Ultraviolet Water Filters

Convenience and greater drinking water safety, this pretty much sums up what a whole house house carbon filter can achieve for you. When you see recent headlines like "Pharmaceutical Drugs In Drinking Water," and " The EPA Won't Remove Rocket Fuel From Drinking Water, " you realize that having a home water treatment system is absolutely vital

Safer Drinking Water

First off, before you buy any water filtration system, you need to know what drinking water contaminants you want to remove and find a suitable water filtration technology to remove it.

For example, if you are particular concerned about the aesthetic appearance of your tap water, then a whole house carbon water filter certified to NSF 42 will do great. NSF 42 certified water filters remove virtually 100% of chlorine and sediment from your water supply. Your tap water will look cleaner, smell and taste great.

Why remove chlorine? Well apart from the horrible taste it gives water, chlorine is a cancer causing agent and has asthma inducing properties. Additionally, chlorine dries out your skin and hair after a shower.

If on the other hand, you are primarily concerned with bacteria in your drinking water, then a whole house carbon water filter certified to NSF 42 standard won't help you. What you need is a water distiller or ultraviolet water filter that removes the microbes out of water.

What many households do is to combine a whole house water filtration system with another system, like a distiller. The wholehouse system will provide chlorine and sediment-free water to the house for showering and cooking, whilst the distiller could be used for drinking.

Convenience

For many people, improving the look and taste of tap water is most important. What makes a whole house carbon filter so convenient for this purpose is that it supplies chlorine-free and sediment-free water to every faucet in the house. There is no need to buy a water filter for every tap. Some people express how hard it is to remember when to change the filter of each water filter they have in their homes.

By having just one wholehouse water filter, you only need to remember to change one filter. The beauty about wholehouse systems is that their systems are designed to filter over 150,000 gallons, so you won't be changing filters too often.

What to do now.

We live in an age where our industries and lifestyles severely impacts on our environment and hence our water supply. Our water supply systems are constantly being bombarded by chemical and microbiological contaminants that you must be protected from.

Acquire a quality, certified water filter and give you family the healthiest and most tasty drinking water possible. Getting a good whole house carbon water filter is a great start to your quest for superior tap water.

About the Author:

If you want to drink the cleanest and purest water, you need a home water treatment system now. We research these devices and tell you which are most effective in achieving safe drinking water for your family. All this and more at http://www.best-water-filter-guide.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Whole House Carbon Water Filter - Superior Water Safety

Water Filter Installation

Following on from previous articles I would like to explain water filters and magnetic water conditioners. It is useful to know how each of these work and the advantages and disadvantages of each to make an informed decision if you were to purchase one.

Water Filters

Water filters are not only good for helping to soften water, but are also useful to remove unwanted contaminants and ensure that your drinking water is clean of any suspended particles. It should be noted that these days water quality from treatment works is usually of very high quality and unlikely to need further treatment. However, if you require even higher purity water then a water filter can be a good choice...and some people say it tastes slightly better as well! There are several different types, and each will be explained below:

• Granulated, activated carbon water filters - The the simplest type of filter are portable filters that are found in jugs. They remove chlorine, large particles and parasites. They are easily purchased from most department stores and are great if you have a low budget as they are reasonably cheap. A disadvantage is that they have a short filter life and are unable filter out certain bacteria and chemicals.

• Carbon block, activated carbon water filters - Built-in to the water supply in your home, the disadvantage of these filters is that they are more expensive than granulated types as described above. However, they do not need to be replaced as often and generally give better filtration.

• Reverse osmosis water filters - For the best form of water filtration available these are hard to beat. They work by passing the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out almost every contaminant. Although they are more expensive than other types of filters they have reasonably low running costs. Once installed they can be used to filter water to the whole house.

• Combination Systems - This filter has become available in recent years and are seen as an alternative to reverse osmosis systems. They have a number of different filters, and each filtration process removes different contaminants.

• Ceramic carbon water filters - To filter out a broad range of contaminants from the water supply these are effective as the filter is comprised of a ceramic and a carbon part. Some are infused with silver, as this is a good antibiotic and reduces the number of micro-organisms present. These filters are good value for money and are built-in to the home water supply and in a typical house they require replacing about every 12 months.

• Alkaline Water Machines - It is a good system for those with environmental illnesses where there is too much acid in the body as this system not only filters your drinking water but it makes it more alkaline. It has effective filtration but it can be expensive and it wastes a lot of water during the filtration process.

Magnetic Water Conditioners

Electromagnetic water conditioners are a relatively new invention. They work by passing water through a magnetic field, the calcium and magnesium ions are altered in such a way that they loose their ability to cause scale. This has a number of benefits and although the water is not technically soft, it has the useful properties of soft water. This means that it won't cause hard water deposits and will increase heating efficiency as well as lengthening the lifespan of any clothes washed in the conditioned water.

As calcium is an important dietary element, the fact that conditioned water still retains its calcium content is an added benefit.

About the Author:

Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how to remove stubborn hard water stains and limescale using a step by step guide. He is author of the ebook "Hard Water Stain Removal Secrets Revealed". Complete information on his popular ebook is available from his web site. And while your there, don't forget to subscribe to his FREE report at http://www.hardwaterstainstips.com.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Improve Your Tap Water - Top Tips on Water Filters and Conditioners

Carpooling pair save money while getting taken for ride
Welcome to the New Year, when resolutions flow as freely as champagne.

Best Water Filters

Following on from previous articles I would like to explain water filters and magnetic water conditioners. It is useful to know how each of these work and the advantages and disadvantages of each to make an informed decision if you were to purchase one.

Water Filters

Water filters are not only good for helping to soften water, but are also useful to remove unwanted contaminants and ensure that your drinking water is clean of any suspended particles. It should be noted that these days water quality from treatment works is usually of very high quality and unlikely to need further treatment. However, if you require even higher purity water then a water filter can be a good choice...and some people say it tastes slightly better as well! There are several different types, and each will be explained below:

• Granulated, activated carbon water filters - The the simplest type of filter are portable filters that are found in jugs. They remove chlorine, large particles and parasites. They are easily purchased from most department stores and are great if you have a low budget as they are reasonably cheap. A disadvantage is that they have a short filter life and are unable filter out certain bacteria and chemicals.

• Carbon block, activated carbon water filters - Built-in to the water supply in your home, the disadvantage of these filters is that they are more expensive than granulated types as described above. However, they do not need to be replaced as often and generally give better filtration.

• Reverse osmosis water filters - For the best form of water filtration available these are hard to beat. They work by passing the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out almost every contaminant. Although they are more expensive than other types of filters they have reasonably low running costs. Once installed they can be used to filter water to the whole house.

• Combination Systems - This filter has become available in recent years and are seen as an alternative to reverse osmosis systems. They have a number of different filters, and each filtration process removes different contaminants.

• Ceramic carbon water filters - To filter out a broad range of contaminants from the water supply these are effective as the filter is comprised of a ceramic and a carbon part. Some are infused with silver, as this is a good antibiotic and reduces the number of micro-organisms present. These filters are good value for money and are built-in to the home water supply and in a typical house they require replacing about every 12 months.

• Alkaline Water Machines - It is a good system for those with environmental illnesses where there is too much acid in the body as this system not only filters your drinking water but it makes it more alkaline. It has effective filtration but it can be expensive and it wastes a lot of water during the filtration process.

Magnetic Water Conditioners

Electromagnetic water conditioners are a relatively new invention. They work by passing water through a magnetic field, the calcium and magnesium ions are altered in such a way that they loose their ability to cause scale. This has a number of benefits and although the water is not technically soft, it has the useful properties of soft water. This means that it won't cause hard water deposits and will increase heating efficiency as well as lengthening the lifespan of any clothes washed in the conditioned water.

As calcium is an important dietary element, the fact that conditioned water still retains its calcium content is an added benefit.

About the Author:

Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how to remove stubborn hard water stains and limescale using a step by step guide. He is author of the ebook "Hard Water Stain Removal Secrets Revealed". Complete information on his popular ebook is available from his web site. And while your there, don't forget to subscribe to his FREE report at http://www.hardwaterstainstips.com.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Improve Your Tap Water - Top Tips on Water Filters and Conditioners

Should I let muddy well water run through my whole-house water filters, or wait until the well fills up higher?

My house uses well water, and when it rains the well fills with dirt, and the water stops running in the house. So I turned the water off, but when I turn it back on, the clear cylindrical case housing the filters fills with muddy water. If I wait, will the well fill higher and dissipate the mud, or can I turn it on now? I want water!

If your getting dirt into your well then you have a serious problem with it. Yes it will clog up the filters, but more importantly you could get sick from that water. Sounds like you need to have some well repairs done. In my 21 years of where I'm living my well water has always been crystal clear, I don't even need filters.

Portable Water Filters

Following on from previous articles I would like to explain water filters and magnetic water conditioners. It is useful to know how each of these work and the advantages and disadvantages of each to make an informed decision if you were to purchase one.

Water Filters

Water filters are not only good for helping to soften water, but are also useful to remove unwanted contaminants and ensure that your drinking water is clean of any suspended particles. It should be noted that these days water quality from treatment works is usually of very high quality and unlikely to need further treatment. However, if you require even higher purity water then a water filter can be a good choice...and some people say it tastes slightly better as well! There are several different types, and each will be explained below:

• Granulated, activated carbon water filters - The the simplest type of filter are portable filters that are found in jugs. They remove chlorine, large particles and parasites. They are easily purchased from most department stores and are great if you have a low budget as they are reasonably cheap. A disadvantage is that they have a short filter life and are unable filter out certain bacteria and chemicals.

• Carbon block, activated carbon water filters - Built-in to the water supply in your home, the disadvantage of these filters is that they are more expensive than granulated types as described above. However, they do not need to be replaced as often and generally give better filtration.

• Reverse osmosis water filters - For the best form of water filtration available these are hard to beat. They work by passing the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out almost every contaminant. Although they are more expensive than other types of filters they have reasonably low running costs. Once installed they can be used to filter water to the whole house.

• Combination Systems - This filter has become available in recent years and are seen as an alternative to reverse osmosis systems. They have a number of different filters, and each filtration process removes different contaminants.

• Ceramic carbon water filters - To filter out a broad range of contaminants from the water supply these are effective as the filter is comprised of a ceramic and a carbon part. Some are infused with silver, as this is a good antibiotic and reduces the number of micro-organisms present. These filters are good value for money and are built-in to the home water supply and in a typical house they require replacing about every 12 months.

• Alkaline Water Machines - It is a good system for those with environmental illnesses where there is too much acid in the body as this system not only filters your drinking water but it makes it more alkaline. It has effective filtration but it can be expensive and it wastes a lot of water during the filtration process.

Magnetic Water Conditioners

Electromagnetic water conditioners are a relatively new invention. They work by passing water through a magnetic field, the calcium and magnesium ions are altered in such a way that they loose their ability to cause scale. This has a number of benefits and although the water is not technically soft, it has the useful properties of soft water. This means that it won't cause hard water deposits and will increase heating efficiency as well as lengthening the lifespan of any clothes washed in the conditioned water.

As calcium is an important dietary element, the fact that conditioned water still retains its calcium content is an added benefit.

About the Author:

Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how to remove stubborn hard water stains and limescale using a step by step guide. He is author of the ebook "Hard Water Stain Removal Secrets Revealed". Complete information on his popular ebook is available from his web site. And while your there, don't forget to subscribe to his FREE report at http://www.hardwaterstainstips.com.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Improve Your Tap Water - Top Tips on Water Filters and Conditioners

Water Softener Filter

There is no one substance that is more important to man than water. After all, water does make up more than two-thirds of the human body. Water, then, is essential in every possible way. In fact, people won’t survive without it. Unfortunately, there’s no telling just how unsafe the world’s water sources now are, given the extensive threat of water pollution. Now, a clean water supply is quite elusive, and this is why water purifiers and filters exist.

Why invest in one?

Water is clear and transparent; how much dirt could there be? Well, you’ll be surprised at how much dirt and chemicals are lurking in your water supply. Even though these chemicals are not directly dangerous especially since they appear in very small amounts anyway, they can still pose quite a threat given that we use water every day and even consume a lot of it on a daily basis. So to ensure your safety and that of your family, getting a water purifier makes a highly worthy investment.

What are you in danger of?

If you’re still skeptic, perhaps a list would be more convincing. According to countless studies, various water supply systems all over the world have listed contaminants ranging from lead, pesticides, cysts, viruses, bacteria, to pharmaceutical drugs. Just imagine what all these can do to your health if you are exposed to them regularly through the water you use and drink.

The basics

To protect yourself, you need a water purifier. The basic concept behind water purifiers is water filtration. This is the simple process of filtering, or sifting out, any contaminants in the water supply to make the water safe and clean. Water purifier filters revolve around the use of the filter itself, which is a material that separates the clean water from the contaminants when the water passes through it. Different materials can filter out contaminants in different ways. For example, reverse osmosis uses a semi-permeable membrane as a filter, while an activated carbon water filter uses either a block of carbon or granulated carbon.

Behind the scenes

Nowadays there are newer methods of water purification that does not make use of an actual filter that the water goes through. For example, there are UV or Ultraviolet water purifiers that just expose the water to UV light in order to kill germs and other contaminants.

Some drawbacks to consider

Most water filter systems rely mainly on gravity so that the water will go through the filter, although water purifier filters that do not have any special mechanism to push water through at a much faster rate usually produce water more slowly. This can be a problem especially in large households that need a lot of water.

Aside from that, almost all water filter systems require you to replace the main filter every six months. You can, however, look for some water purifier filter that can go for as long as one year without replacement. But to ensure the effectiveness of the water filter, make sure you replace the filter when needed.

Some water purifiers and filters don’t work effectively against some contaminants. What you can do is combine two different water purifier filters so you get the best benefits from both systems.

To Find More about choosing a water purifier filter please visit our website: http://www.water-purification-guide.com/water-purifier-filter.html

Copyright 2009 Water-purification-guide.com, all rights reserved.

About the Author:

Ans is the editor Water-purification-guide.com which provides you with the water softener and water purifier reviews. To Find More about choosing a water purifier filter please visit our website

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How does a water purifier filter work?

Carbon Water Filter

Are you frustrated trying to understand what drinking water filter system to buy?  I don't blame you there are many differing kinds of water filters in the market.  Here are descriptions of the two most common sorts of water filtration systems that may bring cool clean water to your home every day.

Lets start by accepting a drinking water filter system that you may have heard of, and it has a fancy name tool!

The reverse osmosis process for filtering water is employed in some homes but is typically used by community water systems.  It is also utilized by all the major bottled water companies to filter their water, just look on the label.

The advantages to this system is it does purify the water and removes just about everything from it.  The drawback is it removes everything from it.  You want a filter system that leaves the trace minerals that are good for you in the water.

The second sort of drinking water filter system is a solid carbon filter.  This is a water filtration system where the water is run through a block of solid carbon.  This system decreases chlorine, bad taste, and many particulates from the water.

The carbon water filter is the commonest filter method in drinking water filtration systems today because it is inexpensive and doesn't require electricity for functioning.

It also does an excellent job of removing the contaminants like chlorine, lead, prescription drugs, and VOC's ( chemicals ) simply to name a few.  The best part about these purification systems is they leave the natural trace elements in the water.  This is significant as the elements that are left are the ones our bodies need to function.

The down side to one of these filtration systems is the carbon filter doesn't last for all time.  The filters do get used up and they need to be modified.  The timing depends on the unit but generally a counter water filter will need to be modified each five hundred gallons of water or 6 months.  On the other hand if you get a whole house water filtration system you will have to replace the filter only once each 3 years or so.

Now you know about the two major types of water filtration systems.  It's now up to you to continue your research to find the best drinking water filter system for you.  There are numerous excellent resources online to explore and I am sure you can find a system which will work for you.

About the Author:

Learn about the best drinking water filtration system available today.

Charles is a advocate of the undeniable benefits of clean water in our everyday lives. Visit his site now at yourwaterpurifierpro.com and learn which products Charles recommends to improve your water quality today.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Drinking Water Filter System - Don't Buy Without Learning The Options

Water Filters Systems

Following on from previous articles I would like to explain water filters and magnetic water conditioners. It is useful to know how each of these work and the advantages and disadvantages of each to make an informed decision if you were to purchase one.

Water Filters

Water filters are not only good for helping to soften water, but are also useful to remove unwanted contaminants and ensure that your drinking water is clean of any suspended particles. It should be noted that these days water quality from treatment works is usually of very high quality and unlikely to need further treatment. However, if you require even higher purity water then a water filter can be a good choice...and some people say it tastes slightly better as well! There are several different types, and each will be explained below:

• Granulated, activated carbon water filters - The the simplest type of filter are portable filters that are found in jugs. They remove chlorine, large particles and parasites. They are easily purchased from most department stores and are great if you have a low budget as they are reasonably cheap. A disadvantage is that they have a short filter life and are unable filter out certain bacteria and chemicals.

• Carbon block, activated carbon water filters - Built-in to the water supply in your home, the disadvantage of these filters is that they are more expensive than granulated types as described above. However, they do not need to be replaced as often and generally give better filtration.

• Reverse osmosis water filters - For the best form of water filtration available these are hard to beat. They work by passing the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out almost every contaminant. Although they are more expensive than other types of filters they have reasonably low running costs. Once installed they can be used to filter water to the whole house.

• Combination Systems - This filter has become available in recent years and are seen as an alternative to reverse osmosis systems. They have a number of different filters, and each filtration process removes different contaminants.

• Ceramic carbon water filters - To filter out a broad range of contaminants from the water supply these are effective as the filter is comprised of a ceramic and a carbon part. Some are infused with silver, as this is a good antibiotic and reduces the number of micro-organisms present. These filters are good value for money and are built-in to the home water supply and in a typical house they require replacing about every 12 months.

• Alkaline Water Machines - It is a good system for those with environmental illnesses where there is too much acid in the body as this system not only filters your drinking water but it makes it more alkaline. It has effective filtration but it can be expensive and it wastes a lot of water during the filtration process.

Magnetic Water Conditioners

Electromagnetic water conditioners are a relatively new invention. They work by passing water through a magnetic field, the calcium and magnesium ions are altered in such a way that they loose their ability to cause scale. This has a number of benefits and although the water is not technically soft, it has the useful properties of soft water. This means that it won't cause hard water deposits and will increase heating efficiency as well as lengthening the lifespan of any clothes washed in the conditioned water.

As calcium is an important dietary element, the fact that conditioned water still retains its calcium content is an added benefit.

About the Author:

Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how to remove stubborn hard water stains and limescale using a step by step guide. He is author of the ebook "Hard Water Stain Removal Secrets Revealed". Complete information on his popular ebook is available from his web site. And while your there, don't forget to subscribe to his FREE report at http://www.hardwaterstainstips.com.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Improve Your Tap Water - Top Tips on Water Filters and Conditioners

Utility Companies Provide Resources To Save Money While Staying Warm
Experts said despite the stretch of cold weather, there are still quick-fix ideas for saving money on your heating bill. Progress Energy recommends setting your thermostat at 68 degrees during the day, and between 60 and 65 degrees at night. Jim Stevens with Progress Energy also recommends replacing air filters on HVAC systems about once a month. He also said it's important to pay special ...

Carbon Water Filters

The range of effectiveness with Carbon water filters goes from 0.5 microns to 50.0 microns; microns at their lowest point means the more effecient the carbon water filter will be at removing nasty organic chemicals.

Most water filtration systems that work under the counter contain between 12-24 ounces of charcoal; bituminous, coconut shells or wood is where charcoal is usually derived from.

Coconut shell carbon is what the better carbon water filters are based on due to the fact that this carbon is more effective and approximately twenty percent more expensive than wood or butuminous charcoal. Volatile organic chemicals and other impurities are removed by the charcoal by absorption, thereby improving the color, odor and taste of the water.

Pesticides, trihalomethane compounds, herbicides, chlorine, man made chemicals, benzene, radon, solvents, are what we call Volatile organic chemicals which will be found in small trace amounts coming from out taps. Some carbon water filters are able to, but not very well, relinquish iron and other metal particles form our water; is the micron level of the carbon water filter is at 0.5 it may be able to alleviate some of the hydrogen sulfate, iron and maganese.

If your water supply has a high metal content you'll do much better buying a filter designed for this type of job because as you now know a carbon water filter is not noted for removing heavy metals from the water source entirely. Some of the contaminants a carbon water filter probably won't remove also include nickel, mercury, asbestos, sulfate, barium, beryllium, chromium, fluoride, arsenic, nitrates, copper, and any other similar volatile organic chemicals.

Carbon water filters have naturally charged positive ions that assist in removing organic chemicals form our tap water. These positive ions attract negative ions which is what causes the removal of the organic chemicals; the removal of these chemicals will vastly improve the over all smell and taste of the water. Because of the carbon water filter we are also treating our body by not administering into our systems. These chemicals that have been removed can harm us down the road.

In order to constantly remove these chemicals carbon water filter cartridges need to be replaced fairly frequently but of course this depends on how much water is consumed. Please don't wait until the water tasted or starts to smell funny, consult the instructions for the time or gallon allocated for that particular filter to expire. Carbon water filters generally cost a bit less other filtration systems as carbon; especially coconut shell carbon is a renewable source which can be produced inexpensively to meet demand.

About the Author:

Water filtration is so important for everyones health. Show your family that you care by visiting Water Filter Types.com Learn more and see what is available when it comes to choosing a new water filter system. Water Filter Types.com will help you along the way.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Does Your Home Have A Carbon Water Filter?

Do I install a water softener before or after my water filters?

I'm installing a water softener on the side of my house, out there I already have 4 small filters and one large carbon filter. Do I install the softener before or after these filters?

install watersoftener and remove filter they wont do alot of good thats part of the softeners job

Sediment Carbon Water

Water Heater Safety Issues You Should Know

 

These days, water heaters are more commonly used as domestic hot water sources. But according to Aris Parviz of Able Air-1, Inc., if improperly maintained or damaged, your water heater can pose serious health and safety risks. Here, he talks about some common safety issues associated with home water heaters.

 

Your water heater is an essential part of creating a comfortable environment for you and your family, but it can cause a number of safety hazards as well, especially if it's an older, gas-burning model. Proper ventilation, regular maintenance and homeowner awareness all play important roles in keeping your family safe from the dangers related to your water heater. The following are some most serious risks that you should know.

 

The Potential for Burns

It is important for you to set your water heater to the proper temperature. When the temperature is set too high, you and your family are at risk for burns in the shower or bath. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to scalding, even at temperatures that may not seem too hot to others. To avoid the potential for burns altogether, simply lower the temperature setting. In any case, your water heater should never be turned up higher than 120 degrees as this is the highest temperature considered safe.

 

Sediment Buildup

Over time, sediment builds up in your water heater tank, which can interfere with the water heater's efficiency and decrease its lifespan. It can also combine with chlorine to form unhealthy chemical compounds in your water. To avoid sediment buildup, water heaters need to be drained periodically. Self-cleaning water heaters eliminate sediment concerns, but older ones should be drained and cleaned about every six months. This is something that the homeowner can normally do on his own by following the manufacturer's instructions.

 

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

The leading cause of accidental poisoning in the United States, carbon monoxide is a real and all-too-common danger with gas-burning water heaters. Carbon monoxide is produced when any type of fuel is burned. Usually, it is ventilated to the outside of the home. Carbon monoxide buildup occurs, however, when gas-burning appliances like water heaters are not properly ventilated.

 

Colorless and odorless, carbon monoxide is a normal by-product of burning any fuel, including gas, wood, oil or charcoal. When fuel-burning systems in the home are not working properly — that is, the right balance of fuel and air is not present — carbon monoxide can build up, creating a potentially deadly situation for the home's inhabitants. Even at moderate levels, carbon monoxide can make you and your family sick, with symptoms ranging from dizziness, headaches and nausea to mental confusion. If these symptoms are allowed to persist, they can be fatal. Pregnant women, infants, children and the elderly are particularly susceptible.

 

To prevent a carbon monoxide leak, it's important to have your water heater (and all gas-burning appliances) inspected and cleaned at least once a year. In addition to properly maintaining your fuel-burning appliances, it's also important to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

 

Natural Gas Leaks

Particularly common with older water heaters, gas leaks are a risk with any gas-burning appliance. Unlike carbon monoxide, natural gas has a rotten egg smell thanks to an additive provided by the gas company. The specific smell enables a home's inhabitants to detect a leak quickly and evacuate. When inhaled, natural gas first causes mild symptoms like headaches and dizziness, but can quickly cause much more serious health problems.

 

Unfortunately, an undetected gas leak is a potentially serious situation. The biggest risk associated with it is an explosion. Because natural gas is extremely flammable, the smallest spark can cause a catastrophic explosion and fire. To avoid a gas leak, keep the area around your water heater clear, have the system regularly inspected and cleaned, and replace the unit after about 10 years.

 

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

 

 

About the Author

Aris Parviz is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find an <a href="http://local.yodle.com/articles">HVAC contractor</a> or more <a href=http://local.yodle.com/articles/topics/home-garden/heating-air-conditioning-hvac/> HVAC contractor </a>  articles at Yodle Consumer Guide.

 

AGU journal highlights -- June 14, 2010
( American Geophysical Union ) Featured in this release are research papers on the following topics: "How might prolonged drought impact California?", "First images of Saturn lightning", "Ozone recovery plus climate change may boost smog", "Thickness of Arctic's old sea ice steady since 2007", "Midmantle plume detected below southern Africa", "Weekend weather cycle: anthropogenic and natural ...

Sediment Carbon Water

Cheap Water Filter

Following on from previous articles I would like to explain water filters and magnetic water conditioners. It is useful to know how each of these work and the advantages and disadvantages of each to make an informed decision if you were to purchase one.

Water Filters

Water filters are not only good for helping to soften water, but are also useful to remove unwanted contaminants and ensure that your drinking water is clean of any suspended particles. It should be noted that these days water quality from treatment works is usually of very high quality and unlikely to need further treatment. However, if you require even higher purity water then a water filter can be a good choice...and some people say it tastes slightly better as well! There are several different types, and each will be explained below:

• Granulated, activated carbon water filters - The the simplest type of filter are portable filters that are found in jugs. They remove chlorine, large particles and parasites. They are easily purchased from most department stores and are great if you have a low budget as they are reasonably cheap. A disadvantage is that they have a short filter life and are unable filter out certain bacteria and chemicals.

• Carbon block, activated carbon water filters - Built-in to the water supply in your home, the disadvantage of these filters is that they are more expensive than granulated types as described above. However, they do not need to be replaced as often and generally give better filtration.

• Reverse osmosis water filters - For the best form of water filtration available these are hard to beat. They work by passing the water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out almost every contaminant. Although they are more expensive than other types of filters they have reasonably low running costs. Once installed they can be used to filter water to the whole house.

• Combination Systems - This filter has become available in recent years and are seen as an alternative to reverse osmosis systems. They have a number of different filters, and each filtration process removes different contaminants.

• Ceramic carbon water filters - To filter out a broad range of contaminants from the water supply these are effective as the filter is comprised of a ceramic and a carbon part. Some are infused with silver, as this is a good antibiotic and reduces the number of micro-organisms present. These filters are good value for money and are built-in to the home water supply and in a typical house they require replacing about every 12 months.

• Alkaline Water Machines - It is a good system for those with environmental illnesses where there is too much acid in the body as this system not only filters your drinking water but it makes it more alkaline. It has effective filtration but it can be expensive and it wastes a lot of water during the filtration process.

Magnetic Water Conditioners

Electromagnetic water conditioners are a relatively new invention. They work by passing water through a magnetic field, the calcium and magnesium ions are altered in such a way that they loose their ability to cause scale. This has a number of benefits and although the water is not technically soft, it has the useful properties of soft water. This means that it won't cause hard water deposits and will increase heating efficiency as well as lengthening the lifespan of any clothes washed in the conditioned water.

As calcium is an important dietary element, the fact that conditioned water still retains its calcium content is an added benefit.

About the Author:

Patrick Henry BEng (Hons), is a recognised industry expert in removing hard water stains. With an honours degree in Chemical Engineering, he teaches people how to remove stubborn hard water stains and limescale using a step by step guide. He is author of the ebook "Hard Water Stain Removal Secrets Revealed". Complete information on his popular ebook is available from his web site. And while your there, don't forget to subscribe to his FREE report at http://www.hardwaterstainstips.com.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Improve Your Tap Water - Top Tips on Water Filters and Conditioners