Today, we are going to dive into the world of water filtration. What is a ceramic filter? A ceramic filter is a type of water filtering system that filters out contaminants in tap or well water. The major difference between this and other types of filtering systems is that it does not use chemicals, instead of relying on natural processes.
If you want to know more about how a ceramic filter works and its great benefits, scroll down for more detail.
What Is A Ceramic Filter?
A ceramic filter is a type of clay water purifier. It cleanses water from bacteria, suspending agents, and turbidity. The factor that performs the removal process is the small pores in the ceramic material. However, it does not remain effective with particles smaller than the size of pores, such as viruses.
The absorption process consists of three main stages. First, the two containers receive the water and direct it to the candle filter in the middle. After being treated, the output flows into the container below and stays there. In other words, another function of ceramic filters is short-term storage.
It looks like a container of water
This device has a simple installation and maintenance procedure. After a period, it is best to clean the ceramic filter with a brush and keep it in new condition with some other care.
Filters do not consume energy which makes them ideal for use in developing countries. It is also a good way to develop local commerce in clay-rich areas.
What Is A Ceramic Filtration System?
The ceramic filtration system works based on small pores to separate water and impurities. It became popular for home and mobile needs due to its versatility and economical. Retail prices for the entire point-of-use (POU) ceramic system range from $100 to $200
Ceramic filter candle, another name for ceramic filter cartridge, helps treat drinking water and make it purer. Natural ceramic is the main material of the central pore system of dirt absorption.
People apply this system in many aspects of life, such as a gravity-fed, under-sink countertop. It even exists in residential design or light industrial production.
We also recommend this device to those who care about environmental issues. Made of 100% natural soil ingredients, ceramic filtration is considered an eco-friendly product. The filter operation process does not consume energy or release emissions into the air.
Besides, reusability is a feature worth mentioning. Regular brushing not only maintains filter performance but also limits the number of used products. This impact contributes to reducing the amount of waste that must be treated or released into the environment.
What Is In A Ceramic Filter Candle?
Manufacturers of ceramic filter setups come with several other antibacterial materials to enhance the efficiency of the device. An activated carbon core is one of the top choices. It aids the pore system in absorbing impurities.
Besides, silver ions in ceramic cores have become popular recently. Studies have shown that they have strong self-sterilizing abilities. This combination provides maximum disinfection efficiency and prevents the growth of algae or mold on the ceramic surface.
Whatever your choice, their undeniable benefit is the elimination of pathogenic bacteria and dirt. They provide clean water, which is beneficial to your health in every respect.
What Does A Ceramic Filter Remove?
Ceramic has a good ability to absorb dirt. The application of incremental methods increases the filtering efficiency of the candles. We will discuss its functions below. Check it out!
Without Activated Carbon
Bacteria
The ceramic filter removes pathogens such as E. coli, shigella, and salmonella. The small-sized pores trap them and allow purified water to run into the container below. It also has a similar effect on Giardia and Cryptosporidium – microorganisms that are dangerous to health. The filter’s absorption capacity reaches 99%, which ensures the best drinking water quality.
Sediment
Visible contaminants cannot pass through the pore system of the ceramic filter. It perfectly retains dirt, dust, and other particles.
Ceramic filters are an economical solution for providing clean water at home.
Turbidity
Water with yellow or brown color makes it hard for you to taste? That’s when ceramic filters become more useful than ever. The removal of suspended substances makes the water more palatable.
With activated carbon
Chlorine
Treatment plants often use chlorine to treat tap water. Some people find this inconvenient because it leaves an unpleasant odor. Others also perceive the bitter taste that makes the water less appealing. Choosing to buy a filter with activated carbon is the best solution in this case. It removes the effects of chlorine and makes your life easier.
VOCs
The excessive use of paints and pesticides pollutes water sources in residential areas. Volatile organic compounds from carbon are certainly harmful to health after accumulation if not handled properly. But don’t worry. Add a layer of activated carbon to the ceramic filter to reduce VOCs in the water.
With Ion Exchange Resin
Water contaminated with heavy metals is not a good choice for your body. Ion exchange resin solves all your worries. It defeats lead, mercury, or copper and makes the water healthier.
What Ceramic Filters Don’t Remove?
Minerals
Apart from the distillation process’s absorbent base, the ceramic filter’s cleaning principle does not reduce the mineral levels. This means that remineralization methods are not necessary if you use this system at home. Even so, we recommend using water softeners. Ceramic filters are not effective in reducing the water hardness.
Viruses
Viruses smaller than 0.1 microns can pass through the filter system of ceramic filters. Although viruses have been shown to cluster in groups, studies have yet to prove ceramic’s effectiveness in eliminating them. We recommend the UV water purifier for those concerned about this issue.
TDS
Ceramic filters cannot deal with heavy pollution caused by dissolved substances. If you face this problem, the new reverse osmosis system is the best choice. By comparison, ceramic filters give good results for disinfection and cleaning. You should understand the quality of your water before buying any equipment.
What Are Ceramic Filter Benefits and Drawbacks?
Benefits
- Good removal of bacteria and living organisms
- Simple-to-use process
- Reusability of the filter
- Low maintenance cost
- Reduce the possibility of diarrhea
Drawbacks
- The filter system does not affect viruses
- High chance of re-infection
- Filter quality may not be the same due to different manufacturers
- Low filtration rate (1-3 liters per hour)
- Requires regular cleaning
How Does A Ceramic Filter Work?
The first stage of absorption requires human intervention. You pour untreated water into the upper container and wait a while for the water to settle at the bottom. Candle filters use mechanical traps to remove organisms and pathogens. The pore system is responsible for capturing these harmful agents.
As mentioned above, some advanced filters incorporate purifying agents such as silver ions, activated carbon, or ion exchange resins. Depending on the brand you choose, it can add one or all three extra layers.
The more particulate matter present, the better the filter efficiency. Water is released from living organisms, bacteria, and impurities after being treated. Essentially, the water becomes purified and becomes ready to drink. The filter also improves the color and taste of the water if the input does not meet the usual standards.
The following three factors influence your maximum benefit, including brand quality, input nature, and manipulation. For example, water with high turbidity interferes with filter performance. Sludge or iron tends to accumulate on the ceramic surface, causing clogging.
It requires regular cleaning to solve this problem. Another way is to settle the water and use only the top to fill the container. However, it would be best to use raw material with less than 0.3mg iron and 5 NTU turbidity.
How To Clean A Ceramic Filter?
As mentioned above, you can use the ceramic filter many times with regular cleaning. One of the signs that the equipment must be scrubbed is a slowing of the flow rate. You can also observe the filter status. If a lot of dirt accumulates on the ceramic surface, it is time to clean it immediately. Here is how to do:
- Gently take the candle filter out of the jar. Be extra careful because ceramic breaks easily if applied with strong force.
- Use a toothbrush or soft sponge to remove surface moss. Place it under running water to quickly wash away dirt. It is forbidden to use cleaning agents or scrubs with hard materials.
- Dry the filter completely and check its sealing. Then, put your ceramic filter in its original position and reinstall it carefully.
When To Replace Your Ceramic Filter?
If your ceramic cartridges include multiple layers of filters, you may have to replace them after a while (except the ceramic candle). For example, carbon coal loses its original performance quickly and has a short lifespan.
Therefore, the old ones cannot meet your users’ needs. Another way to increase durability is to keep the device capacity at a moderate level. Running over the gallons level wears down the filter’s efficiency quite a bit.
Final Thoughts
We believe this article has helped you get the most accurate answer: What is a ceramic filter? If you’re looking for a product with a long shelf life, ceramic filters are what you want. It has great bacteria, dirt, turbidity, and other organisms removal capabilities.
Though not as effective against viruses, candle filters are still a purchase that is worth your money. If you intend to use it, pay attention to the manufacturer’s quality to get the most out of its advantage.
Related article:
What Is A Water Distiller And How Does It Work? – Best Water Treatment
What Is A Water Softener And How Does It Work? – A Full Explanation