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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(ARA) - The issue of water quality and healthy drinking water has become increasingly important in the United States. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are growing numbers of activities that can contaminate drinking water such as improperly disposed of chemicals, wastes injected underground and naturally occurring substances. The EPA has established standards for more than 80 contaminants that may pose a health risk in drinking water. An October 2004 Gallup Poll showed that the number of consumers concerned about the quality and healthfulness of tap water has risen to 33 percent -- up from 30 percent in 2002.
There are several options on the market for healthy water. How do you know which is the right choice for you and your family? One response to concerns about water quality has been an increase in the consumption of bottled water. According to the Beverage Marketing Corporation, in December 2004 bottled water was the second-most consumed beverage in the United States. Bottled water is great, but it can become a very expensive habit -- especially for an entire family. Also, some consumers don’t realize that many bottled water brands lack fluoride, an important element for young children.
“Another cost-effective alternative is an in-home water filtration system, which helps reduce the number of contaminants in your water, as well as improve its taste and smell,” said Danette Goen, product development manager, Delta Faucet Company. “Now consumers can get bottled-water quality right at their kitchen sink without the hassle of buying, carrying home and storing bottles.” Here are just a few of the popular water filtration systems that are out there, according to Goen. All you need to do is choose the one that is right for you!
* Water Filtration Pitchers -- As you pour water into the pitcher, it moves through the filter and into the bottom reservoir, sifting out contaminants. On the upside, no installation is necessary and water is always accessible. On the down side, pitchers require constant refilling and the filters need constant changing. The 2004 Gallup Poll showed pitchers made up approximately 30 percent of filtration ownership.
* Faucet Mounts -- A filter device is attached directly to the end of the faucet. These devices easily convert a standard faucet into a filtered faucet. Today manufacturers offer faucet-mount filters in a variety of colors to match with the finish of your faucet. However, some consumers feel this option compromises the style and look of the kitchen sink and faucet. Only certain faucet mount filter brands, such as the 3-stage filter from PUR, take out contaminants such as heavy metals and microorganisms. In 2004, faucet mount ownership declined to 18 percent, according to the Gallup Poll, from 24 percent in 2002.
* Integrated Filter Faucet -- This is a faucet with a built-in filter, usually in the spout, delivering filtered water when the filter button is pushed. Even though water is available right at the tap, replacement filters can be expensive and often need to be specially ordered. In addition, these systems may need to be professionally installed which can add to the expense.
* Undersink -- Within these systems filtered water is drawn through a separate faucet mounted on top of the sink. It is attached either to the wall or underneath the sink and may require professional installation. According to Goen, undersink filtration systems tend to remove more harmful contaminants than an integrated filter faucet, and they keep the filter out of sight, allowing the focus to be on the faucet’s design rather than on the inner workings of the system. Today consumers are starting to see more stylish options available in filter faucets since the increased demand has created an increase in style options.
“Providing a solution to consumer needs and concerns is what inspired Delta Faucet Company to partner with PUR Water Filtration Products to develop the Simply PUR filtration faucet. PUR is a leader in water filtration and we knew that together we could offer a safe, smart and simple filtered water solution for consumers,” said Goen.
If you are concerned about your home’s water quality, doing research can provide answers to exactly what is being transported through your pipes and into your home. Conducting a basic water test, contacting your local health department or local water company, and knowing what your state and local governments are doing to help protect your water quality are steps that can be taken to ensure the quality of water in your home. To learn more about water filtration, visit www.deltafaucet.com or call (800) 345-DELTA (3358). To obtain a copy of “The Safe Drinking Water Guide” created by Delta Faucet Company and the National Safety Council, contact the National Safety Council at (800) 621-7615. Courtesy of ARA Content
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