Filtration guide

Water Filtration Technologies

Not all filters are equal — and the best technology depends on what's in your water. Here's how each one works, what it removes, and when to use it.

Reverse Osmosis

Most comprehensive — removes 95-99% of dissolved contaminants including PFAS, lead, arsenic, and fluoride.

$150–$5,000
Activated Carbon

Most common — removes chlorine, THMs, VOCs, and taste/odor. Does NOT remove TDS, nitrate, or fluoride.

$20–$2,000
Water Softener

Removes hardness minerals (calcium/magnesium) via ion exchange. Does NOT filter contaminants.

$500–$2,500
UV Purification

Kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites with UV-C light. Does NOT remove chemicals or minerals.

$50–$400
Ion Exchange

Swaps target ions for harmless ones. Used for softening, nitrate, radium, and PFAS removal.

$300–$2,500
Distillation

Removes virtually everything by boiling and condensing. Very slow and energy-intensive.

$100–$1,500
Salt-Free Conditioning

Prevents scale without removing hardness. Does NOT soften water or filter contaminants.

$500–$2,000
Gravity-Fed Filters

No installation needed. Uses gravity to push water through ceramic or carbon elements.

$50–$400