With inflation costs rising, most of us are looking to cut costs where we can. So, when you see a generic replacement water filter, it’s no wonder that you might try swapping out your certified version. After all, when the cost of eggs hits a record high, every dollar counts. But is this a savings that’s actually pretty costly in other ways. The unfortunate truth is that while the water might look the same, it’s got a couple of dirty secrets. Read on to find out about the 3 dirty truths generic water filters are hiding.
Contaminant Removal
You make smart choices by using water filtration systems because you care about what’s in your water. However, some of these counterfeit or generic filters might not be doing the job you expect them to do. Generic filters typically fail to meet U.S. standards for safety, including the NSF/ANSI standards for lead reduction. That matters because even though home tap water may look clean, lead and other contaminants can get into your water through leaching lead service lines.
Poor Taste?
We don’t mean to imply buying generic filters is in poor taste — most of us like to save a buck or two! But, have you ever had a sip of filtered water that tasted a bit unpleasant? Perhaps you got a whiff of chlorine or the water just tasted flat. While not all generic filters reduce chlorine, PUR water filters all reduce chlorine and improve taste and odor. In fact, our PUR PLUS Mineral Core™ Faucet Filters filter water over minerals in the filter itself, specifically to ensure the water tastes great.
No Guarantees
When you buy a trusted water filter replacement from PUR, you know the results are guaranteed. But when you purchase compatible and generic water filters, those guarantees are no longer valid. PUR maintains the highest standards for their products. For over 30 years, all PUR filters have undergone rigorous testing to ensure U.S. standards for safety are met. In fact, PUR’s faucet filtration systems are certified by NSF and WQA for their contamination reduction. So, while a universal filter might appear to fit, even small differences compromise the safety of your water. Only PUR filters have been designed to perfectly fit your pitcher or faucet system. Generic filters introduce a risk that isn’t worth considering.
We know it’s important to save money. But when it comes to your water, what you’re saving on a generic water filter might not be worth it. It’s critical that our budgeting supports an overall healthy lifestyle, and genuine water filters are one of those healthy decisions. The only other alternative to guarantee safety is to purchase bottled water, but that creates more plastic waste. Pitchers or faucet systems like those PUR produces are still far more cost effective and reduce plastic usage. PUR water pitchers, for example, save up to $75¹ a month versus bottled water. That’s a significant savings for all that water safety! So drink confidently and do your research when it comes to your water.