Here's something a lot of people skip: testing before buying a filter. It sounds backwards, but it makes total sense. Without knowing exactly what's in your water and how much of it, you could end up with the wrong system entirely.

A proper in-home water test gives you a clear picture. From there, choosing the right lead removal water filter becomes a lot easier because you're solving an actual problem instead of guessing.

This step also helps you avoid overspending. Some households need a simple under-sink filter. Others need a whole-home solution because of multiple contaminants beyond just lead. Testing tells you which camp you're in.