Ceramic materials used in water containers and/or filter elements meet quality control standards and pose no health risks to users.
Key indicators
All materials in contact with drinking water for a drinking water treatment unit should comply with NSF Standards 42 and 53.
Ceramic materials (including glazes and treatments) in contact with water meet US Title 21 CFR Part 174.5 and 174.6.
Notes and exceptions
Ceramic components are familiar and may appeal to first-time users who will later upgrade to more effective devices.
Ceramic filter elements provide minimal microbial protection and may not meet log reduction value (LRV) effectiveness targets.
Ceramic filter element efficacy must be balanced against tolerable flow rates. The fragility and weight of ceramic containers and filter elements add to distribution costs.
Ceramics are difficult to control for quality and consistency.
