How does WQA test water filtration products?
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) provides accreditation for product certification programs to ensure the marketplace can gain confidence for their activities. In addition, Eco-labeling/Sustainability Certification Programs are also accredited. Certification is the reliable way an industry helps direct consumers to products that most effectively do what they’re looking for. WQA has a searchable database of all product certification listings. The process for certification includes:
- Performance testing: The product will undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with the standard to which it is being certified.
- Literature review: The product’s installation manual, performance data sheet, and data label will be evaluated for specific requirements set forth by standard guidelines.
- Facility audit: Facility audits will be conducted on an annual basis. The production of certified products will be evaluated to ensure that the systems being marketed are the same systems that were tested and certified. These audits also maintain consistent communication between the WQA and the applicant company throughout the certification period.
- Certification: Once the product has completed performance testing, the file will be reviewed and a decision on certification will be made. If all sections of the standard have been achieved, certificates will be issued. Upon certification, a product is required to bear the WQA Gold Seal. Confirmation of certification can be found on the WQA website.
Filters certified to reduce lead. Several different types of water filters have been certified by WQA Gold Seal for reducing lead in drinking water:
NSF/ANSI Standard 53 Reduction Claims for Drinking Water Treatment Systems
- Pour-through pitcher/carafe: Water drips through a filter in a water pitcher using gravity.
- Faucet mount: Mounts on kitchen faucet. Uses diverter to direct water through a filter.
- Countertop connected to sink faucet: Connects to existing sink faucet through a hose/tubing.
- Plumbed-in to separate tap or to kitchen sink: Installs under a sink; filtered water is usually dispensed through a separate faucet directly to the kitchen sink.
NSF/ANSI Standard 58 Reduction Claims for Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems
- RO: Connects to plumbing under the sink and uses a membrane filter to reduce lead (also can reduce minerals/TDS).
Look for the WQA mark to ensure the filter or cartridge you are buying is certified. It must say NSF/ANSI 53 or NSF/ANSI 58 for lead claim to be sure it reduces lead.