Choosing the Best Water Treatment System – Reverse Osmosis, Filtration or Ultraviolet Sterilization

There’s a lot of misinformation online about different ways to treat water – and about what water needs treating. While municipal filtration systems have traditionally been recognized as safe, recent revelations have created considerable doubt; aging systems have frequently not been maintained well, pharmaceuticals are showing up in samples, and even well water is showing the impact of a swelling population.

Simply Put, You Probably Will Benefit From Additional Water Treatment  

Without testing directly at your tap, it’s impossible to know what contaminates are in your water. However, most purification systems were designed decades ago, before some hazards were recognized. Our understanding has also evolved about how toxic known contaminates are– some homes were still having lead pipes installed as late as 1985! It’s likely that most water can benefit from additional purification. Besides heavy metals like lead, antidepressants and other drugs are increasingly found in tap water, and viruses and bacteria occasionally sneak into the best systems.

Pros and Cons of the 3 Types

Reverse osmosis uses a special membrane to allow only molecules no larger than water to pass through. This is probably the purest water of the three, but it also means that you lose essential minerals that replenish your body. Water filtration by high-tech filters is the most common home treatment system; they pass along many necessary minerals, but require periodic filter changing. Ultraviolet systems will sterilize water, killing virtually all pathogens while not impacting the taste at all. However, it won’t filter out any other impurities.

What the Experts Say

Ideally, treatment will use a multi-stage method, much like most modern cities use: start with water filtration, then use reverse osmosis to remove salts, heavy metals and bacteria, then neutralize any remaining pathogens with ultraviolet. Finally, add essential minerals for health and taste. This sounds complicated, and it can be; your best bet is to contact a reputable water treatment company. Look for one that’s a member of your local and state water quality associations and ask about their certifications. Most likely, they can help you find an economical solution to be sure of the highest-quality water for your family.