What Filter Should I Purchase?
There are different types of carbon filters. Granular filters contain fine grains of activated carbon, and their effectiveness largely depends on how quickly water flows through the filter. Block filters contain activated carbon that is shaped into blocks under high pressure. Although they are more expensive, they are usually more effective. In some situations, they can decrease the flow rate of your water system.
Within both filters, there are 3 forms of activated carbon:
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Coal-based carbon has larger pore size and may affect taste
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Wood-based carbon has large pores but is good for filtering specific contaminates
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Coconut-based carbon provides the most effective filtration with a tight structure and micro-pores
No matter what type of activated carbon you choose, you should also have a sediment filter. Usually, sediment filters are included in whole-home activated carbon treatment systems, but if not, you should purchase one separately.
Typically, sediment filters are composed of natural media, such as sand, that will trap undesirable sediment and debris as the water passes through the bed. This protects your system from heavy debris and helps ensure there is no sediment in the water you drink.
At McKeown Plumbing, your options for carbon filters include:
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The Penguin Backwashing Catalytic Carbon Filter: $962-$1,250 for the entire home (depending on size); removes up to 99% of suspended solids, volatile organic compounds, sediment, heavy metals, chlorine, chloramines, and other contaminants; smartphone-controlled; uses timed backwashing filters to ensure even filtration; made of carbon block coconut shell; replace carbon media every 5 to 7 years for maximum efficiency.
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The Penguin NonBackwashing Carbon Filter: $658-$942 for the whole house (depending on size); removes up to 99% of suspended solids, volatile organic compounds, sediment, heavy metals, chlorine, chloramines, and other contaminants; smartphone-controlled; requires regular flushing to prevent bacteria growth and channeling; made of carbon block coconut shell; replace carbon media every 5 to 7 years for maximum efficiency.
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Penguin Whole House Sediment Pre-Filter: $344 for the entire home; removes sediment and debris from water that would otherwise damage piping and appliances and clog the whole-home carbon filtration systems; replace yearly at $135.
If this seems like a lot, don’t worry. Our team can help you choose. McKeown Plumbing has over 100 years of experience, our technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured, and we utilize the newest tools and best practices.
For crisp, clean water with an activated carbon filtration system, please call us at (949) 497-1108 or contact us online today.