The bottle in the water purifier
How do you filter tap water?
Table of contents
Tap water is often regarded as less healthy and of inferior quality to bottled water. HoweverExcessive use of plastic bottles is an environmental disaster. France ranks 5th in the world for consumption of plastic water bottles with 25 million bottles of water used every day !
With this in mind, many people choose to use domestic filtration systems water. Filtering tap water can improve its quality, and there are a number of solutions for doing so: from the activated carbon to the osmosis unit, not forgetting the filter jugs and tap water filters or under sink. Each of these systems has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, convenience and environmental impact.
But there are now innovative systems water purification without mechanical filtration! "How is this possible? Well, we're going to answer that question in this article, which reviews the different ways of filtering your tap water.
Secondly, we will demonstrate that these filter-based systems are now available in a wide range of applications. solutions from the past by helping you discover the LaVie water purifiers using an innovative technology, the photolysis of chlorine by UV-A radiation. Don't worry, it's simple and we'll explain everything!
What is water filtration?
Let's start at the beginning and answer the question of what the water filtration ! Water filtration or filtering is an essential a process that promises to eliminate contaminants and pollutants of it. We are talking here about bacteriaand virusand heavy metalsand pesticides and chemical products such as the chlorine. As well as purifying the water, this process also makes it possible toeliminate unpleasant tastes and odours in tap water (often due to chlorine).
The water therefore passes through a filter (thanks to good old Earth gravity!) which will, to a greater or lesser extent, retain certain impurities.
🤔 Why filter tap water?
In France, theAgence nationale de sécurité sanitaire de l'alimentation, de l'environnement et du travail (French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety) (ANSES) monitors the quality of tap water. This agency supervises the quality ofdrinking water distributed by water suppliers, regularly checked for the presence of contaminants and/or pollutants. This means that tap water is completely safe to drink. with no major health risk. Nevertheless the taste of tap water and its overall quality can often be greatly improved.
Tap water can contain various contaminants, such as heavy metals, bacteria, viruses and pesticides, which can affect health.
Read also: The benefits of filtered water
5 tap water filtration techniques
There are several techniques for filtering tap water, each with its own (few) advantages and disadvantages. Here's 5 techniques popular.
Ceramic and activated carbon filters
The ceramic filters and activated carbon use a combination of ceramic and carbon to remove impurities and contaminants from water. Ceramic filters are particularly useful for removing suspended particleswhile the activated carbon is known for its ability to eliminate unpleasant smells and tastes.
This system is used in particular in cartridges from filter jugs Brita' type. Carafe filters are simple devices that use a variety of techniques to filter tap water. However, their effectiveness depends on the quality of their filter, and it may be necessary to change filters frequently to achieve correct filtration.
Read also : Filter carafes: a good idea?
On the other hand, tap water filters that can be installed on the tap or under sink often use activated carbon or ceramic filters. Their efficiency will depend on their quality, and you'll always have to worry about maintenance and frequent replacement.
Read also : Activated carbon for filtering tap water: benefits, limitations and effective alternatives
Binchotan coal
Le Binchotan coal is a type of activated carbon made from ubamegashi, a Japanese oak wood. It is used for water filtration because of its adsorbent propertiesThese include the ability to remove impurities and odours from water, as well as improving taste.
This type of activated carbon is said to be able to retain harmful substances such as pesticide residues and bacteria while retaining the trace elements useful for health. However, its effectiveness has yet to be fully demonstrated. In the absence of a serious study, it is difficult to make a definitive decision.
Read also: Binchotan carbon to filter tap water, from dream to reality
Water softener
L' water softener employs a filtration technique that uses exchange ions to remove the hard minerals of water such as limestone. However, this is not the end of the story, they have no impact on other potential contaminants present in tap water. Water softeners are therefore not the best choice for complete water filtration.
Note that there are so-called 'natural' methods for removing limestone of tap water, such as the use of white vinegar or lemon. However, it is important to note that these methods do not filter out all the harmful substances present in tap water.
Reverse osmosis filters
The reverse osmosis filters used in a osmosis plant are an advanced way of filtering tap water. They use high pressure to force water through a very fine filter, removing a variety of contaminants including heavy metalsThe filters can also be used to remove contaminants, chemicals and bacteria. However, reverse osmosis filters can be expensive and require a regular maintenance to maintain their effectiveness.
Read also : What is a water osmosis unit used for?
Other solutions for filtering tap water
It should be noted that the 3 filtration methods presented below are among the so-called 'natural' methods, but their scientific effectiveness has yet to be demonstrated.
Ceramic beads
Ceramic beads are small beads made offired clay which are often infused with beneficial micro-organisms. These micro-organisms may reduce chlorine, prevent the proliferation of bacteria and other pollutants and balance the pH of the water. Simply place the ceramic beads in a water jug, pitcher or any other container holding tap water.
To make the most of the pearls' properties, we recommend leaving the water in contact with them for at least 1 hour.
Many people find that water treated with ceramic beads has a positive effect on their skin. milder taste and more enjoyable. Although ceramic beads offer a number of advantages, they do not filter out all the potential contaminants present in the water. For complete and rigorous filtration of the water, it may be necessary to use a more advanced filtration system as a complement.
Clay balls
The clay ballsAs such, they do not have the microbial or chemical filtration capacity of certain specific filters. Rather, their main role in water filtration is to mechanics. Clay balls can retain certain particles suspended in water thanks to their porous texture.
They are placed in a carafe or pitcher, and the tap water is filtered by passing through them.
Ceramic beads or clay pellets can help remove physical contaminants such as water. dust and impuritiesbut they are not not effective in removing chemical contaminants such as heavy metals or chemicals.
Moringa seeds
The moringa seeds contain proteins that can bind suspended particlesproteins, bacteria and certain other contaminants present in the water. When these proteins are released into the water, they produce a positive charge that attracts negatively charged particles, causing them to agglomerate and settle.
How do you filter tap water using moringa seeds?
- Seed preparation Remove the shells from the moringa seeds, leaving only the pits. Then crush the seeds to obtain a powder.
- Dosage Dissolve around two teaspoons of moringa seed powder in a little clean water to obtain a sort of liquid paste.
- Add to water to be purified Pour this solution into approximately 20 litres of cloudy water you wish to purify. Stir quickly for about thirty seconds, then stir slowly and regularly for several minutes.
- Sedimentation Allow the water to stand for at least an hour. Particles, bacteria and other contaminants will bind to the proteins in the moringa seeds and settle to the bottom of the container.
- Filtration After sedimentation, the surface water will be clearer. You can then filter it through a clean cloth or other type of filter to remove any remaining particles.
Purifying water with moringa seeds can leave an unpleasant odour. a particular taste or smell in the water, which might not be appreciated by everyone.
So are filters useful?
While the water filter is often regarded as an essential acceptable solution and trusted by French consumers to filter tap water, its drawbacks should not be ignored.
In particular, we see two good reasons to reconsider the use of water filters: one economic reason and another ecological.
Indeed, the long-term cost regular replacement of your filters is far from negligible!
Secondly, if the reason you have decided to filter your water is primarily ecological, this solution does not solve the problem! Water filters produce a more plastic waste that contribute to a negative environmental impact.
Last but not least, there is the question of effectiveness. TheThe efficiency of water filters is often questionable, because it has been called into question by numerous studies. A study conducted by ANSES, for example, revealed that filter carafes are not effective at removing pesticides from tap water.
The study points out that manufacturers are only "very rarely able" to reduce the content of pesticides and other organic contaminants. In addition, there is still some uncertainty as to the filtration efficiency of contaminants such as nitrates present in drinking water intended for human consumption.
Read also: Tap water filter: What to choose
UV-A filtration, as natural as the sun
So how can purify your water without using a filter? There is a UV-A radiation "filtration" system for this purpose, a natural way to purify tap water. It uses UV lamps to kill bacteria and virus in the water, without adding chemicals.
This is the method used by LaVie water purifiers. In fact, the word "filtration" is a misnomer, because although the water is purified, it is not mechanically filtered.
The LaVie water purifier uses an innovative and exclusive patented technology, the photolysis of chlorine by UV-A radiation. This treatment method provides effective chlorine reduction and its derivatives. It also removes chemical compounds such as pesticides and traces of medicines, thereby eliminating tastes and unwanted odours found in tap water.
The results obtained are of very high quality, enabling users to get rid of plastic bottled water for good.
Read also: The most common water filtration methods: advantages and disadvantages
1. Fill in
Your LaVie bottle of tap water
2. Insert
3. Wait
Time taken for UV-A light to activate chlorine photolysis (15 minutes)
4. Enjoy!
And enjoy the real taste of healthy water!
To sum up the easy way to purify your tap waterIn short, if we dare make a pun (and we dare!), simplify your life with LaVie purifiers! In short, if we dared to make a pun (and we do!), simplify your life with LaVie purifiers!
Read also: Filtering fountains: a complete guide to purer tap water
FAQ : Tap water filtration and purification
What are the main contaminants found in tap water?
Common contaminants in tap water can include chlorine, heavy metals such as lead and mercury, bacteria, viruses, drug residues, nitrates and nitrites, and other organic and inorganic compounds.
Does filtering tap water remove all contaminants?
No, a filter's ability to eliminate contaminants depends on the technology used. For example, an activated carbon filter will mainly eliminate chlorine and certain organic compounds, but will not be as effective against heavy metals or bacteria.
Do filtration systems eliminate chlorine?
Yes, most filtration systems are designed to remove chlorine, as it can affect the taste and odour of the water. If you are specifically concerned about chlorine, check that the filter you are considering is certified for chlorine reduction.
What is the difference between filtering and purifying water?
Filtering water means removing physical impurities, such as suspended particles. Purifying, on the other hand, involves eliminating or reducing chemical or biological contaminants, making the water safe to drink.
How long does a water filter last?
This depends on the type of filter and the quality of the water being filtered. Some filters need changing every month, while others can last for several years. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Is boiling water an effective purification method?
Boiling water is effective at killing bacteria and viruses, but it does not remove chemical contaminants, heavy metals or particles. It is therefore advisable to combine boiling with other purification methods for cleaner water.
Do LaVie water purifiers eliminate bacteria and viruses?
Yes, LaVie purifiers use UV-A radiation to kill bacteria and viruses, providing chemical-free purification.
Do water filters remove beneficial minerals?
Some filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis, can remove a large proportion of the minerals present in water, including some that are beneficial to health, such as calcium and magnesium. However, there are filters, such as UV-A filters, that are designed to preserve these minerals while eliminating contaminants.
What is the difference between a water softener and a water filter?
A water softener is designed to remove the calcium and magnesium ions that cause water hardness, while a water filter removes a variety of contaminants such as particles, bacteria and certain chemical compounds.
Can rainwater be filtered and purified for drinking?
Yes, with the right equipment, rainwater can be filtered and purified to make it drinkable. However, it is important to have a system that eliminates both physical and biological contaminants.
Are tap water filters environmentally friendly?
Water filters can be more environmentally friendly than buying bottled plastic water, reducing waste. However, some filters, such as cartridges in carafe filters, are difficult to recycle.
How do I know if my water is contaminated?
The most reliable way is to have your water analysed by a certified laboratory. Many test kits are also available for domestic use, but they may not detect all types of contaminant.
Does a strange taste or smell in my water mean it's contaminated?
Not necessarily. A taste or odour may be the result of natural minerals, the presence of chlorine or other factors. However, a sudden or unexplained change in taste or odour may indicate a problem and should be investigated.
Do water filters eliminate bacteria?
Not all filters. While some filters, such as those with ultraviolet filtration or a reverse osmosis membrane, can eliminate bacteria, others may not be as effective. If bacteria are a concern, make sure you choose a system that is certified to remove bacteria.
Article written on 02/02/2023 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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