Clean water affects everything in your home, from how your morning coffee tastes to how long your water heater lasts. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, nearly 85% of American homes are affected by hard water, and contaminants like chlorine, lead, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS; often called “forever chemicals”) are showing up in an increasing number of municipal water reports. The right filtration brand can address all of it.
This guide covers the best water filtration system brands of 2026, including average costs, key system specs, best models to consider, pros and cons, and what the ratings actually mean.
Aquasana: Best for certified whole-home filtration, clear specs
Culligan: Best for national reach and local dealer service
SpringWell: Best for low-maintenance direct-to-consumer systems
APEC Water: Best for high-purity reverse osmosis filtration
Pentair: Best for app-connected softening, whole-home filters
iSpring: Best for DIY-friendly RO with remineralization
Whirlpool: Best for maintenance-free whole-home filtration
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
NSF-tested and WQA-certified across multiple standards
Published performance data sheets for every system
Broad lineup from whole-home to under-sink to well water
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
900-plus dealer locations with ongoing service after install
WQA-certified Smart HE systems with app monitoring
Free in-home water test shapes every system recommendation
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Lifetime warranty with six-month money-back guarantee
Near-zero annual upkeep — roughly $40 per year in pre-filters
Catalytic carbon removes chloramine that standard carbon misses
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
No. 1-ranked RO system in 2025 independent lab testing
WQA Gold Seal certified to NSF/ANSI 58 and 372
US-designed and assembled, 25-plus years of track record
How We Rated the Best Water Filtration System Brands
We rated each water filtration brand on a one-to-five scale using six factors: filtration performance and contaminant reduction (25%), third-party certification (22%), filter replacement cost and maintenance (20%), warranty and brand support (18%), value and pricing (10%), and installation and ease of use (5%). Learn more about how we rate water filtration brands in our rating methodology.
Best For: Certified whole-home filtration, clear specs
Aquasana
4.6/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Aquasana earns the top spot for its combination of independent certification, transparent performance data, and broad product lineup. The Rhino EQ-1000 is tested to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for up to 97% chlorine reduction, WQA-certified to NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 61 for material safety, and backed by published performance data sheets for every system.
The EQ-1000 filters up to 1 million gallons over 10 years. The OptimH2O adds an ion-exchange stage for PFAS and heavy metals certified to NSF/ANSI 53 and P473. Professional install is required for the full 10-year warranty; annual pre-filter upkeep runs $192–$288.
What We Love
NSF-tested and WQA-certified across multiple standards
Published performance data sheets for every system
Broad lineup from whole-home to under-sink to well water
Watch Out For
Pre-filter changes every two to three months add to annual cost
Full 10-year warranty requires professional installation
Not designed for well water with high iron or sulfur
Aquasana systems are sold direct. Professional installation adds to the total cost but protects the full 10-year warranty.
Whole-home filtration systems: $1,000–$2,000
Under-sink RO systems: $800–$1,500
Salt-free conditioner add-ons: $500–$1,200
Rhino EQ-1000: The best starting point for most city water homes — 1 million gallons of certified chlorine and chloramine reduction, with optional salt-free conditioner and UV add-ons.
OptimH2O: Adds an ion-exchange stage certified to NSF/ANSI 53 and P473 for PFAS and lead reduction. The right choice if your water report shows elevated PFOA, PFOS, or lead.
Best For: National reach and local dealer service
Culligan
4.4/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Culligan is the best option for homeowners who want a professionally installed filtration system with long-term local support. In business since 1936 with 900-plus dealers nationwide, Culligan’s service depth is unmatched — your installer handles filter maintenance, salt delivery, and warranty work for years after setup.
Its Aquasential Smart High Efficiency (Smart HE) Water Softener carries WQA certification to NSF/ANSI Standards 42 and 44 and pairs with the Culligan Connect app for demand-initiated regeneration and salt-level monitoring. Pricing isn’t listed online and dealer quality varies, but no brand on this page has a wider service footprint.
What We Love
900-plus dealer locations with ongoing service after install
WQA-certified Smart HE systems with app monitoring
Free in-home water test shapes every system recommendation
Watch Out For
Pricing requires an in-home consultation to obtain
Dealer service quality varies significantly by location
Smart systems can push total cost to the upper end of the range
Culligan’s pricing is set through local dealers based on your home’s water test results, size, and the recommended system. Equipment and installation are typically bundled.
Whole-home water softeners: $1,500–$3,500
Whole-home filtration systems: $2,000–$4,500
RO drinking water systems: $800–$2,000
Aquasential Smart HE Water Softener: WQA-certified demand-initiated regeneration with Wi-Fi monitoring via the Culligan Connect app — the strongest option for hard-water homes that want minimal ongoing effort.
Aquasential Smart HE Water Filter: Customizable whole-home carbon filtration with in-home consultation and dealer-supported installation — a strong fit for homeowners who want a hands-off, tailored setup.
Best For: Low-maintenance direct-to-consumer systems
SpringWell
4.4/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
SpringWell is the strongest direct-to-consumer brand for city-water whole-home filtration. The CF1’s four-stage ActivFlo upflow design uses catalytic carbon and kinetic degradation fluxion (KDF) media; three years of independent Tap Score lab testing confirms it reduces chlorine by 99.6%, drops total trihalomethanes (THMs) to non-detect, and achieves greater than 99% PFAS reduction at rated flow.
Annual upkeep is one sediment pre-filter swap every six to nine months at roughly $40. The lifetime warranty on tanks and valves backed by a six-month money-back guarantee puts the risk on SpringWell. Limitation: no local dealer network — support is phone and online only.
What We Love
Lifetime warranty with six-month money-back guarantee
Near-zero annual upkeep — roughly $40 per year in pre-filters
Catalytic carbon removes chloramine that standard carbon misses
Watch Out For
No local dealer — support is phone and online only
Professional install is still recommended for most setups
48-hour media presoak required before putting system in service
SpringWell sells direct. Professional installation is recommended and typically adds $200–$500 depending on plumbing setup.
CF1 whole-house filtration systems: $1,500–$3,000
Filter and salt-free conditioner combos: $2,000–$3,500
Well-water systems (WF1): $2,000–$4,000
CF1 (9 GPM, 1–3 bathrooms): The flagship for city water — 1 million gallons of catalytic carbon filtration with near-zero annual maintenance and a lifetime warranty. The benchmark for direct-to-consumer whole-home filters.
CF1 + Salt-Free Conditioner Combo: Adds scale prevention without salt or backwashing for homes that also have hard water. Reduces both contaminants and limescale without the upkeep of a salt-based softener.
Best For: High-purity reverse osmosis filtration
APEC Water
4.3/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
APEC Water is the strongest pick for homeowners who want high-purity drinking water from an under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) system. Founded in 1997 in California, APEC designs and assembles its systems domestically. Its ROES-50 ranked No. 1 in TechGearLab’s December 2025 independent test of 13 RO systems, earning a perfect score for critical contaminant removal — including 100% reduction of chlorine, lead, copper, and iron, and near-zero total dissolved solids (TDS). WQA Gold Seal certification to NSF/ANSI Standard 58 validates performance.
The main limitation: the ROES-50 wastes three gallons per gallon filtered — higher than newer tankless competitors.
What We Love
No. 1-ranked RO system in 2025 independent lab testing
WQA Gold Seal certified to NSF/ANSI 58 and 372
US-designed and assembled, 25-plus years of track record
Watch Out For
Wastes three gallons of water per gallon filtered
Takes up substantial under-sink cabinet space
Filter housing changes can be messy compared to quick-twist designs
Standard RO systems (ROES-50): $350–$700
High-output RO systems (RO-90): $700–$1,500
Annual filter kits: $60–$150
ROES-50 (50 GPD): The clearest value choice — WQA-certified, lab-proven to remove 99%+ of lead, fluoride, and dissolved contaminants, and the most affordable entry point into APEC’s lineup.
RO-90 (90 GPD): The better choice for families of five or more who cook heavily with filtered water. It nearly doubles daily output and uses higher-capacity “Ultimate” filters with roughly double the service life of the ROES-50.
Best For: App-connected softening, whole-home filters
Pentair
4.3/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Pentair brings technology-forward water treatment to homeowners who want real-time visibility into system performance. Its Connected Water Softener pairs with the Pentair Home app to show salt levels, water usage, and system alerts — a level of transparency most softener brands don’t provide. The Pelican PC600-P Whole House Water Filter is certified by IAPMO to NSF/ANSI Standards 42 and 61, reduces chlorine by up to 97%, and serves homes with up to three bathrooms across a 600,000-gallon (five-year) media life.
Professional installation is required but not bundled. Pentair is an equipment brand, not a full-service installer — installation arranged separately.
What We Love
IAPMO-certified PC600 with 97% chlorine reduction
App-based monitoring on Connected Softener via Pentair Home
Indoor and outdoor installation flexibility on PC600
Watch Out For
Professional install required but not bundled in cost
Carbon media replacement every five years is more frequent than some competitors
Consumer-facing pricing is less upfront than direct-to-consumer brands
PC600 whole-home filtration: $1,500–$3,000
Connected water softeners: $2,000–$4,000
Replacement filters and maintenance items: $100–$350
Pelican PC600-P: A 4-stage whole-home carbon system certified to reduce 97% of chlorine, with a 10 GPM flow rate and indoor/outdoor installation flexibility — a strong fit for homes with one to three bathrooms.
Connected Water Softener: App-based monitoring via the Pentair Home app with demand-initiated regeneration and salt alerts — the most consumer-friendly product in Pentair’s residential softening lineup.
Best For: DIY-friendly RO with remineralization
iSpring
4.2/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
iSpring is the best choice for homeowners who want a do-it-yourself (DIY) under-sink reverse osmosis system with straightforward installation and strong certified performance. The RCC7AK is NSF/ANSI 58-certified by NSF International for TDS reduction and reduces more than 1,000 contaminants, including PFAS (96%–99%), fluoride (97%), lead (98.9%), and chromium (99.2%).
Its standout feature is a sixth-stage alkaline remineralization filter that restores calcium and magnesium after the RO membrane strips them, improving taste and pH balance. Color-coded tubing and a transparent first-stage housing simplify installation for confident do-it-yourselfers. Under-sink cabinet space is the biggest practical constraint.
What We Love
NSF International-certified to NSF/ANSI 58 for TDS reduction
Alkaline remineralization restores minerals stripped by RO membrane
DIY-friendly with color-coded tubing and clear installation videos
Watch Out For
3-gallon storage tank takes up significant cabinet space
Produces some wastewater — roughly 2:1 waste-to-purified ratio
One-year warranty is shorter than some comparable RO systems
Under-sink RO systems: $300–$700
Whole-home filter systems: $800–$1,800
Annual filter replacements: $40–$120
RCC7AK: The flagship — six-stage RO with alkaline remineralization, full NSF/ANSI 58 certification, and a DIY-friendly design with color-coded tubing. The best entry point for most city water households.
RCC7AK-UV: Adds a seven-stage UV sterilization step for homes on well water or older plumbing with bacterial concerns. Same NSF certification and remineralization stage as the base model.
Best For: No-filter-change whole-home filtration
Whirlpool
4.2/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Whirlpool’s standout product is unlike anything else on this page: the WHELJ1 Central Water Filtration System uses FilterSense technology to automatically flush and clean its internal media bed every 14 days, with no filters to replace for the life of the system — typically 10 years or 1 million gallons. It’s NSF-certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for chlorine and sediment reduction and earns strong reviews for “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience.
The tradeoff is limited coverage: the WHELJ1 doesn’t address lead, PFAS, or fluoride, and its 6 GPM flow rate can feel restrictive in larger homes.
What We Love
Zero filter replacements needed for the life of the WHELJ1
NSF/ANSI 42-certified for chlorine taste, odor, and sediment
Trusted household brand with wide retail availability
Watch Out For
Does not remove lead, PFAS, or fluoride — coverage is limited
Requires electricity; no filtered water during a power outage
6 GPM flow rate can be restrictive in larger, high-demand homes
WHELJ1 Central Water Filtration System: The flagship and the reason most homeowners consider Whirlpool for water treatment. Self-cleaning FilterSense technology means no filter purchases, no change reminders, and no maintenance for the life of the unit — typically 10 years.
Best For: Full-service install, in-home water testing
Leaf Home Water Solutions
4.1/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Leaf Home Water Solutions takes a service-first approach: every purchase starts with a free in-home water test, and the recommendation is customized to your results. The company covers whole-home filtration, softening, reverse osmosis (RO), UV filtration, and well-water treatment — one of the more versatile full-service lineups on this page.
The limitation is consistency. Founded in 2021, the company currently serves 12 states and has drawn post-installation service complaints on the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot, including reports of warranty follow-through delays. Confirm service coverage in your area and read current local reviews before committing.
What We Love
Free in-home water test shapes every system recommendation
Covers filtration, softening, RO, UV, and well water in one company
Professional installation included in every quote
Watch Out For
Serves only 12 states — not available nationwide
Post-install service and warranty complaints reported across platforms
One-year base warranty is shorter than most direct-to-consumer competitors
All Leaf Home pricing includes professional installation and is customized to your home’s water test results and system requirements.
Whole-home filtration systems: $2,000–$4,000
Filtration and softener combo systems: $3,000–$5,500
RO or UV add-ons: $800–$2,000+
Leaf Signature Whole-Home Filtration System: The most commonly installed configuration — multi-stage filtration customized to your water test results for targeted removal of chlorine, sediment, and heavy metals. Best for homeowners who want a fully managed, professional-grade solution.
Best For: Budget whole-home filtration, value shoppers
Aquasure
3.8/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
Aquasure is the most accessible option for homeowners who want whole-home treatment at a lower price point. Its Fortitude Pro Series is available in multiple capacities for different household sizes, with product pages emphasizing contaminant reduction and appliance protection at pricing that undercuts most dealer-model brands.
Aquasure is a product brand rather than a service company — there’s no local dealer network, no managed installation, and support is product-based. It’s a solid choice for confident buyers comfortable researching and setting up a system themselves; it’s not the right fit for homeowners who want an ongoing service relationship.
What We Love
Lower upfront cost than most dealer-installed brands
Multiple capacity tiers to match different household sizes
Widely available through online retailers
Watch Out For
No local service network — support is product-based only
Fewer certifications publicly listed than top-rated brands
Better suited to confident DIY buyers than those wanting guidance
Whole-home filtration systems: $800–$1,500
Reverse osmosis systems: $1,000–$2,000
Replacement filters: $75–$150
Fortitude Pro Series Whole House Water Filter: Available in multiple capacity tiers for households of varying size — the clearest value option in Aquasure’s lineup for homeowners who want broad whole-home filtration without premium-brand pricing.
Best For: Retail-available sediment and carbon filters
GE Water Filtration
3.6/5
Modernize RatingThis rating was determined by the Modernize Editorial Team based on factors such as customer reviews, product quality, warranties, company reputation, and service coverage. Our ratings are editorially independent and are not influenced by our advertising or partnership relationships.
GE Water Filtration earns a spot for retail accessibility and brand familiarity, but it ranks last because its lineup is built for basic sediment and chlorine reduction rather than comprehensive contaminant treatment. The GXWH40L whole-home system reduces sediment and chlorine with filter replacements every three months and is available at major home improvement retailers nationwide.
GE systems don’t carry certifications for lead, PFAS, or fluoride, and they’re not designed for severe well-water contaminants. For a simple, affordable entry point with easy-to-find replacement filters, GE is practical; for anything beyond basic filtration, the brands ranked above it will serve you better.
What We Love
Widely available at major retailers with easy filter sourcing
Familiar brand name with broad appliance support infrastructure
Budget-friendly entry point for basic chlorine and sediment reduction
Watch Out For
No certifications for lead, PFAS, or fluoride reduction
Filter changes every three months are more frequent than tank-based competitors
Not designed for severe well-water or multi-contaminant treatment
Under-sink or single-stage systems: $200–$500
Whole-home filtration systems: $300–$2,500
Replacement filters: $20–$80
GXWH40L Whole House Water Filtration System: GE’s most capable point-of-entry system — available at major retailers, easy to install, and designed for basic sediment and chlorine reduction in city water homes. The clear sump housing lets you monitor filter condition without removing the cartridge.
What Affects the Cost of a Water Filtration System?
Most homeowners spend $1,000 to $5,000 for a professionally installed whole-home water filtration system. Here are the variables that matter most.
System type. A basic under-sink RO system like the APEC ROES-50 or iSpring RCC7AK costs $350–$700 before installation. A whole-home carbon filter like the SpringWell CF1 or Pentair PC600 runs $1,500–$3,000 before installation. Integrated softener-plus-filtration combos from dealer-model brands can exceed $5,000.
Certification level. Systems certified to address health-related contaminants — NSF/ANSI 53 for lead, P473 for PFAS, Standard 58 for RO — carry a higher price than those certified only for aesthetic improvement (NSF/ANSI 42 for chlorine and taste). You’re not just paying for better branding; you’re paying for verified performance under independent testing protocols.
Home size and water demand. Larger homes need higher-capacity systems with greater flow rates. A 9 GPM system sized for one to three bathrooms can cost $500–$1,000 less than the equivalent 12 or 20 GPM configuration.
Buying model. Direct-to-consumer brands (SpringWell, Aquasana, APEC, iSpring) typically cost less than dealer-installed brands (Culligan, Leaf Home) because you’re coordinating your own installation. The dealer premium buys professional consultation, installation, and ongoing service — which has real value if you want a hands-off experience.
Start with a water test. Your municipal water quality report (available from your utility) is a useful baseline, but an independent test tells you exact contaminant levels. This is especially important before choosing between a whole-home carbon system (best for chlorine, chloramines, PFAS) and an RO system (best for lead, fluoride, dissolved solids). Many dealer-model brands like Culligan and Leaf Home offer free in-home testing — worth requesting before committing.
Next, decide how much involvement you want after installation. If you want a product you set up once and maintain yourself, direct-to-consumer brands like SpringWell and Aquasana offer strong certified systems at lower cost. If you want a service relationship — someone to call for salt refills, filter swaps, and warranty issues — dealer-model brands like Culligan are worth the premium.
Finally, match the brand to your specific concern. For chloramine and PFAS in city water, SpringWell CF1 or Aquasana EQ-1000 are the clearest choices. For lead, fluoride, or high TDS, an RO system from APEC or iSpring will outperform whole-home carbon alone. For hard water, you need a softener, not a filter — and Culligan’s Smart HE remains the benchmark for managed softening.
Reliability depends on system type, build quality, and long-term service availability. Brands with robust dealer networks — such as Culligan and Leaf Home — tend to offer the most consistent results because they pair high-performing equipment with professional installation and maintenance. For homeowners preferring retail or DIY systems, established manufacturers like GE, Whirlpool, and Aquasana offer dependable filtration backed by widely available replacement filters and straightforward upkeep. Overall, a reliable brand is one that provides certified performance, durable components, and ongoing access to replacement parts or service.
The best whole-home system ultimately depends on your water source and treatment goals. Municipal water users often see the strongest results from carbon-based systems like those offered by Aquasana, SpringWell, or GE. Homes with well water typically benefit from higher-capacity systems that address iron, sulfur, or sediment, often provided by brands specializing in multi-stage tanks. If you prefer professional testing and installation, full-service brands with in-home assessments can deliver a more customized and comprehensive solution.
Well water usually contains higher levels of sediment, iron, manganese, and organic contaminants, making multi-stage or specialty systems essential. Brands that offer targeted iron and sulfur reduction media, sediment pre-filtration, and optional UV treatment tend to perform best. When choosing a brand, look for systems designed specifically for well water conditions — especially those with larger tank capacities, replaceable media, and the ability to handle high flow rates without pressure loss.
Budget-friendly filtration is typically found among retail brands or those offering modular, DIY-friendly systems. These brands often provide whole-home entry models, under-sink filters, and single-stage sediment systems at significantly lower prices than dealer-installed solutions. When evaluating affordability, consider not only the upfront price but also the cost of replacement cartridges, installation, and maintenance. Low-cost filters with short lifespans may end up costing more over time, while mid-priced systems with long-life media can be more economical long-term.
Warranty quality varies considerably between brands. Full-service companies generally offer longer, more comprehensive warranties because installation and maintenance are tightly controlled through certified technicians. Some manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties on tanks or housings, while others provide multi-year coverage on valves, electronics, or smart components. When comparing warranties, review what is covered, how long each component is protected, and whether warranty service is performed locally or through third-party technicians.
Professional installation is recommended for most whole-home systems — especially if the system includes multiple tanks, a bypass valve, a UV unit, or specialty media. Proper sizing and plumbing ensure consistent flow rates, reduced pressure loss, and accurate system performance. However, many under-sink and countertop systems are intentionally designed for DIY installation, making them ideal for renters, condo owners, or homeowners seeking a lower-cost solution. Always check product specifications before deciding which installation method is appropriate.
System lifespan depends on the type of filtration, water quality, and usage. Whole-home tank systems often last 10–15 years or more, especially those with replaceable media. Reverse osmosis systems can last a decade or longer, though membranes and prefilters require regular replacement. Cartridge-based filters vary widely and may need replacing every few months to a year. Consistent maintenance — especially timely filter or media changes — has a major impact on longevity and performance.
The best system depends on your water source (municipal vs. well), existing contaminants, flow rate needs, and budget. Start by identifying your water concerns: taste and odor issues, hard water scale, sediment, discoloration, or concerns about lead or PFAS. A basic water test — either professional or home-based — provides the information needed to match a filtration system to your specific situation. From there, you can decide whether you need whole-home filtration, a softener, reverse osmosis, or a combination.
Maintenance typically includes replacing cartridges, refreshing softener salt (if applicable), monitoring flow rate changes, and periodically sanitizing housings or tanks. Whole-home systems with long-life media require the least attention, often needing only occasional cleaning or media replacement every few years. RO systems require the most structured maintenance because multiple stages need replacement at different intervals. Proper maintenance keeps water quality high and extends the life of the system.
