It’s not a secret that tap water is not the safest bet when it comes to drinking clean water. That’s why most households own at least one type of water filter. The reason behind this is simple – filtering water is cheaper than buying bottled water. Also, it’s more eco-friendly, easy to use, and most importantly healthier.
Adopting the habit of using a water filter may seem like a small step or non-essential, but it for sure is not. It improves your regular tap water in many different ways, one of which is stripping it from its harmful contaminants in the form of lead and bacteria.
However, improving the quality of the water for drinking purposes is not the only plus here. Many gardeners and garden lovers ask themselves, is the water I use for my garden safe both for the plants and myself?
For us to understand this question let us first get a brief overview of the harm which tap water can cause to both humans and plants.
Why is it Necessary for water to Be Clean?
First and foremost, let us consider human health and the damage water can cause. Looking at the statistics, around 784 million people do not have access to clean water and more than 30% of schools do not have safe drinking water. Consequently, and this is very disturbing, thousands of deaths are caused by inadequate water sanitation hygiene, which could be prevented easily if drinking water was safely managed. Not only that, but water-related illnesses are also the leading factor when it comes to the loss of school days coming around at a whopping 443 million annually.
Depending on the contaminant level in the water, the type of contaminant and its cluster, the duration of exposure, and the consumed amount, drinking water can potentially cause a series of health disorders and unpleasant health effects. The most common issues are gastrointestinal illnesses, reproductive and nervous system disorders, and even chronic diseases.
Indirect consumption
Recently, home gardens have risen in popularity. That’s amazing because there are numerous benefits that an organic home garden can provide to its owner. One of them is the knowledge of what kinds of nutrients your plants are fed with that will eventually make their way into your body (in case you grow vegetables, herbs, and fruits). But did you know that by using impure or unfiltered water you are also putting your health at risk?
Yes, indirect consumption of contaminated water through plants can be equally disturbing. So, water quality is a key factor to consider ineffective gardening. Because hydrating and nourishing plants is the main goal, exposure to chemicals may be crucial in the process and will most likely affect the final product.
Tap water can be seriously harmful to plants as well as to humans. In most common cases, tap water is “hard”, meaning it contains large amounts of dissolved minerals. This is a serious issue for most Americans.
But softened water is not a perfect solution either. This is due to the fact that it is high in sodium which can be very harmful to most plants. Sodium burns roots and makes it harder for plants to absorb water from the soil. Lucky for us, the sodium problem can be avoided using a salt-free water softener.
“I want to do grow my own produce but do not know what to do!” Well, worry not. We live in a modern age and there is a way that you can limit or even entirely negate the potential damage.
Read More: The Main Benefits Of Having Potable And Recycled Water Infrastructure
What is the Best Proven Method to Improve the Quality of your Water?
So, what is the best-proven method you can use to improve the quality of your water which will ultimately benefit your garden AND you?
According to our research, the most effective method of filtering water is using a whole-house water filter. Whole-house units are a type of water filter system that purifies water before it gets to your sinks, showers, and faucets. If you are not familiar with them, there are two major types of whole-house filters to buy.
- The first type uses standardized filter cartridges. They are placed in housings and are the cheaper alternative. At the same time, they for sure require more maintenance if you want to rely on them long-term.
- The second type of whole-house water filter has a much higher filtration capacity. Usually, these filtration installments last for 10 years, before showing any sign of wear. What’s more, whole-house filters in this category are much bigger than the standard ones and provide protection from specific pollutants. Their main disadvantage is the high cost. But they are definitely a worthy investment.
Read More: Top 05 Tips on Keeping Your Home Clean Without Fuss
The Benefits of Installing a House Water Filter
The benefits of getting a water filtration system are manifold.
- For one, the smell of your water will drastically improve. The same goes for its taste.
- It is needless to say that your drinking water becomes much safer due to the fact that dangerous pollutants are being removed. Filtered water is good for your general health, your garden, and for your appliances.
- Another benefit of installing a house water filter is that you have filtered water at every point of use. Thus, you don’t need to think about where you’re filling your glass of water and which tap to use when irrigating your plants.
- Small water filters tend to reduce water pressure. Water that was once flowing rapidly may become a pity trickle asking for your patience. Not so with a large water filter serving an entire home with a water flow rate of 10 to 20 gallons per minute.
Of course, you may have different reasons for installing such a filter. It all depends on where you live, what is your home’s primary water source, and which kind of water problems you are experiencing. However, there is one thing in common here: Whatever inconvenience or discomfort you’re facing, a whole-house water filtration system can deal with it.
Getting Clean Water for you and your Garden May Not Be so Hard After All
Contaminated water can cause severe damage both to people and their gardens. There are plenty of statistics showing that this threat should not be neglected. Fortunately for all of us, this problem can be solved with a little help from a whole-house water filter. Installing such a system will significantly change your life for the better.
It’ll help you solve any form of water pollution. And most importantly, you will be relieved that you and your family’s safety is not on the line any longer. Make a change now – change your drinking habits.