A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Right Water Purifier for Your Home

Step 1 - Understand Your Water Source

• Municipal Supply: Often treated but may still contain contaminants, mostly has lower TDS.

• Well Water: May have bacteria, heavy metals, or other pollutants.

• Borewell or Surface Water: Check for turbidity and microbial contamination, can have higher TDS

Step 2 - Finalize the Type of Water Purifier

• Pre-filters: Pre-filters In reverse osmosis (RO) systems play a crucial role in enhancing the overall efficiency and lifespan of the RO membrane. Pre-filters are filtration systems placed before the RO membrane in the water purification process. Their primary function is to remove larger particles and contaminants from the water before it reaches the RO membrane. This requires frequent replacement often every 3 months to 6 months.

• Activated Carbon Filters: Effective for removing chlorine, taste, and odor but not for heavy metals or microbes.

• Reverse Osmosis (RO): Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are popular for their ability to remove dissolved solids including heavy metals and impurities. They use a semi-permeable membrane that filters out toxins, making your water taste fresh and clean. Ideal for the places where TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is over 500 ppm.

• Ultraviolet (UV) Purifiers: UV purifiers take a different approach by using ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. This method is effective in disinfection but does not remove dissolved minerals or chemicals contaminants or sediments.

  • UV filter portable: The UV filter is typically installed after the RO membrane. Once the water has been purified through reverse osmosis, it passes through the UV chamber where UV light kills or inactivates remaining microorganisms.

  • UV in Tank: A UV in-tank purifier system incorporates ultraviolet (UV) disinfection within the storage tank of the Purifier unit. Inside the tank, a UV lamp is integrated. As water is stored, the UV light continuously disinfects it, killing or inactivating any bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens that may have entered the tank. This design aims to ensure that the purified water remains safe and free from microbial contamination before it is dispensed.

• Ultrafiltration (UF): Ultrafiltration uses a membrane with larger pore sizes than RO membranes, typically ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 microns. This allows it to filter out larger particles, colloids, and some bacteria while allowing water and smaller dissolved molecules to pass through. Suitable for low TDS water; effective against bacteria and larger particles but not for dissolved salts. UF filters are more reliable and powerful than boiling water.

• Microfiltration (MF): Microfiltration utilizes a membrane with pore sizes typically ranging from 0.1 to 10 microns. This allows it to filter out larger particles, such as sediments, colloids, and some bacteria, while allowing water and smaller molecules to pass through.

• Mineral Filters: Mineral filters in reverse osmosis (RO) systems are designed to reintroduce essential minerals into the purified water after the RO process. These mostly enhance the taste of the water and are optional based on the individual's taste needs.

  • Post-RO Stage: After the water passes through the RO membrane, it is often stripped of beneficial minerals along with contaminants. Mineral filters are placed in the system after the RO stage to add back essential minerals.

  • Common Minerals: These filters typically reintroduce minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which can improve the taste and nutritional quality of the water.

• Water storage tank: When choosing between steel and plastic storage tanks for reverse osmosis (RO) systems, each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which might be best for your needs:

  • Steel Storage Tank

    Advantages:

    • Durability: Steel tanks are generally more durable and resistant to physical damage compared to plastic.

    • Long Lifespan: They tend to have a longer lifespan and can withstand extreme temperatures and conditions.

    • Hygiene: Steel surfaces are less likely to harbor bacteria and are easier to clean and sanitize.

    • Pressure Resistance: Steel tanks can handle higher pressure, which is beneficial for certain applications.

    Disadvantages:

    • Cost: Steel tanks are usually more expensive than plastic options.

    • Weight: They are heavier and may require more robust support structures.

    • Corrosion Risk: If not coated properly, steel can be prone to rust and corrosion, especially if exposed to water over time.

  • Plastic Storage Tanks

    Advantages:

    • Lightweight: Plastic tanks are significantly lighter and easier to install and handle.

    • Cost-Effective: They are generally less expensive than steel tanks.

    • Corrosion Resistance: Plastic is inherently resistant to corrosion and does not rust.

    • Variety: Available in a variety of sizes and shapes, making it easier to find one that fits your space.

    Disadvantages:

    • Less Durable: Plastic tanks can be more susceptible to damage from impact or extreme temperatures.

    • Potential for Bacterial Growth: Certain types of plastic can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly.

    • Limited Pressure Tolerance: Plastic tanks may not handle high pressure as well as steel tanks.

Step 3 - Consider Purifier Capacity and Size

• Daily Water Consumption: Determine how much purified water your household requires.

• Size and Space: Ensure the purifier fits in your available space and consider if you want a countertop, under-sink, or wall-mounted model.

Step 4 - Maintenance and Replacement Costs

• Filter Replacement: Check how often filters need replacing and the cost involved.

• Service Requirements: Consider ease of maintenance and whether you need professional servicing or if you can replace the filters as DIY.

Step 5 - Certifications and Standards

• Look for certifications from bodies like NSF, WQA, EPA or ISI BIS Registration (India),, which ensure that the purifier meets safety and performance standards.

Step 6 - Additional Features

• Mineral Adding Features: Some purifiers add back essential minerals after filtration.

• Smart Features: Options like water quality indicators, UV indicators, and connectivity for monitoring via an app. These are usually optional and don't affect water quality.

Step 7 - Brand Reputation and Reviews

• Research different brands and read customer reviews to gauge reliability, performance, and customer service.

Conclusion

If you have Municipal Supply and TDS is less than 400 - 500 range, a UF/MF + UV (in tank) purifier is enough as lower TDS indicates lower dissolved contamination.

For other water sources and if in doubt about the tap water quality it’s always recommended to go for RO + UF/MF + UV (in tank).

Mineral filters are always optional and you can go ahead based on your water taste needs. Safe and Ideal range for TDS is 70-150 after purification. All the above filter processes are kids safe and kids can consume the water without much worries.

Our Recommendations:

• HUL Purest Revito Prime Mineral RO+MF+UV

• Livpure Glo Star RO+In-Tank UV+UF+Mineraliser

• Urban Company Native M1 Water Purifier | Needs No Service For 2 Years