystagmus, ataxia, and drowsiness, In more severe cases, horizontal nystagmus, tremors and inability to walk can be seen. A coma is rare.
• TCEP HCL is a flame retardant and exposure is linked to endocrine and reproductive problems. It is unknown if TCEP is a carcinogen at this moment.
• TCPP – Tris(2-chloroisopropyl)phosphate is another flame retardant and is widely used in creation of polyurethane foam. TCPP exposure is currently under evaluation by the EPA. , Guidelines have not been set, but early studies indicate that TCPP is linked to reproductive harm and endocrine dysfunction.
• Toluene is used to make things like paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber. Long-term exposure is linked to problems with the central nervous system, hearing and vision loss.
• Trimethoprim is an antibiotic that has been increasingly found in drinking water. Chronic exposure can lead to, severe stomach pain, diarrhea; pale, gray, or bluish skin; fever, weakness; sore or swollen tongue; easy bruising, purple or red spots under the skin; or high potassium level – which can cause nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement. Pregnant women should avoid trimethoprim as its linked to birth defects.
• Turbidity refers to cloudiness of water that may indicate the presence of bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Turbidity itself has no health effects, but can interfere with water disinfection and is a medium for microbial growth.
• Zinc has a number of uses, including rust preventers, in dry cell batteries, and mixed with other metals to make alloys like brass, and bronze. Zinc is naturally occurring and is actually necessary in our bodies at certain levels. Too much zinc can cause stomach problems and/or anemia.

Step 3: Compare The Different Types of Water Filters

Trying to figure out which brand of water filter would work best for you may seem overwhelming – there are thousands of choices and the right filter for you may not be the proper choice for others. Here are the most common water filter types.

-Carbon/Activated Carbon Filters 

Activated Carbon is created by heating organic material with high carbon content (including wood, coal, or coconut shells) that results in a char to the wood. This char is then treated to create a porous material that chemically bonds to certain toxins and impurities which pulls them out of the water flowing through the system in your home. While all sounds great, remember that the efficacy of carbon filters varies wildly. While the better carbon filters can remove organic contaminants such lead, VOCs, mercury – there are other carbon filters that only improve the taste and smell of the water. Additionally, activated carbon filters do not remove inorganic contaminants like nitrates, arsenic, chromium, and fluoride.

Activated carbon filters occur in these types:

• Carbon Block: Carbon block filters are shaped into blocks and placed under high pressure. Generally, carbon block filters are more effective than granulated activated carbon filters because they have more surface area to come into contact with water. The efficacy of carbon block filters depends in small part on how quickly water flows through the filter.
• Fibredyne Block: This proprietary type of carbon block filter claims to do a better job at removing sediment than other activated carbon filters.
• Granulated Activated Carbon: These filters contain fine grains of activated carbon, which is usually less effective than carbon block filters as these have a smaller surface area of activated carbon to come into contact with the water. Their effectiveness depends upon the flow rate of the water going through the filter.

-Ceramic Filters

Ceramic filters are generally inexpensive filters that have tiny pores in their filter and are often used in third-world countries and/or backpacking.  These tiny holes – pores – pass water through while they block solid contaminants, like sediments or bacteria, protozoa, and microbial cysts. These filters are often treated with a type of silver that kills and destroys mold and algae. While effective for certain things, ceramic water filters do not remove any chemical contaminants, which is why this type of filter often is combined with another type of filter.

-Deionization Water Filters

Deionized water is water that has had all of the ions removed. Ions are charged particle that have a positive or negative electrical charge. As many of the impurities in water are dissolved salts, a type of ion, when water is passed through this type of water filtration system, the ions are removed, leaving clean, pure water, or deionized water. Most especially used in laboratories, medical offices, and fish tanks, deionizing water filters are combined with other types of water filters as the deionization process does not remove non-ionic compounds (like VOCs) or microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, or microbial cysts.

-Distillation Water Filters 

Very similar to deionization water filters, distillation water filters heat the water hot enough to turn it into water vapor (steam) which condenses back into the water. Distilling water works because it allows for refining and removing certain chemicals, minerals, viruses, and bacteria who have a higher boiling point than water. However, distilling water does not remove VOCs, chlorine, or trihalomethanes from the water, so this type of water filter is often combined with other methods of water filtration for better all-around filtering.

-Gravity Water Filters

Similar to ceramic water filters, gravity filters are used by pouring water through a top filter that uses gravity to filter this water. These filters can remove some of the larger particulates but does not remove any chemical contaminants.

-Ion Exchange (IX) Water Filters/Water Softeners

When using ion-exchange (IX, also known as water softening) water filter processes are reversible chemical reactions that remove dissolved ions from water and replacing them with other similarly charged ions. In water treatment, IX it is used for water softening in which calcium and magnesium ions are removed from the water and replaced by sodium. Recently, however, ion exchange water filters are used more frequently for the removal of other dissolved ionic species.

Hard water leaves scale deposits on dishes, and what’s more troubling is that these minerals can build up in pipes, boilers, electric heating elements, and appliances over time, resulting in high repair and replacement costs.

Ion exchange water softeners are quite costly and require frequent bags of salt to keep them functioning and often waste a lot of water and energy. Additionally, as water softeners replace magnesium and magnesium with sodium, anyone with health problems aggravated by salt intake should talk to their doctors before installing a water softener.

Most IX will be combined with reverse osmosis filters.

-Mechanical Water Filters

Like ceramic filters, mechanical filters have tiny pores that allow water through while blocking large particle contaminants like cysts and sediments. Mechanical water filters are often used in conjunction with other technologies, as they don’t remove chemical contaminants.

-Ozone Water Filtration

Ozone kills bacteria and other microorganisms in your water and often is used in conjunction with other filtering technologies. Ozone quickly converts to oxygen and leaves no toxic trace so it may be more advantageous than chlorine to treat wastewater and is widely used in the EU.

-Reverse Osmosis 

Reverse osmosis pushes water through a semipermeable filter that blocks any particulates larger than water molecules and is effective at removing the contaminants that aren’t otherwise removed by activated carbon. This includes arsenic, perchlorate, chromium (hexavalent (VI) is especially toxic), nitrates, and fluoride.

Reverse osmosis does not remove VOCs, chlorine, or trihalomethanes. It’s also important to note that reverse osmosis filters do waste a lot of water.

Many RO systems include an activated carbon component than can remove additional contaminants from your water. The quality of both the membrane system and the carbon filter can vary greatly in both cost and effectiveness.

-UV (ultraviolet) 

Like ozone, UV systems use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms, but they do not remove chemical contaminants from drinking water.

Step 4: Check For The The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Ratings

Now known as NSF International, the NSF is accredited by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov), the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) (scc.ca), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) (ansi.org) and the International Accreditation Service (iasonline.org).  NSF laboratories worldwide are ISO/IEC 17025 accredited for testing and calibration and the Ann Arbor location is an OSHA Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. The NSF ratings and stamp of approval are incredibly important for people who are buying water filters or water systems.

NSF certifies drinking water filters to standards applicable to each type of treatment option. You may notice the NSF mark on a product along with numbers such as NSF/ANSI 53 or NSF/ANSI 42, which refer to the standard to which the filter has been certified. Manufacturers choose which contaminants their product will reduce and NSF International verifies that their filter will do what it says it is going to do.

As these standards allow manufacturers to certify their products to reduce a variety of contaminants, it’s important to check the packaging for both the standard name (such as NSF/ANSI 53 or NSF/ANSI 58) AND a claim for specific contaminant reduction such as lead.

• NSF/ANSI 42
  Filters are certified to reduce aesthetic impurities such as chlorine and taste/odor. These can be point-of-use (under the sink, water pitcher, etc.) or point-of-entry (whole house) treatment systems.
• NSF/ANSI 53
  Filters are certified to reduce a contaminant with a health effect. Health effects are set in this standard as regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Health Canada. Both standards 42 and 53 cover adsorption/filtration which is a process that occurs when liquid, gas or dissolved/suspended matter adheres to the surface of, or in the pores of, an adsorbent media. Carbon filters are an example of this type of product.
• NSF/ANSI 44
  Water softeners use a cation exchange resin that is regenerated with sodium or potassium chloride. The softener reduces hardness caused by calcium and magnesium ions and replaces them with sodium or potassium ions.
• NSF/ANSI 55
  Ultraviolet treatment systems use ultraviolet light to inactivate or kill bacteria, viruses and cysts in contaminated water (Class A systems) or to reduce the amount of non-disease causing bacteria in disinfected drinking water (Class B).
• NSF/ANSI 58
  Reverse osmosis systems incorporate a process that uses reverse pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane. Most reverse osmosis systems incorporate one or more additional filters on either side of the membrane. These systems reduce contaminants that are regulated by Health Canada and EPA.
• NSF/ANSI 62
  Distillation systems heat water to the boiling point, and then collect the water vapor as it condenses, leaving behind contaminants such as heavy metals. Some contaminants that convert readily into gases, such as volatile organic chemicals, can carry over with the water vapor.
• NSF/ANSI 177
  Shower filters attach directly to the pipe just in front of the homeowner’s shower head and are certified to only reduce free available chlorine.
• NSF/ANSI 244
  The filters covered by this standard are intended for use only on public water supplies that have been treated or that are determined to be microbiologically safe. These filters are only intended for protection against intermittent microbiological contamination of otherwise safe drinking water. For example, prior to the issuance of a boil water advisory, you can be assured that your filtration system is protecting you from intermittent microbiological contamination. The standard also includes material safety and structural integrity, similar to other NSF/ANSI drinking water treatment unit standards. Manufacturers can claim bacteria, viruses and cysts reduction for their filtration system.
• NSF/ANSI 401
  Treatment systems for emerging contaminants include both point-of-use and point-of-entry systems that have been verified to reduce one or more of 15 emerging contaminants from drinking water. These emerging contaminants can be pharmaceuticals or chemicals not yet regulated by the EPA or Health Canada.
• NSF P477
  These point-of-use filters reduce microcystin (toxins produced by blue-green algae) below the health advisory set by the EPA.
• NSF P473
  PFOA/PFOS water filters or systems are evaluated on their ability to reduce PFOA and PFOS in drinking water and to meet strict material safety and structural requirements as defined in NSF/ANSI 53.
• NSF P231
  Microbiological water purifiers are certified for health and sanitation based on the recommendations of the EPA’s Task Force Report, Guide Standard and Protocol for Testing Microbiological Water Purifiers (1987) (Annex B).
• NSF/JWPA P72
  Iodine radioisotope point-of-use treatment options are evaluated for reduction of all forms of iodine in drinking water. This protocol was developed in conjunction with the Japan Water Purifier Association (JWPA).

Mamavation’s Investigation on Water Filter Brands

Mamavation looked at over 100 water filters specifically looking for things like certifications, pricing, contaminants (claimed to be) removed, and potential microplastic contamination. Below you’ll find systems divided by reverse osmosis filters, ultraviolet water filters (UV), carbon block water filters, granular activated charcoal, ultrafiltration, carbon filters, ion exchange/water softeners, ceramic, and other physical filters. We’ve only approved water filters that have certifications that prove they work. So you may notice that some popular brands like Berkey have not made the list because they don’t have certifications. We’ve also linked up products on Amazon for your convenience to purchase.

Full Home Systems (All faucets & showers in-home)

We are first showing you full home filtration systems. These systems will need to be installed by a plumber and will reach all showers and faucets in the house. Every system listed is certified, but please pay close attention to what it is certified to do. Methods also vary here from reverse osmosis to carbon block, to UV.

–3M Aqua-Pure Whole House Water Filtration System AP902

• Cost: $525
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Carbon Block, Pleated Filter and Limescale Reduction (Polyphosphate)
• States it removes: Nominal Particulate, Class III.

–3M Better Waters XB7000 Filtration System

• Cost: $400
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Carbon Block and Pleated Filter.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor

–A.J. Antunes VZN-421HC-T5 Residential Filtration System

• Cost: Unknown (1000+)
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Water Softener (Template Assisted Crystallization), Ultrafiltration and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Cyst; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Turbidity.

–American Plumber FloPlus WFP1-10BB Drinking Water System

• Cost: $175
• Certifications: Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Cyst

–Bluewater Pro Reverse Osmosis Water Purification System

• Cost: $5000
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Methods: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Chromium (Trivalent); Lead; TDS

–CareSoft Pro CSPC-835 Water Softener

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–Culligan High Efficiency 12″ Softener-Cleer Plus

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange)
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Iron; Radium 226/228.

–DuPont Universal Whole House Filtration System WFPF13003B\

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Nominal Particulate Class IV

–EcoWater Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System HERO-375-WH

• Cost: unable to locate
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nitrate/Nitrite; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Turbidity

–Everpure Residential H-1200

• Cost: $350
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Physical Filter, Pleated Filter, KDF (Oxidation-Reduction) and Granular Activated Carbon
• States it removes: Chloramine; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC

–H2O Concepts 1054 Combo WT5 Filtration System

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Carbon Block, Physical Filter and KDF (Oxidation-Reduction)
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Taste and Odor

–Hague WaterMax Water Softener 62 AMQ

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

–Icon Technology Systems eco3 RO-VH1-PR-IN-NS-MD

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Methods: Reverse Osmosis.
• States it removes: Cyst; TDS

–Kenmore Elite Advanced Filtration System 625-385010

• Cost: $130
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Carbon block
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; MTBE; Taste and Odor; VOC

–LUMINOR Environmental UV Filter Blackcomb-HO 6.0 LBH6

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Ultraviolet Microbiological Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 55)
• Methods: Ultraviolet.
• States it removes: Disinfection Performance, Class A

–Monument Water Systems Sumo

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

–Professional Series BTS64T1F Water Softener

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44), Household, Commercial, and Portable Exchange Cation Exchange Water Softeners (WQA S-100)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

—Puronics Micromax 6500 TFC Filtration System (Pre-filter & Post-filter)

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water (NSF/ANSI 58), Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Reverse Osmosis, Granular Activated Carbon, Ultrafiltration and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Carbofuran; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; O-Dichlorobenzene; P-Dichlorobenzene; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Toxaphene; Turbidity

–RainSoft EC5 100S CT Water Softener

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

–RainSoft Hydrefiner II-SC-CHFV

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Carbon Block and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Asbestos; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC (as chloroform).

–Reionator Classic RC64-TM Water Softener

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

Vizion by A.J. Antunes UFL-420

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Ultrafiltration
• States it removes: Cyst; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Turbidity

Reverse Osmosis Filters (NSF/ANSI 58)

These filters are all using reverse osmosis methods and have at least a NSF/ANSI 58 certification. That means they incorporate a process that uses reverse pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane. Most reverse osmosis systems incorporate one or more additional filters on either side of the membrane. These systems reduce contaminants that are regulated by Health Canada and EPA.

—Aquasana OptimH2O Reverse Osmosis Water Filter with Remineralizer

• Cost: $150
• Certifications: Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401), Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Reverse Osmosis system (NSF/ANSI 58), emerging compounds/incidental contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401), Reduces PFOA and PFOS (NSF P473)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, advanced Claryum filtration, and Remineralization.
• States it removes: Bisphenol A; Estrone; Ibuprofen; Naproxen; Nonylphenol; Phenytoin (medications), Fluoride, Mercury, Chromium,  Chlorine, Arsenic, Chloramine, Asbestos, Lead 

–3M Aqua-Pure APRO5500 Reverse Osmosis System

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Offers aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), certification of a reverse osmosis filter. (NSF/ANSI 58), heath effects (NSF/ANSI 53), emerging compounds/incidental contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401)
• Filters used: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block
• States that it filters out: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Asbestos; Atrazine; Barium; Benzene; Bisphenol A; Cadmium; Carbamazepine; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Estrone; Lead; Linuron; Nitrate/Nitrite; Nonylphenol; P-Dichlorobenzene; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Toxaphene; Turbidity.

–3M 4US-RO-S01H Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System

• Cost: $150
• Certifications: Offers aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42) and certification of a reverse osmosis filter. (NSF/ANSI 58). 
• Filters Used: reverse osmosis only
• States that it filters out: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Turbidity.

–3M SQC-VIRO-4 Reverse Osmosis System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Offers aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42) and certification of a reverse osmosis filter. (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters Used: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, Carbon Block and Pleated Filter.
• States it filters: Chlorine; P-Dichlorobenzene; Taste and Odor; Toxaphene.

–Aerus Origins RO 400 Reverse Osmosis System

• Cost: $350
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis filter (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse osmosis
• States it filters out: Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity

–AllPure Reverse Osmosis with Booster Pump AP-4.0/P

• Cost: $350
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis filter (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, and Carbon Block.
• States it removes:Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–American Plumber WRO-2550 Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System

• Cost: $300
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis filter (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Barium; Cadmium; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Turbidity.

–Aqua-Pure 3M RO401 Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System

• Cost:  $1,200
• Certifications:
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Nominal Particulate, Class I; P-Dichlorobenzene; Taste and Odor; Toxaphene.

–AO Smith AO-US-RO-4000

• Cost: $170
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401),  PFOA and PFOS (NSF/ANSi Protocol P473)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: PFOA; PFOS; Chlorine; Chloramine; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Asbestos; Cyst; Lead; MTBE; Mercury; Turbidity; VOC; Arsenic (Pentavalent); Barium; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nitrate/Nitrite; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Turbidity; Atenolol; Bisphenol A; Carbamazepine; DEET; Estrone; Ibuprofen; Linuron; Meprobamate; Metolachlor; Naproxen; Nonylphenol; Phenytoin; TCPP; Trimethoprim; TCEP.

–AquaKinetic A200 Drinking Water System

• Cost: Unable to locate
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Ultrafiltration, and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Arsenic (V) (less than 300 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–Bluewater Pro Reverse Osmosis Water Purification System

• Cost: $800
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Chromium (Trivalent); Lead; TDS.

–Brita Redi-Twist 3-Stage Water Filtration System USS-335

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Microbiological Water Purifiers (NSF Protocol P231)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States It Removes:  Aesthetic Chlorine; Atrazine; Bacteria; Cyst; Lead; Lindane; Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; Virus.

–Culligan Good Water Machine Reverse Osmosis Water System AC-30

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58),
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Carbon Block, Physical Filter, and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium

–EcoPure Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filtration System ECOP30

• Cost: $150
• Certifications: Aesthetic (NSF/ANSI 42), Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters Reverse Osmosis.
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nitrate/Nitrite; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Turbidity.

–GE PXRQ15RBL Reverse Osmosis Premium Water Filtration System

• Cost: $230
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=50 ppb; Asbestos; Barium; Cadmium; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Turbidity.

–Hague WaterMax Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System H6000

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications:  Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 300 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Nitrate; Nitrite; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–iSpring #RCC7 5-Stage Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, Granular Activated Carbon, and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–Marlo Incorporated Reverse Osmosis System TFC-35

• Cost: Unkown
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nitrate/Nitrite; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS.

–North Star NSRO42C4 Reverse Osmosis System

• Cost: $300
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse osmosis
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nitrate/Nitrite; Radium 226/228; Selenium; Taste and Odor; TDS; Turbidity\

–OMNIFilter Whole House Clear Filter BF36C

• Cost: $130
• Certifications Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, Carbon Block, and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Barium; Cadmium; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Turbidity

–Pelican 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis System PRO-RO

• Cost: $400
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 300 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–Watts ZRO-4 Zero Waste Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System PWRO4ZRO

• Cost: $500
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Carbon Block, Ultrafiltration, and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Cyst; Nitrate; Nitrite; TDS

Ultraviolet (UV) Water Filters

Like ozone, UV systems use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms, but they do not remove chemical contaminants from drinking water.

–eSpring Carbon Water Treatment System CXV3708 (110192)

• Cost: $700
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block and Ultraviolet
• States it removes: 2,4,5-TP (Silvex); 2,4-D; Alachlor; Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chloramine; Chlordane; Chlorine; Chlorobenzene; Dibromochloropropane; Endrin; Ethylbenzene; Ethylene Dibromide; Heptachlor; Heptachlor Epoxide; Lead; Lindane; Mercury; Methoxychlor; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; O-Dichlorobenzene; PCB; Radon; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); VOC.

–eSpring Carbon Water Treatment System CXV3708 (110193)

• Cost: $800
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters:: Carbon Block and Ultraviolet.
• States it removes: 2,4,5-TP (Silvex); 2,4-D; Alachlor; Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chloramine; Chlordane; Chlorine; Chlorobenzene; Dibromochloropropane; Endrin; Ethylbenzene; Ethylene Dibromide; Heptachlor; Heptachlor Epoxide; Lead; Lindane; Mercury; Methoxychlor; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; O-Dichlorobenzene; PCB; Radon; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); VOC

–eSpring UV Water Purifier Above Counter Unit Model 100185 (100188)

• Cost: $800
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminant (NSF Protocol 401), Ultraviolet Microbiological Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 55),  PFOA & PFOS (NSF Protocol P473)
• Filters: Ultraviolet and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: 2,4,5-TP (Silvex); 2,4-D; Alachlor; Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chlordane; Chlorobenzene; Dibromochloropropane; Endrin; Ethylbenzene; Ethylene Dibromide; Heptachlor; Heptachlor Epoxide; Lead; Lindane; Mercury; Methoxychlor; MTBE; O-Dichlorobenzene; PCB; Radon; Simazine; Styrene; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); VOC.

–LUMINOR Environmental UV Filter Blackcomb 5.0 LB5

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Ultraviolet Microbiological Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 55)
• Filters: UV filter
• States it removes: Disinfection Performance, Class B.

Carbon Block Water Filters

Carbon block filters are shaped into blocks and placed under high pressure. Generally, carbon block filters are more effective than granulated activated carbon filters because they have more surface area to come into contact with water. The efficacy of carbon block filters depends in small part on how quickly water flows through the filter.

–APEC Water Systems RO-90 Reverse Osmosis System

• Cost: $250
• Certifications: Reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–3M Aqua-pure 3MRO301 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System

• Cost: $450
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Nominal Particulate, Class I; P-Dichlorobenzene; Taste and Odor; Toxaphene

–Body Glove BG-1000 Water Filtration System

• Cost: $400
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block and Physical Filter
• States it removes: Asbestos; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor

–DuPont WFDW120009W Universal Drinking Water Filtration System

• Cost: $40
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Nominal Particulate Class III; Taste and Odor.

–GE GX1S50R Single Stage Drinking Water Filtration System

• Cost: $125
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Asbestos; Atrazine; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Lindane; Mercury; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Toxaphene; Turbidity

–Kinetico KUBE14 Advanced Water Filtration System

• Cost: $220
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC (as chloroform)

–Multipure Aquaversa Model MP750 Drinking Water System 

• Cost: $500
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health Effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401), Microbiological Water Purifiers (NSF Standard P231)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=50 ppb; Asbestos; Atenolol; Bacteria; Bisphenol A; Carbamazepine; Chloramine; Chlordane; Chlorine; Cyst; DEET; Estrone; Ibuprofen; Lead; Linuron; Live Cyst; Meprobamate; Mercury; Metolachlor; MTBE; Naproxen; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Nonylphenol; PCB; Phenytoin; Radon; Taste and Odor; TCEP; TCPP; Toxaphene; Trimethoprim; Turbidity; Virus; VOC

–PUR FM-3800B Vertical Faucet Mount

• Cost: $50
• Certifications Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53
• Filters: Carbon Block and Ion Exchange
• States it removes: 2,4,5-TP; 2,4-D; Aesthetic Chlorine; Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chlordane; Chlorobenzene; Cyst; Endrin; Ethylbenzene; Heptachlor Epoxide; Lead; Lindane; Mercury; Methoxychlor; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Nominal Particulate Class I; o-Dichlorobenzene; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; TTHM (as chloroform); Turbidity; VOC (as chloroform).

–Water Factory CM-2 Lead Plus Filter System

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity

–Watts Under Counter Water Filtration System PWDWLCV2

• Cost: $70
• Certifications: Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Physical Filter and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Cyst; Lead; VOC (as chloroform).

Granular Activated Charcoal Water Filters

These filters contain fine grains of activated carbon, which is usually less effective than carbon block filters as these have a smaller surface area of activated carbon to come into contact with the water. Their effectiveness depends upon the flow rate of the water going through the filter.

–A.J. Antunes VZN-441HC Residential Filtration System

• Cost: unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Ultrafiltration and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Cyst; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Turbidity.

–American Plumber WLCS-1000 Under-Sink Water Filter System

• Cost: $250
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor.

–Brita Advanced Faucet Filtration System – FF-100

• Cost: $23
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon, Ion Exchange and Physical Filter
• States it removes: 2,4-D; Alachlor; Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chlordane; Chlorine; Chlorobenzene; Cyst; Endrin; Ethylbenzene; Lead; Lindane; Methoxychlor; Nominal Particulate, Class I; O-Dichlorobenzene; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); Turbidity; VOC

–Culligan ISH-300 Shower Filter

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Shower Filtration Systems – Aesthetic Effects (NSF/ANSI 177)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon and KDF (Oxidation-Reduction).
• States it removes: Free Available Chlorine

–Culligan Good Water Machine Reverse Osmosis Water System AC-30M PLUS

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Carbon Block, Physical Filter and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium

–DuPont Deluxe Faucet Mount WFFM350X

• Cost: $40
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Asbestos; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; VOC (as chloroform)

–EcoPure Dual-Stage Drinking Water Filtration System ECOP20

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; MTBE; Taste and Odor; VOC

–Franke FRCNSTR100 Undersink Water Filter

• Cost: $150
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Ceramic and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity

–iSpring #RCC7P-AK 6-stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System

• Cost: $475
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, Granular Activated Carbon, and Carbon Block.
• States it removes:  Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–Pentek US-1500 Chemical/Lead Reduction System

• Cost: $350
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Filters: Physical Filter and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor

–PUR FM-9100B Horizontal Faucet Mount

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon and Ion Exchange.
• States it removes:  2,4,5-TP; 2,4,5-TP (Silvex); 2,4-D; Aesthetic Chlorine; Asbestos; Atenolol; Atrazine; Benzene; Bisphenol A; Carbamazepine; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chlordane; Chlorine; Chlorobenzene; Cyst; DEET; Endrin; Estrone; Ethylbenzene; Heptachlor Epoxide; Lead; Lindane; Linuron; Meprobamate; Mercury; Methoxychlor; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Metolachlor; Nominal Particulate Class I; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Nonylphenol; O-Dichlorobenzene; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; TCEP; TCPP; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); Trimethoprim; TTHM (as chloroform); Turbidity; VOC; VOC (as chloroform)

–PUR PFM800HX Bluetooth Ultimate Faucet Filtration System

• Cost: $50
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants (NSF/ANSI 401)
• Filters: Granular Activated Carbon and Ion Exchange.
• States it removes: 2,4,5-TP; 2,4,5-TP (Silvex); 2,4-D; Aesthetic Chlorine; Asbestos; Atenolol; Atrazine; Benzene; Bisphenol A; Carbamazepine; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chlordane; Chlorine; Chlorobenzene; Cyst; DEET; Endrin; Estrone; Ethylbenzene; Heptachlor Epoxide; Lead; Lindane; Linuron; Meprobamate; Mercury; Methoxychlor; Metolachlor; Nominal Particulate Class I; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Nonyl Phenol; Nonylphenol; O-Dichlorobenzene; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; TCEP; TCPP; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); Trimethoprim; TTHM (as chloroform); VOC; VOC (as chloroform).

–Watts Kwik Change RO System WQC4RO11-50MT

• Cost: $275
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Carbon Block, and Granular Activated Carbon
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium

–Whirlpool UltraEase Water Purifier Filtration System WHER25

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58), Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Granular Activated Carbon
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=300 ppb; Barium; Cadmium; Chlorine; Chromium (Hexavalent); Chromium (Trivalent); Copper; Cyst; Fluoride; Lead; Nitrate/Nitrite; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Turbidity

Carbon Water Filters

Activated Carbon is created by heating organic material with high carbon content (including wood, coal, or coconut shells) that results in a char to the wood. This char is then treated to create a porous material that chemically bonds to certain toxins and impurities which pulls them out of the water flowing through the system in your home. While all sounds great, remember that the efficacy of carbon filters varies wildly. While the better carbon filters can remove organic contaminants such lead, VOCs, mercury – there are other carbon filters that only improve the taste and smell of the water. Additionally, activated carbon filters do not remove inorganic contaminants like nitrates, arsenic, chromium, and fluoride.

–3M Aqua-Pure AP Easy LC Filtration System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53),
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor

–3M Aqua-Pure Whole House Sanitary Quick Change Water Filter System AP904

• Cost: $500
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Filters: Carbon Block, Pleated Filter, and Limescale Reduction (Polyphosphate)
• States it removes: Nominal Particulate, Class III

–AlwaysFresh HFC-1000 Drinking Water System

• Cost: $350
• Certifications: Sustainable Drinking Water Treatment Systems (WQA/ASPE/ANSI S-803), Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Limescale Reduction (Polyphosphate), Ultrafiltration, Carbon Block, and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; TTHM (as chloroform); Turbidity; VOC (as chloroform)

–APEC Water Systems RO-90 Reverse Osmosis System

• Cost: $230
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity

–Brondell H2O+ Coral UC300 Three-Stage Under Counter Water Filter System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Physical Filter and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chloramine; Aesthetic Chlorine; Asbestos; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; VOC (as chloroform)

–Culligan FM-15A Faucet Mount Filter

• Cost: $30
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Atrazine; Chlorine; Lead; Lindane; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity

–DuPont WFRO60X Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filtration System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Reverse Osmosis and Carbon Block.

–EcoPure ECOP40 Water Purification System

• Cost: $160
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Chlorine; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC

–Filtrete Standard Under Sink Quick Change Water Filtration System

• Cost: $50
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Chlorine; Taste and Odor.

–GE GXK285JBL Twist And Lock Under Counter Dual Flow Water Filtration System

• Cost: $150
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Lindane; Mercury; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; VOC

–iSpring #RCC7AK 6-stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters:Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, Granular Activated Carbon, and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Arsenic (V) (less than 50 ppb); Barium; Cadmium; Copper; Fluoride; Hexavalent Chromium; Lead; Radium 226/228; Selenium; TDS; Trivalent Chromium; Turbidity.

–LINX 160 LINX Drinking Water System

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Physical Filter, Carbon Block and Ion Exchange
• States it removes: Nitrate; Nitrite.

–Multipure Aquaperform MP880SC Drinking Water System

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Arsenic (Pentavalent)<=50 ppb; Asbestos; Chloramine; Chlordane; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; PCB; Taste and Odor; Toxaphene; Turbidity; VOC

–Olympia Water Systems Reverse Osmosis System OROS-50

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems (NSF/ANSI 58)
• Filters: Reverse Osmosis, Physical Filter, and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Taste and Odor; TDS

–Whirlpool UltraEase Water Purifier Filtration System WHAMBS5

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Filters: Carbon Block
• States it removes: Chlorine; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC

Water Softener Ion Exchange Water Filters

When using ion-exchange (IX, also known as water softening) water filter processes are reversible chemical reactions that remove dissolved ions from water and replacing them with other similarly charged ions. In water treatment, IX it is used for water softening in which calcium and magnesium ions are removed from the water and replaced by sodium. Recently, however, ion exchange water filters are used more frequently for the removal of other dissolved ionic species. Lots of systems are combined with reverse osmosis filters.

–3M Water Softener WTS100

• Cost: $1000+
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Method: Water Softener (Ion Exchange)
• States it removes: Water hardness

–Culligan Gold Series Water Softener

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange), Granular Activated Carbon, pH Adjuster, and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

–Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener (multiple sizes are available)

• Cost: $725
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–GE Pro-Elite 268-716-100-1044

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–Hexagon 8 Stage Water Purifier

• Cost: $250
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Ceramic, Water Softener (Ion Exchange), Granular Activated Carbon, and KDF (Oxidation-Reduction)
• States it removes: Chlorine

–Impression Plus Series Water Softener IMP-1248DUPURE

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–Kinetico Premier Series with Accudial Q850 (multiple sizes are available)

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes:  Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

–Master Water Conditioning Co. Clear Reflections MP-CLR-30T Water Softener

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–Nugen Pure Water Systems Fusion XT-60 Water Softener

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange)
• States it removes: Hardness

–OMNIFILTER Water Softener OM34K

• Cost: $300
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–Puronics Filtramax MP-FM78

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange).
• States it removes: Hardness

–RainSoft EC4 400 T Water Softener

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange)
• States it removes: Barium; Hardness; Radium 226/228

–Structural FRP Fiberglass Filter System (multiple sizes are available)

• Cost: $500
• Certifications: Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners (NSF/ANSI 44)
• Methods: Water Softener (Ion Exchange)
• States it removes: Hardness

Ultrafiltration Water Filter Systems

–Aquasana AQ-4000B Countertop Water Filter

• Cost: $100
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Emerging Compounds/Incidental Contaminants (NSF 401), Drinking Water Treatment Units – PFOA & PFO (NSF Protocol P473)
• Methods: Carbon Block, Ion Exchange, and Ultrafiltration
• States it removes: Asbestos; Bisphenol A; Chloramine; Chlorine; Cyst; Estrone; Ibuprofen; Lead; Mercury; MTBE; Naproxen; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Nonylphenol; PFOA; PFOS; Phenytoin; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; VOC

–Culligan US-3UF Ultrafiltration System with SureLock

• Cost: $120
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), and Microbiological Water Purifiers (NSF Protocol P231)
• Methods:Ultrafiltration and Carbon Block.
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Atrazine; Bacteria; Cyst; Lead; Taste and Odor; Virus

–FrescaPure FP6000 CT Filtration System

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), and Microbiological Water Purifiers (NSF Protocol P231)
• Methods: Granular Activated Carbon and Ultrafiltration
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chloramine; Aesthetic Chlorine; Bacteria; Cyst; Lead; Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE); Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; Virus; VOC (as chloroform)

–Hankscraft Ultrafiltration UF-5-BF-NF

• Cost: $160
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Granular Activated Carbon, KDF (Oxidation-Reduction), Ceramic, and Ultrafiltration
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Taste and Odor.

–Master Water Conditioning Ultrafiltration System ULTRAPRO-4FL

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Ultrafiltration
• States it removes: Cyst

–Premier by Watts Filter Pure UF-3 Filtration System

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Ultrafiltration, Physical Filter, and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate Class IV; Taste and Odor; VOC (as chloroform)

–Stream Flow (F1) Ultrafiltration System

• Cost: $400
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Ultrafiltration and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Asbestos; Chloramine; Chlordane; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; PCB; Taste and Odor; Toxaphene; Turbidity; VOC.

Ceramic Water Filters

Ceramic filters are generally inexpensive filters that have tiny pores in their filter and are often used in third-world countries and/or backpacking.  These tiny holes – pores – pass water through while they block solid contaminants, like sediments or bacteria, protozoa, and microbial cysts. These filters are often treated with a type of silver that kills and destroys mold and algae. While effective for certain things, ceramic water filters do not remove any chemical contaminants, which is why this type of filter often is combined with another type of filter.

–Easily Pure Water Purifier EPW-001

• Cost: $950
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53), and Microbiological Water Purifiers (NSF Protocol P231)
• Methods: Ceramic, Carbon Block, and Physical Filter.
• States it removes :Aesthetic Chlorine; Bacteria; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate Class I; Virus

–Franke FRCNSTR Kitchen Filter

• Cost: $300
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Ceramic and Granular Activated Carbon
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity

–Nikken PiMag MicroJet Shower System

• Cost: $120
• Certifications: Shower Filtration Systems – Aesthetic Effects (NSF/ANSI 177)
• Methods: KDF (Oxidation-Reduction), Ceramic, and Physical Filter
• States it removes: Free Available Chlorine

Hollow Carbon Water Filters

–Selecto Scientific QC112-L Filter

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Carbon, Hollow
• States it removes: Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Taste and Odor.

Other Physical Filters

–3M CS-S Cooler Under Sink Filter

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Carbon Block and Physical Filter.
• States it removes: Chlorine; Nominal Particulate, Class III; Taste and Odor

–Austin Springs AS-DW-UC

• Cost: $200
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Carbon Block, Physical Filter, and Ion Exchange.
• States it removes: Asbestos; Chloramine; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; Mercury; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; VOC

–Big Berkey Water Purification: 

• Cost: $278
• Certifications: The Black Berkey purification element formulation has been tested by State and EPA accredited laboratories to exceed NSF/ANSI Standard 53 but has not yet been certified. Thus, it is not for sale in California or Iowa.
• Methods: Physical Filter, Ion Exchange, and Gravity Filter
• States it removes: Unable to assess at this time

–Brita Advanced Faucet Filtration System – FF-100

• Cost: $25
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Granular Activated Carbon, Ion Exchange, and Physical Filter
• States it removes:  2,4-D; Alachlor; Asbestos; Atrazine; Benzene; Carbofuran; Carbon Tetrachloride; Chlordane; Chlorine; Chlorobenzene; Endrin; Ethylbenzene; Lead; Lindane; Methoxychlor; Nominal Particulate, Class I; O-Dichlorobenzene; Simazine; Styrene; Taste and Odor; Tetrachloroethylene; Toluene; Toxaphene; Trichloroethylene; Trihalomethanes (TTHM); Turbidity; VOC.

–Brondell H2O+ Cypress Countertop Water Filtration System H630

• Cost: $150
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Physical Filter and Carbon Block
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Nominal Particulate Class I; Taste and Odor; Turbidity; VOC (as chloroform)

–Culligan HD-950A Sediment Filter

• Cost: $75
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Physical Filter
• States it removes: Chlorine

–Everpure Residential H-1200

• Cost: $350
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Physical Filter, Pleated Filter, KDF (Oxidation-Reduction), and Granular Activated Carbon
• States it removes: Chloramine; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC

–H2O Concepts 1044 WT5 Filtration System

• Cost: Unknown
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42)
• Methods: Carbon Block, Physical Filter, and KDF (Oxidation-Reduction)
• States it removes: Aesthetic Chlorine; Taste and Odor

–Hoshizaki HF-H Quad Filtration System

• Cost: $775
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Physical Filter and Granular Activated Carbon.
• States it removes: Bacteriostatic Effects; Chlorine; Cyst; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor

–WaterChef Under-Sink Water Filtration System U9000

• Cost: $400
• Certifications: Aesthetic effects (NSF/ANSI 42), Health effects (NSF/ANSI 53)
• Methods: Pleated Filter
• States it removes: Chloramine; Chlorine; Cyst; Lead; MTBE; Nominal Particulate, Class I; Taste and Odor; VOC