Choosing Home Water Filters & Other Water Treatment Systems

Step 4: Maintain your filters.

Filters that are not well maintained can do more harm than good, so it is crucial to follow all manufacturers’ instructions for proper maintenance. Change filters regularly to keep your drinking water healthy. Water softeners need to be regenerated (flushed) on a regular schedule.

People with compromised immune systems

Filters collect germs from water, so someone who is not immunocompromised should change the filter cartridges. Anyone changing the cartridges should wear gloves and wash hands afterward.

Step 5: More Resources

CDC materials

• CDC. Technical Information on Home Water Treatment Technologies
• CDC. Water-related Emergencies and Outbreaks: Personal Preparation and Storage of Safe Water
• CDC. A Guide to Drinking Water Treatment and Sanitation for Backcountry & Travel Use
• CDC. Well Testing

Other partner materials

• EPA. Water on Tap: What You Need to Know [PDF - 36 pages]
• EPA. Filtration Facts [PDF - 7 pages]
• NSF. Home Water Treatment Devices
• NSF. Product and Service Listings
• Water Systems Council. Well Water Treatment Options and Costs [PDF - 4 pages]