RACINE, Wis., July 23 /EMWNews/ -- The recent bottled water

controversy has caused a ripple of doubt regarding where consumers can turn

for their filtered water needs this summer.



    Reports that some bottled water supplies come from municipal water and

questions about the safety of the plastic used in many water bottles and

their environmental impact have left consumers wondering what other options

exist. Companies, like InSinkErator that offer filtration with its line of

instant hot water dispensers, recommend that consumers look no further than

their very own kitchen sink -- partnered with an under-counter filtration

system.



    The decision of whether to drink tap water versus bottled water is a

personal decision each consumer must make based on convenience, cost, taste

and safety. As for safety, many people throughout the country have no

qualms about drinking tap water due to regular testing and monitoring by

government agencies to ensure it is safe. But numerous consumers still seek

cleaner, better tasting water, as evidenced by the $11 billion spent on

bottled water last year.



    An under-counter filtration system, however, enables consumers to forgo

the plastic water bottles and rely on tap water to be the primary source

for cooking and preparing hot beverages. InSinkErator provides the

following tips when considering an under-sink filtration system:






    -- A carbon water filter provides the most effective and reliable form of

       water filtration on the market; up to 95 percent of inline water

       filtration systems that are installed in homes use a carbon-based

       cartridge.

    -- Unlike reverse osmosis or distillation, carbon-based filters allow

       water's fluoride and other natural minerals to pass through. These

       minerals are essential to good health and aid in the body's absorption

       of water.

    -- A standard filter should reduce chlorine taste and odor and sediment.

    -- A premium filter should remove toxic chemicals, heavy metals and

       dangerous parasites.

    -- To keep the system running at optimal levels, consumers should replace

       their filters every six to 12 months; that will depend on the water

       quality and amount of use.

    -- A versatile filter is ideal, one that can be used with a refrigerator,

       ice-maker and other water dispensers.



    Additional information on water filtration can be found at

http://www.insinkerator.com.