Introduction to the Shower Head Filter
Chemicals, chemicals everywhere, even in our water. A shower head filter is simply a water filter, just like millions of people use on their kitchen faucets, that is attached to a shower head. Designed for the health, safety and beauty-conscious among us, it is a popular new tool in the clean living movement. Before deciding, however, that such a product is right for you or your family, it is always a good idea to do some research. Purpose, advantages and disadvantages, different available models and choices, and the all-important price are all things that should be looked into.
Purpose of the Product and How It Works
A water filter, by design, filters chemicals and small particulates out of the water that is run through it. Though often used interchangeably with the words ‘water purifier’, a filter is a little less effective at completely eliminating all foreign substances from the water. If living in a place where city water is available, a water purification system is often unnecessary, though a filter can always help. Though the levels of things like chlorine in our water are far less than what is normally deemed harmful, they can be high enough to irritate the skin of the very sensitive, and have some tenuous links to long-term health problems.
A shower head water filter works with the aid of cartridges. These must be replaced on a regular basis, usually from three to twelve months, to ensure continual effectiveness. There are two ways filters commonly work, the carbon-based method, and the KDF. The carbon cartridges work the same way a fish tank filter works; by filtering the water through the carbon, which catches, and holds, the chlorine and other particles. KDF, on the other hand, does not trap chlorine. It purifies water with an electrochemical process that turns the chlorine into a harmless compound. In addition, KDF filters are bacteriostatic, which means bacteria cannot grow in them, and also help to prevent mold, mildew and other fungi.
Advantages of the Product
It has long been proven that a hot shower can be the best thing for relaxation after a long day. The spray of water relaxes muscles and relieves tension. Who wants to bathe in a swimming pool, though? The simple use of a water filter or water filtration system can provide numerous health and beauty benefits.
Reduction of dry skin and appearance of wrinkles
Reduction of dull, dry hair and split ends
Reduce the risk of cell damage, breast and bladder cancers, heart disease, respiratory problems, and hardening of arteries.
Reduce complications associated with bronchitis and asthma, as well as throat and nose irritation.
One Disadvantage of the Product
Though water filters are chalk full of advantages, there is at least one minor disadvantage to the use of them. If a body becomes accustomed to showering with a filter it can cause problems when one is forced to shower without it. Excessively dry skin and hair are common problems associated with the sudden re-introduction of chlorine into a shower that had previously been cleansed of the chemical. In addition, the filters require that you continually purchase new cartridges. This can get expensive over the life of the water filter.
Different Shower Head Filter Models
Culligan has a model that has received rave reviews. Their RDSH-C115 Raindisc Shower Head with Filter offers a gentle rain-like water spray while providing the water filtration desired. It has an optional arm, which turns it into a hand-held shower head, and works like a water softener. It can be bought online, or at most major retailers. Sprite, a name known for their shower filters, has lots of shower head filters on the market. Their high output shower filter, though, offers the best bang for your buck. With a reversible, long-lasting filter, it is a steal at just about any price. It can be bought online also, as well as retailers like Sears and The Home Depot.
Price Range of Products
Just as with anything else, the price for these filters depend greatly upon where they are bought. Online, deals can be found for Sprite water filters; costing about twenty dollars. However, for the fancier models with bigger and better attachments, the prices can get pretty high. The most expensive model can cost upwards of three hundred dollars. When deciding which one is right for you, keep in mind the price of the cartridges, as they will be an on-going purchase.
In Conclusion
Most of us cannot really afford a whole house water filter, or even water softeners, but almost everyone can afford a small filter to add to the shower. With their wide range of advantages, very minor disadvantages, and price range to fit any budget, a shower head filter should be on everyone’s go-to health list.