Which water purifier is better to take for water purification. Types of filters for water purification. Filter requirements.

The human body is 80% water, which means that a person’s health and well-being also depends on the quality of the fluid consumed. Health professionals advise drinking as much water as possible in order to cleanse the body, but this advice does not work when the entire periodic table is contained in drinking water. There is only one way out - to purchase a water filter. We will tell everyone who cares about their own health and the health of their loved ones how to choose a filter for water purification and what to pay special attention to.

Classification of household filters

All units differ from each other not only in technical characteristics, but also in the device. Therefore, when choosing a water purifier, determine the needs and capabilities.

Among household water filters, the following varieties are distinguished:

1. Jug type filters.
2. Flow filters for washing.
3. Flowing filters for washing.
4. Water purifiers nozzles.
5. Reverse osmosis systems.
6. Ultrafilters.

Consider all the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Jug Type Filters

The filter jug \u200b\u200bis the most affordable and primitive way to purify water. The main purpose of the device is to purify water from chlorine, mechanical impurities, remove unpleasant odors and improve color, as well as partially rid the water of hardness.

Filters are compact, mobile, they can be used both at home and on the go. The devices are easy to operate, with them clean water is always at hand, and besides, the price is low.

Important! However, all models require frequent replacement of the filter element, since the cartridge life is very small, usually up to 300 liters. Therefore, once a month or two, its replacement is necessary.

Active carbon granulate is also present in the filter cartridge, for example, to retain chlorine and chlorine compounds. Since the filling material in the filter cartridge consists of loose bulk material with large cavities, and the filter is an open system in a medium rich in microbes, cartridges tend to sprout.

Although bacteria initially survive, bacteria find the ideal habitat in the filter. If the cartridge is not replaced on time, bacteria will enter the drinking water.

• Sterilization?
• Non-physical salt in aqueous solution?
• Pesticides, herbicides, drug residues, etc. not deleted.

Penis care, that is, a monthly trolley, is important. Unfortunately, filtered water cannot be viewed as an ideal drinking water.

Filter jugs are convenient for use in a family of 2-3 people or a small office.

Important! Act as a filter element: activated carbon or silver ions. The maximum degree of purification is 20 microns.

Pros:

• Such a water filter is extremely easy to operate.
• It does not require a water connection.
• Mobility of use. The device can be used at home, in the country and on vacation.
• No control required.

Disadvantages:

• Small volumes of purified water.
• The degree of purification is lower than that of filters connected to the water supply.

Device and method of action

The principle of operation of the device is as follows: water is poured into the jug and it flows by gravity from one container to another, passing through the filter element. The volume of purified water directly depends on the volume of the jug - as a rule, this is one or two liters.

Important! If you need three liters of water for cooking or a drink, you will have to fill the jug twice, which is not very convenient.

Modern device models are equipped with:

• Spout for convenient transfusion of water into another container.
• Cartridge resource indicator.
• Flip, which makes it possible to pour water into the jug without removing the lid.

Important! Water filtration rate - from 3 to 10 minutes. A pitcher filter is the best option for those who cannot make space under the sink for a stationary system. Do not use the filter for longer than the required resource, as this is fraught with health. The jug itself also change once a year.

In granules, as discussed in the previous section, there is a risk of filter breakthrough: then the water filter suddenly releases the collected toxins or bacteria into the drinking water. Also: not all substances are removed. Lime remains in the water like nitrate.

• Relatively cheap to buy.
• Some important pollutants are filtered out.
• Lime remains in breakthrough water filter with possible granules Concentration?
• Complete filtering of all pollutants.

Conclusion: In areas with soft water and without nitrate contamination, buying a good activated carbon filter makes sense.

Water purifiers nozzles

One of the types of filter-water lilies can be considered a nozzle on the crane. The cartridge is worn directly on the water tap, purified water is collected in a container, after which the nozzle is removed.

Benefits:

• Low price.
• Mobility. You can always take your device with you on a trip.

Disadvantages:

• Slow performance. For a minute we get half a liter of purified water.
• Small volume of sorbent.
• Tanks are needed for storing purified water.

Sink flow filters

Such a water purifier is not mounted on the tap, but is located nearby, and such filters are attached to the tap using a flexible hose. In order for such a water filter to be installed in any kitchen, a set of adapters is included in the package.

Important! Cartridge resource is designed for 1000-2000 liters. The filter element of such a filter is activated carbon and polypropylene fiber.

Proven disinfection of drinking water. . Kinesiologically, water does not experience well. We recommend subsequent activation. Home distillers are small stands where water evaporates by heating and then condenses. We disagree with either opinion or the other, but rather think that the subject of minerals should be a healthy medium way. Detailed information can be found in our and / or.

Rating of filters for water treatment for washing

What we consider more important from the point of view of home distillation is that water is heated for a long time during the production process and that microbes like to form in a warm environment. We also know that when distilling alcohol, some chemicals can be distilled, as well as water.

Depending on the manufacturer, desktop household water filters can have several degrees of purification (from one to three). Some manufacturers, in order to improve the quality of cleaning, add silver ions and other components that improve water quality to the filter.

Advantages:

• Sufficient performance (up to one and a half liters per minute).
• No need for additional tanks for purified water.
• They have a greater resource than a filter water lily.
• It is convenient in operation.
• Easy to install and use. To connect the device, just attach it to a tap with running water.
• High degree of purification. Thanks to the desktop filter, the water is cleaned of mechanical impurities, chlorine, insoluble impurities, etc. Modern device models soften water, adjust the content of radionuclides, heavy metals, and iron.

Disadvantages:

• Dimensions This type of filter requires extra space in the kitchen sink.
• The water filter requires connection and disconnection after filtration.

Flow filters for washing

This type of purifier is built directly into the water supply. The device itself is located under the sink, and a separate faucet is displayed on the sink - only for purified water. This is a more complex system based on two or three flasks for various purposes: one - performs mechanical filtration, the other - bacterial cleaning, etc.

Water filters “under the sink” provide the highest quality cleaning. They are distinguished by this type of device with a large resource of work, high performance.

Important! The resource of one cartridge, on average, is 7000 liters, the maximum degree of purification: 0.05 - 1 micron. Cartridge change frequency - once every six months. This type of filter is suitable for large families, as it has high performance. Devices can be used both in apartments and in cottages, if you install them on a well or well.

However, here, as with distillation, reverse osmosis can only be the first step for excellent drinking water. Ideally, further processing steps should be followed, such as germination, activation, remineralization, twisting or enrichment with hydrogen. Ionizers basically do not have the function of filtering water, but they relate to a completely different topic. Namely, to create the so-called antioxidant water - water that captures harmful free radicals.

However, it is really important that this awareness is realized only slowly - this is the so-called. You can watch an interview on this topic. At this stage, it should be mentioned that this high pH value is completely irrelevant, but only a hydrogen indicator. In principle, it is necessary to distinguish between ionizers of the old and new generations. The old generation of ionizers can usually be seen in the fact that the devices have one or two activated carbon filters and are connected to a water line. As a rule, new generations are mobile cabins without water filters, designed to enrich water with molecular hydrogen.

Pros:

• High degree of water purification.
• Great resource of work.
• High performance.
• The convenience of use.
• There is no limit to the amount of clean water.
• No clutter of the workspace.
• The presence of a separate tap for purified water.

Important! The disadvantage is the high cost.

Ultrafilter - Advanced Purification

Older devices separate water into "acidic" water and "basic water." The main water is drunk. In fact, the separation of ions occurs: the main cations migrate to the main water part, the anions are removed by acid water. We do not consider such mineralization significant, since anions are crucial for the mineral use of cations. In addition, pre-filters have the same advantages and disadvantages that are described above in the “Carbon Filter” section. Ionizers deliver antioxidant “anti-aging water”, enriching water with molecular hydrogen.

• Lime is not filtered.
• Are there any long-term mineral imbalances in the pre-filters?

Conclusion: The main task of the ionizer is to enrich water with molecular hydrogen.

Fillers for household cleaners

Household water purifiers have various filter elements and they are selected depending on the needs. Therefore, in order to decide which water filter is best for a house or apartment, it is advisable to first make a chemical analysis of the composition. Then, consider that each cartridge performs its function and determine the appropriate one for specific tasks:

• Mechanical - removes sand, rust, various suspended particles. By its work, this cartridge extends the life of subsequent filters.
• Briquetted charcoal - removes residual chlorine, organics and other small particles.
• Granular coal - removes heavy metals, eliminates odors and gases.
• Mineralizer - saturates with minerals.
• Bioceramic filter - restores the natural structure of water.

Important! Basically, the purification system consists of several filters, and the more degrees of filtration, the better the purified water will be. Stationary filters for water purification are chosen by those users who understand the value and importance of high-quality filtered water, and are ready to invest money in their health.

The best filter in the form of a nozzle on the crane

In the case of very hard water containing pollutants, a reverse osmosis system or distillation system is not used. However, both reverse osmosis systems and distillation equipment can only be the initial step 1 to ideal drinking water. The reversal system has the advantage over the distillation unit in that it can supply a lot of fresh drinking water as an integrated unit. It can also be equipped with a germination inhibitor without any complications. Resurrected, and both types of water can be remineralized.

Reverse osmosis systems

The best filters for water purification are reverse osmosis filters. They allow you to remove not only mechanical impurities, excess iron and chlorine, excess rigidity, but also purify the water from all kinds of viruses and bacteria. This category of filters is considered the most complex, expensive, but also the most reliable.

Important! After using the system, water is purified by 99%.

Osmosis is prompted by the most natural system and works on the principle of a cell membrane. Features that are already appreciated by many consumers are as follows:

1. The key filtering element of the system is the reverse osmosis membrane, the pores of which are much smaller than most viruses. So - your body will be reliably protected from microorganisms.
2. Thanks to reverse osmosis systems, it became possible to replace bottled water at home, while significantly saving money.
3. Thanks to such a system, the water is filtered to such a state that it does not even leave a deposit on the heating elements of household appliances.

Benefits:

• The highest degree of purification.
• A constant supply of purified water (10 liters in a tank).
• Low cost of filtered water.

Important! Before installing a reverse osmosis system, measure the pressure in the water supply system - it must be at least 2.8 atm., Otherwise - the system will not work properly.

Disadvantages:

• The complexity of the installation.
• The complexity of the service. All actions with the system must be performed by a specialist.

Equipment

The standard equipment of the reverse osmosis installation includes:

• Pre-cartridge system.
• Membrane reverse osmosis.
• Special post-filter.
• Devices can be understaffed, if desired, with a mineralizer and a structurizer. They will enrich the water with minerals and make them useful for digestion and blood circulation.

Important! The frequency of replacement of the reverse osmosis membrane - 1 time in 3 years, the frequency of replacement of post-cleaning cartridges - 1 time per year. Reverse osmosis systems are the most efficient and top the filter rating, because the maximum degree of purification is 0.0001 microns. Such water filters are chosen by people who want to constantly consume highly purified water and not overpay for it.

Ultrafilters

The working element of ultrafiltration systems is a membrane consisting of a tubular composite. Installing a filter with such a membrane will purify water from bacteria, viruses, and preserve the original mineral composition of water.

Important! The membrane is a reliable filter from pests, since the diameter of its holes is 20 times smaller than the size of all known viruses and more than 300 times smaller than the size of bacteria.

The principle of operation of the ultrafilter is the same as the reverse osmosis system, but the ultrafilter is more expensive. Which system to choose, you decide, based on financial capabilities and needs.

Which water filter to choose for the home?

By acquiring a cleaning system, everyone strives to choose the best water filter.

The following factors must be considered here:

1. Environmental friendliness and safety for humans. Since the water purifier is constantly in contact with water, it must be made of environmentally friendly materials that are absolutely safe for humans.
2. Compliance of materials used in the manufacture, quality standard. The presence of any chemical odors on the filter components is excluded.
3. Strength and reliability of the design. For a stationary filter connected to the water supply system, the reliability and durability of the housing material are very important. In modern models, glass-filled plastic is preferred.
4. The ability to reduce the concentration of harmful substances during normal operation.
5. The ability of the cleaning system to prevent the propagation of harmful microorganisms.

What should be considered when buying a household filter for water purification?

In order to choose the best water filter, decide on the type of device and listen to the following recommendations:

1. Filters working on a similar principle do not have fundamental differences, and the price depends on the manufacturer (brand) and the quality of the materials.
2. When choosing a filter, pay attention to the following characteristics:
   • The number of cleaning steps.
   • Features of filtering. Ideally, before choosing a purifier, it is necessary to examine tap water for the presence of elements in it. And then, pick up a purifier that can cope with the greatest amount of pollution in your water system.
   • The presence of a mineralizer. Usually, the mineralizer is installed by default, so decide whether to use it or not.
   • Performance. If the family is small, then a jug filter is sufficient, if the family has many households, then pay attention to stationary systems.

1. When choosing a water filter, be sure to pay attention to the quality of the flask (housing). Pay special attention to the quality of the plastic and appearance: casting defects, gaps at the joints, and irregular geometric shapes should not be present on the case. Choose a model from thin-looking but heavy plastic.
2. Choose a system housing with a double rubber seal. Such devices are more durable in operation and withstand more pressure.
3. Pay attention to the connecting elements of the filters.
4. Pay close attention to the crane, which is exposed to daily use. On expensive models, faucets have a polished ceramic seal and a rotary handle. In cheap models, this design was replaced with a plastic lever handle. The disadvantage of this design is the frequent breakdown of the handle. And since this part is not included in the filter kit as a spare part, you will have to change the entire valve.
5. Do not forget about caring for the filter, plan to change the filter elements, as they are the guarantor of the quality of the cleaning system.
6. The following points should be indicated in the accompanying documentation:
   • Certificate confirming compliance of the filter with all technical specifications.
   • A method for removing debris and impurities is described.
   • A method for disinfecting water is described.

Which manufacturer should I prefer?

Filtration plants are produced by both foreign and domestic companies. If you can’t decide which water filter to choose for your apartment, check out the rating and make sure that “our” companies are also able to make high-quality and high-quality units.

Rating of household water filters

According to consumer reviews and statistical studies, we give an approximate rating of companies involved in water treatment:

1. Bluefilters (Germany). Water filters of this company are made with German quality and pedantry. Devices are popular in dozens of countries. The highlight of such devices is the cartridge “Living Water”, which, after contact with it, nourishes positive energy.
2. Aquaphor (Russia). The company was founded in 1992 and is one of the largest filter manufacturers. The company's products captivate consumers with exceptional quality and flexible pricing. Aquaphor offers products of all directions and types of water treatment, so any consumer will find a water purifier suitable for their purposes. In addition, the company uses in production all the latest developments from leading manufacturers in the USA, Great Britain and Germany.
3. Brita (Germany). This company is the pioneer of water lily filters. You can purchase licensed products from this company in 9 branches of different countries. The company is engaged not only in household cleaning systems, but also in professional filters, which are used in 60 countries of the world.
4. Barrier (Russia). Filter jugs released by the Energia rocket and space complex are very popular among consumers. In addition, the company has its own research laboratory, which on-site studies the quality and results of the filters.
5. Atoll (USA-Russia). The company's products combine quality and reliability. Cleaning systems are easy to install, so you can install these filters yourself. Purified water does not contain impurities and harmful substances, in addition, it has a pleasant taste.

Important! Give preference to domestic filters, as they are designed specifically for our water, taking into account the unique composition and typical shortcomings. Yes, and any broken or lost part is easier to get in the markets, but imported parts are almost impossible to find.

The choice of a water filter should be based on the principles of common sense, your needs and capabilities. Do not put an expensive system if you can’t afford to maintain and maintain it. If you are single or have a small family,

if you are used to an active lifestyle, the choice of a filter-water lily or a nozzle for a crane will be the most optimal, but for a large family it is impossible to overestimate the convenience of a stationary device. The most important thing is that the water is clean and you are healthy!

How often do we think about what water we use at home for drinking or for cooking? Alas, we have to admit that not everyone has come to a full understanding of the need for its purification and filtration. But this is by no means an idle question: the quality of water from autonomous sources or from the city network very often lies outside the limits of permissible sanitary standards. Simple boiling or settling can only help in part, and is unable to cope with the overwhelming number of pollution factors or even infection.

It is gratifying that the number of supporters of a rational attitude to health, their own and those close to them is still constantly growing. Direct evidence of this is the expanding popularity and demand for household water purification devices. Filter manufacturers are constantly working to improve their products, expanding the product range. But the variety presented on sale can easily put in a “stupor” a buyer who purchases such products for the first time, and is not too knowledgeable in how to choose a water filter.

This publication will not contain a comprehensive account of water polluting factors, technologies for purifying it from certain substances, or the principles of operation of various filtering devices.

You should not trust either your superficial feelings, or, especially, the advice of your neighbors. Subjective opinions can lie in a wide range - from “we have been drinking this water all our life” to some far-fetched “horrors” that are more likely to be classified as “urban legends”. And, in addition, the quality of water from neighboring nearby sources, or even in neighboring urban buildings, can vary significantly.

As a result, you can fall into one of two extremes:

• The purchase of a filter that does not have the required cleaning functions will simply be a waste of money.
• Taking advantage of the clear consumer ignorance, sellers in the store will try to impose an expensive filtering system, in which there is absolutely no need. As a result, it is also lost money.

The best solution is to take a water sample from a source or water supply for laboratory analysis. This, of course, also costs money, but such expenses will be justified.

The most correct solution is to conduct a laboratory study of water from your source

The analysis immediately solves a lot of questions:

• You can immediately assess the fundamental suitability of an autonomous source for use in food needs.
• The analysis results will help you choose the right filter system. Repeated analysis, after installing the filter, will give a clear picture of its performance.
• Regular testing will allow us to track the dynamics of changes in the biochemical composition of water - an extremely important event for autonomous, especially recently equipped sources.
• The presence of a laboratory test protocol on hand may become a document on the basis of which it will be possible to make claims to city utilities.

By the way, many thoughtful people, buying new housing, must immediately require the presentation of a document on the quality of drinking water.

To conduct an analysis, you need to decide on a laboratory. You should not resort to the services of laboratories working with water supply organizations (they can easily go for underestimation of pollution indicators), and with companies involved in the installation of filtering and treatment systems (there, of course, there may be another extreme). It is best to choose an independent organization that has the appropriate state certification.

Laboratory tests are divided into two types - chemical and microbiological. For autonomous, especially surface sources, both are mandatory. For tap water, which, in theory, should already have passed the stage of disinfection, often only chemical breakdown is limited, although a study on microbiology will also never be superfluous.

It is most reasonable to agree in advance with the laboratory staff on the delivery time of the collected water samples, since there are certain restrictions on their shelf life (2–3 hours).

Water abstraction also requires compliance with certain rules:

For chemical analysis, 1.5 liters must be returned.

• The optimal solution is a clean plastic bottle, but only from drinking still water. The use of containers from sweet drinks or beer is prohibited.
• The tap opens and water is given at least 15 minutes for a free exit. (If the source has not been used for a long time, then it will take even 2 hours).
• The bottle and cap are thoroughly washed with the same water that will be analyzed. No detergents are used.
• Then the pressure is made minimal so that aeration does not create aeration - - the appearance of bubbles. Excess oxygen can greatly distort the overall picture.
• The container is filled completely, with overflow, so that under the tightly twisted cork there is no air left.

For biological analysis, the requirements are completely different.

• The required volume is about 0.5 liters. The container must be absolutely sterile - if, for example, a glass jar is used, then it and the lid to it are carefully steamed. Many laboratories practice taking samples for microbiology exclusively in their sterile disposable containers, which are issued to the customer.
• To take water, hands must be worn in sterile medical gloves.

For the "purity of the experiment" the sampling of water for biological analysis is carried out in sterile gloves

• Even before the tap is opened, a slice of the spout is either burned by fire, or carefully treated with medical alcohol - it is necessary to completely exclude the ingress of microorganisms from the side.
• The tap opens, and the water at maximum pressure is driven for at least 10 minutes.
• After that, sterilized containers (cold) are filled to the top, and then hermetically closed.

Typically, the lead time for high-quality laboratory research of water is about 5-7 days. By the way, if they promise to do it literally in a day ÷ two, this should alert. It happens that not very conscientious offices conduct a surface rapid test, which is then issued as an in-depth study.

As a result, the customer must receive a protocol certified by the established procedure, which has the force of a legal document.

As a rule, this is a table in which, for clarity, the maximum permissible norms for water are established by SanPiN, and the actual indicators obtained.

Having such a document in hand and highlighting the positions that need to be adjusted, it will be possible to select filters of the appropriate direction of action.

The protocol of laboratory research will help determine the "strategy" of water purification, and can also be of help in making claims to utilities

Is it possible to limit yourself to conducting independent express tests, kits for which can be purchased in stores?

Experts have a common opinion on this matter - such an analysis is not a full-fledged alternative to the laboratory one. Of course, he will show the presence of a problem, but he will not be able to determine the exact quantitative and component indicators of pollution, that is, data for a qualitative selection of the filter system will be clearly insufficient.

And one more parameter that should be decided in advance is the required filter performance. Since the article discusses devices for treating drinking water and for cooking, it can be based on an average rate of 3 liters per day per person. Of course, the filter should not work at the limit of its capabilities, that is, it is desirable to increase this rate, say, by half.

Thus, if, for example, five people live in a house (apartment), then it is easy to determine that approximately 30 liters of purified water are required per day. Accordingly, the purchased device must cope with such a load.

Now we turn to the consideration of various models of household water filters.

The simplest option: filter - jug

Filter jug \u200b\u200bdevice

For those who do not want to spend a significant amount on the purchase of a filter, do not need large volumes of purified water, or do not want to get involved with any installation or connection of the system to the water supply, we can advise you to get a “light option” - a jug. Of course, such a solution is possible only if the quality of the incoming water allows it.

The simplest and most inexpensive, but far from the most effective solution is to purchase a jug filter

Although outwardly in shape and color design, filter jugs can seriously vary. The basic design of is always the same, and does not differ in great complexity.

In fact, these are two containers separated by a partition and communicating only through a filter cartridge.

The body of the jug (item 1) serves to collect purified water. It is always made of a transparent food-grade polymer; a volume scale is often placed on its walls - for ease of use. The capacity of the jug may vary - usually a number of models with a filtered water volume of 1.3 ÷ 4 liters are on sale. The choice for this parameter depends on the family's need for drinking water.

The upper tank (pos. 2) is an insert in the housing. It is also made of impact-resistant food plastic, but usually having a darker tone (the color may be different - depending on the design idea). This compartment is designed to receive water to be filtered, and its capacity, as a rule, is approximately half the useful volume of the jug.

In the lower part of the insert, where it forms a kind of funnel, there is a socket in which the filter cartridge is tightly inserted and fixed (pos. 3). The purpose, that is, the functionality of the cartridge may be different - this is selected based on the existing "clinical picture" of the state of water.

It is important to know that the locking or threaded connection of the cartridge with the top capacity can differ significantly from different manufacturers. Apparently, this is a method of stimulating the acquisition of only branded components.

In the upper part of the case there is a spout - for the convenience of directional discharge of filtered water (item 4). The design is such that even with a strong tilt of the jug, water from the upper and lower compartments does not have the opportunity to accidentally mix.

Water is collected for filtration with the lid folded back (pos. 5), which can be equipped with a convenient lock (pos. 6), or through the intake hatch, which also necessarily has its own cover to prevent accidental ingress of dust or debris inside.

The filter jug \u200b\u200balways has a convenient handle (key 7). On top of the lid or on the handle can be placed a “reminder” - a mechanical calendar that will prompt the owner about the timing of changing the filter cartridge. There are also expensive models that have an electronic indication. Moreover, when selling some brand models, it is practice to register customers who will subsequently receive Internet or SMS messages about the need to replace.

The scheme of work is obvious - the water poured into the upper tank independently, without any impact, only due to gravity, passes through the filling of the cartridge, receives the required cleaning and accumulates in the jug. As water is consumed for drinking or kitchen needs, new portions are poured into a receiving container.

Applicable cartridges

It is the cartridge that is the most important element of such a filter, so special attention should be paid to its selection.

The shape of the cartridge and its locking part can be different, and there is almost no question of interchangeability, unless, of course, this is agreed upon by the manufacturer.

But cartridges for one filter model can have different purposes:

• Replaceable elements for water of standard quality are sold - they help to cope with possible unpleasant odors, normalize taste, remove heavy metal ions, chlorine impurities, organic compounds, etc. The usual sorption material for them is granular activated carbon.
• There are cartridges with a pronounced softening effect - they are additionally introduced a certain amount of ion-exchange resins.
• You can also choose a cartridge for a source with a high iron content - they use reagent-free deferrization and filtering technology.
• For sources, water from which does not pass the stage of disinfection, there are special elements with a bactericidal effect.
• Cassettes are produced, the refilling of which involves a healing fluoridating effect on water.

Most companies use silver in one form or another in cartridge fillers - this prevents the development of bacterial colonies within them. And in addition, each of the manufacturers tries to surprise the consumer with its own original developments.

Usually at the inlet and outlet of their cartridge there is a mesh or membrane that performs the function of mechanical filtration. In addition, usually in replaceable elements it has a special throttle device that equalizes the speed of water passage through the filler, regardless of the level of filling of the upper section of the jug.

Advantages and disadvantages. Parameters for selecting filter jugs.

About the positive qualities of filter jugs, we can say the following:

• Their operation is the simplest that anyone can handle.
• There are simply no installation steps other than connecting a cartridge. Ideal for work, dorms or for rental housing.
• The jug can be easily taken with you as needed, for example, for a trip on vacation.
• Low cost, affordable for any family.

There are significant disadvantages of this filtering:

• Cleaning is carried out only in certain batches. For example, to dial a five-liter kettle, you will have to do two filter fillings.
• The cleaning rate is low, rarely reaches a threshold of 400 ml / minute, and more often it is even much less.
• Frequent (about once a month and a half) cartridge replacement is required. With large consumption, the period may be even shorter.
• Fairly high operating costs in terms of the volume of filtered water, if you look at the future. So, in just one and a half to two years, total costs can equal, or even exceed the costs of a truly powerful and high-quality multi-stage filtration unit.

When choosing a filter jug, care should be taken, since the market is replete with cheap fakes.

In no case do they buy them in random places - for this there are specialized stores. It is best to choose models of famous brands.

Carefully inspect and, literally, sniff the body. The polymer should not emit any odors. Food grade plastic should have the appropriate pictographic marking shown in the figure.

This sign says that “food” plastic was used to make the jug

You should immediately evaluate the possibility of acquiring original replacement cartridges of the required functionality, in accordance with the quality of the water source, and their affordability.

It is necessary to take a reasonable approach to choosing a jug by volume. Remember - such a filter is not a “decanter” at all, but serves only to purify water. The capacity of the vessel should correspond to real needs with a small margin. It is not recommended to store filtered water for more than a day. So, you have to simply drain the surplus, wasting the life of a replaceable cartridge in vain.

Usually for a single person or for a couple a jug of one and a half liters is enough. It is fashionable to think about buying a filter with a maximum capacity of about 4 liters only if it will be used in a large family.

Cartridges purchased must be in the original sealed packaging. Be sure to check their expiration date.

The convenience of the jug and its appearance are, of course, important criteria, but they should still be evaluated last.

To complete the section on filter jugs - a small overview of popular models from well-known manufacturers and some cartridges for them.

Model, short description	Illustration	Capacity (jug / funnel) or cartridge life (liters)	approximate cost
MANUFACTURER - "BARRIER"
Barrier-Style jug, compact layout, mechanical resource indicator		2.5 / 1.0	490 rub
Pitcher “Barrier Grand NEO Rubin”, volume scale, mechanical resource indicator		3.7/2.0	550 rub
Cartridge "Barrier - 7 iron" for standard and water purification and iron removal		350	250 rub
Cartridge "Barter-ultra" for filtration and bactericidal treatment of water		200	400 rub
MANUFACTURER - AKVAFOR
Compact Aquafor Line jug		3.2 / 1.4	350 rub
Aquafor Prestige jug, mechanical indicator		3.0 / 1.35	540 rub
Cartridge B100-15, universal action		170	155 rub
Cartridge B100-6, softening		300	320 rub
MANUFACTURER - "GEYSER"
Geyser Matisse-Chrome jug, graphite or deep blue, high temperature resistant plastic		4.0 / 1.5	840 rub
Pitcher "Geyser Dolphin" - a stylish model, a choice of 5 shades		3.0 / 1.4	380 rub
Geyser 502 cartridge, universal, with softening effect		300	210 rub
Geyser 301 cartridge, universal type		300	170 rub
MANUFACTURER - “RITA”
Pitcher "Elemaris XL", with electronic cartridge resource indicator		3.5 / 1.5	1450 rub.
Jug Marella XL, electronic indication		2.2 / 1.2	790 rub
"Brita Classic" - a universal cartridge. Suitable for some models of jugs "Aquaphor"		150	290
"Brita Maxtra" - a cartridge with four steps of water purification		150	360 rubles

Video: review of the Barrier brand filter jugs

Filters in the form of a nozzle on the crane

Another type of filter that can be attributed to the simplest water treatment systems.

As the name implies, these devices are simply worn on the head of the mixer spout. Water filtration is a flowing method, due to the pressure in the pipes. This allows you to use carefully compacted sorbent backfill in such filters, unlike jug cartridges, that is, to improve the quality of water treatment.

The design of nozzle filters may vary. The simplest ones are a cylinder with a filter filling, worn directly on the spout. The device of one of the models is shown in the diagram:

This is a cylindrical case made of transparent or opaque food-grade plastic (item 1). The design can be non-separable, disposable, or equipped with a removable cover (pos. 2), which allows for the replacement of filtering backfill or the installation of a cartridge.

Necessarily provides a device for tightly fitting the filter on the spout of the mixer. In this case, it is a rubber cuff (pos. 3), but there may also be a threaded connection or adapters for the landing seat, in which a divider-aerator is usually installed on the mixer. At the bottom of the filter, at the water outlet, there can be its own divider (item 4), according to the principle of a shower.

A sorbent bed is placed inside the cylinder or cartridge. The example shows a mixture of activated carbon (item 5) and mineral chips (item 6), which is necessary for the non-reagent purification of water from iron and other dissolved inclusions.

Top and bottom filling is protected by filtering membranes. The upper one (pos. 7) purifies water from insoluble suspensions, the lower one (pos. 8), in addition, prevents small particles of sorbent and iron oxidation products from entering the purified water.

As already mentioned, the design can be non-separable, that is, the filter itself is a cartridge that is disposed of as the resource is used up.

Such a scheme is very inconvenient in operation - you often have to put on and remove the filter from the tap

The disadvantage of this scheme is the need to connect the filter to the mixer spout when there is a need for filtered water. This problem has been resolved in models equipped with a diverter switch.

In this case, the main cylinder of the filter with the cartridge installed is offset to the side. Switching the divertor faucet allows you to either open a direct flow of unfiltered water, or redirect it for cleaning - there is a separate hole for exit.

A more convenient circuit - a filter nozzle with a mode switch - a diverter

The main advantage of such filter nozzles is their small dimensions. Commercially available adapters allow you to install such devices on almost any mixer, both with smooth crimps and threaded couplings.

Cartridge life is usually significantly higher than that of filter jugs due to the density of sorption backfill.

However, the performance of such filters or cartridges for them is low, usually does not exceed 200 ÷ 300 ml / min. That is, to just fill the kettle, you have to stand a lot near the sink. Many non-separable models do not differ in the variety of functionalities for water purification - the filtration in them is reduced to an average minimum.

They are not too convenient during operation. If the filter is removable, then any worries of filtered water require the installation of a device with its subsequent removal. In the case when the filter is designed according to the scheme with a diverter and is constantly on the spout of the mixer, it clutters the working space in the sink, which can cause certain inconvenience, for example, when washing large dishes.

It is difficult enough to adapt to choose the right head for high-quality filtration - if the water speed is too high, the quality of its treatment decreases sharply. In addition, the probability of accidentally starting hot water through the filter element is very high, which leads to the cartridge quickly exhausting its resource, the need for replacement, or certain regeneration operations.

Model	Short description	Illustration	average price
Aquaphor B300	One of the easiest filters in the device is nozzles.   Water purification from chlorine, mechanical impurities.   Adapter included.   Resource - up to 1000 liters.		from 130 rub.
Aquaphor Topaz	Model with a diverter switch.   Cleaning - sorption one-stage.   Replaceable filter module (cartridge) with a resource of 750 liters.   Filtration rate - 300 ml / min.   Dimensions 132 × 95 × 58 mm. Mechanical calendar memo.		390 rub
"Barrier Selecta"	Filter nozzle with diverter in stainless steel housing.   A filter element with conventional sorption and with an ion-exchange resin for softening and iron removal of water.   Cartridge resource - 500 l or 3 months of operation.   Set of adapters for connection to any mixer		620 rub
DeFort DWF-500	Filter nozzle with diverter.   The increased resource of a replaceable module and a filtration rate - 5000 liters and up to 20 l / min. respectively.   Dimensions 158 × 136 × 80 mm,   weight in an unfilled state - 430 g.		540 rub

Bench Top Filters

The connection scheme of such filters, in principle, differs little from the mixer nozzles discussed above. The main difference is the case itself with a filter module is located on the kitchen worktop in the immediate vicinity of the sink, and with a spout of the mixer it is connected by a flexible tube.

Due to the increase in the volume of the filter module, the productivity of the device, the quality of water purification and the resource of sorption material significantly increase.

Typically, these filters are made in the form of a vertically standing cylinder. The schematic diagram of any of them in general terms corresponds to the above diagram:

In a cylindrical housing (pos. 1) a replaceable filter module (pos. 2) is placed. Its significant volume allows, if necessary, the use of several types of sorbent filling for thorough multilateral water purification (item 3). There are models without replaceable modules - as resources are used up, they are replaced or regenerated by filling.

The filter is equipped with its own spout (item 4) for the convenience of collecting purified water into the dishes. Often, a powerful ring magnet (pos. 5) is installed at the outlet of the module for additional “recovery” of water. The housing is closed by a lid (pos. 6).

At the bottom of the replacement cartridge or slave cylinder, a coupler (key 7) is provided for connecting a flexible tube (key 8) that goes to the spout of the mixer. The connection to the mixer itself can be carried out using the adapter coupling (pos. 9) or through a diverter (pos. 10).

Diverters, as a rule, are purchased separately - they are always presented in stores engaged in the sale of filters - there is an opportunity to choose a specific type of mixer.

The advantages of such desktop filter nozzles are an increased resource and productivity. The device does not clutter the space directly above the sink.

However, there are also many shortcomings. The design is quite voluminous and will occupy a lot of useful space near the sink to which it is “tied”. When using a coupling connection, the inconvenience is the same as with a compact nozzle - the need to connect and disconnect with each set of filtered water. If a divertor connection is used, the tube stretching from it may be an obstacle.

The collection of water from such a filter requires care - careless inclusion will result in spilling of liquid onto the table surface. The probability of accidentally starting hot water into the filter is fully preserved.

Model	Short description	Illustration	average price
Aquaphor Modern	Spindle-shaped body, spilled to the side of the spout.   Dimensions 273 × 117 mm.   Filtration rate - up to 1.2 l / min.   Resource of a replaceable cartridge V200 - up to 4000 liters.   Mechanical calendar - memo.		770 rub
Optima Barrier	Original design, microprocessor control over the residual resource of the filter module.   Swivel spout.   Cartridge resource - up to 1500 l.   Filtration rate - up to 1 l / min.		1200 rub.
Rodnik-3M	Model for placement on the wall.   Dimensions 315 × 120 mm.   The mass in an unfilled state is 1 kg.   The resource of the replaceable module is 3600 liters.   Filtration rate - up to 2 l / min.		790 rub
“Geyser 1 ALW EURO”	A modern model with a wide selection of filter modules of various functionality with the possibility of regeneration.   Module life - up to 25 000 liters, including without regeneration - up to 7 000 l.   Filtration rate - up to 1.5 l / min.		1500 rub.

Sink-mounted filter systems

Universal installations for filtering and fine water purification, which are usually located under a kitchen sink, are gaining increasing popularity among users.

The most rational solution is to hide the filter system under the kitchen sink

Structurally, such systems are usually a series of cartridge-type filters, each with its own cartridge of a certain type of action. (The design of such filters is described in detail in the article, a link to which is posted above). Water along the path from the water supply to the parsing point passes through all the modules sequentially, which provides comprehensive cleaning of the highest class.

All filters, as a rule, are assembled on one console with a system of channels or tubes for transferring water from one module to another. There are models with a housing design, in which the entire system is closed by a casing.

The location of the filter flasks is most often linear. In some multi-stage systems, it is possible to arrange in two rows or in two tiers, with vertical and horizontal placement of modules.

The number of modules, that is, the cleaning steps: from the minimum - one, to four, and sometimes even five. This leads to the highest "flexibility" of the system - the mounting dimensions of replaceable cartridges, as a rule, are maintained by the same manufacturer, which allows you to precisely select the general characteristics of the entire complex depending on the results of laboratory research of water.

Such complexes are very convenient in operation. During their installation, the water supply is immediately connected to the water supply, and a separate faucet connected to the last filtration stage is installed on the sink. At any time, you can substitute the container, open the faucet and collect the desired amount of purified water. Moreover, the diameter of the switching tubes, connecting channels and the parameters of the external valve provide the optimum pressure for high-quality filtration - there is no risk of exceeding it. In addition, the possibility of accidentally letting hot water into the filter modules is completely eliminated.

The disadvantages of such complexes can be considered only a certain complexity of the initial installation, although for the owner who is familiar with the basic plumbing techniques, there should not be any special problems. And the relatively high cost of such complexes can hardly be attributed to disadvantages - a high quality of cleaning costs such costs, and a considerable resource of replaceable modules provides a quick payback of the filter plant.

The choice of such filtering systems has its own characteristics.

• Since it is assumed that the installation is hidden under the sink, issues of external design, as a rule, are not among the priorities. Much more important is the correspondence of the dimensions of the complex to the real dimensions of the space allotted for its installation.
• Since the system involves, most often, multi-stage cleaning, you should focus not on the entreaties of the sales assistant, but on the available results of a laboratory test. It is important to prioritize in order to choose the right modular content for the kit.
• Some complexes have extended functionality - after the first stage of mechanical cleaning, there is a branch to a conventional mixer or to a dishwasher, heater, etc.
• Assessing the performance of the complex as a whole, you should focus on the testimony of the "slowest" cartridge. Usually, an output of the order of 1.5 ÷ 2 liters per minute is ensured at the exit from the faucet - a completely acceptable characteristic.
• Filtering modules can vary and the size of its resource. The owner will have to monitor this independently, as it may be necessary to change cartridges sometimes, not just once, but in steps. Some modules lend themselves to periodic regeneration.

Of course, you should check the completeness of delivery. Usually, the system is equipped with everything necessary for its complete installation - a hanging or floor console, flasks, a set of cartridges (it can often be chosen at your discretion), a tee for tapping into a water supply with a pressure regulator, connecting tubes, a tap for installation on a sink, a key for "Packing" flasks with cartridges. Sometimes additional accessories are also included in the package - all this is indicated in the product passport.

Model	Short description	Illustration	average price
Aquaphor Solo Crystal	The simplest system of single-stage sorption treatment.   Dimensions 260 × 340 × 90 mm.   Productivity is up to 2.5 l / min.		2500 rub.
Aquaphor B510-08	Replaceable module for deep water purification.   Resource - 4000 l or 6 months. exploitation		350 - 400 rub.
Atoll A-211Eg (D-21s STD)	Two-stage system with mechanical and sorption filtration and softening of hard water.   Dimensions 355 × 365 × 145.   Productivity - up to 3.8 l / min.		7300 rub.
Atoll A-211E + Atoll A-211E g	An additional set of cartridges, designed for 2 years of operation with a change every 6 months		4000 rub
“Barrier Expert Complex”	Three-stage cleaning system - mechanical filtration, sorption treatment, softening and iron removal of water.   Dimensions 368 × 267 × 95 mm.   Productivity - up to 2 l / min.		3700 rub.
"Expert Complex"	A set of cartridges.   Resource 10000 liters or 1 year of operation		1400 rub.
Aquaphor Crystal ECO N	A system with four stages of treatment, including disinfection, softening, iron removal, mineralization and water conditioning.   Dimensions 377 × 342 × 92 mm.   Productivity - up to 2.5 l / min.		4800 rub.
"Aquaphor" K3, KN, K7 and K7V	A set of four replaceable cartridges with an increased resource - 8000 l or 18 months. exploitation		2200 rub

Video: advantages of the Aquafor Trio water filter

Filters with reverse osmosis system

The highest rates of water purification from any inclusions, chemical or bacteriological contaminants are shown by filtering installations, in which, in addition to conventional purification, a stage operating on the principle of reverse osmosis is used.

For "apologists" of crystal clear water - installations with a purification system on the principle of reverse osmosis

For starters, what is reverse osmosis?

If the vessel is separated by a membrane with microscopic pores, and then liquid with different concentrations of impurities is poured into these sections, then the system will not learn the equilibrium. Fluid from a compartment with a lower concentration will spontaneously tend to the opposite, so as to equalize the total concentration. This phenomenon is called direct osmosis.

But if an external influence is applied to the volume of a more concentrated liquid - to increase its pressure, then the flow through the membrane will begin to flow in the opposite direction. And only the size of the membrane cells will depend on what will go into the neighboring department.

This is exactly how reverse osmosis filter systems work.

Schematically - what is the process of reverse osmosis

Water enters the filter module under pressure (arrow No. 1). The module itself is divided into two parts by a membrane (red arrow), the micro-holes of which are only about 0.3 nm in size, so that they let water molecules pass through. Thus, small-sized water molecules penetrate into the second half, from where the filtered water flows to the points of accumulation or consumption (arrow No. 3). Increasingly large molecules, not to mention mechanical suspensions, bacteria and even most viruses reliably linger on the membrane, and are removed together with the concentrated solution into the drainage (arrow No. 2). A common occurrence is the proportion of ⅓ of the total volume - purified water and ⅔ - discharged concentrate.

In principle, such a scheme is capable of independently purifying water of any degree of contamination. However, in order not to "overload" the membrane, and so that its pores do not overgrow, several stages of preliminary filtration are provided. In addition, some molecules (for example, free chlorine, which is constantly present in tap water) are smaller in size than water, and they must be disposed of in advance. Therefore, pre-filtration includes not only mechanical, but also sorption treatment.

At the output, water is obtained, which in its characteristics approaches distilled. From the point of view of cleanliness - this is excellent, but from the point of view of consumer qualities - not very. Such demineralized water is devoid of even the slightest taste and smell, it is unsuitable for drinking, and the dishes prepared from it will not be the most delicious. Moreover, many doctors agree that water of this degree of purification can even be harmful to the human body.

To eliminate this drawback, additional modules are usually installed after reverse osmosis in filtering systems for domestic use. Usually it is a mineralizer that enriches water with mineral salts necessary for humans. A carbon post-filter, a biothermal module that normalizes the bio-composition of water, can also be installed. And if special sterilization is required, then at the end of the cycle an ultraviolet lamp can also stand.

The cost of such installations is quite high, so you need to immediately determine how much it is needed. In addition, when choosing take into account a number of important criteria.

• The reverse osmosis process requires a minimum pressure of about 2.8 bar. Not always plumbing systems meet these indicators. So, it will either require the installation of a pump that increases the pressure in the system, or it will be necessary to purchase a complex equipped with a built-in pump. That is, there will be a need to organize also power supply.
• How much is the question of the performance of the filter plant. It is important to find a “golden mean,” so that the need for clean water is provided, and no unnecessary surpluses are created. We should not forget that in order to get a liter of purified water about two liters will have to be drained into the sewer. That is, to use such water for economic purposes will be extremely unreasonable.

Even the smallest units are capable of dispensing up to 100 liters per day - this is more than enough for any family. So it is hardly worth pursuing high rates, especially since this affects the cost of the installation itself.

• It should be decided which installation will be more convenient to use - cumulative or flow-through. In flow systems, filtration occurs only with an open water taps - more productive membranes are installed. In another embodiment, the system has its own storage tank - the filtration process is carried out only when necessary - with a decrease in the total volume of accumulated purified water to a certain level. Very convenient - the owners always have a supply of clean water. The disadvantage is the considerable dimensions of the complete assembly. But then the price of such complexes is much lower.

The most expensive module, of course, is reverse osmosis, but its resource is quite large - the membrane usually withstands up to three years of operation. The remaining replaceable cartridges change more often as they develop the resources laid down in them. Typically, pre-filters last up to six months, and a carbon post-cleaning cartridge lasts up to a year. After its depletion, water can "signal" a bitter taste.

The cost of such installations really looks daunting. However, if you sit down with a pencil and a calculator in your hands and bring the entire cost over several years to the cost of one liter of filtered water, you can make sure that it will still be almost an order of magnitude cheaper than purchasing bottled purified water, which, by the way, receive also on technology of the return osmosis.

Model	Short description	Illustration	average price
“Aquaphor OSMO 100 PN isp.6”	Three-stage pre-treatment, mineralizer and post-filter.   Storage tank 10 l.   Built-in pump.   Productivity 15.6 l / h.		14,000 rub.
Geyser Prestige PM	Six steps pre and post. cleaning up.   Storage tank 12 liters.   Productivity - 12 l / hour.   Two positions of the tap - for clean and saline water.		14 100 rub.
"Barrier Profi Osmo 100 boost"	Five-stage cleaning, built-in pump.   8 liter storage tank   High productivity - up to 20 l / h.		11,000 rub.
A-560E SailBoat Atoll	The original monoblock design simplifies installation of the system in the space under the sink.   Dimensions 410 × 420 × 240 mm.   5 steps of cleaning.   Built-in 8 liter diaphragm tank.   Productivity - up to 6 l / h.		20,000 rub.

Video: household filtration unit with reverse osmosis system "Aquaphor - Morion"

Concluding the publication, the author expresses the hope that the information received by the reader will help in choosing the optimal household filter for specific operating conditions.