ZeroWater\'s first layer of filtration, activated carbon and oxidation reduction alloy removes the chlorine taste you are accustom to with tap water. The Ion Exchange stage removes virtually all dissolved solids that may be left over from public water systems or even leached into your water from piping such as Aluminum, Lead, Zinc, Nitrate and more. Three additional stages are included to remove other impurities and to ensure your water receives the appropriate amount of treatment time to deliver a \"000\" reading on your laboratory-grade Total Dissolved Solids meter included. Stage 1: Coarse filter to remove fine particles/sediment. Stage 2: Distributor that maximizes contact time. Stage 3: Multi-layer system using activated carbon and oxidation reduction alloy. Stage 4: Comprehensive ION EXCHANGE array. Stage 5: Non-woven membrane to remove fine particles. Do not use with water that is micro biologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the system. Individuals needing water of specific microbiological purity should consult their physician. Unless notified otherwise, municipal water is potable. The contaminants or other substances removed or reduced by this water treatment device are not necessarily in all users\' water.