Water filters, such as a countertop water filter or under sink water filter, have become simpler to install and easier to maintain. There are many types of filters now available, everything from simple carafes to whole house systems, which make purifying your water as easy as turning on the tap. And in recent years, additives such as shilajit powder, have become increasingly available to help you get the most from the water that you drink.

If you ask even a small child, they will generally know that you need to drink water to stay healthy. In fact, convincing children may actually be easier than convincing most adults! Because the human body is made up of over 2/3 water, most body systems are designed to use water to function properly. We know that water is vital to our bodies, so it is important to know what is in the water we consume. Knowing what exists in your home water makes it easier to choose a filter from the many types that are currently available (under sink water filter, countertop water filter, simple carafe, whole house system, etc.) to meet your needs and budget. And finally, determine the features most important in meeting your family's needs.

Most people mistakenly believe that tap water is safe because it is governed by regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While it is true that most water does not cause people to become unhealthy, most locations readily admit federal water quality violations. Dangerous contaminants such as lead, chloroform, arsenic, nitrate, nitrite, radon, and E. coli bacteria are common in tap water and sometimes are not removed appropriately. Take New York City for example. In a sample taken for the consumer confidence report, or CCR, by the EPA there was more than several times the legal limit of lead present in the water. And, while these reports are helpful, they only take into account general locations, not your specific tap. If you really want to know what is in your individual water supply, have your specific tap tested.

Once you know what is present in your water supply, identify a filter that will meet your needs. Consider what you need to filter and also what your household needs are for water consumption. For example, if your household uses several gallons a day for drinking water, a simple carafe would require constant refilling to accommodate demand. This need to constantly refill might not work for your household. Also consider what space will allow. For instance, if you can't spare the countertop space for a countertop water filter an under sink water filter might meet your needs more adequately. Identifying your needs and then looking for a filter that fits your needs and budget is a good idea.

And finally, look at the features that all the different types of filters offer. Take into account where you would like to put the filter in your home and what space will allow. Some filters offer easy plumbing connections so that you don't have to hire a professional plumber. Others offer electronic indicators so that you know when it is time to replace filtration cartridges. Some countertop and even under sink water filters offer a separate compartment for additives, such as shilajit powder. Know what features you need and which ones you can live without before making a purchase.

Whether you choose a countertop or under sink water filter or even a whole house system, there are many options and features, such as the ability to add shilajit powder, that can potentially increase the water consumption in your home.