Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are disinfection byproducts that form when naturally occurring organic matter in the water reacts with chlorine or chloramine, used to disinfect municipal water. The five most common compounds, known as HAA5, are regulated in public drinking water because long-term exposure at elevated levels has been associated with potential health risks.
If you’re concerned about HAAs in your tap water, the right water filtration system is more effective than relying on boiling or storing water. The best option is a drinking water system that has been independently tested and National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)- certified for HAA5 reduction.
What to Look for in a Water Filter
Not every water filter treats the same contaminants. Before buying a system, focus on these factors:
- NSF certification for HAA5 reduction: NSF certification confirms independent testing and ongoing compliance with established standards. Verify the filter specifically includes HAA5 reduction.
- Water filtration technology: Solid carbon block filters are widely recognised for reducing many chemical contaminants, including disinfection byproducts such as HAAs.
- System type: Under-sink and countertop drinking water systems generally provide greater contaminant reduction than basic pitcher filters.
- Filter lifespan and replacement costs: Long-lasting cartridges can reduce ongoing maintenance expenses.
- Flow rate and maintenance: A filter should provide enough clean water for everyday drinking and cooking while remaining easy to maintain.
The Best Water Filters for Haloacetic Acids
If you’re looking for a water filter that can reduce HAAs, prioritise a drinking water system with NSF certification for HAA5 reduction. This certification confirms that the specific model has been independently tested for its contaminant reduction claims.
One example is the Multipure Aquaperform, a drinking water system that uses a solid carbon block filter and is NSF-certified to reduce HAA5 in accordance with NSF/American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standard 53. In addition to HAAs, its model-specific certifications include reductions in several other contaminants of health concern.
Why NSF Certification Matters
Technical specifications can be difficult to compare, especially when manufacturers use different testing methods. NSF certification simplifies the process by evaluating products using standardised testing protocols rather than manufacturer-designed tests.
It’s also worth remembering that a company may advertise the NSF seal even if only one of its products has been certified. As with any water filter, it’s important to verify the certification for the exact model you’re considering, since contaminant reduction claims can vary between products.
How Do Haloacetic Acids Get Into Drinking Water?
HAAs are disinfection byproducts that form when chlorine or chloramine, used to disinfect drinking water, reacts with naturally occurring organic matter, such as decaying leaves and other plant material. While disinfection is essential for protecting people from harmful microorganisms, it can also produce these unintended chemical byproducts. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates HAA5 in drinking water to help limit long-term exposure.
As Multipure notes, research found that “total levels of HAAs in drinking water were not affected by storage or boiling, but that filtration was effective in decreasing levels.” Choosing a drinking water system certified to reduce HAA5 is generally a more effective approach than relying on boiling or storing tap water.
Although public water systems routinely monitor HAA5 levels to meet EPA standards, contaminant levels can vary throughout a distribution system. Reviewing your municipality’s Annual Water Quality Report and testing your tap water periodically can help you better understand the quality of the water entering your home and whether additional water filtration may be appropriate.
How to Choose the Best Water Filter for Haloacetic Acids
The best water filter depends on your priorities. If your main concern is HAAs, look for a drinking water system with verified NSF certification for HAA5 reduction, rather than relying on general claims about cleaner or better-tasting water.
You should also think about installation preferences, replacement filter costs, maintenance schedules and whether you’d like the system to address additional contaminants such as lead, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or microplastics.
PFAS are a group of widely used industrial and consumer chemicals that have been linked to potential health concerns, so choosing a filter certified to reduce applicable PFAS compounds can help lower your exposure. Selecting a system certified for multiple contaminants can provide broader protection without adding unnecessary complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about haloacetic acid filters.
Which Multipure filters are certified to reduce haloacetic acids?
According to Multipure, the Aquaperform, Aquaversa, Aquapremier and Aqualuxe drinking water systems are certified for HAA5 reduction under NSF/ANSI Standard 53. Always verify certification for the specific model you purchase.
How much does it cost to maintain a water filter that reduces HAA5?
Maintenance costs depend on the model and replacement cartridge schedule. Most drinking water systems require periodic cartridge replacement, with intervals varying based on water quality and household usage.
Can a pitcher filter remove haloacetic acids?
Some pitcher filters may reduce certain disinfection byproducts, but effectiveness varies significantly by model. Always check whether the product specifically lists NSF certification for HAA5 or the contaminants you’re trying to reduce.
Choose a Water Filter With Verified HAA5 Reduction
The best water filter for HAAs is one that has been independently tested for HAA5 reduction and fits your household’s needs. Focusing on NSF certification, maintenance requirements and the contaminants you want to reduce can help you make a confident, informed choice for cleaner drinking water.
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