Granular Activated Carbon Filters (GAC) are cost-effective and valuable water treatment devices, but the consumer has to consider its limitations. On one hand, activated carbon filters are able to remove organic material (humus, algae), concentrated chemicals (chlorine, thihalomethanes, fluoride), and microscopic contaminants (herbicides, pesticides). Yet on the other hand activated carbon water filters may breed bacteria if the users fail to change the filter cartridges on a routine basis.

KDF Filters are able to turn most harmful contaminants found in municipal water into harmless elements. Moreover, there is no need for electricity, no water waste, they can be used with hot water, and the filter is not likely to breed any bacteria. The downside is, however, that KDF filters do not remove fluoride (suspected of causing bone and teeth damage) and organic contaminants. Premium systems use KDF filters in conjunction with granular activated carbon filters.

Distillation is a very slow process and it must be repeated several times to ensure significant water purity. It is a good way to produce pure water removed of nitrate, salt and pathogens. Synthetic chemicals common in municipal water such as pesticides, herbicides, and chlorine solutions won’t be removed through distillation, because their boiling point is lower than the one of water. In addition, distillation strips water of its natural trace elements, thus turning it acidic as the hydrogen composition becomes greater in proportion. Long-term consumption of such demineralized water can be harmful to the body system and result in mineral deficiencies in the body.

Water Softeners (Deionizers) are primarily able to remove calcium and magnesium, so to speak the hardness of the water. Benefits include softer feeling clothes, less pipe scaling and a longer life of household appliances such as dish washer and washing machine. Yet, as softened water contains high amounts of sodium, it is not good for health. So please always remember that softened water or de-ionized water shouldn't be used for drinking and cooking, and also not for watering plants and lawns.

Point-of-Use Systems only affects the water at exactly that faucet where the unit is installed, the clear better choice is a Point-of-Entry System, installed at the main in-line water feed to your home, as it provides pure and safe water throughout the entire home or place of business, including every faucet and shower head.