Using a home drinking water filter is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure to harmful contaminants, from the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS to arsenic, lead and more.
Tap water quality can vary quite widely in the U.S. depending on your location, the source of your drinking water and the size of the water system.
Drinking water often contains a mixture of pollutants.
EWG’s recent research and map shows that over 100 million people’s tap water in the U.S. contains hexavalent chromium, also called chromium-6, nitrate and arsenic. Exposure to these contaminants can increase the risk of cancer. Contamination from chromium-6 and arsenic can result from industrial activity, and nitrate often pollutes water from runoff from agricultural areas.
PFAS are in the drinking water of about 172 million Americans. Analysis by EWG shows PFAS are also detected alongside other pollutants like disinfection byproducts, nitrates and heavy metals.
Volatile organic compounds and even radiological contaminants have been found in drinking water across the U.S. Many of these compounds can increase the risk of cancer and contribute to other health issues.
The good news? A water filter can significantly reduce your exposure to many pollutants. But keeping it maintained is just as important as choosing the right filter.
Learning about your tap water quality
Before buying a filter, you need to know what contaminants have been detected in your tap water. EWG’s Tap Water Database can help. By entering their ZIP code, users can access detailed reports on contaminants and the associated health risks in their local water supply.
It also provides consumers with the best suited filter technology to reduce specific contaminants found in their location.
What to consider in a water filter
EWG’s water filter guide provides helpful information about your tap water to help you choose the right filter.
There are many different types of water filters available that vary by how they are installed and what technology they use to remove pollutants.
Filters that are installed under the sink typically use reverse osmosis, activated carbon, or a combination of the two. Reverse osmosis technology is most effective for reducing a wide range of contaminants including PFAS, nitrate and chromium-6. Multi-stage carbon based filters also perform well in reducing PFAS.
Filters that attach to the kitchen faucet often use activated carbon technology. These filters may reduce some contaminants like lead and PFAS, but might not be effective in reducing other contaminants like nitrate.
Many pitcher filters that sit on the counter-top use granular activated carbon or carbon block to remove pollutants. The advantage is that pitchers can be a cost-effective choice compared to other filters, and there is no installation involved which may work better for renters.
The contaminants reduced by pitchers can vary widely depending on the brand. EWG tested several countertop filters and found that some worked well to reduce some common tap water contaminants including disinfection by-products and PFAS.
When possible, choose certified filters that have been tested and vetted by third parties like NSF International or the Water Quality Association. Certification demonstrates that the manufacturer’s claims are backed up by testing.
What about bottled water?
Try to avoid buying bottled water, especially in single-use plastic bottles. It can often be just filtered tap water.
Bottled water is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration instead of the Environmental Protection Agency. This means there are different standards for chemicals and other substances in bottled water, as well as less transparency in water testing. Bottled water also costs much more than tap water and contributes to plastic pollution.
Maintaining your water filter
An effective water filter requires maintenance to ensure the filter continues to reduce contaminants. It’s important to replace the filters on time.
Here are tips for keeping your water filter working well:
- Use a water filter that is certified to remove the pollutants found in your drinking water.
- Change the filter cartridge regularly. Follow the manufacturer instructions and schedule for replacing the filter cartridges – this will depend on the brand. Using an old filter can let contaminants leach back into your water. Set a calendar reminder or phone alert to stay on track.
- For reverse osmosis systems, maintenance may be less frequent, but systems still require changing pre-filters and installation of new membranes as needed.
- For pitcher filters, clean the pitcher housing regularly. Rinse it thoroughly with water and let dry completely before refilling.
- Remember to regularly clean your stainless steel water bottle also, which can harbor bacteria.
Every household deserves clean, safe drinking water and EWG advocates for investment in better drinking water for all communities. Until stronger regulations are in place, using a home filter is a practical, immediate step.
Protecting your water means protecting your health.
