The advantages of buying purified water over using a home filter

Water is one of the most essential elements for life and ensuring its purity and safety for consumption is of paramount importance. Due to increasing concerns about the quality of tap water, many people are resorting to using water filters to purify their drinking water at home (read our article on why you shouldn’t drink untreated water). However, buying purified water from suppliers is actually more profitable and better than buying a water filter and purifying the water yourself. In this article, we look at the research behind this claim and the dangers associated with using poorly maintained or expired water filters.

1. Cost
   One of the most significant factors when deciding whether to buy a purified water or water filter is cost. While water filters may seem like a more affordable option in the short term, they can be more expensive in the long run. Studies show that the cost of a water filter can range from $20 to over $500, depending on the type and brand. On the other hand, buying purified water from a supplier usually costs less than $3 for 18.9 litres. A study by the Water Quality Association found that households using water filters can spend up to $500 a year on filter replacement and maintenance.
2. Quality
   Another important factor to consider when choosing between purified water and a water filter is water quality. Although water filters can remove some contaminants, they may not be effective in all cases. A study published in the Journal of Water and Health found that household water filters can only remove some contaminants such as chlorine, lead and bacteria, but are not effective in removing all contaminants such as nitrates and arsenic. In contrast, purified water from a supplier undergoes a rigorous treatment and filtration process to remove all contaminants, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
3. Convenience
   Finally, convenience is another important factor to consider. Water filters require regular maintenance, such as filter replacement and cleaning, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. In contrast, buying purified water from a supplier is an easy and convenient option, as the water is delivered straight to your doorstep or can be purchased from your nearest shop.

Although water filters can effectively remove contaminants from drinking water, they must be properly maintained and replaced regularly to be effective. As filters age, their ability to remove contaminants diminishes and they may even become a source of contamination themselves. Therefore, when deciding to purchase a water filter or purchase purified water from a supplier, you should consider the quality and safety standards of the water filter, as well as its maintenance and replacement schedule.

A study by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) found that after six months of use, harmful bacteria such as E. coli and coliforms can build up in water filters. These bacteria can grow inside the filter and enter the water, which can pose serious health risks. In addition, the study showed that the filter can increase the amount of contaminants in the water after its recommended service life has expired.

The NSF also conducted a study which found that most consumers do not replace their water filters on a regular basis, which can further reduce their efficiency. This may also be due to a failure to correctly calculate a household’s water consumption rate. In fact, the study found that 75 % of households using water filters do not replace them as often as they should. This means that many people are using filters that are not performing at their best and may be contributing to the problem.

Another study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) tested water filters that have been used for different lengths of time. The results showed that over time, the filters became less effective and could not remove all the contaminants they were designed to remove. In some cases, the filters actually increased the levels of certain pollutants in the water.

In conclusion, although water filters can effectively remove contaminants from drinking water, they must be properly maintained and replaced regularly to ensure their effectiveness. As filters age, their ability to remove contaminants diminishes and they may even become a source of contamination themselves. Therefore, when deciding whether to buy a water filter or to purchase purified water from a supplier, the quality and safety standards of the water filter must be considered, as well as its maintenance and replacement schedule.