Why a Tap Water Filter is the Best Option for Your Family

Have you ever turned on a tap and been concerned about the quality of the water coming out of it? Did you wonder if it was fit to drink? Were you worried about washing dishes in it?

You can rest assured that the water has been tested before reaching you, but that may not be enough to give you complete confidence in the water pouring out of your tap. There are plenty of good reasons to install a tap water filter, even if Australian water is generally quite safe.

Tap water is one of the most important basic necessities in our lives but, despite the precautions taken, it contains some impurities. A tap water filter offers protection from those impurities, whether they are natural or artificial.

So, what are the main advantages of installing a tap water filter? Let’s examine the main benefits of using a filter to purify your tap water.

A Tap Water Filter Removes Most Impurities

Tap water filters are designed to remove impurities such as chlorine, lead and bacteria from your water supply. Some of these impurities are harmless while others can be dangerous and “damage your health over a long period of time” (according to the Choice website).

Chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride are added to water in treatment plants. It is generally accepted that the benefits of these chemicals outweigh any risks and most Australian tap water is safe to drink.

However, the negative side of ensuring your tap water is safe to drink is the lingering taste of chlorine and fluoride, which many people dislike. A tap water filter can improve this, but can you trust that it is actually removing contaminants?

How Can I Trust a Tap Water Filter to Work?

Not all tap water filters are created equal. Therefore, it’s best to rely on certification if you’re concerned with the filter’s ability to both remove contaminants and improve the taste of your water.

According to the Choice website, the NSF International certification and the Australian standard offer a range of certifications, including:

• NSF 42 – this covers the effects of chlorine, taste, odour and particles.
• NSF 53 – this covers the health effects of organic chemicals and heavy metals.
• AS/NZS4348 – this is the Australian standard, covering a range of contaminants, such as taste, odour and microbiological and chemical impurities.

Make sure you compare what the product claims it can do with what the certification says it can do.

Not all tap water filters are certified – mainly because certification involves initial and regular testing and the cost can be prohibitive for smaller companies – so it’s advisable to look for a certified product.

 

They are Cost Effective

Installing a tap water filter in your kitchen (and possibly your bathroom) is a much more cost-effective solution than constantly having to buy bottled water for drinking.

A family of four, using any kind of water filtration system, will save about $2000 per year compared to buying bottled water. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also be doing your part to reduce plastic waste, so the environment benefits.

They Improve Water Taste, Colour and Odour

A tap water filter is likely to improve the taste and odour of your water. This is especially important for families who live in areas with hard water. This is water that is high in dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium.

Hard water can leave a metallic or bitter taste in your mouth. A tap water filter will remove that unpleasant aftertaste and definitely improve the flavour of your water, making it ideal for drinking and use in cooking.

Types of Tap Water Filters

There’s a range of tap water filters available on the market, from budget friendly models to permanent installations. The best thing is to pick a model that suits your situation and finances.

Some of the water filter types include:

• Jug filter – This is the cheapest option. Simply attach it to a water jug and keep the jug in the fridge for drinking water.
• Countertop filter – This is a large water urn which can keep a decent filtered water supply for a small family.
• Tap water filter – Filtered water straight from the tap is probably the most convenient way to go for most people. You can also switch between filtered and unfiltered water with ease.
• Under-sink filter – These are installed into your plumbing underneath the sink. It requires professional installation but it is a good long-term solution. Many include a cooling system and a boiling water switch.

Whether you’re looking for a portable solution or something more permanent, there are plenty of options available.

In Conclusion

A tap water filter is highly recommended for drinking water, particularly when it comes to taste and saving money on buying bottled water.

They are cost effective, easy to install and maintain, customisable and environmentally friendly. With a variety of options available and compliance to Australian standards, you’ll be able to find a tap water filter for your household needs and budget.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.