As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, pollution, and public health, access to clean drinking water has become a pressing concern. With the rise of waterborne diseases and contaminants in tap water, many households are turning to water filter pitchers as a reliable and affordable solution. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of water filter pitchers and explore which one removes the most contaminants in 2021.
Understanding Water Contaminants and Their Impact on Human Health
Before we dive into the world of water filter pitchers, it’s essential to understand the types of contaminants that can be found in tap water and their impact on human health. Some common contaminants include:
- Lead: A toxic metal that can cause brain damage, developmental delays, and organ damage.
- Chlorine: A disinfectant that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and cancer.
- Fluoride: A naturally occurring mineral that can cause dental fluorosis, bone cancer, and thyroid problems in excessive amounts.
- Bacteria: Microorganisms like E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter that can cause waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
- Heavy metals: Metals like mercury, arsenic, and cadmium that can cause neurological damage, kidney damage, and cancer.
The Importance of Water Filter Pitchers
Water filter pitchers are an effective and affordable way to remove contaminants from tap water. They work by passing water through a filter that traps impurities, resulting in clean and safe drinking water. Some benefits of using a water filter pitcher include:
- Improved taste and odor: Water filter pitchers can remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities that affect the taste and odor of water.
- Reduced risk of waterborne diseases: By removing bacteria, viruses, and parasites, water filter pitchers can reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.
- Cost-effective: Water filter pitchers are a cost-effective alternative to bottled water and can save households money in the long run.
- Environmentally friendly: Water filter pitchers can reduce plastic waste and minimize the carbon footprint associated with bottled water.
Top Water Filter Pitchers of 2021
After researching and comparing various water filter pitchers, we’ve shortlisted the top performers of 2021. Here are our top picks:
- ZeroWater ZD-018: This water filter pitcher uses a 5-stage filtration system that removes virtually all contaminants, including dissolved solids, bacteria, and viruses.
- Brita Longlast+: This water filter pitcher uses a 3-stage filtration system that removes lead, chlorine, and other impurities, and can filter up to 120 gallons of water before needing replacement.
- Pur PPT700W: This water filter pitcher uses a 3-stage filtration system that removes lead, mercury, and other impurities, and can filter up to 40 gallons of water before needing replacement.
- Soma Water Filter Pitcher: This water filter pitcher uses a coconut shell-based filter that removes chlorine, lead, and other impurities, and can filter up to 40 gallons of water before needing replacement.
Comparison of Contaminant Removal
To determine which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants, we’ve compared the performance of our top picks. Here’s a summary of their contaminant removal capabilities:
| Water Filter Pitcher | Lead Removal | Chlorine Removal | Bacteria Removal | Heavy Metal Removal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZeroWater ZD-018 | 99.6% | 99.9% | 99.99% | 99.9% |
| Brita Longlast+ | 99% | 99% | 99.9% | 95% |
| Pur PPT700W | 99% | 99% | 99.9% | 95% |
| Soma Water Filter Pitcher | 97% | 98% | 99% | 90% |
Winner: ZeroWater ZD-018
Based on our comparison, the ZeroWater ZD-018 water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants, including lead, chlorine, bacteria, and heavy metals. Its 5-stage filtration system ensures that virtually all impurities are removed, resulting in clean and safe drinking water.
Conclusion
Choosing the right water filter pitcher can be a daunting task, but by understanding the types of contaminants that can be found in tap water and the benefits of using a water filter pitcher, households can make an informed decision. Our top pick, the ZeroWater ZD-018, removes the most contaminants and is an excellent choice for households looking for a reliable and effective water filter pitcher.
What contaminants can water filter pitchers remove?
Water filter pitchers can remove a wide range of contaminants from drinking water, including chlorine, lead, mercury, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. They can also remove heavy metals, such as arsenic and cadmium, and certain types of bacteria and viruses. Some water filter pitchers may also be able to remove fluoride, nitrates, and other inorganic compounds.
The effectiveness of a water filter pitcher in removing contaminants depends on the type of filter it uses. Activated carbon filters are good at removing chlorine, lead, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), while ion exchange filters can remove heavy metals and nitrates. Some water filter pitchers may also use a combination of filter types to provide broader contaminant removal.
How do I choose the best water filter pitcher for my needs?
When choosing a water filter pitcher, consider the types of contaminants you want to remove from your drinking water. If you’re concerned about lead, mercury, or other heavy metals, look for a pitcher with an ion exchange filter. If you’re concerned about chlorine, VOCs, or pesticides, an activated carbon filter may be a better choice.
You should also consider the cost of replacement filters, the pitcher’s capacity, and its ease of use. Some water filter pitchers may require more frequent filter replacements or have a smaller capacity, which may not be convenient for large households. Look for a pitcher with a long-lasting filter and a large capacity to minimize maintenance and ensure you always have clean drinking water on hand.
What is the difference between a water filter pitcher and a faucet-mounted filter?
A water filter pitcher is a standalone device that you fill with water and place in the refrigerator to chill. It filters the water as you pour it, providing clean drinking water on demand. A faucet-mounted filter, on the other hand, is attached directly to your kitchen faucet and filters all the water that comes out of the faucet.
While both types of filters can provide clean drinking water, a water filter pitcher is often more convenient and easier to install. Faucet-mounted filters may require more installation effort and can be more expensive to replace. However, they can also filter more water at once and may be more effective at removing certain contaminants.
Can I use a water filter pitcher with well water?
Yes, you can use a water filter pitcher with well water, but you may need to choose a pitcher with a more robust filter. Well water can contain a wider range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals, which may require a more advanced filter to remove.
Look for a water filter pitcher with a filter that is certified to remove a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals. You may also want to consider a pitcher with a longer-lasting filter or one that can be replaced more easily to minimize maintenance.
How often do I need to replace the filter in my water filter pitcher?
The frequency of filter replacement depends on the type of filter and the amount of water you use. Some water filter pitchers may require filter replacements every 1-3 months, while others may last up to 6 months or more.
Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement and follow their guidelines. You may also want to monitor the taste and odor of your water to determine if the filter needs to be replaced. If your water starts to taste or smell bad, it may be a sign that the filter is no longer effective.
Are water filter pitchers certified by any third-party organizations?
Yes, many water filter pitchers are certified by third-party organizations, such as NSF International or the Water Quality Association. These organizations test water filters to ensure they meet certain standards for contaminant removal and safety.
Look for a water filter pitcher that has been certified by one of these organizations to ensure it meets your needs and provides clean drinking water. Certification can provide peace of mind and help you choose a reliable and effective water filter pitcher.
Can I use a water filter pitcher to remove fluoride from my drinking water?
Some water filter pitchers can remove fluoride from drinking water, but not all pitchers are created equal. If you’re concerned about fluoride in your drinking water, look for a pitcher with a filter that is specifically designed to remove fluoride.
Activated alumina filters are often effective at removing fluoride, but they may not remove other contaminants. Ion exchange filters may also be able to remove fluoride, but they may not be as effective. Check the manufacturer’s claims and look for certification from a third-party organization to ensure the pitcher can remove fluoride effectively.