Filtering water fountains: everything you need to know for healthy, pure tap water
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Filtering water coolers often have the image of products associated with the world of work, the world of offices! And it's true that they are essential in places like companies, where the Labour Code requires drinking water to be available, or in waiting rooms like those in doctors' surgeries.
Nevertheless, more and more people are choosing to install water coolers in their homes. And among the different types of fountain, filtering water fountains offer a number of advantages, which we will describe in detail in this article.
Why opt for a filtering water cooler?
That's the first question! While more and more people are choosing to install a water cooler This is of course so that they can take advantage of a greater quantity of quality water than is available in bottles or carafes (water coolers generally have a capacity of 1,000 litres). 5 to 12 litre capacity).
Also worth reading: 7 reasons to use a water cooler at home
But in the realm of water fountains, the filtering fountain has a special place in it for the following reasons:
- Water quality : In France, tap water is safe to drink, but a filtered water cooler guarantees that your water is free from chlorineof leadof bacteria and other chemical substances or harmful contaminants. It preserves essential minerals naturally present in water, such as calcium and the potassium
- Improved taste : Eliminate the undesirable tastes caused by the rust and chemical products for pure-tasting water
- Easy access : A filtering water cooler guarantees regular hydration for the whole family. A investment for quality water at your fingertips.
- Economy : Investing in a filtering water cooler is both economic and ecological. Reduce consumption ofbottled water plastic and save money in the long term. We'll come back to this crucial point later.
Environment and Filtering Water Fountains
A filtering water cooler is much more than just a dispenser. It represents the bridge between the need for healthy water consumption and the desire for a healthy lifestyle. sustainable lifestyle.
- For ecological considerations : These fountains are ideal for homes that are looking to adopt a zero waste lifestyle. By replacing bottled mineral water with water filtered directly at source, we're taking another step towards a sustainable future.
- Safety : With the ability toeliminate harmful contaminantsThese fountains provide safe drinking water for everyone, from babies to the elderly.
- Versatility : Whether you want to fill up a bottle for work, a sports session or any other trip, filtering water coolers ensure that you take quality water with you.
Read also: Tap water purifier: 7 questions to ask yourself when buying a purifier
The economic factor
There are many economic advantages to owning a filtering water cooler:
Reduced costs associated with the purchase of bottled water
If you consider the price of a bottle of water compared with tap water, the difference is significant. In the long term, filtering tap water via a fountain is much cheaper than buying bottled water on a regular basis.
With a price of €0.003 per litre, Tap water costs between 100 and 300 times less than bottled water!
Lower expenditure on replacing household appliances
Filtered water contains less limestone and minerals likely to damage or destroy scaling appliances such as kettles, coffee machines or irons.
Less waste
By not buying bottled water, you reduce the waste associated with non-recycled bottles and the costs associated with waste management. Did you know that 25 million plastic bottles are used every day in France? [Source: Tap water, bottled water: the match-up]
Reducing health-related costs
Drinking clean, filtered water can reduce the risks associated with drinking water containing contaminants, thereby avoiding potential medical costs.
Filter durability
Although filters need to be replaced periodically, their service life is generally longer than that of the filter jugs for example, which means that the associated costs are spread out over time. And as we shall see, some fountains don't even require a water filter!
Also worth reading: Filter carafes: a good idea?
Avoids hidden costs
Buying bottled water not only includes the cost of the water itself, but also hidden costs such as transport, storage and even the time spent going out to buy the bottles.
So while the purchase of a fountain represents an investment [expect an average price of between €150 and €700, depending on the quality of the filtration system], this cost will pay for itself in the long term. And that's not counting the better quality water you'll have at your disposal.
How do I choose a filtering water cooler?
Types of fountain
Depending on your needs, you can opt for a bottle filtering fountain, a network filtering fountain or a UV-A filtering fountain.
Bottle fountain
Operating mechanically, the water is stored in a tank placed above and below the tank. flows by gravity. This option is practical for isolated locations.
The major disadvantage of these fountains is the storage of cylinders (not to mention the plastic used in their manufacture and the diesel used to transport them).
Fountain connected to the water network
This range of fountains provides constant supply of tempered waterSome models can also offer fresh water if they are electrically connected. They often have a double tap so you can choose between fresh and tempered water.
Bottle fountains are mobile, while mains fountains require a mobile installation. direct connection to a water network. Their installation will generally require the help of a professional.
UV-A water cooler
A third type of fountain has appeared on the market: UV-A water coolerswhich purify your water without the need for a water filter. We'll come back to this later.
Filtration system
Make sure that the filtration system is adapted to the quality of the water you wish to filter. Some models offer ultra-fine filtration, while others have several filtration stages.
Magnetic filtration
Thanks to the power of magnetsThis system attracts and captures harmful elements, leaving only purity behind. Some advanced models also enrich the water with essential minerals such as silica oxide.
Ceramic filtration
The secret lies in the ultra-fine ceramic filter. Capable of filtering heavy metals and particlesThis system, when coupled with a carbon filterIt eliminates chlorine and pesticides, ensuring better quality water.
If these filters are effective against bacteria and suspended particles, they can clog up quicklyrequiring frequent cleaning.
Plastic filter filtration
With a series of food-grade plastic filters, this system provides perfectly balanced water with an ideal pH.
Activated carbon filtration
Le activated carbon is one of the most common filters. It effectively traps impurities and contaminants. If it can remove chlorine, bad tastes, odours and other particles, it will be ineffective against certain mineralsheavy metals or chemicals.
UV-A filtration: the power of the sun encapsulated in technology.
A new type of water cooler has recently emerged that doesn't require a water filter to purify your tap water. This type of fountain uses a UV-A radiation (the same type as the sun's rays).
The UV-A rays produced by LEDs trigger a chemical reaction that will rid your tap water of the chlorineand bacteria or certain pesticides.
The big advantage of these UV-A filter fountains is that they only require very low maintenance so you don't have to change your filters regularly!
Note that some fountains combine several types of filter to improve filtration quality.
Read also: Glass water cooler: The modern choice for pure water thanks to UV-A technology
Fountain Filtration: towards a future combining health, economy and respect for the planet 🌍💧
The filtering water coolers mark a significant turning point in our ecological approach and our quest for a healthy lifestyle.
And while all fountains have their value, the UV-A fountains deserve a special mention. Using the power of the sun Through UV-A radiation, they provide purified water without the need for filters that have to be changed regularly, simplifying our daily lives while protecting the environment. What's more, the low maintenance costs and the sustainability of these fountains make this investment not only smart for your health, but also economically viable over the long term.
So whether you're a individual concerned about their health or a company When it comes to guaranteeing the well-being of its employees while saving money, fountains, and in particular UV-A fountains, are the choice of the future. They are tangible proof that we can, on our own scale, combine modern comfort, health and respect for the environment. Let's adopt these fountains today for pure water, assured health and a preserved planet. 🌍💧
Discover LaFontaine, the 5-litre glass water cooler from LaVie
Article written on 14/08/2023 by 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.
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