Ever wondered what type of home water filter is best? When it comes to tap water filtration systems, there are many models and methods to choose from. It's important to realize that most products out there are mediocre so you can shop wisely and carefully. Here are some important factors to consider when you shop around for a home water filter.

When doing your shopping, you are going to come across three types of tap water filtration systems: distillation, reverse osmosis, and carbon filtration. It's important to compare all of these methods while taking cost, effectiveness, efficiency, and convenience into consideration.

When it comes to cost, carbon filtration comes out on top. Carbon filtration costs less than 10 cents per gallon. Comparatively, reverse osmosis costs 18 to 24 cents per gallon and distillation costs 20 to 26 cents per gallon.

As for effectiveness, reverse osmosis and distillation take the backseat because they are not effective in removing both organic and synthetic chemicals and must be used in conjunction with a carbon filter. Of all tap water filtration systems, carbon filters are the most effective because used alone they can remove all types of contaminants.

Carbon tap water filtration systems are also very fast and efficient. They can produce up to 30 gallons per hour and don't waste any water in the process. On the other hand, distillation and reverse osmosis are very slow and produce less than a gallon per hour. Reverse osmosis is also very wasteful; it wastes 2 to 3 gallons of water for every gallon of clean water it produces.

Carbon tap water filtration systems are very convenient. They can be installed easily in a matter of minutes and you can choose from whole house filters, shower head filters, countertop filters, and under-the-sink filters. You can even get a sports water bottle that has a carbon filter built in so you can have clean water anytime, anywhere.

Unlike carbon filtration systems, reverse osmosis and distillation systems are very complicated. They have to be installed by a plumber and are high-maintenance. For example, reverse osmosis systems require a diaphragmed storage tank and adequate water pressure in order to function properly.

Another reason why carbon tap water filtration systems are the best is the fact that they don't remove the beneficial trace minerals from tap water. Trace minerals in tap water such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are essential to maintaining good health. Reverse osmosis and distillation produce de-mineralized water. Drinking de-mineralized water can lead to multiple mineral deficiencies and even cancer in the long run.

Make no mistake about it. When it comes to tap water filtration systems, carbon block or granular filters are far superior to any other method out there. Carbon filters are affordable, effective, fast, and efficient, and produce healthy water rich in essential minerals. So get out there and get a carbon tap water filter if you want 24/7 access to fresh, clean water, the foundation to good health.