Advantages & Disadvantages of a Water Filter

Every living thing depends upon water for survival. Since bacteria can flourish in water, modern technologies--such as water filters--have become available to help keep water purified. Water filters have many advantages, but also possess some weak points.

Safety

• A water filtration system is one of the few ways to ensure pure and non-contaminated drinking water.

Eliminated Chlorine

• Water filters eliminate the chlorine that would otherwise need to be present for purification purposes.

Cost

• For the average household, bottled water can be expensive, and the use of a water filter can decrease expenses.

Health Benefits

• Pure, clean drinking water has many health benefits. Healthy drinking water is considered advantageous to everyone, especially to pregnant women and children, who are more susceptible to bacteria and illnesses. Pure water has also been shown to be very advantageous for people with gastrointestinal problems.

Maintenance

• The Carbon Cartridge--which is the main component to water filters--should be changed with accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation, most of which depends on your level of use. Regular changing is important to ensure that the water filter is working efficiently.

Bacteria

• If not properly maintained, water filters can create a buildup of bacteria. According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, "Studies have shown that levels of bacteria present in water that has passed through an improperly maintained home filtration device may be up to 2,000 times higher than levels in unfiltered water."