There are several types of water filters available commercially, each with its own unique features that are useful in different applications. Here are some of the most common types of water filters available commercially:

• Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are good for removing chlorine, chloroform, agricultural chemicals, organic substances, sediment, and magnesium. This is the most common type of filter and is often used in conjunction with other filtration methods for maximum toxin removal.

• Mechanical Filters: These filters work by physically trapping particles in the water, such as sediment, dirt, and rust. They are often used as a pre-filter to protect other types of filters from clogging.

• Reverse Osmosis Filters: These filters use a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved solids, such as salts and minerals, from the water. They are often used in areas with high levels of dissolved solids or where the water is particularly hard.

• Ion Exchange Filters: These filters are good for removing hard water minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause scaling and buildup in pipes and appliances. They work by exchanging ions in the water for other ions, such as sodium.

• Ceramic Filters: These filters use a ceramic material to trap particles in the water, such as sediment, bacteria, and cysts. They are often used in areas where the water is contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms.

• Activated Alumina Filters: These filters are good for removing fluoride and arsenic from the water. They work by adsorbing the contaminants onto the surface of the filter media.

• Alkaline and Water Ionizers: These filters use a process called electrolysis to change the pH of the water and create alkaline water. They are often used for health and wellness purposes.

• Sequestration Filters: These filters are good for removing hard water minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause scaling and buildup in pipes and appliances. They work by sequestering the minerals in the water, preventing them from forming scale.

• Whole House Treatment Units: These filters are installed at the point where the water enters the house and treat all the water that comes into the house. They are often used to remove sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants from the water.

Its important to diagnose the existing quality of tap water before choosing a filter, as tap water varies by region and depending on its source could be treated for any number of contaminants. No filter eliminates all contaminants, so understanding what filters do and do not do is important.