Water is essential for everyday life, from drinking to cleaning. But is filtered water worth the investment, or is unfiltered water good enough? In this guide, we’ll compare filtered and unfiltered water to help you choose what’s best for your home.
What Is Unfiltered Water?
Unfiltered water comes directly from the tap without going through a filtration system. While it’s generally safe to drink, it may still contain impurities like:
- Chlorine: Municipalities add chlorine to kill bacteria, but it can leave a bad taste and smell.
- Sediment: Tiny particles like dirt and rust sometimes enter the water through aging pipes.
- Heavy Metals: Old plumbing systems can cause lead, mercury, and other metals to leach into the water.
- Chemical Contaminants: Pesticides, industrial chemicals, and pollutants may also find their way into tap water.
What Is Filtered Water?
Filtered water passes through a filtration system that removes impurities. Different systems, such as carbon filters or reverse osmosis, target various contaminants. Filtration can remove harmful substances like chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, and chemicals, leaving you with cleaner and better-tasting water.
Benefits of Filtered Water
- Better Taste and Smell: Filtration removes chlorine and other chemicals, improving the taste and smell of your water.
- Safer for Drinking: Filtered water eliminates harmful contaminants like lead, mercury, and pesticides, making it safer for drinking and cooking.
- Protects Plumbing and Appliances: Filtration reduces sediment and scale buildup, which extends the life of your plumbing and appliances.
- Eco-Friendly: Using filtered water reduces the need for bottled water, helping to cut down on plastic waste.
Benefits of Unfiltered Water
- Convenience: Unfiltered water flows straight from the tap, with no need for additional equipment or maintenance.
- Lower Cost: You don’t need to buy or maintain a filtration system, making unfiltered water more affordable in the short term.
- Regulated Safety: Municipal water supplies are regularly tested to ensure safety standards are met, so unfiltered water in many areas is considered safe to drink.
Key Differences Between Filtered and Unfiltered Water
- Contaminants: Filtered water removes more contaminants, making it the healthier choice.
- Taste and Smell: Filtered water tastes better and doesn’t have a chlorine smell. Unfiltered water may have an unpleasant taste or odor.
- Maintenance: Filtered water requires regular filter changes. Unfiltered water requires no extra maintenance.
- Cost: Filtered systems have upfront and maintenance costs. Unfiltered water is more cost-effective initially.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between filtered and unfiltered water depends on your priorities. If you care most about water quality and health, filtration is the way to go. If convenience and low cost are more important, unfiltered water may be sufficient, especially if your local water supply is well-regulated.
At My Georgia Plumber, we install water filtration systems to suit your home’s needs. Whether you want a whole-house filter or a simple point-of-use system, we can help you find the right solution. Our team provides professional installation, so you can enjoy clean, safe water.
