Homeowners and tenants alike want safe and clean water in their homes. There are two types of home water filtration systems, Point-of-Use water devices and Point-of-Entry systems. To pick the best type of system to use, you need to consider your situation. Take into account whether or not you’re the owner or tenant, the size of your home, the number of inhabitants, and the water usage. Which system you choose also depends on your personal needs and desires; do you simply want clean drinking water, or do you want to protect your entire home? Below is a description of each system to help you make an informed and educated choice on which one is right for your needs.
What is a Point-of-Use Water System?
This is a smaller system that serves to filter one source of water. Point-of-Use (POU) systems are installed either on top of a counter or in a cabinet underneath a sink. With a low processing volume, they are best suited for smaller homes or tenants who do not own the building. The filters can last from 3 months to a year, depending on the amount of use. Larger versions can service more than one location, but they still have limited volume capacity. The system cleans out impurities and provides fresh drinking water.
What is a Point-of-Entry Water Treatment System?
A Point-of-Entry (POE) water treatment system is larger, services the entire building, and can filtrate thousands of gallons a day. This system is installed at the point the water supply comes into a building and filters the water before it enters the pipes inside the building. Because a POE system has to be placed where the water line enters the property, it is usually installed in a basement, garage, or outside, depending on where the mainline pipe is located.
When is Point-of-Use the Best Choice?
If you are a renter or tenant, you don’t have the option to install a Point-of-Entry filtration system. In this case, a POU would be the best choice. However, you can install POU systems in multiple locations, such as the kitchen sink, the bathroom sink, shower/bathtub, etc. That being said, if all you really want is freshwater for drinking and cooking, installing near the kitchen sink is all you need. This is also the better choice for those wishing to save a bit on their budget. Small and easy to install, they are also less expensive.
Why Is Point-of-Entry the Better Options for Property Owners?
Property owners always want to protect their investment, and a POE prevents contaminated water from damaging the entire property’s pipes, water heaters, faucets, toilets, and more. With a higher capacity filter system, the POE system can handle cleaning all the water that goes to large appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, showers, and baths. Installing a POE also saves money on energy because clean water helps appliances function without working hard. With cleaner water going to a washing machine, the clothes are cleaner, they last longer, and it costs less to keep them clean. Plus, the washer will last longer too.
Bottom Line
For those on a budget or renting their home, Point-of-Use systems are a good option to deliver better water quality for drinking, showering, washing dishes, etc. But for those who own their home and can afford it, a Point-of-Entry system offers many more benefits to the entire home. Whichever option you choose, know that they can both deliver great water that’s safe and clean.
