How to choose between the different water filter systems can be quite a puzzle. With prices of different models varying by up to $400 even for the basic countertop types with no obvious reason for the difference. Take a minute and read the information we have here. At least it will help you get started.

The functions that you need a drinking water filter to perform will depend on the source of the water in your local area. For example, a drinking water filter using the reverse osmosis principle tends to be more expensive, but performs functions that are not needed by many of us.

If the water from your tap is provided by a public water utility, you can be sure that it will have been processed in a number of ways. RO is one step that they usually employ. RO mainly removes particles, minerals and can be used for removing salt from sea water or brackish wells.

Chlorine is used by many public utility companies to deal with algae and bacteria which can otherwise cause problems in the distribution network. Some companies use ultra violet disinfection at the processing plant, but this will not inhibit the growth of bacteria in the water pipe in the road outside your house. Chlorine taste and odor are two of the things that send people looking for a drinking water filter system.

All filtering systems remove chlorine. More often than not the effectiveness is confirmed by independent certification, but there is still this huge difference in the cost of individual water filters.

Because the RO process is expensive you will not be surprised to learn that models using this technique are the most expensive. Water filters sold by local retailers also tend to be in the top price bracket because they need to charge a price that will cover their staff and rent overheads. At the other end of the scale are pitchers which are usually less efficent and have a short life span.

I believe that to get the best value for your money you need spend no more than $125 for a countertop drinking water filter system. Source the product from the factory direct and a filter will be delivered that will remove the chlorine and other chemicals from the water without destroying the essential minerals.

Hugh Harris-Evans writes on water purification technology and is an enthusiastic advocate of the benefits of pure drinking water.

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