More than 45% of American homes use some form of water treatment, including filtered refrigerator dispensers. This number is trending up, and the industry expects it to continue. With that in mind, let’s explore the potential advantages and disadvantages.
Con: Potential Environmental Impact
All water treatment systems create some amount of water waste. This waste can be particularly egregious in the case of some reverse osmosis (RO) systems. Look for systems that are as close to 1:1 as possible and that have earned the WaterSense label and other certifications.
Con: Initial Costs
While point-of-use water filters are relatively inexpensive, point-of-entry water purifiers and softeners can be expensive initially. Rebates and financing may help the average consumer budget for the initial investment.
Con: Maintenance Costs
Filter media and ultraviolet (UV) lamp replacements can be notable expenses. Avoid systems that require proprietary products and estimate your maintenance costs before deciding. That includes the annual cost of having a plumber inspect and sanitize your system.
Pro: Convenience and Less Reliance on Bottled Water
The average household spends over $1,000 on bottled water a year. If you mostly eliminate that expenditure, it will quickly cover your initial costs and maintenance expenses.
Pro: Protection Against Sudden Water Quality Changes
Water testing may give you peace of mind today, but it doesn’t provide any guarantees about tomorrow. Water quality changes are often sudden, and active water purification ensures your household is protected when they occur.
Pro: Improved Drinking Water Taste and Smell
Simply having activated carbon can make a bigger difference in the quality of your water. Through adsorption, carbon, which is what is in most basic refrigerator filters, can remove unpleasant tastes, smells, discoloration, and texture.
Pro: Better Water for Cooking, Showers, and Laundry
A water softener or RO system will eliminate excess minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, from your water. That can make cooking and drink recipes more consistent. It will enhance your shower experiences along with your skin and hair health. Water softening also improves the performance of detergents and reduces wear and tear on your clothing.
Pro: Safeguard Against Impurities
There are many potential impurities in your drinking water, whether you have a well or municipal supply. A good sediment filter can trap most dirt, silt, heavy metals, and even cysts. Activated carbon can absorb gases and chemicals, including pesticides and pharmaceuticals. UV lamps can neutralize over 99% of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Those include pathogens that can cause digestive distress and even lead to more serious illnesses.
Waccamaw Cooling has helped many homeowners minimize the downsides of water treatment systems and maximize the upsides. Learn more by scheduling us for an in-home consultation in Myrtle Beach, SC.
