Types Of Water Purifiers And Choosing The Right One
Clean drinking water is essential for good health, yet not all tap water is safe to consume. With rising concerns about contaminants, choosing the right water purifier has become more important than ever. From urban households to rural setups, water quality varies widely, making it crucial to understand which purification method works best. Whether you're dealing with hard water, microbial threats, or chemical pollutants, there's a solution tailored to your needs. Not all purifiers are created equal. Some are designed to tackle heavy metals, while others focus on removing bacteria and viruses.
Types Of Water Purifiers And Choosing The Right One; Photo Credit: Pexels
Understanding the differences between purification technologies can help you make an informed decision that protects your family's health. This article breaks down the main types of water purifiers and guides you towards the one that suits your water source, budget, and usage habits.
Also Read: How To Choose The Right Water Purifier Based On Your Home's Water Quality
Reverse Osmosis (RO) purifiers use a semi-permeable membrane to eliminate dissolved salts, heavy metals, and chemical impurities. They are ideal for areas where water has high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), such as borewell or tanker water. RO systems often come with multiple filtration stages, ensuring comprehensive purification.
Ultraviolet (UV) purifiers disinfect water by exposing it to UV light, which kills harmful microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. These are best suited for homes receiving treated municipal water that may still carry microbial risks. UV purifiers do not alter the taste or odour of water, making them a good choice for basic disinfection.
Ultrafiltration (UF) purifiers work without electricity and use hollow fibres to trap suspended particles, cysts, and some bacteria. They are effective for water with low TDS and visible impurities. UF purifiers are often used in combination with other systems to enhance overall filtration.
Gravity-Based purifiers rely on pressure from gravity to pass water through filters. These are simple, cost-effective solutions for areas with limited access to electricity or low water pressure. While they may not remove dissolved salts or viruses, they are useful for basic filtration needs.
Activated Carbon purifiers use carbon blocks to absorb chlorine, pesticides, and organic compounds that affect water's taste and smell. They are commonly used as pre-filters or in combination with other technologies to improve the sensory quality of drinking water.
Choosing the right water purifier depends on your water source, contamination level, and household needs. While RO systems offer thorough purification, they may not be necessary for low TDS water. UV and UF purifiers are excellent for microbial safety, and gravity-based options serve well in off-grid settings. Activated carbon enhances taste but doesn't purify on its own. By understanding these differences, you can select a purifier that ensures safe, clean, and pleasant-tasting water for your family every day. Shop now on Flipkart!
Q1. What Is TDS And Why Does It Matter When Choosing A Purifier?
TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids, which includes minerals, salts, and metals in water. High TDS levels require RO purification, while low TDS water may only need UV or UF treatment.
Q2. Can I Use A UV Purifier For Borewell Water?
UV purifiers are not ideal for borewell water, which often contains high TDS and chemical impurities. RO purifiers are better suited for such sources due to their ability to remove dissolved contaminants.
Q3. Do Gravity-Based Purifiers Remove Bacteria And Viruses?
Gravity-based purifiers can remove some bacteria and larger particles but are not effective against viruses or dissolved chemicals. They are best used for visibly clean water with low contamination.
Q4. Is It Safe To Drink Water From An Activated Carbon Purifier Alone?
Activated carbon purifiers improve taste and remove odour but do not eliminate pathogens or heavy metals. They should be used alongside other purification methods for complete safety.
Q5. How Often Should I Service My Water Purifier?
Most purifiers require servicing every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and water quality. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and prevents filter clogging or contamination.
Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.