(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best water filtration & softeners

Do you have a bathtub in your apartment? If so, get one of these waterBobs - average price is usually $25-30 shipped. You can use that in conjunction with a Sawyer filter such as this (but there are many options). Time how long it would take you to fill your bathtub up completely (or research average time). If SHTF, you'll need that much time to fill it up completely. 100 gallons of water should last you quite a bit of time if you use it sparingly, and if you live alone, even 30-50 gallons will last you a good amount of time.

As for food, look for kits that offer you 30+ days of food that don't take up much space. Get a good variety of foods that are ready to eat immediately, require a bit of cooking, or foil pouches that you can just add boiling water and wait. This gives you flexibility (and potential mobility as the circumstances dictate).

Flashlights and batteries are important. Headlamps are very practical. If the power goes out, nighttime is dark. Super dark. If you're in the city, it's pitch black. Get yourself two headlamps, two flashlights and a lantern. Using common batteries is ideal. Calculate the lifespan of their batteries, then make sure you have enough batteries to last you a month of moderate use. (This is less than you'd expect, some headlamps can run 10+ hours on a single set of batteries, and good LED lanterns Like this popular one have up to 90 hours life on low setting. Use it 5 hours a night on fresh batteries, you have potentially half a month of use (so just two sets of batteries would last you a while).

You'll need a way to cook, too. Make sure the area you decide to cook if you need to bug in is well ventilated. Cooking by a window is ideal. Again, most the food you have will mostly just be boiling water and rehydrating the food, or heating water up for extra disinfectant. So figure if you're going to use alcohol, fuel gels, solids, etc and get yourself a good supply of them. Stock up on matches and lighters.

Have a bug-out bag with 72 hours worth of supplies near the door. This should be completely self contained and under the assumption that you'd leave EVERYTHING in your apartment behind except for the clothes on your back and whatever shoes you put on. People like their packs being tactical, others say nondescript. I say whatever is comfortable for you to travel in.

And that's just the very tip.

There's a lot of information to learn. I don't have all of my favorite links at work with me, but having gone on that learning journey I can tell you that it's easiest to break down prepping into categories in order of importance. Then learn and address those categories in order.

For example, first would be food or water depending on your location and overall situation. Food/Water because that's one of those thing that, in an emergency situation, you either have or you don't. People hit hard by Harvey or Katrina weren't hopping into the water with a rifle and searching for squirrels. They had what they had, and in most cases where you'd need your preps that will be the case.

Food:

• Learn about keeping a well/over-stocked pantry full of things that you normally eat. Learn about rotating foods out oldest to newest.
  
  
• Think through alternate cooking methods that you'll need to have available. Maybe extra propane tanks for the grill, or a separate burner that can work with those tanks.
  
  
• Learn about specialty foods that are great for bug out bags or on the go like Mainstay/Datrex bars, Mountain House foods, and MRE's.
  
  
• Learn about long term storage foods like white rice or beans in mylar bags inside of 5 gallon buckets. Or if you have the free floating cash, the pre-packed "food for X people for a year" packages (though be on the lookout for how many calories per day they're advertising, because for some it's 1200 and that's too low).
  
  
• If you're looking to get really deep into it, and really this would become a hobby at that point, you can then look into homesteading.
  
  Water:
  
  
• Look first for options on how you can maintain some clean water in the house for general use. My SO and I rotate flats of bottled water for example so that we always have a couple of weeks worth on hand, and if you know bad news is coming you can look at things like a Water BOB (ignore the price, they're normally $20-$30). You can also know to fill up otherwise empty containers at home ahead of an emergency.
  
  
• Getting a little more into it, look at ways to treat water. A Sawyer Water Filter is a great cheap way to get started that is also portable enough for a BOB, but depending on your concern level you can eventually look at things like a Big Berkey. Do your own research and find what's right for you.
  
  
• If you want to go beyond that, look at things like 55 gallon water drums, or to keep things smaller and more portable, 5 gallon water containers. This is more long term bulk storage stuff for the really bad situations.
  
  After that, things like security, weather preparedness, communications, power, transportation, bug out bags, get home bags, everyday carry kits, etc can all come as you learn and can squeeze them in. Focus on the things that will most realistically be needed in events that are most likely to occur to you as an individual. If that's flooding, maybe life jackets are high on your list. If that's riots, maybe guns and excess fire extinguishers are. If it's job loss, maybe you really want to focus on getting bills paid down and having a hearty backstock of food that you can rely on during the job hunt. If it's a cold weather are, maybe secondary heating sources should be high on the priority list. Once you've covered yourself on the most likely scenarios that you'll have to deal with, usually you'll find that it's not too many more steps to cover the next most likely, and so on. If you want some reading links let me know and I'll try to remember to drop some of my favorites when I get home.

I have a feeling the water change is going to shift your experience with fasting significantly :)

>Do you enjoy using the Alkalized RO water? Does it last for a long period?

Yes, I really like this water, and the system is easy to install (if you have a bit of DIY knowledge, youtube is helpful as the included instructions are limited); I've done around a dozen of the installs for my own and friends/family's houses that I've clued into the benefits of healthy water.

The filters will last anywhere from 6 months to a couple years, depending on how good your tap water is to start with as well as how many people live with you and drink it. I can usually notice when the taste gets less appealing, and that is when I change them. The replacement filters are for sale on amazon too. Bear in mind to save a few bucks, you may only need the filter set for the 5-stage system; the 6th stage is the alkaline filter and if you do the math the is rated for 1500 gallons - this could last a while depending how much it is used.

http://www.amazon.com/Camco-40631-Premium-Water-Filter/dp/B00523AMBC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341537344&sr=8-2&keywords=Water+Filter+%2B+RV

I would pick one of those up for well water (shop around that one's pricey but it's an example), if you get water from the tap and see white flakes floating around then you have very calcium rich water. This stuff will harden on your tank and you will have to scrape it off with a razer blade. Filtering with a good carbon filter before the water hits the tank is important, calcium SUCKS to get off of things once the deposits build up.

I would bet the well water is more than likely significantly harder than your tap water, I would add some peat duckweed and driftwood to your tank to help soften it some, I am no expert on your water but 85% of wells in america are calcium rich and moderate to high hardness, Source: well water for 20 years of my life.

My pleasure. Most people don't seem interested in fussing with it. I, for one, don't want to be pH-ing my water and worrying about impurities/heavy metals. Glad to share the info with someone who's interested in using RO/DI.

ps if you're not excited about the slow production rate (it's not actually going to make 50GPD), just get a better RO membrane. That specific one is pretty much the best you can get. For all the bells and whistles you get in 'fancy' RO/DI units, the RO membrane itself is really the greatest determining factor in production.

How bout that Brain Force product that was advertised in the video? do you use that?

They're Choline pills.

Brain force you get 156mg of Choline (2pills) for $30.

Choline Supliment you can get 600mg Choline (2pills) for $19

Its literally cut and re-branded Choline, the products claims are literally the same effects as Choline supplements. You're paying 6x markup for Choline.

The profit margin for the product is between 2-5x. that's why you see 50% off as the deal.

The man's smart and has been running the same business model for over a decade. Making products, and promoting content to sell those products to the viewership. its the old "We have a terrible problem and I have the solution conveniently right here for you for only $19.99" strategy, add in some emotional trigger lines like "protect yourself and your family"

That water filter looks like its a well functioning product when it works, a reverse osmosis machine will still save you in the long run. (for the cost of 2 filter changes for an Alexa pure filtration setup, you can buy a reverse osmosis system and have it run for half a decade.)

NSF Certified Resverse Osmosos Machine $136, filters last a year. $25 filter set. standardized filter sizes through the industry. no brand locked filters.

Reverse osmosis membranes have a pore size of 0.0001 micron. The most cost effective system type if you have water pressure. filters over an order of magnitude better than sand filter systems.

Alexapure Water filtration system $156

Passes all filtering standards for public consumption also has some problems , $90 filters


Big Berkey Stainless Steel Water Filtration System not so great product reviews,
Passes all filtering standards for public consumption with higher reductions than the Alexapure product. $258 , $50 filters

cheaper filters. setup becomes cheaper long-term after 3 filter changes. product also has some problems, but seemingly less


Be smart pedes, you make america great again by using your brain, so buy my product Brain Force

I doubt you will find any for sale in town. I bought this one years ago for 219 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ANW7HQ/ref=pe_385040_30332190_pe_175190_21431760_3p_M3T1_ST1_dp_1

it has only gone up 10 bucks in price so it's a great deal. it makes 6 liters in about 4 hours and is really easy to use. It also has the capability to accept a carbon filter in case you want to try distilling other things (I haven't tried yet but I hear rumors it works great for moonshine). I use it for a lot of things including drinking it occasionally. The best use though is in mixing with sal suds to create cleaners for the house. It basically eliminates all my other cleaner costs.

You really should. Imagine if a hurricane hit you in Philly or if there is a terrorist attack or something.

>What's the best frugal way to do that- get a bunch of gallons?

Save your used plastic or glass bottles of coke/juice/bourbon and fill them with water and put them in a closet.

If you are a water snob like me, this is THE BEST tasting water and is a billion times better than a Brita filter: https://www.amazon.com/Berkey-Filter-Ceramic-Filters-Fluoride/dp/B002RZXY5O

This will filter pretty strage water (like rain water) if it comes down to it.

Good luck! ill answer any follow-up questions you have cause we are best buds

Lifestraws are pretty short term. Very low capacity and can't be cleaned to extend their life.

> remove heavy metals

Distillation or reverse osmosis. Maybe some specific chelating agent for specific metals. Not really feasible for most purposes.

> Are there heavy metals in ground water or streams in the central USA

It mostly depends on very local historic industries. The worst of them were superfund sites and have hopefully been cleaned up. But check your area to be safe.

> is there something more I need to prepare for?

Viruses in water aren't that much of a problem in the US. It is more of an issue when untreated human waste is dumped in rivers. So it might be worth worrying about in a major SHTF situation. From my research the most effective way of dealing with them is germicidal UV. Not the little things like a Steripen but the whole house size models. Of course these need good pre-filters because they don't work if the water is cloudy.

For serious long term use I'd consider using Doulton ceramic filter "candles" instead of the Sawyer. They are very popular in the off-grid community. Cleaning them is a lot simpler but gradually wears down the filter.

edit: Lol you can just buy heavy metal water filters on amazon. The "KDF" module appears to do the heavy metals and it uses Copper Zinc Filtration. Wikipedia makes it sound like it is only so-so at doing the job.

Even 1ppm TDS in your RODI water can contribute to dinoflagellate outbreak like that. THIS is the TDS meter I use, and have used for YEARS. It's simple to use. Doesn't require calibration. Batteries last for frikkin ever. Always test your RODI water.

Ever wonder why people who have bulkreefsupply RODI systems never complain about their water? The BRS units use DOW Filmtec membranes. It's the best RO membrane out there. Pair that up with a fresh change of resin in your DI chamber; backflush your system properlt; test your clean water to make sure it's at 0ppm TDS.

I would also strongly recommend only using food grade buckets for your clean water. This, or atleast another container that is thoroughly clean, and has never been used to hold anything BUT clean RODI water.

Cover all your bases on your water production, and I'll bet that after a water change or two, your dino outbreaks will fade.

It’s this one here- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LFMTYBM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1&utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf

How well it does compared to a traditional softener or dedicated iron removal system I’m not sure, but it’s at least a buffer to make your more expensive equipment work easier. I got quoted $2000 for a softener and $2500 for a dedicated iron removal system. Still need a softener though.
I’m getting my water tested again soon, so I guess we’ll see how effective it actually is.

An RO filter is a better choice than a brita. RO cost less to maintain vs having to forever buy filters for your brita. Don't get me wrong after so many gallons or years RO needs a new filter, but they are also more effective. RO can remove chlorine hard water is the most healthy kind but depends how hard. Need a PH meter to check it, or PH chemical test kit or strips they are cheap but the kind at fish stores tend to be lower range/quality.

Brita isn't bad but RO is better. I had one and we used the hell out of even beyond it's filters 18 month rating and still tasted way better than tap... WAY better.

something like this

http://www.amazon.com/Reverse-Osmosis-Undersink-Water-Storage/dp/B000HBC53C

can also hook it up to ice maker. Though if you rent it might be too much of a pain in the ass to install and uninstall when you move. If you have a home or plan to stay there a long time RO is the way to go.

On the other hand water with minerals in it may actually be healthier but not chlorine.

And obviously for portability use a stainless steel or safe plastic reusable container or like.. a cup.

This one was my first ever home improvement project. It was pretty easy and the water is great!

We’re on Melbourne city water here in Melbourne Beach but thankfully haven’t had the stinky water problem the folks on the mainland have. We do use a Pur water filter thing that lives in our fridge because our fridge doesn’t have a cold water dispenser (just an ice maker) - like this one https://www.amazon.com/PUR-DS1811Z-Ultimate-Water-Dispenser/dp/B07CRSK5KX/ref=sr_1_7. It does make the water taste a bit better. I will say also that having moved here from Palm Bay within the past year, we liked Palm Bay city water way, way better than Melbourne city water.

There's a lot of things the LifeStraw won't catch (any dissolved chemicals, fluoride chloroform etc.), but it is a very good start.

Reverse osmosis is about as pure water as you can get without distilling. One of these under the kitchen sink would be great if you can swing it (water that you cook with is always overlooked):
https://www.amazon.com/Express-Water-RO5DX-Drinking-Reverse/dp/B00J2DGTD8

And get one of these for your shower:
https://www.amazon.com/Replaceable-Cartridge-Handheld-Removing-Chlorine/dp/B01M2C2MB6

I'm looking for water filter recommendations for my faucet to see if my water might be cause of some of the skin issues I've been having. So far I've only looked at PUR water filters on Amazon because I don't know anything about water filters and they are the only ones I've heard of. I'm not really sure what's the difference between the [basic] (https://www.amazon.com/PUR-Black-Basic-Vertical-Faucet/dp/B009V9K6BY/ref=sr_1_3?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1474066604&sr=1-3&keywords=pur+faucet+water+filter), [2-step] (https://www.amazon.com/PUR-FM-3333B-2-Stage-Vertical-Faucet/dp/B0007ZYUA4/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1474066604&sr=1-2&keywords=pur+faucet+water+filter), and [advanced] (https://www.amazon.com/Advanced-Faucet-Filter-Chrome-FM-3700B/dp/B0009CEKY6/ref=sr_1_8?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1474066604&sr=1-8&keywords=pur+faucet+water+filter) filtration systems. I will not be drinking this water, as I already have another system installed in my kitchen for that. Any advice/recommendations would be appreciated. If there's another sub where someone can direct me for more specific information, that is also appreciated! Thanks!

Update. I'd actually recommend this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CYW3EVO

For most people, this is a pretty sweet setup. 3.5 gallons per hour, 3000 gallons per element (1 year+), holds 2.1 gallons, easy to fill. Looks nice. Comes with 2 filters.

Murphy bed!!! or this!

Composting toilet! Grab a bucket of sawdust to go with it.

Deflatable tub or portable Japanese soaking tub for shower!
If you need it... HOT shower!

Hand sink!

Camping stove that can be used indoors.

Water filter system for drinking and cooking.

Water storage!

For short term! ....just figure out how to secure it all! Fun! Fun!

I heard about not using regular garden hoses for filling kettles. So, I went ahead and bought an inline water filter and the white Camco drinking water hoses, which come in 25' and 4' lengths. This setup is actually for an RV. One 5 micron filter does 250 gallons.

The whole setup (with Amazon Prime) was just under $50. They also have a ground spike/filter stand for the main unit to keep it upright if you so desire. I just sit it in a bucket.

So far, I have not noticed any off flavors or odors. The system seems promising. Also, you can get better filtration systems, but I chose this one because it connects directly to the hose spigot without need of an adapter.

One other thing I should mention is that I use well water which was the initial reason to filter my brew water. This system makes it faster and easier so far.

I have used an older model of this table top distiller:
Slow but removes everything and you can take it with you when you move...

http://www.amazon.com/Megahome-Countertop-Distiller-Stainless-Bottle/dp/B000ANW7HQ

You can use a gallon or two of distilled water in a small 12 qt Cambro and you need not worry about cleaning the circulator every time. The water does pick up odors from different seasonings so you my not be able to keep your cooking water around too long between cooks.

Have fun

I'd start here:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L0ADH3K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Easy set up and while not whole house, it can get your drinking water sorted. $40, Cheap enough to put in two. Runs to a water spout on my sink and to my fridge with good flow rate. Lasts 6 months, Maximum type handles lead.

A reverse osmosis system will start you at $200 minimum, costs more with filters, but will definitely do a better job

Next...Replace that lead line. Its toxic, and not just to you and your family. Lead from that pipe is in the communal water supply and your family will be exposed everywhere else. Long run this is far cheaper than the annual cost of filters or healthcare.

Bite the bullet (pun intended) and just do it.

I just finished installing a reverse osmosis last night and under sink canister filter last week (different houses) so this is timely, but I can tell you $5300 is crazy unless you have some serious water issues. Do you know what contaminants you are trying to filter? A water test will determine what type filteration you need. If you just want a britta-like filter for taste, you can install a canister like this for about $40. If you have other contaminants you can install a pretty stout reverse osmosis system for <$300. Again, it's going to depend on the water test.

As for sink, it's not difficult to drill a hole for a dedicated faucet. For granite you just need a specialized tile hole bit, for a steel sink you can pick up a hardened steel hole saw for about $10 and drill with a standard battery drill.

Jacksonville's water, whether on a well or not, has always been funky. I grew up with it and I think it's alright. Still, I installed this under-sink filter to appease certain people I live with. Pretty simple to install and makes a difference in taste as long as you replace the filter every 6-8 months. You could go all out and get an RO system, but they are pricey and take up a good bit of space under the sink.

Yeah that sulfur smell is sometimes caused by bacteria in wells that consume the oxygen in water. So your water probably has low amounts of oxygen to start with, so aerating your water will help your grow regardless if thats the issue or not.

I got mine off Amazon. I got a cheaper counter top version. Just make sure you dont get one that adjusts pH or adds nutrients back in. 6 or 7 stage ones sometimes do that.

Countertop Portable Universal 5-stage Reverse Osmosis RO Purification Water System with DI Deionizing Mixed Bed (close to 0 PPM) postfilter, build in USA https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDGTKRY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_dDjBCbM98TB73

My method?

I spray with a normal pressure garden hose and nozzle at a narrow setting and spraying from a top to downward direction - coupled with an RV canister graphite filter, one you can recharge the filter material inside.

Then I sponge bucket soap her down and give a spray again. Use a cordless leaf blower to blow most of the water off before wiping up with a soft cloth the rest of the spots.

I don't use abrasive chrome polish - which may take off material instead. Since I have my cast wheels chromed, this wash method makes the wheels much more easier to clean.

After, I apply S-100 corrosion protectant to some of the engine nooks and fork crannnies, as well as the forward foot control nooks.

Quick, easy, and gets off most if not almost all debris without more scratching. And in a more effortless manner for spotless washing. And motorcycles aren't immediately or even sometime a bit after harmed by a drenching - evident with some of my wet rainy rides.

Edit: I also sponge soap her down starting from the top of the bike to the bottom of the bike, just as I would an automobile. The reason being so that I do not accumulate more debris to add to the soap down sponging as I wash the bike as I go.

Like some others have mentioned. Start by getting a quality water test or simply look at your water utility's published annual report for a close guesstimate. Most utilities are required to publish annual reports covering all the major analytes. Including heavy metals. This will allow you to select appropriate filter media.

For example, my water supplier treats the water using heavy amounts of chloramines and leaves behind lots of sediment deposits which causes extremely hard water (calcium and magnesium). So we have a water softener, sediment filter, and carbon block for the whole house.

As far as filter housings go, your best option with the most flexibility would be to pickup some "Big Blue Filters". These are standard 20" x 4.5" housings with a plethora of filter mediums available.

Stay away from companies and brands that sell proprietary systems.

Keep in mind whole house filters do not reduce TDS (Total Dissolved Solids). Whole house systems are good at stripping out the big stuff. For example my washer has less build up on the gasket, clothes are softer, dishes no longer have dried deposits on them.

I would highly suggest a point of use Reverse Osmosis system for drinking water (even if you do whole house filtration) for the most bang for your buck (will remove lead and many other common chemical contaminants).

We have very clean (no chlorination or any other treatment) but also very hard water. I use Brita, which does the job for tea.

Are you sure your water is ok? Others suggested reverse osmosis, which, however, is mostly an option for labs.

An option might be a water destillation kit, which takes up electricity but would work well for just potable water. I don't know how well e.g.

http://www.amazon.com/Nutriteam-Countertop-Distiller-Stainless-Collection/dp/B000ANW7HQ

works, or whether there are cheaper options around.

There is not enough oxygen in the water. Get a bubbler or another filter that can add more oxygen to the water. thats why theyre jumping out.

remember that water temp changes (by a few degrees) is alot for fish. when im changing the temperature from 80 to 76 it takes me about 2 weeks. Its a very slow process. I would recommend getting this, and this . It makes water changes a breeze. The first is a must if you're lugging water. The second is amazing. I use it because i have extremely mineral heavy water and it really works, I've been doing water changes with these for over two years and I haven't had any issues. The advantage of the tap adapter is that you can add hot water until the water temperature reads the same as the water in the tank.

The filter eliminates 99% chlorine. There are other filters that are cheaper but i haven't found another that eliminates chlorine as well. For good measure you can still add half a dose of stress coat +.

This isn't inline but it works great and the filters last a long time: https://www.amazon.com/Berkey-Filter-Ceramic-Filters-Fluoride/dp/B002RZXY5O

A permanent faucet filter such as: (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J2DGTD8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) is overkill but was surprisingly easy to install and you can't put a price on piece of mind.

Add something like this in the water line going to the fridge: https://www.amazon.com/Watts-Capacity-refrigerator-Chlorine-Sediment/dp/B000E77I0Y/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=fridge+ice+maker+filter&qid=1564084519&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Combine with cleaning the ice maker really well, even just a wipe down, and it'll help tremendously.

You can get filters for the water line to the fridge. They look like this.

http://www.amazon.com/Watts-5YR-Filter-Ice-Maker/dp/B000E77I0Y

Pretty easy DIY project, but the nicer filters cost much more.

True, but it really isn't that much of a hassle to buy a filter, or a filtered pitcher and not only cut down on waste but save yourself some money as well.

Little fancier, closer to $300:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005A3WM6C/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's actually pretty easy to install, just make sure you have enough room under the sink for the filter and tank. I wasn't crazy about spending $300 (and annual cost for replacement filters) but I think clean water is worth a little extra. Plus, I got tired of messing around with Brita and Pur pitchers.

It sounds like you need a softener. The fleck ones are popular. A softener would help with the problems you described. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OGN3162/


You should test again though and confirm.


The first thing you posted is basically 2 big blues but way more money. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0014C3IOS/

Both things you posted are housings. The second one is basically a single housing that has multiple filters where as the first one is 2 housings which would each have a filter each. Most likely 1 particulate, 1 carbon. They would both more or less do the same thing

That being said it sounds like you need the softener not the filter.

RO is Reverse Osmosis. Most of those machines include an RO mechanism that'll ensure that's it's just pure water, without anything else in it. So, it's like distilled water, but just a different process.

Next time, try your tap water. Unless it tastes bad to you. If it does, maybe invest in a charcoal filter like this one. If it tastes good, hit it with a campden tablet to eliminate the chlorine and you're good to go.

^ Basically this.

I bought this Reverse Osmosis system:

http://www.amazon.com/Drinking-Reverse-Osmosis-System-Water/dp/B00J2DGTD8

While it may seem expensive, prices have dropped about in half in the last 5 years. It's also great for drinking-water, cooking, coffee, tea, aroma-vaporizers, water tooth-flossers, and more.

If you do purify water, beware that many nutrient formulas are designed for tap-water, which contains calcium and magnesium. So you'll probably want to either get nutrients designed for R.O. or supplement the Ca/Mg. Tap water also contains chlorine, and chloramine which is bad for the roots. Flouride is also not healthy. Or if your water-provider happens to fuck up (see: Michigan), you have an extra layer of safety.

My current hydro system is DWC, about 50 gallons capacity overall. I'd estimate I use about 16 gallons of water per week. The only down-side of my (current) R.O. system is that it fills at a rate of about 2-gallons per hour & the reservoir is 3.2 gallons. So my Saturday often has an timer every hour to refill another 2 gallons. Once I move, I intend to get more storage tanks, or possibly an additional RO system.

To make R.O. Systems more efficient and faster, you can attach a pump to the inlet side.

Anyway, highly recommend reverse-osmosis.

---

edit:

I also modified a water pitcher; which is about 2 gallons. (1) I drilled a hole in the handle to make filling easier, (2) cut off the front for pouring, (3) and another hole at the water-line because I've forgotten it several times and had water spill all over the floor.

http://i.imgur.com/G2qSew6.jpg

I installed a water filter in my kitchen and bathroom on the cold water. It definitely improves the taste and it's rated for lead (if there is any, my understanding is this is much more dependent on pipes on your property and any nearby road work than the citywide system).

The filters are $30-40 and last 3-6 months unless there's a boil water advisory (which is guaranteed to happen right after you change them).

This one by Pur. I have to replace the filter every few months, but it's pretty much eliminated any chlorine flavor from my tap water.

This is what I bought:

http://www.amazon.com/Camco-40631-Premium-Water-Filter/dp/B00523AMBC/

Currently $48, I bought it for $40. You can go cheaper, but the micro rating drops (gets bigger). Don't forget drinking (potable) water safe hoses.

I use this

Replacement filters are about $50. I have mine running to a40 gallon storage tank with a float valve for shut off. Works great.

here is what I use. I pair it with 2 7gallon jugs to capture the water and a cheap TDS meter. Been using it for over a year. You need to change filters and I think for this system they're around $50. The change frequency seems to be based on usage (not fully sure how many gallons). I have yet to replace my filter - every time I use it to collect water I use a TDS meter to check PPM, once I notice that it gets over 7-10ppm I'll change the filters. My tap water is something like 200-250ppm, this gets it under 2ppm, usually 0ppm

We use this but tbh we are making assumptions that it'll be adequate for a reef environment based on how well it is working for our freshwater environments.

Why do you need a whole home reverse osmosis system? Why not a 3 chambered home filtration unit like this one?

Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter - 3 Stage Home Water Filtration System - Sediment, KDF, Carbon Filters - includes Pressure Gauges, Easy Release, and 1" Inch Connections https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LFMTYBM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lDkkDbXYD98XM


Then add RO under your sink?

>We only put filtered water into the espresso machine

What kind of filtration are you using? The only way to remove 99-100% of hardness is distillation or RO, both of which have significant drawbacks. I have had luck with using the larger, single-stage filters like the Filtrete Maximum in reducing the PPM from ~80 to ~40 but I haven't tested it a high-PPM environment.

I would suggest the tablets for convenience. Do the research and read the fine print on this and any other system.

What I use is a Sawyer Squeeze
http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP181-Filtration-Squeezable/dp/B004TZ86M6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427646558&sr=8-1&keywords=sawyer+point+one+squeeze
This is not without it's issues and I have fairly clean water where I go. Issues I have found are the syringe for back flushing I replaced with a tornado tube and made aftermarket caps which I cannibalized from water bottles.

http://imgur.com/a/FGiSJ

I see that everyone recommend the Sawyer squeeze for a water filter. Will this be suitable to have one between two people? If I do buy it for the two of us do I want this all in one version?

I feel you, and that's why I use one of these filters. Totally worth the price. I live in a WWII-era building, and not only is the water full of iron, but it's got particulates in it as well (sediment).

I bought this about 4 months ago. I am very pleased.
5 Stage Home Drinking Reverse Osmosis System PLUS Extra Full Set- 4 Water Filter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J2DGTD8/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_cJ6KxbH6GT8E7

Here, you're welcome:

http://www.amazon.com/Reverse-Osmosis-Undersink-Filter-Storage/dp/B000HBC53C

I use this 5 stage filter with my crappy tap water. Works great and is going on a year on its second set of filters without any sign of slowing down.

Whatever you do, I recommend getting a cheap chlorine test kit and TDS meter to spot check the performance of your filter over time.

This is what we use.

Our kitchen sink has a strong chlorine taste without it. Works well.

It's mostly for my cats, so it lasts longer than if it was for everyone here.

You replace the filter 8-12 months depending on use.

We bought a Big Berkey about two years ago because of the water taste and we couldn't be happier. Great investment. Also, as a former Texan, avocados are not cheap here. Costco has the best value. If you can't find any ripe, store them standing with the navel side down in an egg carton. As they ripen, they won't bruise themselves by their own weight. Rent is stupid and vulgar here, for sure.

It's just $200 bucks for a reverse osmosis filter.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/ISPRING-6-Stage-Under-Sink-Reverse-Osmosis-Water-Filter-with-Alkaline-Remineralization-RCC7AK/206467327

If you want a UV light filter for viruses it's like another $100 (7 stage instead of 6 stage)

Replacement filters: https://www.amazon.com/iSpring-F9K-Replacement-6-Stage-Filtration/dp/B00BOASJ1M

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005A3WM6C/

https://www.amazon.com/Berkey-Countertop-Elements-Fluoride-Filters/dp/B00BWIX1EQ

Okay there are a couple good ones I know of, but I do NOT support ordering anything from amazon. Try to find these elsewhere if anyone has time, post the links.

For the short term, get yourself an on-tap water filter for your kitchen sink. This way you can at least clean out water for drinking and food preparation purposes.

That's what water filters are for. They're like $20.

I got one of these Tap Water Filters and I drink WAY more water now that it doesn't taste like balls; before I'd just get drinks or large amounts of tea/purple drink. Saves you the calories and is better for you.

I use the Big Berkey with charcoal filters. My main concern was lead. However, it may not help with the situation described in the letter. I at least hope it does remove nearly all heavy metals, though.

I have this. I think for me, altitude played the biggest factor.

Get one of the ones that is a container that fits in your refrigerator. You manually fill them and the filter cartridges are easily replaceable. It's completely portable.

https://www.amazon.com/PUR-DS1811Z-Ultimate-Water-Dispenser/dp/B07CRSK5KX/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=pur+jug&qid=1555776737&s=gateway&sr=8-4

I have this one, works great. Only annoying when i go to get some and the roommate didn't refill it.

Looks like about $200 on Amazon though I'm not sure that's the exact same model.

I'm using something similar to This one. It works well although it only reclaims about 50% of the everclear.

Lifestraw: $19.99
http://www.amazon.com/Vestergaard-Frandsen-527950-LifeStraw-Personal-Filter/dp/B006QF3TW4/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1394141409&sr=1-1&keywords=lifestraw

Or Alternatively:

Sawyer Water Filtration System: $50.42
http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-SP181-Emergency-Filtration-Light-Weight/dp/B004TZ86M6/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1394141349&sr=1-2&keywords=sawyer+filtration+system



While not vital, here is something to consider:

Mora Hook (spoon) knife: $22.16
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00343VCCK/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's what I thought of off the top of my head. I'll see if I can add to the list when I get home.

Here's a link to the Canadian Amazon, because y'know, this is /r/canada

There are non-permanent models you can buy that screw on to the faucet and have the four filters sitting on top of the counter (you can remove when not in use). It's not those little screw on Pur filters, but a full, 4-stage RO system with a tube that you can plop into your 3-gal containers and fill that way.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDGTKRY/

http://www.amazon.com/PUR-Black-Basic-Vertical-Faucet/dp/B009V9K6BY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-1&keywords=pur+faucet+filter+black

I've been using it for about a year. Haven't changed the filter yet - it started blinked red a while ago [indicating filter change], but I've been riding it out and haven't tasted a difference.

Sawyer SP181 and 2 2L or larger water bladders.

I'd get one of these tbh

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Berkey-Bk4X2-Bb-Purification-Elements-Stainless/dp/B00CYW3EVO

Filter and bottle your own water.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005A3WM6C/

Best $250.00 I ever spent.

Get a Water Distiller remove the carbon filter and distill it. video

If their is a way to bypass the filter, you could try installing the following filter on the line to your fridge.

http://www.amazon.com/Watts-5YR-Filter-Ice-Maker/dp/B000E77I0Y

400 gallon? This one is rated for 20,000 and is only $30 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E77I0Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm on mobile, here's a larger one. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GDGTKRY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00GDGTKRY&linkCode=as2&tag=hombrefin-20&linkId=RKOFNXHKEKQRA7YN

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ANW7HQ/

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GDGTKRY/

Only 6 reviews:

5 star - 67%
2 star - 33%

I know this is going to sound crazy, but you need a whole house water filter. The small shower filters don't have enough contact time with the water to do anything.

First thing is to find out if your city uses chlorine or chloramines.

Then, if you have the space in your shower get this beast:

Housing

Filter: Chloramine / Chlorine

Not enough space and want to mount on the wall:

Housing

Filter: Chloramine / Chlorine

--

Shower hose

Wand

Fittings: Reducers x2 / 1/2" Nipple

It will look a little hood rat and ridiculous but it actually works.

It also seems expensive, but these filters will last a longgg time.

Edit: it will look something like this

Almost all the "bad" tasting water is caused by extra metals or minerals, and almost always is harmless. Most of the time it's from water that is sourced from underground aquifers that tastes "bad". You're right: A brita (activated charcoal) can remove most of the nasty taste.

If you really, really want to make clean, use a reverse osmosis filtering system (that one seems a bit over-the-top).

RO filters are tl;dr'd as: Use a pump to force water through a series of filters / membranes and reject the stuff that doesn't make it through.

Probably more trouble than it's worth to get your landlord to do anything about it. Grab one of these and call it a day.

Run the water on cold for a minute before you use it for cooking or to fill up a brita(or any container so you're not waiting a minute for a glass). The lead gets into the water after it sits in your pipes. Overall water quality from the treatment plants is good otherwise.

If you get bad lead test results or are just worried, consider installing an undersink lead filter

I've now bought this Filtrete Ultimate cartridge filter & am planning to attach it between my water supply & my fridge. Most of the water we drink is from the fridge & we use lots of ice, so that's my first move. I'd love to get a more serious under sink filter system going but my granite countertop doesn't have a hole for the extra faucet & drilling into the granite sounds too scary for me.

Filtrete Maximum Under Sink Water Filtration System

$45 for 6 month use, even filters out pharmaceuticals. Replacement filters twist on no tools. Filter replacements are around $30. This is such a cheap option you could install them in the bathroom as well.

EDIT: This is a city water only option. If you're on well, go with a full reverse osmosis system, not if's and's or but's. Its the only way to ensure that you avoid the nasty shit like cryptosporidium or whatever else could be down there.

Why not just buy one? I've been using this one for three years with no complaints.

You could probably add a Reverse Osmosis filter with a tank under your sink, with a Deionizing stage for even more pure water, and then add an alkalizing stage at the end of line for taste and minerals being put back in the water. Something like this https://smile.amazon.com/Express-Water-Reverse-Osmosis-Filtration/dp/B00J2DGTD8

As you can see, there are lots and lots of versions and sellers, and are basically all the same setups just with different cartridge combinations/costs, but they all take the same filter cartridges, so brand doesn't matter much in the end.

One disadvantage is that it sends 3 gallons of waste down the drain for every gallon of pure water you get, on average, but if your municipality doesn't suck that water isn't really "wasted," but it can get expensive if you pay a lot for water. Can't beat RODI water for purity, though

The vast majority of the time you're going to want to bug-in rather than bug-out. I know, it isn't as sexy and you don't get to buy all of the cool gear that you might have on your mind. Plan for what is likely before you get into the unlikely.

Get a water filter which filters more than 200 gallons of water. Forget the magnesium fire starter and the iodine tablets. Keep a few unused lighters around for making fire.

Some things which are missing:

• Have a plan to be able to heat your house. Have a backup plan in case the first one fails. Given where you live, you probably want a tertiary plan as well.
  
• Have food storage for at least two weeks.
  
• Do you have any medical conditions that might require special preparations?
  
• Think about the security of your home.
  
• If you lose your internet, phone and cell how important is communications to you?
  
  The last two don't really have action items for short term disasters.
  
  Edit: Dang autocorrect got me.

I have the same problem with the low humidity: asthma, allergies, nose bleeds. We don't have a whole house humidifier so I use a combination of a Honeywell console humidifier and a Mabis Steam Inhaler. I keep them in whatever room I'm in.

They will go bad quickly with tap water so I bought a tabletop distiller. I put the water through a Brita filter first, then I distill it, and I use that in the humidifiers.

I use a little EVOO in my nostrils, especially at night.

Some of us just don't do well with low humidity. It's an ongoing battle.