Millions of homes still rely on private wells to provide water. Most homeowners use electric pumps to pull the water up and circulate it through homes, but some prefer hand pumps that do not require power. Either way, filtering well water is essential to make sure it is safe to drink. No matter how deep a well is water can be contaminated by toxins like chemicals and bacteria. Homeowners have dozens of filtering choices, but the most common include countertop, undersink, and whole house units.

Countertop Filters Are Effective and Affordable

Homeowners need to have their water tested to determine what it contains. The condition of water determines what type and brand of filter can be used to make it safe and usable for drinking and cooking. There are manufacturers who offer affordable countertop devices that remove calcium, magnesium and dangerous pollutants like pesticides. Although the filters appear simple, they are very effective. Water goes through a mechanical filter, is softened, and then an ion exchange process removes pollutants.

An Undersink Filter Removes Dangerous Contaminants

Simple undersink filters that use reverse osmosis are ideal for many users. They are popular with homeowners who are comfortable using unfiltered well water for tasks like housecleaning, bathing, and washing hair. Undersink systems are easy to install and work by pulling cold water through a filter. They do not filter hot water. Conventional undersink equipment can filter both hot and cold water. Customers buy these filters to improve water’s taste and remove contaminants like arsenic, chlorine, sediment, limescale, and bacteria.

Whole House Filters Offer a Range of Benefits

Since well water often contains rust and other discoloring agents, many homeowners install whole house filters that have multiple functions. Water is processed before it gets into the home, so it is soft, clean, and safe for any use. Homeowners often install these units when water contains hydrogen sulfide, which creates a rotten egg smell. Filters produce water that makes skin and hair softer. It also reduces cleaning time, since soft water requires less soap and is easy to rinse off.

Many homeowners have private wells that provide their water. Since well water typically contains a variety of contaminants, it must be filtered. Homeowners use a range of filtering equipment that includes countertop, undersink, and whole house systems.