Faucet Mounts

• For larger households, the faucet mounted filter  is a better solution than a filter pitcher.
• The technology is roughly the same as the pitcher, but the filtration process is faster and each filter processes up to 200 gallons of water.
• The faucet mount easily attaches to a standard kitchen sink faucets and removes unpleasant taste and odors, metals, and chlorine.
• The differences between PUR and Brita still hold true - if you are just looking to remove taste and odor, either is fine, but for cyst removal PUR has the edge.
• Before purchasing a faucet mount, make sure your sink is compatible with the filter unit.
• The faucet mount is an inexpensive way to have a constant supply of filtered water, but some consumers have complained that the filters are slow.
• As with pitchers, the initial cost of a unit is not high - usually about $40 - but the cost of filters can add up.
• A two-pack of filters  usually costs about $30.

Under-Sink Filtration

• The under-sink filtration system  is a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to the faucet mounted purifier.
• As the name suggests the filter is installed under the sink and does not interfere with normal sink use.
• Many such systems require professional installation and a significant amount of space.
• However, all subsequent filter changes do not require outside assistance.
• Usually a small unit will be connected to the plumbing under the sink. Then a separate tap will be installed as the filtered water tap.
• Although initially somewhat more expensive than a faucet mount, the filters last a little longer (about four months), saving you money.
• Keep in mind that this may require drilling to install the separate tap.

Entire Household Filtration

• If you want filtered water for every activity -- laundry, dishes, bathing, cooking, and even the garden -- there are various types of whole-house water filters  that can be attached to the water main.
• These filters require professional installation, but the benefits are numerous for those with skin allergies or asthma, which are aggravated by chlorine.
• Minerals in water can also make your hair and skin feel different. Odors in the water can linger as well.
• Expensive to install, but in the long run the cheapest per gallon of water. Filters do not need to be changed as often.
• Not be the best choice for significant contamination, but will remove odors and minerals.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

• Reverse osmosis filters  work differently from other filters.
• Pulls water out of impurities rather than impurities out of water.
• Filters out not only dirt and metals but bacteria, viruses and cysts.
• Expensive (about $1000 for an under sink system) and not really necessary unless:
• You live in an area with a very unstable water supply, and/or
• You have a weakened immune system.
• Not at all efficient - for every gallon of water purified, up to five gallons may be wasted - also, very slow.
• Need to be professionally installed.