Pre-filters are often used as a part of a complex whole-house water filtration system. They reduce the amount of small particles of rust, sand or silt and protect later stages of water purification from premature clogging. Similarly they protect pipework and household appliances, like dishwashers, water heaters, washing machines and tubs.
Choosing a pre-filter comes down to selecting a housing and a filter cartridge that fit your requirements. Larger housings can use carbon cartridges to filter most common contaminants in tap water, while smaller housings use mainly polypropylene cartridges that reduce turbidity. Filters of different porosity remove particles of various sizes. The size of the housing also defines how much water can go through the pre-filter at a time and how often one needs to replace the filter cartridge.
The uncompromising solution for dealing with hard water is a reverse osmosis system. It reduces the excess of minerals in water down to the level where it is perfect for cooking and brewing drinks. Aquaphor specialises in producing compact and water-efficient reverse osmosis units, able to cope with a very high water mineralization.
As pre-filters are installed in-line of water supply they are always experiencing pressure. Quality housings are designed to withstand high pressure and even hydraulic shocks if they are properly installed. Stainless steel housings are slightly more durable than armored plastic housings.
Sometimes pre-filtration is not enough. In most cases when a house has access to well-water sources, a whole home system for water filtration is required. To soften large amounts of water for multipurpose usage at home, you would need a water softener. It also effectively removes colloidal iron and serves as a pre-filter at the same time. When you prefer to remove such harmful impurities as traces of chemicals, lead, mercury, inorganic compounds of chlorine and iron to get a better quality of life with spa quality water at home - a full-fledged whole house water filter can be used.
