Comparing the various water purification systems: which one to choose?

As you know, water is an essential resource for life, and we drink a lot of it... Even more so when we have a large water supply. water that tastes good which is quality. What's more, it's presented in an attractive container...

But did you know thattap water can sometimes contain impurities or undesirable substances as micro-organisms ?

In this article, we will compare the different water purification systems or other water filters available on the market to help you choose the one that best meets your needs, and to help you make the right choice. water treatment !

The different types of water purification systems

There are several types of water purification system, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Our complete guide to water purifiers is here

Filter carafes

The filter jugs are equipped with an activated carbon filter that eliminates chlorine, heavy metals and other impurities. They are affordable, easy to use and require no installation. However, their filtration capacity is limited and the filters need to be changed regularly...

ANCES also found compounds at the filtration outlet (carbon, silver salts, bacteria in "non-drinking water" quantities, etc.) which were not present in the inlet water (more info here).

Read also: Filter carafes: a good idea?

Under-sink filtration systems

These systems are installed directly under the sink and connect to your home's water network. As a result, they offer more effective filtration than jugs and can remove a wider range of contaminants, but installation and maintenance can be tricky. more expensive.

Osmosis units

For their part, osmosis systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove up to 99 % of contaminants from water. They can be expensive to install and maintain. What's more, they can be expensive to install and maintain, they generate 70% of waste water during the filtration process...

Because 95% retains mineral salts in the membrane, it is essential to add more at the end of the process. However, this function will only be available on top-of-the-range machines that use an additional consumable in the form of a mineral cartridge.

Read also: What is a water osmosis unit used for?

Water softeners

Water softeners eliminate the calcium ions and magnesium. in the water by replacing them with sodium ions.

This process reduces the problems associated with hard water. These problems includescaling of pipes and household appliancesreducing the effectiveness of cleaning products, and limescale deposits on taps and surfaces.

So, as you will have realised, we're more concerned with the benefits (yet to be proven...) for the appliances than the health benefits.

Read also: Is there such a thing as a nuisance-free water softener? and Why install a water softener?

The distillers

Water distillers work by boiling water and then condensing the steam produced. This process is relatively effective in removing impurities, bacteria, viruses and dissolved minerals. Distilled water is pure and free from contaminants, making it ideal for applications requiring 'distilled' water, such as laboratories and hospitals.

What about filterless water purifiers with UV-A treatment?

Well, they do exist! At last, you can find innovative filterless water purifiers that use the latest technology to purify water. UV-A technology to treat tap water and make it purer.

The purification system is based on theemission of ultraviolet light (UV-A) which neutralises contaminants in the water, such as chlorinethe bacteriathe virus and pesticideswithout the need for filters or consumables! Isn't LAVIE beautiful?

In just 15 minutesWater purifiers transform tap water into water free of chlorine and impurities. Not only is this process fast and efficient, it's also environmentally friendly, as there's no waste associated with filters or consumables to replace. Isn't LAVIE beautiful (bis)? 🙂

To try it is to adopt it: it's the most organic purifier of all the tap water filtration systems on the market!

Selection criteria

Filtration, treatment or purification efficiency

L'efficiency is a key criterion in the choice ofa water purification system. Water softeners are effective in treating hard water, but do not treat chemical or biological contaminants.

Distillation eliminates most impurities and contaminants, but may not be as effective in treating certain volatile compounds. UV-A treatment of tap water is highly effective!

Installation and maintenance costs

Le installation cost and maintenance costs vary according to the type of purification system chosen.

Water softeners generally require connection to your home's plumbing system and regular maintenance, while water distillers can be more expensive to buy but generally require less maintenance.

The UV-A water purifier is a very affordable, one-off purchase, because there's no maintenance!

Environmental impact

The environmental impact of a water purification system must also be taken into account.

Water softeners produce of waste water containing sodium ions (in short, salt!), which can have a negative impact on the environment. Distillers, on the other hand, produce little or no waste, but consume a lot of energy to boil and evaporate the water.

Le UV-A water purifier consumes very little energy to emit its rays for just a few minutes. Okay, I'll give you the power consumption: 6 Wh per litre of treated water! In euros, this means that to purify 1,000 litres of water, you'll spend around the price of a litre of petrol (when the yellow waistcoats started protesting) or around €1.5. Compared with the cost of consuming plastic bottles, that's a really big saving!

Easy to use and maintain

Ease of use and maintenance is another criterion to consider. Water softeners require regular maintenance, such as replacing the ion exchange resins and recharging with salt. Water distillers are generally easier to maintain, with few or no parts to replace. With a UV-A water purifier, you simply dip your pretty glass bottle into a receptacle for 15 minutes and that's it - zero maintenance!

Read also: Tap water purifier: 7 questions to ask yourself when buying a purifier

Comparison of purification systems

When comparing water softeners, distillers and water purifiers, it's important to consider the specific needs of your home and how you will use the purified water. Water softeners are best suited to treating hard water, while distillers provide high-quality water for more specific applications. Finally, UV-A water purifiers without filters are ideal for regular consumption of high-quality water without maintenance problems and with the utmost respect for the environment. Take into account the selection criteria mentioned above to determine the system that best meets your needs!

Read also: The most common water filtration methods: advantages and disadvantages

FAQ

What are the most important criteria when choosing a water purification system?

Important selection criteria include filtration efficiency, installation and maintenance costs, environmental impact and ease of use and maintenance.

How do UV-A light-based water purifiers work?

UV-A light-based water purifiers use ultraviolet radiation to inactivate micro-organisms present in the water, such as bacteria or viruses. This purification method is effective in eliminating pathogens without the use of chemicals, while preserving water quality.

Can you taste the difference in water quality after using a UV-A purifier?

Yes, many users report a marked improvement in the taste of their water after treatment with a UV-A purifier. This technology eliminates chlorine and other contaminants that can alter the taste of water, resulting in water that is purer and more pleasant to drink.

Read more: LAVIE reviews from customers who have bought our water purifiers

Are water purification systems suitable for all types of houses and flats?

Most water purification systems are designed to adapt to different housing configurations. Filter carafes and UV-A purifiers are particularly suited to small spaces without the need for installation. Under-sink systems may require more space and specific installation, but are generally compatible with most kitchens.

How can choosing a water purification system affect my energy bill?

Water distillers and some under-sink purification systems can increase your energy consumption because of their electrical operation. Filter carafes and UV-A purifiers, on the other hand, consume very little energy, with minimal impact on your energy bill. UV-A purifiers, for example, use the energy equivalent of an LED light bulb to treat several litres of water.

What is the difference between water softened by a softener and water purified by a UV-A system in terms of quality and use?

Water softened by a water softener has its calcium and magnesium ions mainly replaced by sodium ions, which prevents the scaling of appliances. However, it remains unpurified in terms of biological or chemical contamination. Water treated by a UV-A purifier is free of bacteria, viruses and certain chemicals without altering its mineral composition. Softened water is therefore better suited to protecting your household appliances, while water purified by UV-A is ideal for direct consumption, offering safety and taste quality.

What is the difference between a water softener and a distiller?

Water softeners remove calcium and magnesium ions to reduce water hardness, while distillers remove most impurities and contaminants by boiling the water and condensing the steam produced.

Do water distillers remove all contaminants?

Water distillers effectively remove most impurities, bacteria, viruses and dissolved minerals, but may be less effective at treating certain volatile compounds.

Are water softeners more environmentally friendly than distillers?

Water softeners produce waste water containing sodium ions, while distillers consume energy to boil the water. The environmental impact depends on local factors such as water availability and energy sources.

Pascal Nuti - CIO Solable - Passionate about energy, I'm constantly on the lookout for new targets for improvement, exploring cross-disciplinary paths using novel methods.

Article written on 14/04/2023 and updated on 07/04/2024

Ready to turn tap water into a pure, refreshing source in your home? Discover our LaVie water purifiers today and enjoy superior quality water, free from impurities and chlorine taste. Click here to explore our range and find the purifier that's perfect for your needs. Pure water starts with LaVie!