Now that you know your options, how do you decide what’s best for you?

Here’s a clear decision-making process:

1. Test your water.

Identify what contaminants are actually present.

2. Prioritize your goals.

• Drinking water safety first.
• Bathing exposure if chemical sensitivity or skin issues exist.
• Whole-house coverage for homes with multiple concerns.

3. Match system to contaminant.

• Lead ➔ Certified lead-removing filter or RO
• Microbes ➔ UV + filtration
• PFAS ➔ Advanced RO systems
• Chlorine ➔ Carbon filters

4. Match system to your living situation.

• Renters: Countertop filters, faucet attachments, shower filters.
• Homeowners: Under-counter systems or whole-house solutions.

5. Plan for maintenance.

• Set reminders to replace filters on schedule.
• UV bulbs, RO membranes, and other system components also require upkeep.

Special notes for sensitive individuals:

• Choose NSF-certified products verified to remove your specific contaminants.
• Consider systems with multiple-stage filtration for added safety.