As one of the basic necessities, having access to clean water is a privilege. And given how many more people have become more health-conscious through the years, even “clean” water is not clean enough for them—and rightfully so. Sure, tap water is generally safe, but it still contains traces of impurities that can be harsh on our bodies, especially on our skin and hair. If you’re in the middle of renovating your home, then today’s topic about the top features to look for in a premium water shower is a great way to consider installing a shower filter for your home.
It should offer a multi-stage filtration technology.
A shower filter, as the name suggests, works on the premise of filtering impurities and contaminants from the water. However, these aren’t the only things they cleanse in your bathwater; there’s also chlorine and other chemicals that the human eye cannot see. It uses a combination of different media, and each one caters to a specific water issue. If your bathwater is hard water, which also has excessive chlorine and other issues, it’s better to choose one that offers multi-stage filtration. Here are a few filtration media and what you should know about them:
Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF). Kickstarting the media filters there are, KDF is the most crucial of all since it’s the most effective at removing chlorine, lead, copper, and other heavy metals. As a result, they prevent the growth of bacteria by inhibiting their growth. KKDF uses a copper-zinc alloy that performs a chemical reaction, specifically reduction-oxidation, that eliminates the contaminants.
Activated Carbon (AC). Apart from KDF, there’s also activated carbon, derived from coconut shells. AC is the best filter media when it comes to absorbing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and unpleasant odors. Besides these two, AC is also effective at removing residual chloramine, which is sometimes found in certain water systems in Australia.
Calcium Sulphite and Vitamin C. Imagine your filter having a filter: now that’s a sure way that almost all the contaminants are eradicated from your bathwater! Calcium sulphite and vitamin C are also filter media, but they work more as a secondary stage filter to further mitigate the chlorine. For people who need a purer form of their bathwater, especially those who have sensitive skin, having either calcium sulphite or vitamin C in the filter is highly suggested.
It should have a high flow rate and be compatible with Australian plumbing.
Another factor you should be keen on when choosing a premium shower filter is how it enhances the quality of water without compromising your shower experience.
Water pressure is maintained. Nobody likes bathing when the water pressure is weak. In some cases, the flow rate gets even weaker whenever contraptions like shower filters are attached to the shower head. To avoid this from happening, look for filters that are specifically designed to maintain the standard flow rate in your area. Cheap filters not only expose you to half-clean water, but they can also significantly restrict water flow. Premium shower filters are engineered to get the job done and make sure you never experience a weak shower.
It should be suited according to the Australian standards of fittings. There are a lot of available shower filters on the market, but apart from the filter, make sure that your shower filter of choice is compatible with the Australian standards. Their plumbing threads are usually 1/2-inch BSP, so you can install it by yourself without any hassle. While we’re at it, check that the filter is made of premium, high-quality, and durable connections. You can spot that the premium ones are often made of marine-grade metal or alloy, ensuring a leak-free fit.
Check if it has a proven lifespan and transparent testing.
One of the things people should know about filters is that, like all things, they also have a lifespan. Don’t be scared of the technicalities; focus on the filter’s cartridge life.
They have a long cartridge life. A lot of companies market their filter products for having a “year-long” life, but you should know better. To ensure that your water is thoroughly cleansed, the shower head filter should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. In some cases, there are those who need to have it changed after filtering a specified volume of water to maintain peak performance. You can always trust premium brands to be transparent about the filters’ replacement cycle. Many of these brands also offer subscription services, so you always know when to get your filter changed, avoiding one less inconvenience in your life.
They have independent certification. There’s a reason why the premium shower filter brands are the cream of the crop in the market; aside from delivering on their promise of providing top-notch services, they also have certifications or third-party lab testing verified by reputable labs. This external validation is proof that the filter really reduces the impurities and contaminants in the water.
It should focus on mitigating chlorine for our wellness.
The excessive amount of chlorine is the primary concern of Australians when it comes to their bathwater. With that said, find a premium shower filter to mitigate the effect of chlorine on their bodies.
Targeted chlorine reduction. If you’re experiencing dry, itchy skin and dull, lifeless hair, despite changing your soap, shampoo, and body wash, you best believe the cause of that is chlorine in your water. You must choose a filter that effectively removes chlorine by at least 90 percent.
Look for filters that offer mineral conditioning. For folks with sensitive skin, it’s best to install a multi-stage filter so as not to trigger irritants that will cause your skin to flare up. This is crucial in homes that have hard water; the debris in the water is an added irritant to your skin. By installing the multi-stage filter, it significantly decreases the water’s harshness and avoids mineral buildup. Just try it! Witness the changes in your skin as it becomes more supple and smoother.
