Abstract: A filter apparatus for treating water containing particulate or microbial contaminants is provided. The filter apparatus includes a first filter element, such as a viral membrane, disposed within a sealed outer housing and in fluid communication with a first inlet port and a first outlet port. The first filter element is capable of treating water at a first flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants that are larger than a first contaminant size. A second filter element, such as a bacterial membrane, is disposed downstream of the first filter element in fluid communication with a second inlet port and a second outlet port. The second filter element is capable of treating water at a second flow rate higher than the first flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants that are larger than a second contaminant size. The second filter element may be housed within the sealed housing to form a multi barrier, replaceable filter unit.

Abstract: A filter apparatus is provided which includes a first filter membrane element (40a), and a second bacterial filter membrane element. The first viral filter element (40a) is capable of treating water at a first second flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants which are larger than a first size, while the second bacterial filter element (40b) is capable of treating water at a second higher flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants which are larger than a second contaminant size. The first and second filter elements (40a), (40b) may be commonly housed within a sealed housing. An accumulating vessel (60) is placed in fluid communication with an outlet of the first filter element (40a) and an outlet of the second filter element (40b). The filter apparatus includes a duck bill type check valve (75) made of an antimicrobial material intermediate the second filter element (40b) and a dispensing faucet (70).

Abstract: A filter apparatus is provided which includes a first filter membrane element (40a), and a second bacterial filter membrane element. The first viral filter element (40a) is capable of treating water at a first second flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants which are larger than a first size, while the second bacterial filter element (40b) is capable of treating water at a second higher flow rate and is adapted to remove contaminants which are larger than a second contaminant size. The first and second filter elements (40a), (40b) may be commonly housed within a sealed housing. An accumulating vessel (60) is placed in fluid communication with an outlet of the first filter element (40a) and an outlet of the second filter element (40b). The filter apparatus includes a duck bill type check valve (75) made of an antimicrobial material intermediate the second filter element (40b) and a dispensing faucet (70).