This paper presents research conducted in the direction of analyzing the efficiency of filters used for drinking water intended for domestic consumption, with effects on the water quality gained from the public distribution network. A basic method that uses accessible techniques, such as optical microscopy and tests that involve the use of existing products on the consumer market, was developed regarding the filtration capacities of the main filters existing on the market-a method that has advantages, such as speed and ease of application, a unitary character in obtaining samples, low costs, and high efficiency. The technique approached is that of microscopy, and the samples used were taken from the laboratory tests made on the mentioned filters, using a specific experimental stand designed to support laboratory tests by using chosen filter cartridges. The research results obtained were analyzed to make a classification from the perspective of filtration efficiency, in terms of using statistical analysis tools (mathematical models and methods processed in MATLAB software). Moreover, by using a certain type of application based on specific mathematical algorithms, which takes into account some influential factors with a decisive role on household consumers, it was aimed to identify the optimal filter element for acquisition and use in its own regime. The aim of the study was to identify the optimal filter cartridge from the perspective of quality-price ratio.
Keywords: Global Utility and ELECTRE method; drinking-water filters; drinking-water quality; laboratory experimental tests; microscopic analyses; statistical analysis; water distribution network; water pollutants.