Do you really need a home water purification system when others just boil water or use candle filters? And, quite a few people you know drink it straight from the tap. Well, yes, because water, that precious fluid that is so essential for life, can also turn out to be harmful and occasionally even deadly. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 90 percent of water the world over contains contaminants. Very few people today are fortunate enough to have direct access to pure, clear and healthy water at its natural source. In India, 80 percent of all diseases are reported to be caused by water borne micro organisms.
Boiling, an age old method of water purification, is known to kill all microbes. So why invest in a domestic water purifier, why can’t we just boil tap water? Well, boiling does not remove toxic chemicals and dissolved solids. Water contains not only biological contaminants; it may contain chlorine, lead, fluoride, rust, pesticides and heavy metals. All or some of these toxins can prove very damaging in the long run. Besides, boiling is time consuming and expensive because of the rising cost of fuel.
Local municipal corporations commonly use chlorine to destroy harmful bacteria and viruses in the water they supply to domestic users in towns and cities across India. Chlorine if allowed to remain in the water you drink everyday can have adverse effects on your health and that of your family. Besides, the pipes that municipal water flows through are often rusty, so by the time water reaches your home, it’s very likely to be contaminated again.
Home water purifiers available on the market today are capable of destroying or deactivating bacteria and removing toxins and suspended solids as well. What’s more, some brands also use technology that retains natural minerals, which are beneficial. So, it is possible for you to have water that is safe, clear, and healthy and tastes great as well.
You don’t always need to invest in a high-end expensive water purifier. The high priced reverse osmosis domestic water purifiers that are advertised these days are not really necessary or even advisable at many locations. Basically, the quality of water in your area and your budget should determine what purification system you select.
In most cases, a combination of UV purification and filtration works well. This is if the water is not excessively turbid and salty. Ultra violet radiation does not remove micro organisms, it renders them inert and incapable of reproduction, which makes them harmless to humans. Filtration removes dissolved solids. However, if the water has a high concentration of suspended solids and excessive salt, a reverse osmosis purifier might be what you need. Before you invest in an reverse osmosis system, however, make enquiries about after sales service because these purifiers need frequent professional maintenance. Also, try and settle for one that uses technology capable of retaining essential natural minerals.
Chemical based water purifiers have been around for quite a few years but are not always the best option because the chemicals used for purification remain in the water. However, two well known brands available on the market today use a technology that removes all harmful chemicals. Chemical based purifiers do not need electricity and cost less than UV purifiers and reverse osmosis systems.
Whatever your raw water type and budget, you are likely to find a suitable purification system to protect you and your loved ones from the hazards of consuming polluted water. The few thousand rupees you spend will prove to be a worthwhile investment in the long run.