Shopping for a drinking water filter system can be a real headache. When you see prices for the basic water filters which range from just over $20 all the way up to and over $400, you wonder what can explain this huge variation. Take a minute and read the information we have here. At least it will help you get started.

The quality of the water in your area will determine the type of drinking water filter you need. For example, a drinking water filter using the reverse osmosis principle tends to be more expensive, but performs functions that are not needed by many of us.

If the water from your tap is provided by a public water utility, you can be sure that it will have been processed in a number of ways. RO is one step that they usually employ. RO mainly removes particles, minerals and can be used for removing salt from sea water or brackish wells.

Public water systems mostly have to use chlorine or else bacteria and algae can build up in the pipes that lead to your home. Some companies use ultra violet disinfection at the processing plant, but this will not inhibit the growth of bacteria in the water pipe in the road outside your house. The taste and smell of chlorine are the two main reasons why people decide to purchase a drinking water filter.

Every water filter that you can buy for your home will remove chlorine. Many have underwriter’s laboratory or some other independent certification and yet there is a four hundred dollar price range. Why?

Because the RO process is expensive you will not be surprised to learn that models using this technique are the most expensive. Also in the $400 bracket are filter systems available at local retailers who rely on a substantial markup over the wholesale price to cover their overhead expenses. The cheapest water filters are pitchers and screw on types which tend to be less effective and also need to be replaced more often.

As is often the case the best value for your buck can be found somewhere between the top and bottom of the range and $125 will buy you an efficient countertop water filter. Source the product from the factory direct and a filter will be delivered that will remove the chlorine and other chemicals from the water without destroying the essential minerals.

Hugh Harris-Evans is a writer who researches water purification issues. You may be surprised by his views on botttled mineral water.