Originally developed by Englehard Corp. (purchased by BASF), ATS Media removes lead and heavy metals. As with KDF media, there is a synergistic effect when ATS is combined with activated carbon as the two materials result in an effective method of reducing contaminants, heavy metals and chlorine. The Aquasana AQ-4000 drinking water system is the only major manufacturer that uses this media, as of this writing. As this system does not remove healthful minerals or affect pH, it provides health advantages when compared to RO or steam distillation.
While the Aquasana system is effective and a good value, the filters must be changed every six months, the media only removes 40-60% of the fluoride, and no faucet is included for sink installation. If you want to mount this system under the sink you must purchase a kit that includes a mounting bracket and faucet. The design does not allow for the addition of alkalizing and mineral enhancing bioceramic media, additional fluoride filtration, or UV-C for the sterilization of water from microbiologically unsafe water sources. Note that the Aquasana whole house (Point of Entry) system uses KDF Media.