Water quality
What's in your water?
Tap water can meet legal limits and still contain things you'd rather not drink or bathe in. Here's what to look for and how to choose the right filter.
Common contaminants
Check your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report to see what's in your local supply.
Chlorine & chloramine
Added by utilities to disinfect; affects taste, odor, skin and hair.
Lead
Can leach from older pipes and fixtures into drinking water.
PFAS
"Forever chemicals" found in many municipal water supplies.
Sediment
Sand, rust and particles that cloud water and wear appliances.
Hard water minerals
Calcium and magnesium that cause scale on fixtures and appliances.
VOCs & pesticides
Industrial and agricultural runoff that can reach water sources.
Compare systems
Many homes combine whole house filtration with a dedicated drinking water system.
| Whole House | Under-Sink | Reverse Osmosis | Shower | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treats every tap | ✓ | — | — | — |
| Reduces chlorine | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reduces lead & PFAS | With upgrade | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| Maximum reduction (99%) | — | — | ✓ | — |
| Scale protection | With conditioner | — | — | Partial |
| Starting price | $1,299 | $199 | $449 | $69 |