Purpose of Carbon Filters
Carbon water filters are an effective way to remove hydrogen sulfide and chlorine from water. Activated carbon is a form of charcoal that has been processed to increase its porosity. This allows it to better absorb contaminants from the water. Using a filter with activated carbon, you can effectively purify utility water from chemical impurities.
Carbon filters also play an important role in reverse osmosis systems. They protect the sensitive osmotic membrane from the effects of chlorine, which can damage its structure.
Despite many advantages, carbon filters should not be the only stage of water treatment. Like mechanical filtration, they do not provide full protection. In household systems, filters should work comprehensively to ensure high-quality purified water and extend the lifespan of the entire system. A standalone carbon cartridge can improve the taste and smell of water, but its lifespan will be shorter than in a system with osmosis or a full treatment station.
Types of Carbon Filters
Carbon filters can take the form of housings (often called cartridges) with special replaceable filter media inserts. Typically, such an insert lasts up to six months, after which the housing needs to be unscrewed and the insert replaced. If you plan to service your filters yourself, we recommend that the first replacement be done by a technician. They will show you how to do it correctly and without the risk of flooding your home. You can also call us — we will provide detailed step-by-step instructions.
There are also carbon filters for utility water treatment — used in single-family homes or industrial plants. These are column systems with carbon-based filter media, managed by an automatic control valve.
For home use, pressed or granular carbon cartridges are most commonly used. During filtration, water flows through a network of channels that trap larger particles. Then the water reaches the layer of activated carbon, which acts like a magnet — attracting contaminant particles. This process is called adsorption.
Carbon filters certified by NSF can also reduce levels of carcinogenic substances, remove residual disinfectants, and heavy metals such as lead, which may be present in tap water.
An activated carbon filter is an essential part of the water treatment process but should work in combination with other filters — mechanical, osmotic, or mineralizing. You can choose a carbon filter and more on our website.
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