My main concern is filtering out harmful micro organisms such as giardia, Does this filter serve that purpose or does it only improve taste?
1043701
That is the purpose for which the filter was designed, it may not get viruses, but no filters really do. It will remove bacteria and Protista (giardia) an if you need to worry about viruses where you are camping you can boat treat the water with iodine drops or a UV light. But most places this filter alone will make the water safe to drink.
138870
I have not, but this is a 2 stage filter which is good for almost all water. If you have really bad water, then changing this filter as recommended might not be a bad idea since they recommend you change them frequently, or using a 5 stage filter if possible. You should find out what kind of contaminants are in your water and what these filters are capable of filtering. Just my opinion, but any water that is distributed to the public and doesn't need to be boiled first should be fine when using this. My water here has an almost sweet or bitter taste and the filter gets rid of that and I haven't changed the filter yet for a couple months. I have not, but this is a 2 stage filter which is good for almost all water. If you have really bad water, then changing this filter as recommended might not be a bad idea since they recommend you change them frequently, or using a 5 stage filter if possible. You should find out what kind of contaminants are in your water and what these filters are capable of filtering. Just my opinion, but any water that is distributed to the public and doesn't need to be boiled first should be fine when using this. My water here has an almost sweet or bitter taste and the filter gets rid of that and I... » Read More I have not, but this is a 2 stage filter which is good for almost all water. If you have really bad water, then changing this filter as recommended might not be a bad idea since they recommend you change them frequently, or using a 5 stage filter if possible. You should find out what kind of contaminants are in your water and what these filters are capable of filtering. Just my opinion, but any water that is distributed to the public and doesn't need to be boiled first should be fine when using this. My water here has an almost sweet or bitter taste and the filter gets rid of that and I haven't changed the filter yet for a couple months. « Show Less
303052
In my experience with it, not bad at all. The water goes through the filter anyway so it tastes fresh. The more it use it the more the filter will wear away though so make sure you keep up with changing the filter as necessary.
1651512
I noticed no discernible difference in the taste and quality of my water. The filter certainly does filter a lot of particulates in the water.
1147640
Hi James -- yes, it does help with the taste... The only problem I've had is that I haven't (and still need to) actually wash it all *once in a while*, and 2) watch where I place the inner (blue) cup while I refill the cube part - (What it sits on may transfer whatever is there into the ice cubes), and 3) use *filtered* water! :-) I really like it. -Duane
127340
The sound you all hear when you shake the filter is not sand. It is GAC (Granulated Active Charcoal) in the 1st filter. That is 1 of the 3 filters that filter and clean the water. GAC filters out the bad tastes and odors and avoids the damage of carcinogens. The 2nd filter is membrane which filters out the bacteria,protozoa,cysts, spores etc. When the water is debris filled and turbid. You can snap on the 3rd filter, which is a dense but porous material that will keep dirt and debris from clogging the tiny 0.01 micron holes.
1424074
I am very happy with my replacement filter, it appears to remove nasty taste and odors. Normally I don't allow it to get to room temps, but I have had the ice melt completely in drinks of water and never had a bad taste or odor.
1529535
I've personally left the filter unused for a month in summer with no problems. Apparently the charcoal which is a fundamental part of the filter not only helps with water taste but also keeps any mold or mildews from forming.
1182265
It will filter out bacteria. If you're traveling somewhere tropical where viruses are a problem, go with a better filter. I've been using ecoflo and seychelle bottles for a few years while hiking and I'm happy with both brands. (I think one owns the other, their bottles look the same)
605821
In my opinion and what I have done thus far is use the filter. Notice I said filter and not filters. I have used one filter since I have owned the machine. I never change the filter and I doubt I would ever have to since it filters the freshly distilled water. Taste has not been affected and the only reason I can see for the filters is to ensure no particulates from the machinery would ever enter the water. That said, it should be impossible during the life of the machine for any particulates to break loose. These are copper pipes used for the distillation so the filters are either a money maker or just a fail safe is all. In my opinion and what I have done thus far is use the filter. Notice I said filter and not filters. I have used one filter since I have owned the machine. I never change the filter and I doubt I would ever have to since it filters the freshly distilled water. Taste has not been affected and the only reason I can see for the filters is to ensure no particulates from the machinery would ever enter the water. That said, it should be impossible during the life of the machine for any particulates to break loose. These are copper pipes used for the distillation so the filters are either a money... » Read More In my opinion and what I have done thus far is use the filter. Notice I said filter and not filters. I have used one filter since I have owned the machine. I never change the filter and I doubt I would ever have to since it filters the freshly distilled water. Taste has not been affected and the only reason I can see for the filters is to ensure no particulates from the machinery would ever enter the water. That said, it should be impossible during the life of the machine for any particulates to break loose. These are copper pipes used for the distillation so the filters are either a money maker or just a fail safe is all. « Show Less
1303280
Typically GAC charcoal filters will remove some of the taste of the tannin as it does for chlorine. It will filter out the sediment and definitely clean the water. I don't believe this straw will make the water that much clearer though. It will just make the water a lighter shade of "Florida Tea". But Tannin is not harmful. The H20 Survival Straws 3rd Pre-filter will help filter out the sediment. But if you are asking if it will reduce some of the taste and odor the answer is it will certainly help. It has been suggested that sugar or sweetener be added to the filtered water to make it taste better. Also the slower you filter it thru the straw, (thus more contact with the GAC) the better it will smell and taste. I would fill a coke bottle or the included flat water bottle bag and filter it into a another container slowly rather than sucking it thru the straw. Another way to get rid of much of the Tannin is really best achieved in a slow filter gravity fed system where the water is keep in contact with the GAC for a longer time. Unfortunately this type of system is obviously less portable to carry.
505274
I use it to remove fluoride and chlorine. Some contaminants are particles that are too small for this filter to remove.
1557592
I would consider my water pretty dirty and its fine. To small micron would mean you would need to replace it more often. For me I replace it every two months not because its pluged its just dirty and you start to get a taste in the water. I think this is a perfect prefilter for a house. I run it before my softer.
81198
I have no idea, we don't use it. We prefer to use water that has already been filtered. This filter looks like it create a sanctuary for bacteria and bio-film and we also didn't want to have to purchase more replacement filters for this gadget. We've had our Krups for about a year and are very happy with it. We had a Krups before this one, so we're happy with the brand and designs. BTW, it's pretty noisy when it cranks up at 5 am in a quiet house!
1325213
I don't know, but Google has some answers...adds another filter for blocking taste and odor, but adds chlorine filtering. http://www.freedrinkingwater.com/support/questions-answers-discussions/what-are-the-differences-between-coconut-carbon-filters-and-gac-carbon-filters
249881
It's the whole thing...what you see screws onto your tap. It works pretty good. A green light blinks when the filter is working and when it turns red you can taste the difference. Depending on your family size and usage, it lasts a few month. It's not so expensive that you shouldn't give it a try...see if it works for your family. My city water isn't too bad but I taste flouride and this eliminates the taste.
815468
Not much to add to Greg's very complete answer... The main thing you need to know is: filter / treatment system (0.1 micron) = eliminates only bacteria, purifier (0.02 micron) = eliminates viruses as well as bacteria. Both are as good as it gets in their respective fields, so basically your intended application is what will determine your choice...