What Are the 5 Types of Water Purification Systems?

You’ve got questions and we’ve got in answeres. In this post we explore the popular online search topic “What are the 5 different types of water purification systems?”. 

If you want to know more, you are in the right place.

Water filtration is important everywhere, and it’s of great concern to homeowners in Tampa Bay. One can simply taste the tap water, one doesn’t need to read the entire Pinellas County water quality report, but you can here.

Water filtration systems are in demand, and they come in various types, each serving a specific purpose in purifying water.

Water Filters

One commonly used “system” if it could be called that, is water filters, such as activated carbon filters. These filters are primarily designed to enhance taste and eliminate odors by reducing impurities like chlorine. They can be found in filter containers like Brita or as refrigerator filters. As we like to say, anything is better than nothing.

Activated carbon filters are commonly found in pitcher or faucet-mounted systems and offer an affordable solution for addressing the effects of hard water. However, it’s important to note that these filters need regular replacement due to potential bacterial growth caused by the carbon filters.

Water Softeners

For homes dealing with hard water, water softeners have been a transformative solution for over a century. These systems utilize an ion exchange process, replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions. Typically installed at the point of entry, water softeners require professional installation and ongoing maintenance. While they generally improve water quality, they do not specifically filter the water from contaminants. It’s also worth mentioning that with the current prevalence of severe hard water in Florida, these systems often encounter breakdowns within a year or two, especially low-cost filters from national brands.

Water Conditioners

Another type of system is water conditioners, which also employ an ion exchange process for water softening. These systems feature a tank filled with resin beads infused with sodium ions. As hard water flows through the resin bed, the calcium and magnesium ions are captured and replaced with sodium ions. Additionally, water conditioners incorporate a carbon filter to reduce chlorine and lead levels, making the water better for drinking.

It should be noted that these do not target ALL of the contaminants found in tap water in central Florida and elsewhere.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are compact in size and typically installed under specific sinks or faucets. These systems effectively remove a wide range of impurities, including minerals that contribute to water hardness. By utilizing a semipermeable membrane, contaminants are separated from the water. RO systems can be installed either under the sink or as a whole-house solution, but they tend to be more expensive compared to other options. They provide purified and softened water, suitable for various household purposes such as drinking and cooking.

It’s important to note that under-the-sink systems only address water at that specific faucet and not throughout the entire home. One can be exposed to more chlorine taking a 10-minute shower than drinking eight glasses of water!

Whole Home Water Systems

For comprehensive water purification throughout the entire household, whole home water systems are a viable option. These systems go beyond the capabilities of water conditioners and may incorporate more advanced technologies. However, it’s worth mentioning that the term “whole home water systems” can vary in its usage among different companies, and some may refer to a water conditioner as such.”

The Purity Bay 10-stage whole home water system provides more than 40 benefits, spanning environmental benefits, improved health outcomes, and economic advantages. Using top quality components, the system addresses hard water and provides filtration without the bacteria created by other water filters. Our commitment is to deliver the finest home water systems available in the market, enabling you and your family to enjoy the highest quality water in your everyday life.

Finding the Right System

Getting the right system includes testing your water to understand what’s in it. Keep in mind a water conditioner addresses the hardness of the water, it does not necessarily remove all the contaminants to ensure it is ideal for drinking.

Purity Bay specializes in a wide range of home water solutions, including water softeners, reverse-osmosis systems, whole home water filtration systems and anything in between. Whether you need help selecting a water system or servicing an existing system, our experienced team can help you out! Schedule an appointment today!