Module 8
Water Filter Comparison Chart
Side-by-side comparison of filter types and what they actually remove
How to Use This
How to Use This: First, look up your water quality at ewg.org/tapwater. Identify which contaminants are present, then find the filter type in the table that removes them. Match your budget and installation ability to the options.
Key Terms
Key terms: RO = Reverse Osmosis (forces water through a membrane that blocks most contaminants). PFAS = Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, also called 'forever chemicals' because they don't break down in the environment.
| Filter Type | Fluoride? | Lead? | Chlorine? | Pesticides? | Cost Range | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pitcher (Brita-style) | No | Some models | Yes | Minimal | $20-50 | Filter every 2 months | Renters, basic chlorine/taste improvement |
| Faucet Mount | No | Yes | Yes | Some | $20-40 | Filter every 3 months | Easy install, better than pitchers |
| Under-Sink Carbon | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | $100-300 | Filter every 6-12 months | Families wanting solid filtration without RO |
| Reverse Osmosis (RO) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | $200-600 | Filters annually, membrane every 2-3 years | Maximum contaminant removal |
| Whole House | No (carbon); Yes (RO) | Varies | Yes | Varies | $500-3,000+ | Annual filter changes | Removing chlorine from shower/bath water too |
| Distillation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Most | $100-400 | Clean unit regularly | Purest water possible; slow output |
| Gravity (Berkey-style) | With fluoride filters | Yes | Yes | Yes | $250-400 | Clean/replace elements every 1-3 years | No plumbing needed; portable; families |
Contaminant Removal by Filter Type
Heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic)
RO, distillation, gravity, quality under-sink
Fluoride
RO, distillation, activated alumina, bone char
Where to Start
Step 1: Check what's in your water. Look up your zip code at EWG's Tap Water Database (ewg.org/tapwater) or request your city's annual water quality report. Then match your contaminants to the filter type that removes them.
Price Ranges
Pitcher filters ($15-40/year): good for chlorine, some metals. Faucet-mount ($30-80): better coverage. Under-sink RO ($150-400): removes nearly everything. Whole-house ($1,000+): treats all water in your home.
Remineralization
RO and distillation strip beneficial minerals along with contaminants. Add a remineralization filter or trace mineral drops (ConcenTrace or similar) to restore calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Next Steps
Next Steps: If you have an infant on formula, review the Baby Formula Water Prep Guide for specific water safety guidance. If you're concerned about broader chemical exposure, check the Product Swap Priority List.
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