Even at low levels, lead is a serious threat to human health. Acceptable contamination levels for drinking water are set at zero by the Environmental Protection Agency because of the potential for harm. Because of the severe health concerns, you should invest in the best water filter for lead removal.
What Are the Options for the Best Water Filter for Lead Removal?
Water purification options come in many forms. You can buy pitcher-style filtration systems, faucet-mounted filters, under-sink filters and whole home systems. Lead can come from any water source, so the most effective protection should cover all the plumbing in your home.
What Filter Do You Need for Lead?
Not every filter is capable of removing lead contaminants from your water. Look for a distillation filter, carbon filter or reverse osmosis filter. Activated carbon has undergone treatment to increase its surface area, which by default gives it a higher absorption capacity. The surface of the carbon absorbs lead particles as it passes through. You can find filters that fit ice makers or refrigeration systems, such as the carbon options from Metpure.
Using a distillation filter is a lot harder in a residential setting. It’s a process that uses heat to vaporize the water. Condensation turns the vapor back into a liquid but the process leaves the lead behind. Reverse osmosis filters the water through a semi-permeable membrane and traps large lead particles.
Does Filtering Tap Water Remove Lead?
Certified filters are capable of removing lead from tap water. The best water filter for lead particles will meet the safety standards of organizations such as the Water Quality Association, NSF International or Underwriters Laboratories.
Unfortunately, there are a few things that could keep your filter from removing contaminants from your tap water:
- Improper installation
- Failure to regularly change filters
- Filters past their expiration date
Any filter has the potential to fail when it’s not operated properly or maintained. A whole-home approach to lead removal is also one of the more effective ways of keeping tap water safe for cooking, cleaning, bathing and consumption.
Does Reverse Osmosis Eliminate Lead?
Reverse osmosis is often considered the best water filter for lead removal because of its certification from NSF International. Its performance removes up to 99% of lead from water, generally giving it the highest reliability ratings. RO systems often cover a whole house and have several filtration steps to increase the safety of the drinking water. Metpure has an advanced reverse osmosis system that removes 99% of contaminants like lead, chloroform, mercury and more.
Do Filters Need To Be Replaced?
The best water filter for lead needs to be maintained if it's going to provide optimal protection. Depending on the size of the system and water usage, filter cartridges typically need to be replaced every three to six months, but some can last longer given the size and system support.
Shop for the Best Water Filter for Lead Removal
At Metpure, you can have confidence that the filtration systems and parts you purchase are of the highest quality. Browse the cartridge options with Metpure Versatile and our reverse osmosis system. It tops the list of the best water filter for lead removal. Contact us for questions about our products or special pricing.