Carbon filtration systems use activated carbon to remove contaminants and impurities from water, using chemical adsorption, as opposed to absorption. Adsorption is the adhesion of molecules to the surfaces of the carbon product used. Carbon attracts specific chemicals at the molecular level, similar to how a magnet will attract metal.  If you are considering a whole house water filtration system in Katy, TX, the following information will help you to understand one of the two most popular options carbon filtrations. Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg for additional information or to schedule installation.

Carbon filtration is the most effective in removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), unpleasant taste and odors from water.   Carbon filtration removes contaminants with a particle size ranging from 0.5 to 50 micrometers. You should find the particle size as part of the filter description. Furthermore, the lower the number, the more effective the filter is. Water flow also affects how efficient a filter is. When water flows through the filter at a slower rate, more contaminants are removed. However, carbon filtration is not effective in removing minerals, salts, and dissolved inorganic compounds.

Block filters and granular activated filters are the two main types of carbon filters used in carbon water filtration systems. In general, block filters are more effective, removing a larger number of contaminants. Both types of carbon filters are also used for pre-treating chlorinated water with reverse osmosis systems. The reverse osmosis membranes require pre-treatment with carbon, as chlorine destroys the membranes. Activated carbon has a positive charge, which helps to attract more impurities. Our licensed plumbers will install the water filtration system in Katy, TX of your choice.

Volatile Organic Compounds

The EPA lists 32 volatile organic compounds that are especially hazardous in potable water. However, the number is actually higher. For example, one of the 32 chemical classifications is “Total Trihalomethanes”, a category containing an unknown number of chemicals. Trihalomethanes are formed when water containing organic matter is treated with chlorine. Trihalomethanes are suspected to cause cancer and are present in virtually all chlorinated tap water. The recommended treatment for most of these chemicals is an activated carbon water filtration system in Katy, TX. Activated carbon is also the recommended treatment for the pesticide category listed with the EPA.

While specific carbon block filters of a very dense nature can remove some cysts and bacteria, the EPA does not recommend carbon filtration for cyst removal or coliform bacteria. Their recommendation is reverse osmosis. However, the EPA does recommend activated carbon filters for the removal of mercury. In addition, some carbon block filters are designed to remove lead and asbestos, however, reverse osmosis is the recommended treatment.

Fluoride, nitrates, and sodium are contaminants that carbon filtration is unable to remove. If these affect your water, treatment requires a reverse osmosis system. Combining the technologies available often provides the best solution. For example, if you need nitrates removed, non-carbon filters are available and can be combined with a carbon water filtration system in Katy, TX.

Carbon filters are not all the same. The performance of some are better than others,  and carbon filtration systems are also available for unique and selective needs. The performance of carbon filtration depends on the amount and the type of carbon, the filter design, and the amount of time the filter medium is in contact with the water.

Carbon is not charcoal as is often believed. There are a number of different types of carbon. Coconut shell carbon is increasingly popular. It is created from a renewable resource,  produces great tasting water and is exceptionally good at removing Trihalomethanes. Its effectiveness and taste is one reason for its popular choice in a water filtration system in Katy, TX.

Combined Systems

When carbon filtration and reverse osmosis are combined, you receive the best of both methods for ultra-pure water. While many reverse osmosis systems now include carbon for the protection of the membranes, greater performance is possible from the carbon filtration component for superior water fully utilizing both systems. Contact us today to schedule installation of a water filtration system in Katy, TX.

In summary, carbon is highly versatile and effective in water treatment. It is the first choice for the treatment for organic chemicals, VOCs, pesticides, herbicides, and chlorine. It is extremely effective in the removal of unpleasant taste and odor from your water.

If you are ready for the installation of a water filtration system in Katy, TX, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg. Our licensed plumbers can provide you with assistance in choosing a water filtration system, whether carbon filtration or reverse osmosis. Ben Franklin serves Katy, Houston, Sugar Land, and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.