Our water supply here in Australia can be pretty hit-and-miss on taste. If you’re in an older house, you might be dealing with some pretty crusty old copper pipes, and nobody likes a metallic taste in their drinking water. If you’re close to a city, you might be underwhelmed with the amount of chlorine you can taste. If you’re on tank water, that extra level of filtration is peace of mind for any nasties that might’ve snuck through. With numerous brands and filter options available, selecting the proper water filter can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify your search by exploring water filter brands in Australia along with different types of filters. It will equip you with the knowledge needed to make a decision that fits you and your family best.
Top Water Filter Brands in Australia
Brita
Brita is a known name in the realm of water filters, offering high quality products that cater to a wide range of needs. They provide a range of filter types and styles, designed to reduce chlorine, contaminants and unpleasant odours from your drinking water. As a result you can enjoy fresher and tasting water. They’re also a great option for renters or people on the go, as many of their jug-based systems will not require any house modifications, and the drink bottle options can even be taken with you, to be refilled after your most recent sports, hiking, or camping adventure.
Aquasana
Aquasana is a brand specialising in water filtration systems. Their approach involves utilising double absorption filters to eliminate impurities such as heavy metals, chlorine and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Aquasana has built a trustworthy reputation in Australia over time and with great quality products.
APEC Water Systems
If you’re looking for cutting edge technology and top notch filtration performance, APEC Water Systems is a fantastic choice. They specialise in reverse osmosis (RO) filters that can effectively eliminate up to 99% of contaminants like lead, arsenic, fluoride and bacteria. The result is crystal clear water that tastes great.
Berkey
Berkey is well known for their sleek gravity-fed water filters, which are perfect for use in the kitchen as well as in emergencies or camping environments. These filters utilise microfiltration technology that can remove viruses, bacteria and other harmful pathogens from water sources. It’s no wonder they are highly favoured by enthusiasts and preppers. Arguably the most artisan option of the bunch, these filters even have handcrafted stand options available, for the most discerning of hydro homies.
Types of Water Filters
We’ve learned about some of the best brands available locally for water filtration, but how do each of them function? Water filters can work in a range of different ways. We’ll explore this further now.
Mechanical Filters
Also referred to as sediment filters, mechanical filters have been designed to remove particles and debris from the water. Typically made of porous materials such as material-based sieve layers or fired clay, these filters effectively trap sediments such as sand, rust and silt to ensure more visually appealing water.
Absorption Filters
Activated carbon or charcoal plays a role in absorption filters. These filters excel at removing impurities, chlorine, odours and certain chemicals from the water through the process of absorption. This works because the structure of activated carbon has holes that attract and trap impurities as the water flows past, resulting in an improvement in the taste and smell of the resulting water.
Filters for Water Treatment
Sequestration Filters
Sequestration filters work well in areas with hard water, which contains levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These filters use materials that bond with these minerals, preventing them from causing scale buildup on pipes, fixtures and appliances, and purifying your water. Sequestration filters help to prolong the lifespan of plumbing systems and appliances while also providing high quality drinking water.
Ion Exchange Filters
Ion exchange filters use resin beads to replace ions in the water, such as calcium and magnesium with more desirable and potable ones like sodium or potassium. This process softens the water, reducing the formation of limescale and enhancing the effectiveness of soaps and detergents as a bonus.
Reverse Osmosis Filters
Reverse osmosis (RO) filters utilise a semi-permeable membrane to eliminate various contaminants including heavy metals, fluoride, nitrates, pesticides and more. By applying pressure to push water through the membrane within these systems, impurities are left behind – resulting in pure drinking water. RO Filters are so good at pulling the nasties out of water that they are also commonly used in high-end aquariums to ensure the health of fancier fish species.
General Water Filters
Jug Water Filter
Jug water filters are portable options for households or individuals who are frequently on the go or renting. To filter the water, you place the cartridge inside the jug and pour water into the top section. The water then passes through the filter and collects in the bottom compartment, improving its taste and quality using absorption technology. These provide an inexpensive and versatile water filtering option.
On-Tap Filters
If you want access to filtered water for drinking and cooking you can use an on-tap or faucet water filter. These filters attach directly to your existing faucet and are easy to install. They typically employ activated carbon or mechanical filtration methods to enhance the quality of your water.
Countertop Filters
For households or those who consume a lot of drinking water, countertop water filters are a great option. These filters sit on your kitchen counter and work in a similar way to the jug filter systems. They offer a larger filtration capacity compared to jug filters, without having to install anything into your plumbing system.
Under Sink Filters
If you prefer a filtration system that doesn’t clutter your countertop, under sink water filters are an excellent choice. These filters are installed beneath your kitchen sink, a provide a tap for filtered water. With filtration technology like carbon block and reverse osmosis, under sink filters deliver top-notch purification, but they will require basic modification to your pipes.
Travel Filters
Outdoor enthusiasts, travellers and hikers can benefit from travel water filters. These portable filters are designed specifically for people on the go. These portable filters come in a few different variations, such as straw filters and water bottles. They allow you to purify water from sources like streams and rivers, ensuring that you have access to safe drinking water during your outdoor adventures with minimal need for bulky items.
Whole House Water Filter
Whole house water filters are installed at the water supply point in your home. These are a much more serious, permanent option. The pro here is that they ensure that all the water entering your household is purified. The con of course is the bulkiness of them and the need for professional installation. These filters protect your plumbing system and appliances by preventing sediment and mineral buildup. With a house filter, every tap in your home will produce clean filtered water for bathing, cooking and drinking.
Investing in a decent water filter is an important choice for people who prioritise excellent water quality. With so many brands and types available on the market, the choice can quickly become a little overwhelming! We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect choice for you and your family, so you can enjoy pure, fresh water for many years to come.
