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What Is The Best Water Filter For Home Use – Affordable Price Ranges 2021

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what is the best water filter for home use

What Is The Best Water Filter For Home Use 2021

Image by LillyCantabile from Pixabay

Given that “affordable” is relative, I have posted a couple of the higher price range full house systems, which are great to have, to help you choose what is the best water filter for home use.

 

I have also included a variety of less expensive systems, an under the counter unit, and a counter top unit. 

 

Wherever you are in the broad market, what is the the best water filter for your home use?

 

Do you prioritize the filtering of the water for your home?

 

This topic came to mind because I heard, only a few days ago, on the radio, a report about PFO’s/PFA’s in the ground water of my county.

 

The fact is, that all of North America is polluted by these PFO’s/PFA’s, especially, but not exclusively, near military bases.

 

PFO’s/PFA’s entered the chemical industry and were unrestricted. If you like history, here is a timeline at Wikipedia.

 

Those chemicals are associated with kidney disease and cancers.

 

Arsenic is another concern in drinking water. Recent headlines reveal it is in all baby foods!

 

Yet, there are very affordable water filters that small apartment dwellers and more affluent renters and home owners can benefit from.

 

This page contains amazon affiliate marketing links. We may get paid a commission on the sale of a product or service recommended here. This does not change your price, you pay what Amazon advertises.

 

 

Water that you drink, cook with, wash your clothes in, and bathe in, is polluted with chemicals that easily transfer through your skin into your blood stream. Never mind that you drink it!

 

This can be frightening – yet I repeat, for as low as $99 you can get a good water filter that sits on your counter top.

 

For an under the counter unit, you will pay a little more.

 

Reverse osmosis units are considered to be the best filters, but you must consider that you flush out a lot of water using this method. Consider the cost of that, and water waste.

 

There are many systems to choose from, and I’m sure you can find the right one for your home, RV, and camping equipment.


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If you want an unlimited supply of clean, filtered and softened water throughout your home, and from every faucet then this may be the system for you.

 

Special features:

  • Has a high grade carbon filter to remove chloramine, chlorine, taste, odor, and color, dangerous Volatile Organic Compounds and THMs contaminants from water. Trihalomethanes are the by product of chlorine and other disinfectants combining, in the water treatment process.
  • Auto self cleans/backwashes
  • Ceramic media draws and neutralizes hard water properties
  • Salt free water conditioning preserves pipe linings and there are no salt traces added to your water

 

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to get up during the night and get a glass of water from your adjoining bathroom? Or, not worrying about your kids doing so?

 

You can use less soap in laundry and your own washing. Your clothes will be free of all those contaminants too, and your skin won’t be absorbing them.

 

This system comes in various sizes.

Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt Free Water Softener, Chlorine & Sediment Filtration for 4-6 Baths, 15 GPM, 1 Million Gallons


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This system uses coconut shell carbon for fresh, spring-like water, that is full of natural minerals.

 

The vendor states:

 

“Our granulated coconut shell carbon filters are guaranteed to remove chlorine to undetectable levels for a period of 5 years or 1,000,000 gallons.“

 

The pre-sediment filter may have to be changed every eight to ten months.

 

The system can be installed outside or inside your home.

 

No requirement for electricity to drain.

 

No salt/no potassium, will not scale up your appliances.

Aquasana Whole House Water Filter System w/ UV Purifier & Salt-Free Descaler – Filters Sediment & 97% Of Chlorine – Carbon & KDF Home Water Filtration


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Here is a quick walk through and good explanation of the features of this system. It also shows a filter change.

 

 

We really must pay attention to our environment these days. I read a report about a couple who bought land across from a Christmas Tree farm. They loved the view, and it was a retirement spot for them. A few years later the husband got liver cancer and died.

 

They were drinking their tap water.

 

Then they found out that the tree farm was built on a dump site for toxic chemicals and other wastes, from a near by establishment.

 

Had they known, they could have filtered their water to the best of their ability, and might have removed up to 90% of the poisonous chemicals.

 

This took place in Michigan, which has the highest number of polluted water sites of all the US states.

Aquasana AQ-5300+.55 3-Stage Max Flow Under Sink Water Filter


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This version is easy to install, although if you are not at all handy, a plumber will do the job quickly.

The filters are easy to replace, with no need to disconnect any hosing.

Aquasana Countertop Drinking Water Filter System, White


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Here is the little guy – easy to hook up, easy to change filters, and very portable to move. If you are a small apartment dweller, there is no need to ask the landlord’s permission to use. It doesn’t leak.

 

You get great drinking water and water for cooking. You can install one in the bathroom too.

 

One reason I stick with this company is that when they re-made their filters to pull out the arsenic a few years back, they sent me a whole new unit at no cost.  I have to give them my own 5 Star Rating for that!

Aquasana AQ-4105CHR Deluxe Water System with 5′ Wand Premium Massaging Head, Chrome shower filter


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If you don’t have a whole house system, you really need one of these for each of your showers. You don’t want to bathe in that polluted water, right? Or put your kids in it?

 

Shampooing in filtered water is good for your hair. Know why? Because chlorine and fluoride are bad for your thyroid gland function. If that is compromised, you can lose up to half your hair.

 

You can fill the tub from the shower, and soak in filtered water, a great benefit for your skin.

Discount Water Softeners Genesis 2 Duo 48,000 Grain Water Softener and Whole House Chlorine Filtration and Removal System, Digital Metered, High Efficiency, Direct Flow and Upflow Brining


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The 10×54 Resin tanks come with lifetime warranty and there is a 10 year warranty on the control head. The Brine Tank has a lifetime warranty.

 

Electronic sensors create adjustable cycles of salt content and cleaning, and of all the functions of this system. This keeps the salt/water ratio correct, and gives you the clear and clean water you love and need.

 

Thus it will use 30% less salt overall.

 

Did you know people walk around dehydrated most of the time?

 

You can transport this clean water with you, and you never need to throw away plastic bottles, adding to the deluge of plastic we now live in.

FLEXX PRO Series Water Softener with Smartphone Programming – Commercial Grade – Rugged and Long Lasting – U.S.-Made (15 GPM)


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Notable features:

  • Made In America
  • Programming done with FREE Waterlogix App – for IPhone and Androids
  • 10 Year Warranty on Tanks – 7-Year Warranty on the Valve and Electronics
  • The App monitors daily water usage, monthly water usage, and remaining battery life
  • Has a 9 Volt battery backup
  • Program cycles and salt usage, customize as you need

Zero Installation Purifier Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter with Patented High Capacity 4 Stage Technology – Superior Taste, Purity, and Alkaline pH | No Installation or Assembly Required


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This unit is ideal for apartments, condos and RV’s.

 

Requires no assembly, no hoses or valves, and no installation.

 

It is BPA free, and you have a choice of black or silver.

 

It will raise the alkalinity of the water. (My Aquasana raises the PH from 7.1 (tap water) to 8.5).

 

Claims its 50% water recovery rate is the highest among reverse osmosis filters.

 

You can tuck this unit into any space it fits on the counter – you only need access to the front to fill up the bottom tank with water.

 

About fifteen minutes later, the top tank will be treated water, ready for you to drink or cook with.

 

2 notification lights will alert you to change the filter or reverse osmosis membrane.

Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter – 3 Stage Home Water Filtration System – Sediment, KDF, Carbon Filters – includes Pressure Gauges, Easy Release, and 1” Inch Connections


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This is a fast flow system (0.25 gallons per second at 45-80 psi) delivering a large volume into your home, with no drop in water pressure no matter how many faucets are running simultaneously. The filters are changed easily. The tanks are made from high grade plastic and are mounted on a stainless steel frame.

 

The frame can be mounted, or placed free standing.Pressure gauges will tell you when to change individual filters. The first filter tank is see-through so you will notice easily when it needs to be changed.

 

Filter 1 captures sediment.

 

Filter Two catches most of that long list of chemicals (in the first section of this article).

 

Filter Three catches chlorine and similar chemicals, delivering you clean clear water.

 

This system gets 4.7 Stars Rating from customers who report successful iron staining and “egg smell” elimination from a hard water well. Another is very happy with the customer service, and after some problems with tank cracks, got a whole new system shipped to her.

iSpring WGB22B-PB 2-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System w/ 20” x 4.5” Big Blue Carbon Block and Lead Reducing Filters and 3/4″ Push-Fit Braided Stainless Steel Hose Connectors


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This system comes with a couple of different filters for different mineral removal, such as lead, but also removes all the other “usual suspect” contaminants.

 

It is a whole house system going on to your main water line.

 

The company also makes a Reverse Osmosis system.

 

The manufacturers suggest that you watch the DIY installation video, so here it is:

 

 

Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter with 2 Black Berkey Purification Elements

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Why do people love Berkeys? They don’t need electricity, plumbing or mounts.

 

Grab your Berkey and take it to your summer cottage, your RV or back pack with it.

 

Berkeys come in different sizes and can use filters especially for your filtering needs.The “usual suspect – long list at the top – contaminants will be removed.

 

Put one on every floor of your house. Enjoy excellent water!

 

Here is another version which includes two fluoride filters.


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Next, a travel kit.


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Filtered Bottles:


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And from Lifestraw:


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Related material:

10 Best Air Purifiers And Allergies 2020 – What Is The One For Your Home

10 Best Ideas – How To Lower Your Carbon Footprint At Home 2021

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how to lower your carbon footprint at home

How To Lower Your Carbon Footprint At Home 2021
Image by Colin Behrens from Pixabay

This article has a two-point focus:

  1. Discuss a few topics about how to lower your carbon footprint at home
  2. Recommend 10 best household products to help you reduce your emissions

 

If you know how to lower your carbon footprint at home, you can contribute to a huge global movement, along with commercial companies and charities.

 

This page contains amazon affiliate marketing links. We may get paid a commission on the sale of a product or service recommended here. This does not change your price, you pay what Amazon advertises.

 

You are not just a “little person” with no influence on life matters. You vote with your spending, every day.

 

So what’s going on in your world? Do you know what your carbon footprint is?

 

Have you heard about carbon offsets?

“Carbon offsets

 

A carbon offset is an amount of money you can pay for a project that reduces greenhouse gases somewhere else. If you offset one ton of carbon, the offset will help capture or destroy one ton of greenhouse gases that would otherwise have been released into the atmosphere. Offsets also promote sustainable development and increase the use of renewable energy.”

 

– Earth Institute |Columbia Universtiy

 

For more ideas on lowering your carbon footprint, and contributing to carbon offsets, check out COTAP.org.

 

Calculate Your Carbon Footprint

Lower Your Carbon Footprint – Why Does It Matter?

 

There is a lot of ongoing argument about the importance of reducing your carbon footprint, meaning, lowering the C02 emissions that you personally, or your household creates.

 

Many vested interests (like fossil fuel companies) argue against this idea.

 

But, focusing on what matters as to your own personal interests, and that of your family, will give you a view on how to save money, create less emission tonnage, and continue to live well.

 

Every time you buy a new appliance, computer, gadget, install lights in your back yard for ambiance or safety, a new car, your decision will affect your carbon footprint. 

 

Even when buying or renting a home, you can assess how much natural light you will get daily, depending on where the windows are placed. This will change one small aspect of your energy consumption, to a degree.

 

Here are some ways you may be able to reduce your own carbon footprint.

 

These ways may not apply to everyone, and may not be possible for everyone, but some of these may be choices you can consider.

 

You can completely avoid carbon emissions by walking or riding a bike, or an electric scooter, as much as possible.

 

If your city has good public transportation, use it. You will save on your gas costs, greatly reduce your own emissions, and reduce the wear and tear on your vehicle.

 

Switch to a low or no carbon vehicle. Finances permitting, you could get a hybrid or electric car. A hybrid car may be a better choice, unless you can charge your electric vehicle from your home solar system. avoiding a huge increase in energy costs.

 

Drive gently. Give yourself time so you don’t have to rush and accelerate sharply as you go. This can reduce emissions up to 33%. Avoid heavy traffic congestion to prevent periods of mere idling.

 

If you own your home make sure it is sealed and insulated well.

 

If you rent, ask your landlord to improve weather stripping, caulking or sealing, if you notice any drafty spots in windows and doors.

 

Check to see if there are any local programs that will pay for, or help pay for those.

 

Upgrade appliances to Energy Star models. Many municipalities will give a tax credit or rebate on a purchase for energy efficient appliances.

 

Some cities or counties will replace a refrigerator, for example, in lower income homes and apartments.

 

This serves the local energy grid, reducing the area requirements for power.

 

Older furnaces, air conditioners and fridges need to be replaced.

 

Light bulbs – do you turn off lights when you leave the room? Do you use LED lights in all outdoor areas, or solar powered motion activated lights?

 

Fluorescent lights are a health hazard and LEDs used for longer periods in the house have been associated with macular degeneration, so I don’t recommend them.

 

I use LED nite lights however, inside pink salt covers, which gives them a warm glow. I can walk around at night (inside) with no other lights on this way.

 

Currently, I am charging eight small solar powered patio lights, to be used instead of candles during power outages.

 

They will hold 8 hours of charge in their turned off state. Very handy to have and place around the house, turning them on when needed.

 

During wild fires the air is smokey. Windows need to be kept closed. Using candles as your only source of light will pollute your home, issuing smoke and chemicals like lead, into your inside air.

 

I bought the solar powered lights, to bring in at night and use wherever I need them. I certainly am not looking forward to the next power cut, but at least I’ll be prepared, and find out how well this plan works.

 

Moderate your thermostat so your heating/cooling isn’t activated except when you are home and need it. Smart devices that work with Alexa or another app are wonderful for your remote control over usage.

 

I don’t have a recycle bin, so I save my recyclables and take them to a friend’s.

 

Recycle clothing to a local thrift store, not a huge chain.  This helps to lower carbon emissions associated with the transport and disposal of goods.

 

You can also find out if any craft circle near you takes clothes/rags/material pieces for rug braiding, quilting, or other crafts.

 

Patronize local fruit stands,  and vegetable markets. Ask at your local supermarket where the fresh produce, dairy produce, and fresh meat come from, and choose the most local.

 

This is how you “vote with your dollars”. Legislators are slow moving and often have interests to serve that don’t help you or your area.

 

Save water – catch water that runs for a few minutes while the shower warms up. You can water plants with it, or if filtered by a whole house system, use it for drinking and cooking.

 

When it’s time, replace your water heater with a tankless water heater.

 

Stop using plastic water bottles – filter your water at home and carry water with you in glass or aluminum bottles.

 

HERE are some ideas for the best water filters for home use.

 

Updated to add: switch to bar shampoos and stop buying those plastic bottles altogether! And here’s a real story about an attempt to get rid of huge plastic bottles:

 

In the mid 80’s I was going to focus groups for some extra cash. Student days ha ha. One night we were shown these little pods with laundry detergent in them. Like we get now for automatic dishwashers.

 

We were told “those huge plastic bottles for laundry detergent and fabric softeners are going to disappear! Companies are going to save millions on plastic containers!”

 

Really? This is 35 years ago and I still see a whole aisle at the store with rows and rows of – big plastic bottles!

Anyway, now you can get shampoo in typical bar soap size bars, in many delicious herbal fragrances. No plastic!

They look like this:


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There are many varieties to choose from! Conditioners in the formula. So easy to use, store, and no plastic!

Back to lowering your carbon footprint ideas…

Fix running toilets and leaks immediately. Make sure your garden sprinklers or drip systems are working properly.

Compost – many cities hold free composting classes and some offer a savings on bins.

The following products will help you produce less emissions from your own home or small business.

Best Online Shopping Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking (AL= Ad Link) to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tankless Water Heaters

Rinnai RL Series HE+ Tankless Hot Water Heater: Outdoor Installation


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This water heater is for outside installation, and uses propane.

Rinnai RLX Series HE+ Tankless Hot Water Heater: Indoor Installation


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This unit is for indoor installation and uses Natural Gas.

Stiebel Eltron 232886 Tempra 36 Tankless Electric Water Heater


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This is a whole house water heater which will replace your 50-55 gallon tank. This product came in at Number One for popularity on consumer surveys.

 

Why get a tankless water heater? Hot water on demand is a huge energy saver. Think about it – your electric 50 gallon tank uses energy all day, even when you’re away on vacation. It keeps that water to the set temperature all the time!

 

This unit can have you running two showers at once, and one may have slightly reduced water pressure.

 

You will have to add some amperage to your breaker box. Most buyers will need a plumber and an electrician to set this up properly and without injury. Here is a video with some tips.

 

EcoSmart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater, 27 KW at 240 Volts, 112.5 Amps with Patented Self Modulating Technology


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Professional installation will give you a lifetime warranty for this unit. It comes in different sizes.

 

The vendor states: “The most advanced self modulating technology available, meaning the ECO 27 will adjust how much energy needs to be input based on how much hot water is needed“.

 

Your home size and where you live makes a difference as to how much hot water you get. In colder climates, the incoming water is colder, so this unit may well provide a couple of showers running simultaneously. In a warmer region you may run two showers, the dishwasher, and do laundry at the same time.

 

This unit is designed to be used in the northern US and Canada.

 

When you click the image above, you will end up on the page for the product and in the specs section below you will see a home size/climate chart to guide so that you can purchase the best unit for your home’s needs.

Tankless Water Heater, Gasland BS158 1.58GPM 6L Outdoor Portable Gas Water Heater, Instant Propane Water Heater, Overheating Protection, Easy to Install for RV Cabin Barn Camping Boat


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This handy small unit can be mounted on an RV, out in the back yard, or in your stable area. It is perfect for a tiny house or summer cabin. 

 

You can have hot water on demand for low energy costs. 

 

Customers rate this at 4 Stars for performance, convenience and vendor service. 

Outdoor Solar Power

TOPENS A3S Automatic Gate Opener Kit Light Duty Solar Single Gate Operator for Single Swing Gates Up to 12 Feet or 300 Pounds, Gate Motor Solar Panel


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This solar powered motor opens light duty single swing gates up to a maximum of 12 ft. long or maximum of weight of 300 lbs.

 

It is suitable for entrance gates made by steel, wood, vinyl, and typical panel, tube, and chain-link designs. Use this for your city home, farm entrance and pastures, and country properties.

 

The solar panel charges two 12V batteries which are purchased separately.

 

Medium and heavy duty kits are available. One buyer noted that in an extremely windy area, heavy duty is best, even for a light gate.

 

Extra remotes can be ordered, the kits come with one included.

 

Topens will sell parts as needed, separately, and for this customer appreciation is noted. 


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Broan 345CSOBK Curb Mount Solar Powered Attic Ventilator, 28-Watt, Black


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Broan Solar Powered Attic Ventilators operate without fuel, without waste, and without pollution.

 

They will replace your standard wired ventilators.

 

Attic vents are important for:

  • Reducing the running time of your air conditioners
  • Preventing shingle distortion from heat
  • Giving you the advantage of solar power/lower carbon footprint

 

Lower your attic summer temperature up to 20 degrees. A one time cost, no additional electric bill.

Primus Wind Power 1-AR40-10-12 Air 40 Wind Turbine 12V


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Today, this is the best rated (5 Stars) of the wind turbines for home use. It is an off-grid product.

 

There are larger windmills, yet they don’t get the same top rating.

 

This one is used for:

  • Off-grid homes
  • Water pumping
  • Lighting
  • Telecom

 

The vendor states:

 

“The AIR 40 is an ideal wind turbine for hybrid systems with solar to offset those cloudy or wintery periods. AIR 40 is built and backed by the worldwide leader in small wind.”

2PACK 200W Solar Flood Lights Outdoor,Street and Area Lighting,Dusk to Dawn 400LEDs IP67 Outdoor Waterproof,8000,Lumen Light Sensing,Remote Control Safety floodlight


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These floodlights are perfect for:

  • Campgrounds
  • Yard/side of house
  • Sheds/barns/outbuildings
  • RVs
  • Driveways
  • Property entrance gates
  • Property walls

 

The lights are waterproof. The sensors will turn the lights on at dusk and off at dawn. You can also use the remote as needed. Six hours charging time with ten hours of illumination will keep your property’s darker spots well lit for security and safety. 

 

Life is changing, isn’t it? 

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