Water filters are an important tool to have in your home if you want to drink healthy water, but they aren’t always foolproof. In fact, many users make mistakes when it comes to using their water filter regularly, which can decrease its effectiveness or even render it useless. To help you avoid these common mistakes, here are the five biggest ones to look out for when using a water filter at home.
1) Not knowing what your water quality report says
The most basic step in buying a water filter is knowing what you need to fix in your water. Knowing your water quality report will help you determine whether or not a simple filter is good enough or if something more advanced is required. If you aren’t sure how to access your report, call your local water department and ask for it. If you live on a well, contact an engineer. If you have a municipal water supply, check with your city government. There are many ways to get your hands on that information. Also, be aware that some regions have different standards for acceptable levels of contaminants than others—so don’t assume that just because one region requires certain levels of filtration yours does too! Your results may vary from another region with different contamination standards. Once you know what needs fixing, choosing a filter can be much easier.
2) Forgetting to change the filters
You bought your brand new water filter system, but you’re not using it because you forgot about that little instruction booklet. Don’t do it! Remembering to change filters regularly is essential for effective water filtration. You should change them at least once every six months, or even more often if you live in an area with particularly hard water.
3) Installing it incorrectly
Water filters can be installed incorrectly if you’re not careful. To avoid making an installation mistake, make sure you follow your filter’s directions explicitly. If your filter does not have clear instructions for installing it, find someone who knows how to install it. Otherwise, hire a professional for help with installing it correctly.
4) Buying a cheap model
Not all water filters are created equal. Even if you’re buying a name-brand unit, there’s no guarantee it will be worth your money and time. Be sure to do your research and get recommendations from professionals before you make any big purchases. As with any major purchase, stick with well-known brands that have been tried and tested over time.
5) Thinking you can’t afford it
Even if you have money, don’t use price as an excuse not to buy one; plenty of affordable options remove just as much bad stuff from your tap water as their more expensive counterparts. It all comes down to research and asking questions. What exactly is it filtering? How often will I need to replace my filter? Does my state require me to install a water filter? Is my local government trying to get me sick with contaminated drinking water? The answers may surprise you!
