What does a water filter treat?

A water filter can treat a range of contaminants in water, including:

- Chlorine is a chemical disinfectant that is added to most municipal water supplies to kill bacteria. However, it can also produce harmful disinfection byproducts. Water filters can remove chlorine and its byproducts, such as trihalomethanes and chloroacetic acids.

- Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into water from old plumbing fixtures and pipes. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially in children. Water filters can remove lead from water.

- Mercury is a toxic metal that can contaminate water from industrial pollution. Mercury can cause neurotoxic effects, including memory loss, tremors, and muscle weakness. Water filters can remove mercury from water.

- Arsenic is a toxic metalloid that can naturally occur in some water supplies. Arsenic can cause cancer and other health problems. Water filters can remove arsenic from water.

- Bacteria and viruses are microorganisms that can cause illness. Water filters can remove bacteria and viruses from water by using a variety of methods, such as physical filtration, chemical disinfection, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

- Cysts are microscopic parasites that can contaminate water. Cysts can cause illness, such as giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis. Water filters can remove cysts from water by using physical filtration or by using a chemical disinfectant that is effective against cysts.

- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that evaporate easily. VOCs can contaminate water from industrial pollution, fuel spills, and other sources. Some VOCs are harmful to health, such as benzene and trichloroethylene. Water filters can remove VOCs from water by using activated carbon adsorption or by using a reverse osmosis membrane.