Shower Filter Installation and Improve Your Water Quality

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Maintaining a healthy and comfortable home environment often means paying attention to the water quality in your shower. The water we bathe in is just as crucial as the water we drink. Shower water filters have become increasingly popular as they offer a simple yet effective way to improve the quality of the water we use for bathing. So, why do you need a shower water filter?

The Need for Shower Water Filters

Contaminants in Shower Water

The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 regulates the quality of drinking water in the United States, but it doesn't extend to shower water. According to the Environmental Working Group's tap water database, over 300 contaminants can be found in household water, including volatile organic chemicals like chloramine. These chemicals can be harmful to human health and cause various skin and hair problems.

Benefits of Using a Shower Water Filter

Using a shower water filter can significantly improve your bathing experience by removing harmful chemicals and impurities from the water. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Softer Skin: Hard water often contains high amounts of calcium and chlorine, which can cause dry skin and wrinkles. A good shower filter will effectively remove these heavy minerals and contaminants, making your skin cleaner and smoother.

• Healthier Hair: Chlorine naturally absorbs moisturizing oils from the scalp, leaving your hair dry and brittle. Soft water, on the other hand, is free of chlorine and other skin irritants, so your hair can be bouncy, light, and shiny.

• Reduced Allergies and Irritants: Chlorine and other minerals in hard water can be a huge irritant for sensitive skin. With a shower water filter effectively filtering out harmful chemicals, you can have soft water in your shower without worrying about treating your skin afterward.

• Improved Hair Quality: Hard water can weigh down your hair and cause it to feel dull and lifeless. By using a shower water filter, you can improve the quality of your hair products and enjoy bouncier, more luxurious hair.

Types of Shower Water Filters

Several types of shower water filters are available, each with unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:

Inline Shower Filters

Inline shower filters are directly screwed behind the existing showerhead or fixed showerhead you use. These filters are installed close to the back of the shower arm and provide effective filtration by removing impurities and contaminants from the water.

Built-in Showerhead Filters

Built-in showerhead filters have a built-in filtration system that removes impurities and softens your shower water to an extent. Unlike regular showerheads, these filters function similarly but offer additional benefits like improved water quality.

Vitamin C Filters

Vitamin C filters are one of the most common shower filters that remove impurities in water, like pollutants and heavy metals. As hard water passes through the vitamin C filter, any impurities are chemically reactive to the vitamin C, which filters them out of the water and comes out the other end as clean, soft water.

Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) Filters

KDF filters are popular for most shower filters because they are highly effective at removing chlorine from water. They also remove heavy metals like lead and mercury, which are sometimes prevalent in water systems with older pipes.

How to Choose the Right Shower Water Filter

Choosing the right shower water filter can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a shower water filter:

• Filter Replacement: Most shower water filters need to be replaced every six months. Look for filters with easy-to-replace cartridges and reminders to ensure you stay on top of maintenance.

• Filtration Capabilities: While most shower head filters are designed to handle chlorine effectively, they may not address other water quality issues that could lead to dry skin and hair. Consider a filter that addresses multiple contaminants.

• Flow Rate: The flow rate of the shower filter is crucial to ensure adequate water pressure and flow during showering. Look for filters with optimized flow rates that minimize pressure loss while providing efficient filtration.

• Certifications: Look for filters that meet NSF certifications, which ensure the filter meets certain standards for removing contaminants.

How to Install a Shower Water Filter

Installing a shower water filter is a relatively simple process that can be done by anyone with basic plumbing knowledge. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install an inline shower filter:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Before starting the installation, turn off the water supply to your shower by locating the shut-off valves and turning them clockwise.

2. Remove the Old Showerhead: Remove the old showerhead by unscrewing it from the shower arm. If your showerhead is fixed, you may need to use a wrench to loosen it.

3. Install the Filter: Place the inline shower filter onto the shower arm. Make sure it is securely attached using the provided clips or screws.

4. Reattach the Showerhead: Reattach the showerhead to the filter. Ensure it is securely tightened to prevent leaks.

5. Turn On the Water Supply: Turn on the water supply by turning the shut-off valves counterclockwise.

6. Test the Filter: Test the filter by running hot water through it to ensure it is working properly and not causing any leaks.

Additional Tips

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and clean your shower filter to ensure it continues to function effectively. Replace the filter cartridge as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Compatibility: Ensure that the shower filter is compatible with your existing showerhead or plumbing system. Some filters may require specific adapters or fittings.

Alternative Solutions: Whole-Home Filtration Systems

While shower water filters are effective at improving the quality of your shower water, they may not address all water quality issues in your home. For long-term peace of mind, consider installing a whole-home filtration system. These systems address issues far beyond chlorine, helping minimize the presence of contaminants like iron and sulfur.

Conclusion

Using a shower water filter is an easy and effective way to improve the quality of your bathing experience. By removing harmful chemicals and impurities from the water, you can enjoy softer skin, healthier hair, and a more refreshing shower. With various types of filters available, each with its own unique features and benefits, choosing the right one for your needs is crucial. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily install a shower water filter in your home and start enjoying cleaner, healthier showers today.

References

• HomeWater Blog. (July 2022). Shower Water Filters: Answers to Your Questions. Retrieved from https://www.homewater.com/blog/shower-water-filters-answers-to-your-questions
• Culligan Blog. (n.d.). What Are Shower Filters and Do They Really Work? Retrieved from https://www.culligan.com/blog/what-are-shower-filters-and-do-they-really-work
• Family Handyman. (2023-02-03). How Does Using a Filtered Shower Head Improve Your Water? Retrieved from https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/filtered-shower-head/
• Conscious Water. (n.d.). Shower Filter Benefits: Improving Water Quality for a Refreshing Shower Experience. Retrieved from https://consciouswater.ca/shower-filter-benefits/
• Ecosoft. (2024-04-29). What Are Shower Filters and Do They Really Work? Retrieved from https://www.ecosoft.com/post/what-are-shower-filters-and-do-they-really-work