The quality of the water you drink can have a significant effect on your overall health. While tap water in the UK is generally considered safe to drink, it can still contain a range of contaminants that may affect its taste, appearance, and even your health over time. Many homeowners are turning to filters to improve the quality of their tap water, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to know whether installing a filter is really necessary.

This guide will help you understand the most common water contaminants found in UK households, how to assess your water’s quality, and what factors you should consider when deciding if a water filter system is right for you.

Common Contaminants in UK Tap Water

Tap water in the UK is generally safe to drink, but that doesn’t mean it’s free from harmful contaminants. A number of substances, both natural and man-made, can end up in the water we use daily. Understanding these contaminants can help you decide if installing a house water filter system is the right step for your home.

Chlorine

Chlorine is commonly used in the UK to disinfect water, ensuring it’s safe for consumption. While chlorine is effective at killing bacteria, it can leave an unpleasant taste and smell. Many people find this off-putting, especially when drinking water directly from the tap or using it for cooking. A drinking water filter can effectively remove chlorine, improving both taste and odour.

Lead

Lead is another contaminant that may be present in older homes with lead pipes or plumbing fittings. Even though the use of lead pipes is no longer common, many properties built before the 1970s still have lead plumbing. Lead is a toxic substance that can be harmful, especially to children, causing developmental issues and affecting cognitive functions. If you live in an older home, a water filter system designed to remove lead is essential for protecting your family’s health.

Pesticides

Pesticides from agricultural runoff can also make their way into tap water. These chemicals, often used to protect crops, can contaminate water supplies, especially in rural areas. Prolonged exposure to pesticides may have adverse health effects, making it vital to consider a water purifier that targets these chemicals if you live in such areas.

Microplastics

Microplastics have been found in tap water across the UK. These tiny particles, often from household products or environmental pollution, can accumulate in the water we drink. While the long-term health effects are still being studied, reducing exposure to microplastics is a wise choice, and a water filter system can help eliminate these contaminants from your daily water supply.

How to Assess Your Home’s Water Quality

Before deciding whether you need a filter for tap water, it’s important to assess your current water quality. Fortunately, there are several ways to check if your water is contaminated and whether it could benefit from filtration.

Test Your Water

One of the simplest methods is to purchase a water testing kit, which you can use to check for common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and pesticides. These kits are available at most home improvement or online stores, and they typically provide easy-to-read results, so you’ll know if your tap water has any harmful substances.

Read Water Quality Reports

You can also check the water quality report from your local water supplier. In the UK, water companies are required to publish annual water quality reports. These reports provide valuable information about the overall safety of the water in your area, including any contaminants that may be present. If you live in an area with known water quality issues, this report can help you determine whether a house water filter system is necessary.

Assess Your Plumbing

Another important factor to consider is the condition of your plumbing. If your home has older pipes, particularly those made from lead, the risk of contamination is higher. Rusty water or a metallic taste in your tap water are common signs that your pipes may be contributing to the problem. In this case, installing a drinking water filter that removes lead is a good option to ensure your water is safe.

Factors to Consider Before Installing a Filter

Now that you have a better understanding of the potential contaminants in your water and how to assess your water quality, it's time to consider the factors that will influence your decision to install a filter for tap water.

Health

First and foremost, health concerns should be a top priority. If you have young children, elderly family members, or anyone with compromised immunity, investing in a water purifier is a wise choice. A filter can help remove harmful chemicals and heavy metals, offering an added layer of protection for your family’s health.

Taste and Odour

Taste and odour are also important factors to consider. If you find the taste of your tap water unpleasant, it’s likely due to chlorine or other chemicals. Installing a water filter system can improve the taste and smell, making it more enjoyable to drink and cook with.

Water Usage

Water usage also plays a key role in your decision. If you have a large household or use a lot of water daily, you may need a higher-capacity filtration system. Some filters are designed for single taps, while others, like whole-house water filter systems, are ideal for families or homes with higher water demands.

Budget

Finally, think about your budget. Water filters vary in price, with some options being more affordable upfront but requiring regular maintenance and filter replacements. Reverse osmosis filters, for example, are highly effective but tend to be more expensive than simple pitcher or standard carbon filters. Evaluate your budget and consider both the initial cost and ongoing maintenance when selecting a filter for tap water.

Types of Water Filter Systems and Which One Is Right for You

When choosing a water purifier, it’s important to take into account your home’s water quality, your budget, and the level of filtration you need. For example, those mainly concerned with taste and chlorine can opt for a simple, one-stage water filter that features a carbon filter. On the other hand, households dealing with a range of contaminants may benefit from a water filtration system that is composed of a series of filters such as RO systems, which target different contaminants or substances.

Carbon Filters

Carbon filters are the most common type of filter a water filtration system has. They are excellent at removing chlorine, sediment, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can affect the taste and smell of water. These filters are typically affordable and easy to install, making them a great choice for improving water quality on a budget.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

Reverse osmosis filters are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including lead, pesticides, and microplastics. This system forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, filtering out impurities.

While reverse osmosis filters provide comprehensive filtration, they tend to be more expensive and may require professional installation. However, if you're looking for a robust solution to ensure your water is free of harmful contaminants, this is a great option.

Ion-Exchange Filters

Ion-exchange filters are excellent for removing harmful heavy metals like lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic from your water. They also help remove hardness minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and manganese, as well as ions like nitrate, fluoride, sulfate, and chloride. This type of filter works by selectively exchanging ions with a resin or exchange material, improving the overall safety and quality of your water. If your water is hard or contains harmful heavy metals, an ion exchange filter could be the ideal solution for you.

Ultrafiltration Filters

Ultrafiltration filters are highly effective at removing suspended solids, microplastics, bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. These filters are also capable of removing particles, turbidity, sediment, proteins, lipids, and some heavy metals. Ultra filtration is a great choice for households concerned about bacterial or viral contamination, as well as those looking to remove fine particles from their water. This type of filter provides a high level of purification without the need for chemicals, making it an excellent option for those prioritising clean, safe water.

Water Filter Systems Available at Hommix UK Limited

From chlorine and lead to microplastics, there are several potential contaminants in the UK that you might want to consider eliminating from your water supply. Whether you require a single or multi-stage filtration system, which is under the kitchen sink, on the countertop or connected to the whole house, Hommix UK Limited has the right water filter system for your home and lifestyle.

Not sure which water filter is best for you? Contact us today for expert advice and a range of high-quality water filter solutions tailored to your needs.