The danger level of contaminants in your water depends on the specific substances present and their concentrations. Heavy metals such as lead and arsenic can cause serious health problems, even at low levels—particularly for children and pregnant women.

PFAS chemicals (often called "forever chemicals") are associated with cancer, liver damage, immune system suppression, and other health concerns. Microplastics are still being studied, but early research suggests possible hormonal disruption and other health effects.

To ensure your safety, it's best to test your water to identify which contaminants are present. Once you know what's in your water, you can select the most effective filtration system to reduce your exposure to harmful substances.

Yes, you may still need a water filter even if your water tastes and smells fine. Many dangerous contaminants—such as lead, arsenic, PFAS ("forever chemicals"), and certain pharmaceuticals—are tasteless, odorless, and invisible. You cannot detect them by taste, smell, or appearance.

Even if your water meets current EPA standards, it's important to understand that:

• Not all contaminants are regulated. For example, PFAS chemicals are only recently being addressed in some areas, and many others remain unregulated.
• "Acceptable" levels may still pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women, or with long-term exposure.
• Standards do not account for the combined effects of multiple contaminants, which may interact to increase health risks.
• Regulations may not reflect the latest scientific research on the health effects of certain chemicals.

For these reasons, using an appropriate water filter can provide an extra layer of protection beyond what's required by basic compliance.

Bottled water is not necessarily safer than tap water. In fact, many bottled waters are just filtered tap water, and the plastic packaging can introduce additional contaminants like microplastics and chemicals from the plastic.

Key differences:

• Regulation: Tap water in the United States is regulated by the EPA and is subject to frequent, rigorous testing and public reporting. Bottled water is regulated by the FDA, which often has less stringent requirements and less transparency.
• Microplastics: Bottled water is more likely to contain microplastics from its packaging, though tap water can also contain microplastics from environmental sources.
• Control: Home filtration systems give you greater control over your water quality and allow you to target specific contaminants.
• Cost: Using a quality home filtration system is much more economical in the long run compared to regularly buying bottled water.

Protection: A well-chosen home filtration system often provides better protection than bottled water and at a fraction of the cost.

Choosing the right water filter depends on your specific water quality issues and household needs. Here's how to decide:

Step 1: Test Your Water
Identify which contaminants are present in your water using a water test kit or professional laboratory analysis.

Step 2: Choose Filtration Technology Based on Contaminants

• Reverse Osmosis (RO): Removes the widest range of contaminants, including heavy metals, chemicals, bacteria, and viruses. Note: RO systems typically require a pre-filter and may produce some wastewater.
• Carbon Filters: Remove chlorine, taste, and odor issues. Some advanced carbon filters (like activated carbon) can also reduce certain chemicals and emerging contaminants.
• SMART Media (Advanced Filtration Media): Targets specific emerging contaminants such as PFAS and microplastics.
• UV Sterilization: Kills bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, but does not remove chemical contaminants or particles.

Step 3: Consider Installation Needs
Decide whether you need a whole-house system (to treat all the water entering your home) or a point-of-use system (such as under-sink or countertop filters) for drinking and cooking.

Step 4: Consult a Water Specialist
Our water specialists can help analyze your water test results and recommend the optimal filtration solution for your situation.

PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are highly persistent substances that do not break down naturally in the environment or the human body. Over time, PFAS accumulate in your body and have been linked to a range of serious health effects, including:

• Increased risk of certain cancers (such as kidney and testicular cancer)
• Liver damage and elevated cholesterol levels
• Suppression of the immune system
• Reproductive and developmental problems
• Reduced effectiveness of vaccines

PFAS are found in water supplies across the country and are present in the blood of about 97% of Americans. While the EPA is working to regulate these chemicals, many areas still lack enforceable PFAS standards.

To protect yourself, consider using advanced home water filtration technologies such as reverse osmosis systems or specialized filtration media, which have been shown to effectively remove PFAS from drinking water.

How frequently you should test your water depends on your water source and specific circumstances:

Well Water:

• Test at least once a year for bacteria (like coliform) and nitrates.
• Test every 3–5 years for chemical contaminants (such as heavy metals, arsenic, and pesticides), or as recommended by your local health department.
• Test more often if your well is shallow, after flooding, or if you notice changes in taste, odor, or appearance.

Municipal Water:

• Test every 2–3 years, or if you notice changes in taste, odor, or appearance.
• Review your annual Consumer Confidence Report for updates on your local water system.

Additional Testing Recommended When:

• You move to a new home.
• There's nearby industrial activity or construction.
• Local water quality violations are reported.
• You're pregnant or have young children in the home.
• Family members experience unexplained health issues.

Testing Method:
Consider professional laboratory testing for the most comprehensive analysis—especially for contaminants like PFAS, heavy metals, and pharmaceuticals. At-home test kits are convenient but may not detect all contaminants or provide the same level of accuracy as lab tests.