When it comes to water filtration, many products are interchangeable. This is because some companies purchase the same water filters and put their own marks on them. Pleated filters are designed to have a larger surface area and a longer lifespan, and they come in a range of micron (µ) sizes and ratings. Most drinking water filters need to be changed every 6-12 months, while the reverse osmosis membrane only needs to be replaced every 2 years.
This duration may vary depending on the water contaminants and water use. Consumer Reports set out to investigate whether consumers can get aftermarket filters that offer the same level of quality and protection at a lower price. The membrane of a reverse osmosis filter cartridge is extremely dense, allowing it to filter out even the smallest particles. Counterfeit filters can do more harm than good by contaminating the water that passes through them, according to a recent industry-sponsored study.
Each filter will remove a specific type of compound from the water, resulting in fully purified drinking water. Inline replacement water filters are also available, but they don't need to fit inside the filter housing, so sizing is less of a concern. We were able to find two of the three key certifications Culligan filters hold, one for chlorine and odor reduction, and one for lead and volatile organic compounds. Unlike conventional reverse osmosis units, no filter housings are required, so there are no problems during cartridge replacement.
If you're not sure what filters you have, start by first determining the make or model of your reverse osmosis filter system. When it comes to cost per gallon, some fridge filters cost about the same as Brita faucet filters (19 cents per gallon compared to 17 cents per gallon for a GE or Samsung filter), some cost less (Sub-Zero filter costs 7 cents per gallon), and some cost more (some Whirlpool and LG filters cost 25 cents per gallon). We looked for aftermarket filters on Amazon and had significant problems finding brands that were certified to international quality and safety standards. Almost every company that makes filter cartridges offers them in one or more standard sizes to fit a wide range of filter systems. For example, if you were using an activated carbon filter cartridge, you could replace it with a carbon filter in most cases.
With a filtration size of one micron, this type of filter cartridge will not eliminate microscopic organisms, bacteria, chemicals, or anything else. When it comes to water filtration, it's important to make sure that you're using certified products that meet international quality and safety standards. This will ensure that your drinking water is safe and free from contaminants. It's also important to make sure that you're replacing your water filters regularly in order to maintain optimal performance.
