Industry Tips
Water Filtration/Purifiers/Conditioning
The following comments provide general information for consumers, and do not necessarily reflect the practices or record of any particular company.
Many companies calling you on the telephone or notifying you by mail, attempt to sell water purifiers, filtration or conditioning systems by claiming that your drinking water is unsafe. Despite such claims made by a salesperson, local authorities closely monitor water treatment plants to assure that only safe drinking water is available. If you doubt that your municipal or private (well) water supply is safe, your water can be tested.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the water purification industry and water purifiers must comply with EPA standards. The EPS's drinking water hotline is (800-426-4791) or e-mail at sdwa@epamail.epa.gov. Purifiers can remove organisms, chemicals and soften hard water but cannot remove bacteria to make water safer.
Do not make hasty decisions or buy only for the promise of a prize. If you do decide to buy a water purifier, comparison shop, investigate all claims made by the seller, learn what plumbing permits and inspections are required and check to see if the unit meets EPA regulations.
Some States have enacted or are considering legislation related to the advertising and selling of water purifiers and their installation.
The BBB has available upon request a brochure entitled "Water Quality Improvements".