Filtered water is water that has passed through a process to remove impurities like chlorine, sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals. It’s what many people choose when they want cleaner, better-tasting water from their tap without buying bottled water. But what exactly goes on during filtration? And why are so many households and businesses switching to filtered water systems? Let's dive in.
Understanding Filtered Water
At its core, filtered water is tap or groundwater that has been cleaned through various filtration methods. These methods can be as simple as a jug with a carbon filter or as advanced as a multi-stage reverse osmosis system installed under your sink.
Definition of Filtered Water
Filtered water refers to water that has been processed to remove unwanted particles, chemicals, and microorganisms. The goal is to improve both the safety and taste of the water. It’s different from distilled or purified water, which often goes through more intensive processes that strip away even beneficial minerals.
Why People Choose Filtered Water
People opt for filtered water for a range of reasons. Many don’t like the taste or smell of chlorine in tap water. Others are concerned about contaminants like lead or microplastics. And for some, it’s simply about convenience—having fresh, clean water on tap without constantly restocking bottles or boiling water.
How Water Filtration Works
Filtration is the act of physically or chemically removing contaminants from water. This can involve trapping particles in a filter medium or neutralising harmful elements with activated substances.
Common Water Contaminants
Common tap water contaminants include chlorine, lead, bacteria, nitrates, microplastics, and sediment. Some can affect your health over time, while others just make your water taste bad. Depending on your location, the mix of contaminants can vary greatly.
Overview of Filtration Processes
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to filtration. Different methods target different contaminants. Some systems combine multiple processes to handle a wide range of impurities. The main methods include physical barriers, chemical absorption, and biological treatments.
Types of Water Filtration Methods
Here’s a breakdown of the most common filtration methods used in homes and commercial settings across Australia.
Activated Carbon Filters
These filters use a bed of activated carbon to absorb chlorine, pesticides, and organic compounds. They’re great for improving taste and smell. You’ll often find them in jug filters and under-sink systems. However, they don’t remove minerals or nitrates.
Reverse Osmosis
This is a powerful method that forces water through a semipermeable membrane, removing a wide range of impurities. It’s especially good for households concerned with lead, fluoride, and nitrates. The trade-off? It can be slower and wastes some water during the process.
Ultraviolet (UV) Purification
UV systems use light to destroy bacteria and viruses. They don’t remove chemical contaminants, so they’re usually paired with other methods. Ideal for rainwater tanks or areas where bacterial contamination is a concern.
Distillation
Distillation boils water into steam and then condenses it back into liquid, leaving most contaminants behind. While effective, it also removes minerals that are beneficial for health. It’s rarely used in households due to high energy use and slow output.
Ion Exchange
This method swaps out unwanted ions (like calcium and magnesium) for ones that are more desirable, usually sodium. It’s often used in water softeners but isn’t a complete filtration system on its own.
Mechanical Filtration
These filters physically block particles using a mesh or ceramic material. They’re best for removing sediment and rust but won’t catch dissolved chemicals or microorganisms.
Combination Systems
Many modern filtration units combine several of the above methods. For example, an under-sink system might include a carbon filter, reverse osmosis membrane, and UV treatment for a thorough clean.
Filtered Water vs Other Types of Water
It’s easy to get confused by the different types of water on the market. Here’s how filtered water stacks up.
Filtered Water vs Tap Water
Tap water in Australia is generally safe, but it can contain residual chlorine, sediment, and even traces of lead from old pipes. Filtered water removes many of these impurities, offering a cleaner and often better-tasting alternative.
Filtered Water vs Distilled Water
Distilled water is extremely pure—so pure that it’s stripped of everything, including minerals like calcium and magnesium. Filtered water keeps the good stuff while taking out the bad. Unless you need ultra-pure water for lab work or appliances, filtered water is better for daily use.
Filtered Water vs Purified Water
Purified water has been processed to remove almost all dissolved and suspended materials. Filtration is usually part of that process, but purified water may also go through additional steps like reverse osmosis or UV treatment. Filtered water focuses more on improving taste and removing specific contaminants.
Filtered Water vs Bottled Water
Bottled water is convenient, but it’s expensive and generates plastic waste. Many bottled waters are simply filtered tap water anyway. With a home filtration system, you can enjoy similar quality without the environmental footprint or cost.
Benefits of Filtered Water
Filtered water offers benefits for health, convenience, and the planet. Here are the big ones.
Improved Taste and Odour
Removing chlorine, sulphur, and other compounds makes water taste fresher and cleaner. It’s like giving your tap water a makeover.
Health and Safety Benefits
Filtration reduces your exposure to contaminants that can impact your health over time, such as lead, bacteria, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While Australia’s tap water is among the best in the world, filtration adds an extra level of peace of mind.
Protecting Appliances and Plumbing
Filtered water reduces limescale and sediment buildup in kettles, coffee machines, and dishwashers. That means longer life for your appliances and less time spent scrubbing away mineral deposits.
Environmental and Sustainability Advantages
Swapping bottled water for filtered tap water cuts down on plastic use and waste. It also reduces the carbon footprint associated with bottling, transport, and refrigeration.
Filtered Water in Everyday Life
You might be surprised how many everyday activities are improved with filtered water.
Drinking and Hydration
Filtered water is refreshing and encourages people to drink more, especially if they don’t like the taste of tap water. Staying hydrated supports everything from energy levels to skin health.
Cooking and Food Preparation
Chlorine and metals in tap water can alter the flavour of food. Using filtered water for cooking can make soups, pasta, and rice taste better. It also helps when washing fruits and veggies, especially if your water has a noticeable odour.
Filtered Water for Pets
Just like humans, pets benefit from clean water. Filtered water can help avoid digestive issues and encourage proper hydration, especially for cats who are notorious for being picky drinkers.
Use in Coffee Machines and Sparkling Water Systems
Filtered water enhances the flavour of tea and coffee while preventing scale buildup in machines. It’s also ideal for sparkling water systems like those supported by Ecovenza, which benefit from pure, clean base water for carbonation.
Choosing the Right Filtration System
There’s no single answer here—it depends on your water, your goals, and your budget. Here’s how to start narrowing it down.
Assessing Your Water Quality
You can start by checking your local water provider’s report or using a home test kit. If you’re on tank or bore water, testing is even more important. Knowing what’s in your water helps you choose the right filtration system.
Types of Systems: Under-Sink, Countertop, Jug, and Whole House
Jug filters are budget-friendly and portable. Countertop systems are easy to install and don’t require plumbing changes. Under-sink systems are hidden and powerful, while whole-house filters treat all water entering your home. Each has its pros and cons based on your space and water use.
Maintenance and Filter Replacement
Every filter has a lifespan. Some last a month, others a year. Skipping replacements means your filter could stop working—or worse, start releasing trapped contaminants back into the water. Set reminders and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Cost Considerations
Initial costs range from $50 for jug filters to several hundred for under-sink or whole-house systems. Factor in the ongoing cost of replacement cartridges. Over time, filtered water is still much cheaper than bottled water.
Sustainable Water Filtration Practices
Filtration isn’t just about taste or health. It’s also about reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices.
Reducing Plastic Waste With Filtered Water
Every reusable bottle filled with filtered tap water is one less single-use plastic bottle in landfill—or worse, in the ocean. Over time, these small habits add up to a big environmental win.
The Role of Recyclable Filters and CO₂ Cylinders
Some filtration systems, like those sold on Ecovenza, offer recyclable filters and CO₂ cylinders. Recycling these components prevents them from ending up in landfill and reduces demand for new materials.
Eco-Friendly Brands and Programs in Australia
Look for Australian brands that support take-back programs or use recyclable packaging. Choosing products with minimal environmental impact is an easy way to make a difference at home or work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Filtered Water
Still have questions? Let’s cover some of the ones people ask most often.
Is Filtered Water Safe to Drink?
Yes, filtered water is safe—and often safer than tap water, depending on your area. Just remember to change filters on time and follow installation guidelines.
Does Filtered Water Remove Fluoride?
Most standard carbon filters don’t remove fluoride. If that’s your goal, look for reverse osmosis or activated alumina systems, which are effective at reducing fluoride levels.
Can You Filter Rainwater or Bore Water?
Absolutely. In fact, filtration is recommended for rain and bore water, which can contain bacteria, heavy metals, or organic matter. UV and sediment filters are commonly used for this purpose.
How Often Should Filters Be Replaced?
It varies. Some need changing every two months; others last a year. Check the product label and keep a calendar reminder. If your water flow slows or tastes off, it might be time for a new filter.
Conclusion
Filtered water is more than a luxury—it’s a practical step for better health, convenience, and sustainability. Whether you’re after better-tasting coffee, cleaner cooking water, or peace of mind about what’s coming out of your tap, filtration makes a clear difference. And with the right system in place, that clean, crisp glass of water is just a tap away.