Home water filters. The best filters for water under the sink. Counterfeits and unscrupulous manufacturers

Often, tap water leaves much to be desired, it is harmful to health and negatively affects the taste of drinks and dishes.

There are 3 ways out of the situation:

1. Humble yourself.
2. Buy bottled water.
3. Put a filter.

The most common type of filter is under the sink. This is a water purification system that is installed under the kitchen sink on the floor or wall. With the help of flexible connections, the filter is connected to the water supply, a separate tap for filtered water is displayed on the countertop or sink surface.

What are sink water filters?

Flow filters

The design consists of 2-4 modules connected in series with each other. Water goes through several stages of purification, each filter has its own purpose:

• Mechanical cleaning filter. Removes solid particles from water. It is a cellular fabric or mesh material. Cell size - up to 30 microns.
• Fine filter. The carbon filter, which retains particles up to 5 microns in size, effectively fights odors.
• Ion exchange filter. Its main purpose is water softening. Calcium and magnesium ions are replaced by sodium, chloride and other soluble compounds. The cartridges contain both artificially synthesized resins and sulfonated carbons.
• Iron-free elements. The filter contains chemicals that help bind the iron and oxygen atoms. Metal oxides form a precipitate, which remains inside the filter.
• Antibacterial filter. Purifies water from bacteria and viruses, manufacturers claim that silver ions are used in the manufacture of such filters. Less commonly used ultraviolet lamps.
• Combined. They are almost never used in multistage systems, only in single-flask filters. One cartridge combines several types of filter elements.

Important! The composition of tap water must be taken into account! The harder it is and the more impurities it contains, the more often you will have to change cartridges.

Reverse osmosis systems

The design of the reverse osmosis system is similar to the flow one, the difference is in additional modules and advanced filters. Most often, membrane filters with micropores are used in such installations. Almost all organic and inorganic substances remain on the filter, pollution is removed by the flow of water into the sewer. By performance, filters are:

• 50G - this marking indicates the rate of water purification up to 200 liters per day.
• 100 G - productivity is about 400 liters per day.

Important! Reverse osmosis filters purify water longer than flow ones, so they are often equipped with tanks for storing filtered liquid (up to 10 liters).

In reverse osmosis systems, there must be a polypropylene filter (coarse cleaning), a carbon or iron-removing element, less often an ultraviolet lamp. Only then does the water pass to the membrane filter. It is very important that the water supply system has normal pressure (1.5-3 bar). If the pressure is low, you will have to additionally purchase a pressure pump.

Since the water that has passed through the reverse osmosis system is close in composition to distilled water, it will not bring benefits to the body. The necessary salts and compounds are simply removed from it. The filter-mineralizer restores its structure and saturates it with minerals. The liquid is enriched with magnesium, calcium, sodium, silver ions, sulfites, chlorides, fluorides. A high-quality filter allows you to get water in composition close to mineral.

How to choose a water filter for washing

The first thing to do is to hand over the water for analysis (to a sanitary and epidemiological station or a testing center). In the laboratory, the sample is checked for the presence of heavy metals, salts, organic impurities, and pathogens. Characteristics of color, PH, transparency, smell and others are determined. You will be given a detailed document on the basis of which you can select a cleaning system.

What problems does a water filter solve?

Most often, users encounter the following problems:

• The increased content of chemical compounds (chlorine, heavy metals and others). The cleaning system must have a polypropylene cartridge (mechanical), carbon and iron removal.
• High water hardness. It is better to give preference to a reverse osmosis system. On flow filters, you will have to change cartridges almost every month - this is extremely unprofitable. In osmotic systems, a membrane filter does an excellent job of this task.
• Increased organic content. The water may contain microbes, viruses, bacteria, which will help to cope with a disinfecting filter. This is a silver ion cartridge or an ultraviolet lamp. A reverse osmosis membrane filter is also useful.

What to look for when buying

When buying a filtration system, you should also pay attention to other criteria:

• The number of purification levels (from 2 to 6) - the more - the better quality water you get. If the water is slightly different from the norm, a 3-stage filter is enough.
• Performance. With flow filters, everything is clear, but the reverse osmosis system purifies water more slowly. The manufacturer must indicate the number of liters per hour in the passport.
• Quality. The materials from which the equipment is made must comply with environmental and sanitary standards. Do not be too lazy to ask the seller for certificates.
• Availability of accessories. On the model of well-known manufacturers, it is easier to find replacement filters and spare parts.
• Dimensions, the presence of a tank for storing water.

The best manufacturers of water filters for washing water

TOP 5 best filter manufacturers

5. Barrier (Russia). Produces filters for over 15 years. There are 4 own enterprises and a research center. Brand of CJSC "METTEM Technologies". The product line includes flow, osmosis systems for domestic and industrial purposes. Of the minuses, users note a poorly developed customer service.

4. Geyser (Russia). The first domestic manufacturer of water filters. The company was founded in 1986. They produce both flow filters and reverse osmosis systems. The produced goods are exported to 45 countries of the world. Components interchangeable with TM "Aquaphor".

3. Aquaphor (Russia). The company was founded in 1992 in St. Petersburg. Production is located in 3 more cities. Products are exported to more than 20 countries. The range includes both flow-through and reverse osmosis water purification systems. Drinking water machines are also offered - the same reverse osmosis technology, but the models take up less space and require less pressure in the system - 2 bar.

2. Aquafilter (Poland). This company has been producing water filters since 1994. Products are exported to 45 countries. The main production facilities are located in Poland and Germany. A wide range of models: from simple to industrial water purification systems. Advanced technologies are used, including micro- and nanofiltration.

1. Atoll (USA). The first filters were brought to Russia in 1994. Now production facilities are located not only in the USA, but also at the Russian plant "Comintex-Ecology" (since 2004). Production has the international NSF certificate. The range includes flow and reverse inspection, main filtration systems.

Also known in Russia are Praktik brand filters (Germany), Novaya Voda (Ukraine), Zepter (Germany) and others.

Rating of water filters for washing

TOP-5 flow filters

Barrier Expert Complex

The average price is 3500 rubles. The filter is recommended for hard water with a high iron content. Cartridge types: polypropylene, ionized resin and carbon with silver ions. Working pressure - up to 7 atmospheres. Average productivity - 2 liters per minute. Water temperature - from +5 to +30 degrees. The system well purifies water from heavy metals. The filter itself is compact, cartridges are easily and quickly replaced. Among the shortcomings, users note the high cost of replacement cartridges, it is not always possible to find accessories in the store.

• Performance - 4
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 4
• Overall score: 4.5

New Water Expert M420

The average price is 5400 rubles. 5-stage cleaning, 4 filter elements. Types of filters: carbon with silver ions, ion exchange resin, coal with coconut shell, membrane. It is completed with the improved ceramic crane. There is an ultraviolet membrane. Compact device, capacity 1-2 liters per minute. The recommended water temperature is +5 - +35 degrees. High resistance to water hammer. Cleans water of medium hardness well. Of the minuses - cartridges are expensive, not suitable for very hard water.

• Performance - 4
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall score: 4.75

Aquaphor Crystal Quadro

The average market price is 6500 rubles. System of 4 filter blocks, throughput - 2.5 liters per minute. It is intended for purification and softening of very hard water. Water temperature - from +5 to +40 degrees. Pressure - from 0.6 to 6 atmospheres. There are 5 options for completing the modules, including very fine cleaning. The model has small dimensions, and the cartridges are replaced along with the flask. Users note weak fastenings and the high cost of replaceable elements.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Overall score: 4.75

Atoll A-313E Lux

The average price is 5000 rubles. Suitable for water treatment of medium hardness. Three-stage system with a mechanical, iron-removing and carbon filter. Operating temperature from +2 to +42 degrees. Withstands water hammer, working pressure - up to 6 atmospheres. Throughput - 2 liters per minute. It purifies water well, a good resource of cartridges. Components are not cheap, but are sold in most specialized stores.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall rating: 5

Aquafilter Excito-B

Estimated cost - 7000 rubles. Seven-stage cleaning system (5 cartridges, 2 of which are double action). Working pressure 4 atmospheres. The recommended water temperature is from +2 to +42 degrees. Well clears even very hard water, it is completed with the membrane filter for very thin cleaning. The average throughput is 3 liters per minute. Quite compact, filters are enough for 4000-6000 liters of water. The membrane needs to be changed once a year. There are no special complaints from users, except for the high cost of components.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall rating: 5

TOP 5 reverse osmosis systems

Geyser Prestige 2

The average price is 6000 rubles. Budget version of the reverse osmosis system for water of medium hardness. Three-stage cleaning system (mechanical, iron-removing, membrane filter). Faucet and fittings included. Productivity - 300 liters a day. The recommended water temperature is from +4 to +40 degrees. Working pressure 1.5-8 atmospheres. The pre-treatment unit replaces the three-stage pre-filtration typical of reverse osmosis systems. Of the shortcomings - weak fastenings, no water tank.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 4
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 4
• Overall rating: 4.5

Aquaphor DWM-101S Morion

Cost - from 11,000 rubles. Six-stage cleaning system. The filter is completed with a 5-liter plastic tank and the crane. There is a pre-filter, a water treatment unit, a membrane filter, a fine filter, a mineralizer. Productivity - 190 liters a day. The recommended water temperature is from +2 to +40 degrees. Pressure from 2 to 6 bar. Of the minuses - lower productivity, a plastic water tank.

• Performance - 4
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall rating: 4.75

New water Expert Osmos MO530

The average cost is 11,000 rubles. Four-stage cleaning system, equipped with a tap and a storage tank with a volume of 15 liters. Productivity - 280 liters a day. It is completed with a polypropylene, iron-free, softening filter and a membrane. There is a mineralizer. Working pressure 2-29 atmospheres. The recommended water temperature is from +5 to +35 degrees. A compact unit that does its job well. Of the minuses - a plastic tank.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall rating: 5

Aquafilter RX-RO6-75

The average price is 10,000 rubles. Six-stage cleaning system, complete with faucet and storage tank for water, with a volume of 12 liters. It is completed with filters: coarse and fine cleaning, coal, membrane, post-cleaner. There is a mineralizer. Withstands pressure up to 6 bar. Productivity - up to 300 liters per day. The recommended water temperature is +2-+40 degrees. Of the shortcomings - a plastic tank.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall rating: 5

Atoll A-550 Max

The average price is 20,000 rubles. It is completed with the crane and a tank for storage of pure water, with a volume of 12 liters. The capacity of the system is 280 liters per day. A 5-stage filtration system ensures proper water quality even with increased hardness. There is a pre-filtration cartridge, 2 coal cartridges, a membrane and a post-filter for fine cleaning, a mineralizer. Operating temperature from +5 to +40 degrees. Pressure - from 2 to 6 atmospheres. The storage tank is made of metal. No particular deficiencies were identified.

• Performance - 5
• Water purification quality - 5
• Availability of components - 5
• Ease of installation and maintenance - 5
• Overall rating: 5

Filtration systems are a necessary purchase, because your health depends on the quality of water! A high-quality filter will allow you to get really clean and healthy water, the main thing is not to forget to change cartridges in time.

Write in the comments if you use water filters, how do you like the result?

How often do we think about the question of what kind of water we use at home for drinking or for cooking? Alas, we have to admit that not everyone has yet fully understood the need for its purification and filtration. But this is by no means an idle question: the quality of water from autonomous sources or from the city network very often lies outside the limits of permissible sanitary standards. Simply boiling or settling can only help a little, and is unable to deal with the overwhelming amount of pollution or even infection.

It is gratifying that the number of supporters of a reasonable attitude to health, one's own and the immediate environment, is still constantly growing. Direct evidence of this is the growing popularity and demand for household appliances for water purification. Filter manufacturers are constantly working to improve their products and expand their product range. But the variety presented for sale can easily put into a "stupor" the buyer who purchases such products for the first time, and is not too well aware of the question of how to choose a water filter.

Where does the choice begin?

In this publication there will be no detailed story about the factors polluting water, about the technologies for cleaning it from certain substances, about the principles of operation of various filtering devices.

How are coarse and fine filters arranged and how do they work?

It is very important to know this, but it is not worth repeating. A separate large article of our portal is devoted to the issue of the device and functioning of various devices.

Therefore, today the emphasis will be placed mainly on consumer problems - what to choose for a person in order to provide their homes with clean water. Let's take "out of brackets" and complex powerful water treatment plants assembled from several column-type filters - only specialists should be engaged in their selection, assembly and installation. Let's consider the problem in the context of purchasing a ready-made filter or filtration complex in a specialized store, designed for the needs of one average family.

The implementation of any task should always begin with a clear understanding of what you want to get as a result. By purchasing any, in fact, things or products, a person usually already knows what functions or qualities he hopes to receive for his money spent. The water filter is no exception in this matter. It is required to confidently imagine what properties it should have.

The simplistic “just purify the water” approach is, of course, sheer amateurism. Along with obvious signs of pollution (which also need to be dealt with skillfully), water may contain substances or microorganisms that are completely invisible to the eye, smell or taste, posing a threat to human health.

You should not trust either your superficial feelings, or, even more so, the advice of your neighbors. Subjective opinions can lie in a wide range - from "we have been drinking this kind of water all our lives" to some far-fetched "horrors" that are more likely to be classified as "urban legends". And, besides, the quality of water from nearby nearby sources, or even in neighboring urban buildings, can vary significantly.

As a result, you can fall into one of two extremes:

• Purchasing a filter that does not have the required cleaning functions will simply be a waste of money.
• Taking advantage of the consumer's apparent ignorance, shop assistants will try to impose an expensive filter system that is absolutely not needed. As a result, it is also lost money.

The best solution is to take a sample of water from a source or water supply for laboratory analysis. This, of course, also costs money, but such expenses will be justified.

The analysis solves a lot of questions at once:

• One can immediately assess the fundamental suitability of an autonomous source for use in food needs.
• The results of the analysis will help you choose the right filter system. Repeated analysis, after installing the filter, will give a clear picture of the effectiveness of its work.
• Regular testing will allow tracking the dynamics of changes in the biochemical composition of water - an extremely important event for autonomous, especially newly equipped sources.
• Having a laboratory test protocol in hand can become a document on the basis of which it will be possible to make claims against city utilities.

By the way, many thoughtful people, when purchasing a new home, immediately require the presentation of a document on the quality of drinking water.

To carry out the analysis, it is necessary to decide on the laboratory. You should not resort to the services of laboratories working with water supply organizations (they can easily underestimate pollution indicators), and with companies involved in the installation of filtering and purification systems (there, of course, there may be another extreme). It is best to choose an independent organization that has the appropriate government certification.

Laboratory analyzes are divided into two types - chemical and microbiological. For autonomous, especially surface sources, both are mandatory. For tap water, which, in theory, should already go through the stage of disinfection, often only a chemical test is limited, although a microbiological study will also never become superfluous.

It is most reasonable to agree in advance with laboratory workers on the time of delivery of the taken water samples, since there are certain restrictions on their shelf life (2 ÷ 3 hours).

Water intake also requires compliance with certain rules:

For chemical analysis, it is necessary to pass 1.5 liters.

• The optimal solution is a clean plastic bottle, but only from non-carbonated drinking water. It is forbidden to use containers for sweet drinks or beer.
• The tap opens, and the water is given at least 15 minutes for free exit. (If the source has not been used for a long time, it will even take 2 hours).
• The bottle and cap are thoroughly rinsed with the same water that will be analyzed. No detergents are used.
• Then the pressure is made minimal, so that when entering the bottle, aeration is not created - - the appearance of bubbles. Excess oxygen can greatly distort the overall picture.
• The container is filled completely, with overflow, so that there is no air left under the tightly screwed stopper.

For biological analysis, the requirements are completely different.

• The required volume is about 0.5 liters. The container must be absolutely sterile - if, for example, a glass jar is used, then both it and the lid to it are thoroughly steamed. Many laboratories practice taking samples for microbiology exclusively in their sterile disposable containers, which are issued to the customer.
• For water intake, hands must be dressed in sterile medical gloves.

• Even before the tap is opened, the spout cut is either burned through with fire, or carefully treated with medical alcohol - it is required to completely exclude microorganisms from entering the sample from the side.
• A faucet is opened, and water is circulated under maximum pressure for at least 10 minutes.
• After that, the sterilized container (cold) is filled to the top, and immediately hermetically closed.

Usually, the term for fulfilling an order for a qualitative laboratory study of water is about 5 ÷ 7 days. By the way, if they promise to do it literally in a day ÷ two, this should alert. It happens that not entirely conscientious offices conduct a superficial express test, which is then passed off as an in-depth study.

As a result, the customer must receive a protocol certified in accordance with the established procedure, which has the force of a legal document.

As a rule, this is a table in which, for clarity, the maximum allowable norms for water established by SanPiN and the actual indicators obtained are indicated.

Having such a document in hand and highlighting positions that require adjustment, it will be possible to select filters of the appropriate direction of action.

Is it possible to limit ourselves to conducting independent rapid tests, kits for which can be purchased in stores?

Experts have a common opinion on this matter - such an analysis is not a full-fledged alternative to a laboratory one. Of course, he will show the presence of a problem, but he will not be able to determine the exact quantitative and component indicators of pollution, that is, there will be clearly not enough data for a qualitative selection of a filtering system.

And one more parameter that should be determined in advance is the required filter performance. If the article discusses devices for drinking water purification and for cooking, then we can proceed from an average rate of 3 liters per day per person. Of course, the filter should not work at the limit of its capabilities, that is, it is desirable to increase this rate, say, by half.

Thus, if, for example, five people live in a house (apartment), then it is easy to determine that approximately 30 liters of purified water per day will be required. Accordingly, the purchased device must cope with such a load.

We now turn to the consideration of various models of household

The simplest option: filter - jug

Filter jug ​​device

For those who do not want to spend a significant amount on the purchase of a filter, do not need large volumes of purified water, or do not want to get involved with any installation or connection of the system to the water supply, we can advise you to get a "light option" - a jug. Of course, such a solution is possible only if the quality of the incoming water allows it.

Although outwardly in shape and color design, filter jugs can seriously differ. The basic design of the is always the same, and does not differ in great complexity.

In fact, these are two containers separated by a partition and communicating only through a filter cartridge.

The body of the jug (pos. 1) serves to collect purified water. It is always made of a transparent food-grade polymer, and a volume scale is often placed on its walls - for ease of use. The capacity of the jug may vary - usually a number of models are on sale with a volume of filtered water in the range of 1.3 ÷ 4 liters. The choice for this parameter depends on the family's need for drinking water.

The upper container (pos. 2) is an insert in the body. It is also made of impact-resistant food-grade plastic, but usually has a darker tone (the color may be different - depending on the design idea). This compartment is designed to receive water to be filtered, and its capacity, as a rule, is about half the usable volume of the jug.

At the bottom of the insert, where it forms a kind of funnel, there is a socket into which the filter cartridge (pos. 3) is tightly inserted and fixed. The purpose, that is, the functionality of the cartridge may be different - this is selected based on the existing "clinical picture" of the state of the water.

It is important to know that the locking or threaded connection of the cartridge with the upper container can vary significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer. Apparently, this is a method of stimulating the purchase of only branded components.

There is a spout in the upper part of the body - for the convenience of directed draining of filtered water (pos. 4). The design is such that even with a strong inclination of the jug, water from the upper and lower compartments does not have the opportunity to accidentally mix.

The collection of water for filtration is carried out with the cover folded back (pos. 5), which can be equipped with a convenient lock (pos. 6), or through the intake hatch, which also necessarily has its own cover to prevent accidental ingress of dust or debris inside.

The filter jug ​​always has a convenient handle (pos. 7). A “reminder” can be placed on top of the lid or on the handle - a mechanical calendar that will prompt the owner about the timing of the replacement of the filter cartridge. There are also expensive models that have electronic indication. Moreover, when selling some branded models, it is practiced to register customers who will subsequently receive Internet or SMS messages about the need to replace.

The scheme of work is obvious - the water poured into the upper container independently, without any influence, only due to gravity, passes through the filling of the cartridge, receives the required purification and accumulates in the jug. As water is consumed for drinking or kitchen needs, new portions are poured into the receiving container.

Applicable cartridges

It is the cartridge that is the most important element of such a filter, so special attention should be focused on its choice.

The shape of the cartridge and its lock part can be different, and there is almost no talk of interchangeability, unless, of course, this is specified by the manufacturer.

But cartridges for one filter model can have a different purpose:

• Replacement elements for water of standard quality are sold - they help to cope with possible unpleasant odors, normalize taste, remove heavy metal ions, impurities of chlorine, organic compounds, etc. The usual sorption material for them is granular activated carbon.
• There are cartridges with a pronounced softening effect - a certain amount of ion-exchange resins is additionally introduced into them.
• You can also choose a cartridge for a source with a high iron content - they use a reagent-free iron removal and filtration technology.
• For springs, water from which does not pass the stage of disinfection, there are special elements with a bactericidal effect.
• Cassettes are produced, the refilling of which involves a healing fluorinating effect on water.

Most companies use some form of silver in cartridge fillers to prevent bacterial colonies from growing inside them. And besides, each of the manufacturers tries to surprise the consumer with their own original developments.

Usually at the inlet and outlet of their cartridge there is a mesh or membrane that performs the function of mechanical filtration. In addition, usually in replaceable elements it has a special throttling device that equalizes the speed of water passing through the filler, regardless of the filling level of the upper part of the jug.

Advantages and disadvantages. Filter pitcher selection options.

The following can be said about the positive qualities of filter jugs:

• Their operation is the simplest, which anyone can handle.
• There are simply no installation operations, except for connecting the cartridge. Ideal for work, dorm or rental housing.
• The jug can be easily taken with you as needed, for example, for a vacation trip.
• Low cost, available to any family.

There are also significant disadvantages of such filtering:

• Cleaning goes only in certain portions. For example, to fill a five-liter kettle, you will have to fill the filter twice.
• The cleaning rate is low, rarely reaching the threshold of 400 ml/minute, and more often even much less.
• Frequent (about once a month and a half) replacement of the cartridge is required. the period may be even shorter.
• Relatively high operating costs in terms of the volume of filtered water, if you look at the future. So, already in a year and a half - two years, the total costs can equal, or even exceed the costs of a really powerful and high-quality multi-stage filtration unit.

When choosing a jug filter, care should be taken, as the market is replete with cheap fakes.

In no case do not buy them in random places - there are specialized stores for this. It is best to choose models of well-known brands.

Carefully inspect and, literally, sniff the body. The polymer should not emit any odors. Food grade plastics must be labeled appropriately as shown in the figure.

You should immediately evaluate the possibility of acquiring original replacement cartridges with the required functionality, in accordance with the quality of the water source, and their affordability.

It is necessary to reasonably approach the choice of a jug by volume. Remember - such a filter is not a "carafe" at all, but serves only to purify water. The capacity of the vessel should correspond to real needs with a small margin. It is not recommended to store filtered water for more than a day. This means that you will have to simply drain the excess, wasting the resource of a replaceable cartridge in vain.

Usually for a single person or for a couple, a jug of one and a half liters is enough. It is fashionable to think about buying a filter of maximum capacity, about 4 liters, only if it will be used in a large family.

Purchased cartridges must be in their original sealed packaging. Be sure to check their expiration date.

The convenience of the jug and its external design are certainly important criteria, but they should still be evaluated last.

To complete the section on jug filters - a small overview of popular models from well-known manufacturers and some cartridges for them.

Video: an overview of filter jugs of the Barrier brand

Faucet attachment filters

Another type of filter, which can be attributed to the simplest water purification systems.

As the name implies, these devices are simply put on the top of the faucet spout. Water is filtered in a flowing way, due to the pressure in the pipes. This makes it possible to use carefully compacted sorbent backfill in such filters, in contrast to jug cartridges, that is, to improve the quality of water purification.

The advantages of such desktop filters-nozzles are an increased resource and performance. The device does not clutter up the space directly above the sink.

However, there are also many disadvantages. The design is quite voluminous and will take up a lot of usable space near the sink, to which it is “tied”. When using a coupling connection, the inconvenience is the same as with a compact nozzle - the need to connect and disconnect with each set of filtered water. If a connection with a diverter is used, then the tube extending from it may be an obstacle.

A set of water from such a filter requires care - careless inclusion will result in liquid spilling onto the surface of the table. The probability of accidental release of hot water into the filter is fully preserved.

Under sink filter systems

Universal installations for filtration and fine purification of water, which are usually located under the kitchen sink, are gaining more and more popularity among users.

Structurally, such systems usually represent a series of cartridge-type filters, each with its own cartridge of a certain type of action. (The design of such filters is described in detail in the article, the link to which is placed above). Water on the way from the water supply to the point of analysis sequentially passes all the modules, which ensures comprehensive cleaning of the highest class.

All filters are usually assembled on one console with a system of channels or tubes for transferring water from one module to another. There are models with case design, in which the entire system is covered with a casing.

The location of the filter flasks is most often linear. In some multi-stage systems, it is possible to arrange in two rows or in two tiers, with vertical and horizontal placement of modules.

The number of modules, that is, the cleaning steps: from the minimum - one, to four, and sometimes even five. This causes the highest "flexibility" of the system - the mounting dimensions of replaceable cartridges, as a rule, are the same for one manufacturer, which allows you to accurately select the general characteristics of the entire complex, depending on the results of a laboratory study of water.

Such complexes are very easy to use. When they are installed, the water supply is immediately connected to the water supply, and a separate tap is installed at the sink, connected to the last filtration stage. At any time, you can substitute the container, open the faucet and draw the right amount of purified water. Moreover, the diameter of the connecting tubes, connecting channels and the parameters of the external tap provide the optimal pressure for high-quality filtration - there is no risk of exceeding it. In addition, the possibility of accidentally letting hot water into the filter modules is completely eliminated.

The disadvantages of such complexes can only be considered a certain complexity of the initial installation, although for the owner, who is familiar with basic plumbing techniques, there should not be any special problems. And the relatively high cost of such complexes can hardly be attributed to disadvantages - the high quality of cleaning is worth such costs, and a considerable resource of replaceable modules ensures a quick payback of the filter unit.

The choice of such filter systems has its own characteristics.

• Since the installation is supposed to be hidden under the sink, external design issues, as a rule, are not among the primary ones. Much more important is the correspondence of the dimensions of the complex to the actual dimensions of the space allotted for its installation.
• Since the system involves, most often, multi-stage cleaning, one should be guided not by the persuasion of the sales assistant, but by the available results of laboratory research. It is important to prioritize in advance in order to correctly select the modular content of the kit.
• Some complexes have extended functionality - after the first stage of mechanical cleaning, there is a branch to a conventional mixer or to a dishwasher, heater, etc.
• Assessing the performance of the complex as a whole, you should focus on the readings of the "slowest" cartridge. Usually, at the outlet of the faucet, a flow rate of the order of 1.5 ÷ 2 liters per minute is provided - a completely acceptable characteristic.
• Filtering modules can also differ in the size of their resource. The owner will have to follow this on his own, since, perhaps, the change of cartridges will sometimes need to be done not at once, but “in steps”. Some modules are amenable to periodic regeneration.

Of course, you should check the completeness of the delivery. Usually the system is supplied with everything necessary for its complete installation - a hanging or floor console, flasks, a set of cartridges (you can often choose it at your discretion), a tee for tapping into the water supply with a pressure regulator, connecting pipes, a tap for installation on a sink, a key for "Packaging" flasks with cartridges. Sometimes the kit also includes additional accessories - all this is indicated in the product passport.

Video: advantages of the Aquaphor-Trio water filter

Flowing main filters of the "Fibos" type

Another type of filter in which water is purified by passing through the filter element under the influence of pressure in the water supply system or pressure generated by the pump if the water source is autonomous. These filters are built directly into the main, that is, into the pipe through which water is supplied to the tap. This is convenient, since the procedure for the initial connection of the filter is one-time and, as a rule, is performed by a plumber. But anyone with basic plumbing skills can easily handle it.

The advantage of main filters is that already clean water flows from the tap, which can be used for any purpose. In addition, you can install one filter for several points of water analysis (kitchen, bathroom, toilet, washing machine and dishwasher, etc.).

We will analyze the operation of these filters using the Fibos filters as an example.

• Untreated water enters the outer flask of the filter.
• Under pressure, it passes through the filter element - a cloth wound with an ultra-thin microwire. The distance between the turns of the microwire is 1 micron.
• Contaminants remain in the outer part of the flask.
• Clean water from the filter element is supplied to the tap and to household appliances.
• Impurities are removed from the outside of the flask by simply opening the drain cock.

The microwire is the main thing in the filter. What is it and how does it filter?

Currently, the world's only mass production of microwires is located in Russia. The technology of its production was effectively developed back in the USSR. The main areas of microwire use are the military and space industries.

A microwire is an ultra-thin metal thread that is covered with glass insulation. Its thickness is not more than 25 microns, which is 40 times less than a millimeter.

In the filter element, the microwire is wound with a distance between the turns of 1 µm. Only water passes through it, and contaminants remain in the outer flask of the filter, then they are removed when the drain valve is opened at the bottom of the Fibos filter. The glass coating of the microwire is necessary so that impurities do not stick to the filter element and are easily washed off during washing.

If you look at the photo of the Fibos filter element under a microscope, you can see a metal core and a glass shell covering it. Looking closely, you can see the gap between the turns, which is about 1 micron.

In addition to fine purification of water from impurities of a mechanical type, Fibos type filters protect against bacteria. Bacteria attach to mechanical particles, forming a thin biofilm on them. Thanks to its ultra-fine filtration, the Fibos filter stops them completely.

If necessary, to soften water, remove chlorine, reduce the iron content in water, after the main filter of the Fibos type, you can put an inexpensive cartridge filter with the appropriate properties. Cartridges last much longer, change less often, as the Fibos filter does preliminary fine cleaning.

In terms of performance, there is a line of Fibos filters from 5 l / min for the kitchen, 16.5 l / min for an apartment or cottage, 50 l / min for a cottage, 83 l / min for a cottage, pool to industrial designs of 1000 l / min .

Fibos filters work with water pressure from 0.5 to 16 bar. They come with a pressure gauge that shows the pressure in the system.

Another plus to these filters: they practically do not reduce the pressure in your water supply system.

For ease of use, devices for automatic washing are attached to Fibos filters.

The filters are compact, from 146 mm to 183 mm high without a pressure gauge and a flush tap.

Filters with reverse osmosis system

The highest rates of water purification from any inclusions, chemical or bacteriological contaminants are shown by filtering units, in which, in addition to conventional purification, a stage operating on the principle of reverse osmosis is used.

First, what is reverse osmosis?

If the vessel is divided by a membrane with microscopic pores, and then a liquid with different concentrations of impurities is poured into these sections, then the system will not be in equilibrium. Liquid from a compartment with a lower concentration will spontaneously tend to the opposite one in order to equalize the overall concentration. This phenomenon is called direct osmosis.

But if an external influence is applied to the volume of a more concentrated liquid - to increase its pressure, then the flow through the membrane will begin to be carried out in the opposite direction. And it will depend only on the size of the cells of the membrane what will go to the next section.

This is how reverse osmosis filters work.

Water enters the filter module under pressure (arrow No. 1). The module itself is divided into two parts by a membrane (red arrow) whose micro-holes are only about 0.3 nm in size, so that they allow water molecules to pass through. Thus, small water molecules penetrate into the second half, from where the filtered water enters the points of accumulation or consumption (arrow No. 3). All larger molecules, not to mention mechanical suspensions, bacteria and even most viruses are reliably retained on the membrane, and are removed together with a concentrated solution into the drain (arrow No. 2). A common occurrence is the proportion of ⅓ of the total volume - purified water and ⅔ - discharged concentrate.

In principle, such a scheme is able to independently purify water of any degree of contamination. However, in order not to "overload" the membrane, and so that its pores do not overgrow, several stages of pre-filtration are provided. In addition, some molecules (for example, free chlorine, which is constantly present in tap water) are smaller than water molecules and must be disposed of in advance. Therefore, preliminary filtration includes not only mechanical, but also sorption purification.

The output is water, which, according to its characteristics, approaches distilled water. From the point of view of cleanliness - this is excellent, but from the standpoint of consumer qualities - not very. Such demineralized water is devoid of even the slightest taste and smell, it is of little use for drinking, and the dishes prepared from it will not be the most delicious. Moreover, many doctors agree that water of this degree of purification can even be harmful to the human body.

To eliminate this drawback, for domestic purposes, additional modules are usually installed after reverse osmosis. Usually it is a mineralizer that enriches water with mineral salts necessary for a person. A carbon post-filter can also be installed, a biothermal module that normalizes the bio-composition of water. And if special sterilization is required, then an ultraviolet lamp can also be used at the end of the cycle.

The cost of such installations is quite high, so you need to immediately decide how much there is a need for it. In addition, when choosing, a number of important criteria are taken into account.

• The reverse osmosis process requires a minimum pressure of around 2.8 bar. Not always plumbing systems meet these indicators. This means that either the installation of a pump that increases the pressure in the system will be required, or it will be necessary to purchase a complex equipped with a built-in pump. That is, there will be a need to organize power supply as well.
• Very "how much" is the question of the performance of the filter installation. Here it is important to find a “golden mean” so that the need for clean water is met and unnecessary surpluses are not created. We should not forget that in order to get a liter of purified water, about two liters will have to be drained into the sewer. That is, it would be extremely unreasonable to use such water for economic purposes.

Even the smallest installations are capable of delivering up to 100 liters per day - this is more than enough for any family. So chasing high performance is hardly worth it, especially since this affects the cost of the installation itself.

• It should be decided which installation will be more convenient to use - storage or flow. In flow systems, filtration occurs only when the tap is open - more efficient membranes are installed. In another option, the system has its own storage tank - the filtration process takes place only when necessary - with a decrease in the total volume of accumulated purified water to a certain level. Very convenient - the owners always have a supply of clean water. The disadvantage is the considerable dimensions of the assembly assembly. But the price of such complexes is much lower.

The most expensive module, of course, is reverse osmosis, but its resource is quite large - the membrane usually withstands up to three years of operation. The rest of the replaceable cartridges change more often, as the resources embedded in them are depleted. Typically, pre-filters last up to six months, and a carbon post-filter cartridge lasts up to a year. After its depletion, the water can "signal" a bitter taste.

Video: household filtration plant with a reverse osmosis system "Aquaphor - Morion"

In the filters for washing, replaceable modules are used, through which water is filtered sequentially. The cleaning method is determined by the “stuffing” of the modules and the technical device of the model:

• . Water is forced through the membrane cartridge using the pressure of the water supply network. With impurities, water cannot pass through the membrane, and is drained through the outlet drain tube.
• use activated coconut charcoal. It, like a sponge, absorbs harmful impurities from the water stream: chlorine and organochlorine. At the same time, like a sieve, it retains rust, silt, sand and other particles. Such a filter is suitable for removing the main contaminants of drinking water.
• Aquaphor offers another type of filter for washing:. DWM are models based on reverse osmosis technology for convenient home use. They take up 2 times less space than classic reverse osmosis systems, and can operate at low pressure: 2 atm is enough (“classic” requires 3.5 atm).

If you choose a filter by type of contaminant, please note:

• Any good wash filter will deal with major water contaminants. For specific impurities it may be necessary to install special systems.
• Not all contaminants can be identified by the look, taste, or smell of water. To be sure that you are solving exactly the problem, it is better to first hand over the water for analysis.

In an apartment building there is a centralized supply of hot and drinking water. Naturally, before submitting to the apartments, the main one was organized. However, it cannot be argued that after this the water is completely ready for use.

In order to get really clean water at the output, it would be better to use additional purification methods. Modern water purification systems for an apartment are presented in a fairly extensive range, so you should take a closer look at the current variations.

1 Cleaning methods

Usually, tap water treatment in an apartment has the same type of scheme, which shows the best results. It consists of the following stages.

At the first stage, it is better to install a mechanical or otherwise coarse filter. These are those that have polypropylene fiber cartridges. They clean these filters from suspension, iron, and sand.

The equipment is cut into the water supply and thus the running water is 100% purified. It should be remembered that for hot water it is necessary to use those that are resistant to higher temperatures. Such a system helps to extend the life of plumbing in apartments.

The second stage involves the purification of drinking and hot water from impurities of chlorine and metals. In eliminating these elements, it is very effective to use main filters with cartridges based on activated carbon.

The result will be noticeable immediately, as the water will acquire a pleasant bluish tint and the unpleasant chlorine smell will disappear. While taking a shower with purified hot water, the effect of tight skin disappears.

The third stage is needed in order to remove hardness salts, calcium and magnesium. This is necessary in order to get rid of raids on plumbing. Such filters contain softening cartridges and cut into the water supply to purify all running water.

The fourth stage involves obtaining clean drinking water. They are installed directly under the kitchen sink or.

Above is a water treatment, with which it is possible to obtain clean hot and drinking water. But you don't have to use all the steps. It is possible to combine filters, depending on which impurities should be eliminated.

2 List of cleaning equipment

You can offer different systems for purifying tap water, which are described below.

2.1 Advantages and disadvantages of filtering methods

Of course, each hot or cold water purification system has its positive and negative properties.

The advantages of filter jugs include their small size, simple design and low cost.

The disadvantages are the low degree of purification from impurities, the filter material has a short service life, as well as slow filtration.

Dispensers - can heat and cool water, have a larger volume of the vessel. However, they also have a low degree of purification.

Multistage filters are expensive. It cannot be guaranteed that it will completely purify water from bacteria and some viruses. The advantages include a large cleaning resource, it easily cleans from mechanical impurities of chlorine and its compounds.

Charcoal filters are usually made from coconut shells. Therefore, the main advantages are strength, low abrasion, long service life of more than a year.

The disadvantage may be that they are too large. Some carbon filters reach a height of 1 meter and a width of about 35 cm.

2.2 Which filter is better to choose?

To determine which filter is needed to purify the water of a given apartment, it is not enough to listen to the reviews of friends or acquaintances.

Of course, if funds allow, you can purchase a nanofilter that will make the water perfect and last for several years without replacing cartridges. If you choose economy options, then you can, depending on the composition of the water, select and arrange different filters.

When choosing, you should be guided by the following indicators:

• How many people live in the apartment, and how much water is consumed per day;
• What purchase price is acceptable;
• How clean water is expected at the output;
• It is better to analyze tap water and determine what impurities are present in its composition.

Finally, we should also mention reviews from people who installed water treatment systems at home.

Tatyana, 40 years old, Orenburg:

It is impossible to drink tap water without additional purification. I have been using the pitcher for a long time. However, I read reviews that it does not purify water well enough.

Now I'm thinking about buying a more serious system for cleaning, but so far I haven't made a final choice.

Ivan, 37 years old, Rostov-on-Don:

I have a multi-stage filter at home. I installed it myself, everything is very simple, now I don’t worry about the quality of the water.

Kristina, 41 years old, Kursk:

We used to always buy bottled water to drink. And then I read reviews that it might not be cleaned at all, but poured raw from the tap and decided to buy a filter. My husband put it under the sink with a separate faucet, so convenient.

2.3 How to choose a cleaning system for an apartment? (video)

Rough cleaning from insoluble particles - rust, silt, sand and other mechanical impurities. As a rule, rough cleaning is carried out by mesh (steel and polymer) components of filter elements.

Sorption(absorption). Water passes through a sorbent - most often activated carbon. This method is used primarily to remove active chlorine and unpleasant odors, phenol, toluene, petroleum products, pesticides.

Ion exchange. Special ion-exchange resins (they are small balls and are in a cartridge or cylinder) remove hardness salts and metal ions by “exchange”: conditionally safe sodium ions enter the water from the resins.

Reverse osmosis. The most effective cleaning method available at home. Water under pressure passes through a semi-permeable membrane that allows the solvent to pass through, but the solutes do not. The method is used, for example, for desalination of sea water. This process is slow (in household filters - 20-25 liters per day), so a tank is required for purified water.

Ultraviolet radiation. It kills most micro-organisms in the water, but poor microbiological quality of tap water is still an emergency. UV disinfection is more suitable for own water pipes from a well or well. For cleaning to occur, the water must be exposed to a UV lamp for several minutes, so for flow filters, the use of such a solution is doubtful.

Softening. There are filters that are “sharpened” precisely for this, they are called softeners. Such filters (and special cartridges) retain hardness salts. For water with a low hardness index, such cleaning is meaningless.

iron removal- everything is clear from the name. If you have rusty traces on plumbing, you definitely need it. But a water test can show elevated iron levels even if there are no traces.

Complex cleaning consists of several stages: rough (always), sorption and something special: disinfection, softening, iron removal. There are additional ways to treat water in filters: aeration (oxygen saturation), mineralization, etc.

Flow filter under the sink with three stages of cleaning

The simplest: nozzles on the tap and jugs

Faucet nozzles

These filters are affordable and easy to install. There are also disadvantages: you need to constantly remove the nozzle so as not to waste filtered water on “technical needs”, for example, washing dishes, especially since filtration is slow. The filtration quality is average, a more serious system is required to purify water from hardness salts and iron, and nozzles cope well with chlorine and mechanical impurities. Cartridges should be changed every one to three months.

Attachment on the crane

Pitcher type filters

A jug is an inexpensive option, however, cartridges cost around 100 rubles, and they need to be changed every one to three months - it depends on the resource of the cassette and on the number of “drinkers”. Of the shortcomings - a low filtration rate and a limited amount of water, but the filtration quality is high. It is necessary to constantly monitor that there is water in the jug and the cartridge does not remain dry, and it is also necessary to wash the jug often. When choosing the jug itself (not the cartridge), you need to pay attention to the following:

• the price of cartridges compatible with it and their resource;
• the ability to set the date of replacement of the cartridge on the cover;
• the ergonomics of the jug, for example, when tilted, the lid should not fall.

filter jug

Dispensers

Dispensers use the same system as jugs: water passes through a cartridge and accumulates in a container - only the reservoir is larger, and water is poured into the dishes through a small tap. As a rule, dispenser cartridges have a longer resource than jugs, although the manufacturers are the same. This type of filter is suitable for small offices and large families.

Filter dispenser

Filters "next to the sink"

Such filters are also called desktop filters. They do not require complex installation, they are installed on the table next to the sink and connected to the water supply using an adapter. Of the minuses - the average degree of purification, mainly from mechanical impurities and unpleasant odors, as well as a small cartridge resource - however, as with nozzles and filter jugs.

Filter next to the sink

Wash filters

Sink filters are installed, as a rule, in the kitchen, specifically to obtain purified drinking water. An inlet is made to the cold water pipe, a separate tap for filtered water is installed on the sink. But what kind of water will flow from this tap depends on the type of filter - whether it is flowing or reverse osmosis.

Flow filter under the sink

Flow filters

As a rule, they have three filter cartridges that work in combination. It is these "three heroes" that stand under the sink. Two of them are responsible for additional purification of water from mechanical impurities, chlorine, heavy metals. And the third is usually “special purpose”: softening, iron-removing, etc. And if the water is very hard or with a very high iron content, the special cartridge can be replaced ahead of schedule: this is convenient. This type of filter has an undeniable advantage: a high rate of water passage, a separate tap, which allows you not to waste it on food and drink. Minus - cartridges need to be replaced every two to three months, depending on the number of family members.

Replacing filter cartridges under the sink

Reverse osmosis filters

Reverse osmosis systems remove almost everything from the water, except for the actual H2O, and almost distilled water is obtained. Since drinking such water is not very pleasant (complete demineralization negatively affects the taste and impoverishes the water, because our body is used to getting some of the microelements from water), the kit includes a mineralizer cartridge that moderately saturates the purified water with potassium, magnesium, fluorine, iodine . Membranes do not need to be changed as often as cartridges. Such filters have two drawbacks: the drinking water tank takes up space under the sink, and you can’t quickly get a lot of drinking water: for example, to cook a pot of soup. Therefore, there must be a reserve in the tank, and this must be remembered and taken care of.

Osmotic filtration system

Main flow filters

Main filters are installed at the “entrance” of water to an apartment or house, they are needed in order to purify all the water at once for all points of water intake. The main filter is clean water not only for drinking and cooking, but also for protecting plumbing and household appliances. They remove insoluble impurities (rust and sand), make water more transparent. When buying a main filter of any type, you need to know the diameter of the pipe on which it will be installed; What is the maximum operating temperature for the filter? number of water points.

Main filters come with low (0.1-0.2 bar) or high (0.4-0.5 bar) hydrolosses, that is, a decrease in water pressure. On the upper floors, the pressure is already low, so for them you need to choose a filter with minimal hydroloss. Sometimes main filters are supplemented with pressure gauges.

The optimal technical equipment of the main filter is a pressure reducing valve that allows to reduce water consumption and pressure fluctuations at the inlet, and a check valve that prevents water backflow. Most often, such filters have transparent flasks in which the filter elements are enclosed: this allows you to see the degree of contamination. Depending on the equipment, brand and quality, prices vary: the main filter can cost a thousand or 20 thousand rubles, and a specialist must install it.

Flow-through main complex cartridge filter

Mesh line filters

These filters trap, mainly, mechanical pollution, their installation is advisable in houses with old communications. When buying, you need to clarify whether the filter has a backwash system (the so-called self-cleaning filters). The filter element is a stainless steel mesh: the smaller the mesh size, the better (sometimes 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 microns). Often a mesh filter, or a coarse filter, is installed on the line before the cartridge filter in order to reduce the load on it and achieve better results.