Water & Air – Filter Systems News

IMAGE CREDIT: http://techland.time.com

The high humidity level of Lima, Peru (which is around 83%) was always seen as a fact, but never a blessing. Better yet, it was never viewed as a potential solution to the water shortage that Lima is currently dealing with. As the second largest desert in the world, Lima sees very little annual rainfall and, according to a 2011 article in The Independent, 1.2 million of its residents lack running water. The humid conditions of Lima are now being put to good use, in the most unlikely of forms—a billboard.

Looking to create a splash to kick off its 2013 application period, The University of Engineering and Technology of Peru (UTEC) teamed up with ad agency Mayo DraftFCB to create a billboard that would convert the H2O-saturated air of Lima into potable water. What is the most amazing part of this invention? They actually succeeded.

With nothing more than a basic filtration system, humidity and ingenuity, this billboard produces around 26 gallons per day of potable water from the air. View the diagram below to get a feel for how this invention works.

IMAGE CREDIT: http://techland.time.com

This amazing billboard is located in the middle of the Peruvian desert, where clean drinking water is especially difficult to come by. According to Mayo DraftFCB, this modern marvel has produced around 2,500 gallons of water since the billboard was first erected in December of 2012. This invention requires an undisclosed amount of electricity to work, but many believe that if future models become self-sufficient using solar energy, then it could become both a viable and eco-friendly alternative.

As cool as this invention is, this is a sobering reminder of the harsh realities that many of the world’s population face from day to day. The need for fresh drinking water is a basic human necessity that is often left unmet. Whether your source of water is coming from a filtered water pitcher, or from a billboard, you need this precious resource to survive and to function properly in this Earth.

Only time will tell how feasible this invention can be at a larger scale and what adjustments (if any) would be needed. Do you see this becoming a viable solution down the road? Would you mind seeing one of these in your neighborhood? Don’t be shy. Let us know your opinion in the comments below.

Both images used in this blog are courtesy of techland.time.com.

IMAGE CREDIT: centersandsquares.com

Recycling is the process of separating, collecting and converting waste or used products into new materials. Through this process, you are extending the life of something that has already served its initial purpose, such as your water filters. Many of us switch to filtered water over concerns about the waste of plastic water bottles, which clog our nations landfills. However, we are often left wondering what recycling options exist for our water filters. While some filter manufacturers do not (as of this writing) offer recycling programs, there are many who do.

Recycle Brita Filter Cartridges:

Did you know the material from each Brita filter cartridge is used to manufacture personal care products such as toothbrushes and razors? To recycle your Brita filter:

1.)      Dry your old filter by shaking off the excess water and letting it dry for three days.
2.)    Wrap the filters in a plastic grocery bag and drop it off at a participating Preserve Gimme 5 recycling location (many bins may be found at certain Whole Foods Market stores).
3.)     If there is not a nearby location available, you can mail the filters to Preserve at:
Preserve Gimme 5
823 State Route 13
Cortland, NY 13045-6574

Recycle GE Water Filter Cartridges:

GE, the supplier of popular refrigerator water filters, is also doing their part in recycling used water filters. When replacing your old GE filter:

1.)    Remove the excess water from your old filter (let it drain overnight).
2.)    Place the filter in a plastic, re-sealable bag.
3.)    Sit the filter inside a sealed mailing envelope.
4.)    Address the filter to:
Stericycle Expert Sustainability
Attn: water filter recycling
2770 Fortune Circle Drive East
Indianapolis, IN 46241

Recycle Mavea Water Filters:

Mavea pays the shipping cost for you to recycle your Mavea water filter cartridge. To minimize the carbon footprint of shipping, Mavea recommends saving six filter cartridges for every shipment. To recycle your Mavea water filter:

1.)    Obtain their shipping label by filling out the form on their website.

2.)    Place your filters in a package weighing 2 pounds or less and drop it off at your nearest UPS location.

For information on the Filtrete Water Station, Everpure and additional recycling options from our vendors, see How to Recycle Water Filters.  Be sure to conduct research to see if your water filter manufacturer offers a recycling program. If they do not, contact your local recycling center. If your filter is made with #5 plastic (which is used to make signal lights, brushes, bicycle racks, etc.) then your recycling center may accept the filter cartridge for recycling. In addition, search online for recycling companies to find any that recycle old air and furnace filters.

“Come on in, the waters fine!” is a phrase you may hear in the coming months as more and more people take frequent dips in their pool and relax in their spa. But is the water really fine? Is the water in your pool and spa clean? Maintenance is often neglected during the long winter months as many pools and outdoor spas are not frequently used. Without proper maintenance on your pool or spa, your water could be imbalanced and conceal waterborne contaminants that are potentially toxic to your body. Many of these problems are not visible to the naked eye, so just because it looks clean, doesn’t mean it is clean.

A filter is a vital piece in pool and spa maintenance. Pool and spa filters remove water impurities and other contaminants from your water, resulting in water that is clean and healthy enough for your family. Without the proper filtration in your pool and spa, you may notice an increase in bacteria and algae formation.

The Filbur FC-3053 Pool and Spa Filter works with pools, spas and hot tubs. It features Anti-Microbial (or Microban) technology, which prevents microbes such as bacteria, fungi, mold and mildew from growing or reproducing. The construction of the Filbur FC-3053 ensures durability and consistent water flow. Having a filter installed (and replacing your older one) is a must for pool and spa maintenance. Browse through our complete list of pool and spa filters to see which one best suits your needs. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on cleaning and replacing your pool and spa filter.

After installing a filter in your spa or swimming pool, we are often left wondering if the filter is really doing what it’s supposed to do. Is it removing the harmful contaminants from my pool water? Is it making the water safer for me and my family? Too often these valid questions go unanswered, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

The Watersafe Water Test is an antibody-based test kit that detects the presence of bacteria in spas and swimming pools. The Watersafe Pool Water Test will provide an on-site water analysis (with no training or instrumentation required) of harmful levels of bacteria in your pool or spa water in under 20 minutes. There are no chemicals to add in order to conduct the water test. The Watersafe Bacteria Water Test delivers accurate and reliable results in a convenient and disposable bacteria test strip. This allows you to eliminate the guesswork of whether or not your pool water is suffering from bacteria or other harmful impurities.

Pool and spa filters are just as important for your swimming pool as your household water filter and your air/furnace filter. Before you take a dip in the pool, or relax in the spa, make sure that the proper pool and spa maintenance has been done. The correct pool and/or spa filter is the first step in healthier water.

We are celebrating World Water Day, an internationally recognized day held annually on March 22 as a means of focusing awareness on the importance of and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. The first World Water Day was designated on March 22, 1993. Each year this day highlights a specific aspect or “theme” of freshwater.

This year, the theme is water cooperation. As many of you know, water is one of the most precious resources on this planet. Water is an integral part of society: It powers cities, feeds crops, cools computer servers, keeps our bodies functioning properly and is used in manufacturing everything from cars to clothes. However, there is growing concern over this seemingly abundant resource. Although water makes up 75% of the Earth’s surface, only a fraction (around 2%) is suitable for human consumption. Of that 2%, less than 1% is currently accessible.

According to unwater.org, water availability is expected to decrease in many regions; yet global agricultural water consumption is expected to increase by 19% by 2050.  Add in challenges faced from pollution and climate change, and it is little wonder why many fear this valuable resource is dwindling.

Image Credit: http://apesnature.homestead.com/chapter9.html

These challenges have resulted in the global water crisis, a situation where a growing number of people lack access to safe, fresh drinking water as freshwater resources become scarcer. Many (rightfully so) see this as a problem, and a growing threat to life on Earth. Some have even predicted future wars over freshwater resources that could wreak further havoc on already struggling nations.

However, I believe we should look at this issue differently. What if we stopped viewing it as a problem, and started viewing it as a unique opportunity? An opportunity to come together, to set aside differences and to work out solutions to this problem that affects everybody.  This is what I believe the theme of water cooperation is truly about.

Coming together for the good of the whole has nothing to do with politics. It does have everything to do with each individual person doing their part in society. This involves practicing water conservation techniques on a regular basis, becoming more educated on water-related issues and becoming connected with a water charity that aims at ending this growing concern.

The theme of cooperation is easily found in The W3 Project, a water charity partnership between FiltersFast.com, Wine to Water and TrekDesk. By working together, we are providing clean drinking water for those in need. By donating miles, or donating $1 at checkout on FiltersFast.com, you are making a difference in lives around the world.

As a small business, we are fully committed to a more sustainable environment which will improve overall health. We encourage you to do your part in helping end this growing crisis, we all have a part to play, so let’s play it.

Now is not the time to sit on the sideline. This problem will not go away by itself. It takes all of us coming together and doing our part (no matter how small) to end this crisis. This is what water cooperation is about.

At long last spring has arrived. The bitter cold has passed (mostly) and it is time to enjoy the sun and warmth. We can’t let this time pass without offering maintenance suggestions for around the home. Some of the most critical home maintenance tips involve filters. Without regular maintenance of household filters, you can see a drop in system efficiency (such is the case in home furnaces), an increase in indoor air pollution and a decline in water quality. Yes, filters are that important. We want you to avoid shelling out extra money in unnecessary repairs and even hospital visits, so take a look at some critical spring maintenance suggestions for your home.

Replace your Furnace Air Filters:

Furnace Air filters should be replaced every 3-6 months depending on the conditions where you live and your indoor air quality. With the proper furnace filter, you will be able to reduce harmful airborne contaminants in your home such as dirt, dust and various airborne allergens. By filtering out harmful air pollutants, you and your family will breathe cleaner, thus limiting respiratory side effects (such as allergy flare ups) that indoor air pollution can cause. By not replacing your furnace filter regularly, you are doing your home furnace system a huge disservice and will drastically reduce its life expectancy. For information on which air filter you should choose, see Three Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Air Filter. We offer a complete line of furnace air filters that will provide you with the best indoor air quality for you and your family.

Replace your Refrigerator Water Filters:

Refrigerator Water Filters deliver refreshingly clean and cold water to your home. By removing chlorine, tastes, odors, lead and more you are getting healthy water directly from your refrigerator. In addition, Refrigerator water filters provide clean ice so that any drinks you serve will be free of flavors. By regularly replacing your filter, you are ensuring superior water quality for everyone in your home. Your choice of refrigerator filter depends on which filter is compatible with your home refrigerator. To assess compatibility, consult your owner’s manual or take a look at the model number on your existing refrigerator filter. After you have found the correct replacement filter for your refrigerator, browse through our complete assortment of refrigerator water filters.

Replace the filters in your Air Purifier:

Air Purifiers help “purify” the air in your home by reducing indoor allergens and other airborne contaminants. In addition to having a furnace filter installed, having an air purifier is one of the most important steps you can take to clean up indoor air. Failure to regularly change your filter will result in reduced efficiency and eventual failure of the air purifier. Replacing the filter varies for different makes and brands so be sure to consult your owners manual. Once you find your correct filter replacement, browse through our website to place your order.

If you don’t own an air purifier, now is the perfect time to order one for allergy and asthma relief. We suggest the Germ Defense 3-in-1 Table Top Air Cleaning System for its compact size and effectiveness in reducing indoor allergens. The 3-in-1 Table Top Air Cleaning System captures 99.97% of allergens while killing or reducing odors, germs and mold spores. This air cleaning system is ideal for households and offices.

Change the Battery in Your Smoke Alarm:

They may not include filters, but one of the most important fire safety devices for the home is the smoke alarm. This is an opportune time to change the batteries in the alarm (and your carbon monoxide detector too, if you have one). It is also recommended that you test your smoke alarm while changing the batteries. Smoke alarms should be tested once a month, and many include a test button that checks the entire alarm system when you push it. Ensuring that your smoke alarm works properly is, quite honestly, the difference between life and death.

Remember to check your roof and around vents for leaks and repair as necessary. Be sure to have your heating system serviced and check for leaky faucets in the kitchen and bathroom(s). For ways you can conserve energy during the spring months, view our suggestions in Energy Conserving Tips for “Fall Back” Savings.

March is designated as National Kidney Month to raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of kidney disease, the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Kidney Fund, as many as 31 million Americans are living with chronic kidney disease. To protect you from this disease, a healthy lifestyle must be prominent. This includes regular exercise, eating right and a good control of blood sugar (diabetes) and high blood pressure. Another vital step is to drink more water. The kidney plays a vital function in the body, and does an amazing job of cleansing and ridding the body of toxins.

Think of your kidney as a filter. It keeps some things in your body that you need, and eliminates other things that you don’t. Some key functions of your kidneys are:

• Producing urine
• Removing waste and extra fluid from your blood
• Controlling your body’s chemical balance
• Helping to keep bones healthy and controlling blood pressure
• Assisting in producing red blood cells

When you’re drinking enough fluids, urine flows freely, is free of odor and light in color. When you are not getting enough water intake, urine concentration, color and odor increases because the kidneys trap extra fluids to perform bodily functions.

Not drinking enough water can put you at higher risks of kidney stones, which is a solid piece of material that forms in a kidney when there are high levels of certain substances (such as salts and minerals) in the urine. Water prevents this by not allowing the salts and minerals to accumulate to form stones.

You may have heard that drinking 8 glasses of water per day is an adequate amount for water intake. That is a general rule of thumb so keep this in mind: We need to take in enough fluids to replace the amount of water we lose daily through perspiration, excretion and other bodily functions. This can vary widely for different individuals depending on age, weight, physical condition, activity level and environmental conditions (hot, humid, etc). You also consume water through food (a cup of Yogurt is 85% water), so eating healthy is also a good way to meet daily water requirements.

To ensure that you are drinking pure and filtered water, looking into a Reverse Osmosis (RO) System is recommended. RO Systems, such as the Aqua Flo Reverse Osmosis System, are great for removing harmful chemicals from entering your water supply. Also, be sure that your refrigerator water filter has been replaced within the last six months. Refrigerator water filters offer a useful line of defense against harmful waterborne contaminants (such as bacteria, e.coli and viruses) from entering your drinking water.

Kidney disease often has no symptoms. Simple medical tests (such as blood and urine tests) can tell you your kidneys are working right. Without water and a healthy lifestyle, your kidneys cannot properly filter out the harmful material that often finds its way inside of our bodies.

Image credit: huffingtonpost.com

In the largest study of its kind, Environmental Health Perspectives analyzed over three million births in nine countries. The results were startling. The studies concluded that pregnant women who breathe in high levels of air pollution are at an increased risk of having children with low birth weight, which is commonly associated with high infant mortality as well as various diseases later in life.

March is National Baby Month, a time where we are supposed to celebrate the life of our newborn sons and daughters. However, we are often exposed to the risks that many face.

There are far too many hazards, but what are they?

Every year, multiple recalls on children toys are put into effect due to lead being discovered. Lead poisoning can lead to long-term neurological damage that is often associated with learning and behavior problems. Recalls are also issued for toys that contain choking hazards, which is the fourth leading cause of unintentional death in children under the age of 5. Keeping track of the hazards that face our children is important, but keeping track of the healthy options for your son or daughter is just as important.

The Kid Kanteen BPA Free Sippy Cup is one of those options. Amid growing awareness of health concerns over the brain, breast and prostate, the FDA recently banned BPA (Bisphenol A) from popular plastic baby bottles and Sippy cups. Despite the ban, other harmful chemicals can easily latch onto plastic bottles causing health problems. The Kid Kanteen Sippy Cup line is BPA-free, stainless steel and resistant to colors and flavors. It allows you to carry milk, filtered water and juice in a safer container than many plastic baby bottles.

What about breathing in air pollution?

As noted earlier, air pollution can pose serious health risk for your newborn son or daughter. Poor indoor air quality is a major source for allergen and asthma triggers. It is also linked to sleeping problems such as sleep apnea, according to a study by WebMD.com. When it comes to cleaning up indoor air and asthma/allergy relief, parents turn to the Austin Air Junior Allergy air Purifier. The reason isn’t that its top-of-the-line, the reason is that it works. In a recent study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the parents who used The Austin Air Machine for their children saw the number of hospital visits reduced by 18.5%. The Austin Air HM205 is effective in improving the overall respiratory health of your son or daughter.

When your child is having trouble sleeping or breathing, another healthy option is the Vicks Starry Night Cool Moisture Humidifier. This humidifier allows your child to experience easier breathing and a better night’s rest. With a run time of 18-24 hours and a tank capacity of 1 gallon, this is one of the best child-friendly humidifiers on the market. The Starry Night Projector (its distinctive feature) transforms your child’s room into a starry night sky that will delight your son or daughter.

As a parent, what should you do?

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the dangers that certain baby products can pose. As a parent, the most important thing  is to pay close attention to all recalls that affect your children. It is also important to consider the products that have the most important factor in mind: the health of your son or daughter.

Celebrating the apple of your eye goes far beyond this month. It makes since to consider baby items that are long lasting and succeed in the areas that too many fall short in. There are options that have the overall health of your son or daughter in mind to ensure that their bright smile and infectious laugh continues to delight you for years to come.

For over 1,000 years, the Irish have observed St. Patrick’s Day as a religious holiday. It is also observed in the United States and abroad with parades, Irish inspired feasts, and of course, green. Since the 17^th century, the color green has become an important part of the celebrations and are seen on many clothes, shamrocks and yes, leprechauns.  To get into the festive spirit, we decided to share some of our favorite green items that we offer.

Favorite Green Water Pitcher

The Brita Grand Green Water Pitcher: We love this filtered water pitcher from Brita. A flip-top lid, soft grip handle and electronic filter change indicator light are convenient features that make this a great fit for your home. Our favorite part about this pitcher is that it’s green in more ways than one. First, this Brita pitcher eliminates the need to buy bottled water, which often clogs our nation’s landfills. Secondly, when it’s time for the filter to be replaced, you can recycle it through the Brita recycling program. How’s that for green?

Favorite Green Water Bottle

The Klean Kanteen Be Green Bottle and Loop Cap: Like the Brita water pitcher, this water bottle is also green in more ways than one. Made from BPA free, food-grade stainless steel, this is one of the more eco-friendly water bottles available on the market today. The Klean Kanteen Loop Cap allows you to clip the water bottle to backpacks, camping equipment and more with the Klean Kanteen S-Biner Carabiner. It’s dishwasher friendly and will not retain any flavors or odors, making it a perfect addition to your collection of reusable water bottles.

Favorite Green Humidifier

The Crane Cool Mist Green Frog Humidifier: Its adorability alone makes this a personal favorite of ours. Admit it, the face mesmerizes you. It’s great for use in children’s rooms and provides relief from sinus irritation, nasal congestion and dry skin. The winter months may be nearing an end, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get ahead of the game and get your humidifier for next winter. Even after the numerous health benefits, there’s still that adorable face…

March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day. If you choose to partake in the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, remember to be safe and wear green lest you fall victim to the pinch. Out of all the green items we offer, what is your personal favorite? Tell us your preference in the comments below.

Doulton is one of the world’s largest makers of ceramic filters. For over 185 years, Doulton has been a producer of eco-friendly, reusable cartridge filters with the same goal in mind: Providing safe, healthy, great-tasting drinking water whenever and wherever you need it.

Doultons ceramic filters are world famous for good reason. Fairey Industrial Ceramics Limited (FICL) is the sole manufacturer of the Doulton ceramic water filters.  All of the stages of FICL’s drinking water filter production adhere to rigorous ISO 9001 quality standards. Fairey Industrial Ceramics Limited holds the coveted WRAS and NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) certificates, proving that the drinking water filters have passed the highest international testing standards. High quality standards are why the Doulton brand name is renowned and respected for use in home water filtration systems in the United States and abroad.

The Doulton Super Sterasyl Ceramic Filter reduces water contaminants while improving odor and taste. This ceramic filter is NSF certified for the reduction of taste, odor, particulates, cysts, bacteria, chlorine and Guinea worm. The Super Sterasyl Ceramic Filter includes a .4 GPM (Gallon Per Minute) flow rate and 2″x10″ dimensions. This ceramic filter features three stages of filtration for added protection from waterborne contaminants.

The Doulton Rio 2000 High-Flow Ceramic Water Filter is the newest product from Doulton. Even in low water pressure areas, the Doulton Rio will provide you with excellent flow rate of up to 520 gallons per hour (in other words, over 8 gallons per minute). The Doulton Rio filter may be cleaned for extended life, but it is recommended that the filter be replaced at least once a year for optimum performance. The high-flow filtration filter fits most industry standard 10” Big Blue Housings and Doulton Housings.

Used by many of the world’s leading relief organizations, the Doulton SS-2 Gravity Fed Filter System provides clean water in emergencies. However, with a compact size and superior performance, the SS-2 is great for a variety of environments and situations such as traveling, apartment and businesses use, boats and more. To use, simply pour untreated water into the top of the reservoir where it will pass through Doulton’s ceramic filter candles. When the water has reached the lower chamber, use the tap on the front to obtain your filtered water.

The Doulton HCPS Twin Countertop System easily connects to your existing cold water or mixer faucets via diverter valve. This countertop system is perfect for household use, but is also ideal for commercial and residential drinking water systems, reverse osmosis purification, food service applications, water coolers and more. The twin countertop system features a capacity of approximately 600 gallons. The Doulton UlraCarb Ceramic Filter Candle is sold separately.

Every purchase of a Doulton product benefits The W3 Project, a water charity created to help end the global water crisis. For more information on Doulton’s support read Exciting Announcement: Doulton Supports The W3 Project and learn more about The W3 Project at filtersfast.com/w3.

You might be wondering why the above image is showing the differences between the Filtrete Micro Allergen Home Air Filter and the Filtrete Ultimate Allergen Air Filter. As you can see, the Ultimate Allergen provides added benefits and greater protection than the Micro Allergen Air filter provides. Why am I bringing this up?

From March 11 – March 17, 2013 you will be able to purchase the Filtrete Ultimate Allergen 6-Pack Air Filter for the same price as the Filtrete Micro Allergen 6-Pack Home Air Filter. In this limited time offer, you won’t have to shell out the extra money to get the added benefits that the Ultimate Allergen provides for you and your family. If you purchase the Filtrete Ultimate Allergen Air Filter through our Auto Delivery program, you will save an additional 5% off your purchase. That’s even more savings for your wallet.

Filtrete is the brand many trust for home air filters. The high-quality, durable filters provide your family protection from dust mites, allergens and other harmful air pollutants. For too many in our country, moving up to a better quality air filter isn’t an option in these stressful economic times. The extra money you would have to pay would often go past budget restraints. This is why it is important to take advantage of this Filtrete air filter special and get the Filtrete Ultimate Allergen 6-pack Air Filter for the same price as the Micro Allergen 6-Pack Home Air Filter. You get added protection and benefits for no additional cost.

Don’t forget, from March 11 – March 17, 2013 purchase the Filtrete Ultimate Allergen 6-Pack Air Filter for the same price as the Filtrete Micro Allergen 6-Pack Home Air Filter. Use our Auto Delivery option at checkout and save 5% off your purchase. This deal ends March 17, 2013 so place your order today and provide your family with the protection it needs.

We have awesome offers taking place throughout the year. Be sure to check back often for the latest promotions and offers from FiltersFast.com.