The market for water purification products is varied. In addition to functional differences, the models’ appearance and their water purification technology also lead to consumer confusion. The most frequently asked questions from consumers are: Firstly, what kind of water purifier do I need for my home? Secondly, aren’t more filters better? Thirdly, can I really drink filtered water? Isn’t boiled water safer? We now want our consumers to ask questions, so we can provide them with immediate answers to assist them with their selection of water purifier (water filter).
If you choose the water purifier based on the 5 key points below, you will not waste money.
1.You only need to drink pure water. You don’t need water with “magical effects”
such as those water purifiers on the market which offer many special features, such as: alkaline water, energy water, far infrared water, activated water, activated cells, enhanced immunity, etc. While these products may add more value, the additional features are usually not worth the price. If there is no specific need, buying a quality Taiwanese-made water purifier will meet our daily needs for drinking pure water.
2.Select features according to the regional water quality characteristics.
For example: Although Taiwan is a beautiful treasured island, with its own unique scenery and cultural style, there are still noticeable differences in the water quality across different areas. In general, the water quality is better in the north than in the south because of the high carbon content. Calcium is commonly known as hard water, so drinking it means the taste is poor. If you buy a water purifier on the Internet, please remember to choose the correct one for your area.
(Click here for more information on water quality throughout Taiwan)
3.Understand the function of the filter. Do not listen to the exaggerated words from companies
Each of the different materials in the filter has its own importance. For example, the PP filter can remove sediment (including larger sediment) and other impurities from the water. Hollow fibre membranes can filter out most bacteria, and RO reverse osmosis filters can filter out smaller viruses. It is recommended that consumers do their homework by first reading this article: “Water Filter Core Comparison Function Table.
4.With filters having standard specifications, the purchase and installation are easy.
Almost every water purifier manufacturer uses a dedicated filter connector for quick and easy installation, to prevent leakage, and which is suitable for people to use on a daily basis without needing to spend a lot of time studying the filter area to replace it. The benefits of a general specification are that it is easy for Carrefour and other large buyers to buy filters. However, the product may be of poor quality, may have assembly problems, and could leak. We suggest that you only purchase well-known domestic brands.
5.Regular replacement of the filter is better than purchasing a high-priced water purifier.
The purpose of the filter is to filter the harmful substances in the water, which, through long-term use, clog the pores and cause other issues. We often hear from friends or consumers who have forgotten to regularly replace the filter because of their busy lives and who only do so when the flow of the water is reduced or when the water starts smelling. Many appear shocked when they realise they haven’t changed the filter for over a year. In these situations, the residual bacteria in the filter may be far greater than in ordinary water. The amount of bacteria in high-priced, high-standard water products may cause more harm than drinking water directly. You do not want to drink water with bacteria in it. Therefore, water friends, please remember to regularly replace the filter!
Please remember to replace the filter regularly!
Please remember to replace the filter regularly!
Please remember to replace the filter regularly!
Because it is important, so say it three times!
Water filter core comparison function table
Note: 『O』Can be Removed ; 『X』Cannot be Removed
Understanding the common two, three, four, five filter water purifiers on the market.
* two-way water purifier
* three-way water purifier
* five way pure water machine
The above shows the most common combinations on the market. However, many manufacturers have also introduced small water purifier products with a multi-material combination single filter. Make sure you have an in-depth understanding of each filter material so you can make the best choice for the most suitable filter for your own water purifier.
Can you really drink purified water?
The issue with drinking water is not how much bacteria it contains, but how much chlorine has been added by the Taiwan Water Company to reduce bacterial levels. In principle, water from the water treatment plant meets standards. However, pipelines in most areas of Taiwan are old, and households use water towers for storage. Bacteria breed in pipelines and water towers, making most raw water unsuitable for drinking. Consuming bacteria through drinking raw water can easily lead to diarrhea and illness.
In addition to bacteria, there is another harmful microbe – viruses, which are about 20-200 nm in size, much smaller than bacteria, which range from 1,000-10,000 nm in size. Since RO (reverse osmosis) membrane pores are less than 1 nm, viruses and bacteria can be completely blocked, ensuring the water is safe to drink.
Taiwanese food safety authority Xia Jue Lin has provided 10 major pieces of advice on food safety, one of which suggests that households install an RO reverse osmosis water purifier to avoid drinking water from water dispensers.
Choose Counter Top, Under Sink, or Tap Water Filter
Regardless of the type of water purifier chosen, filtration remains a key consideration. A more specialised option is the tap water purifier. Due to its compact size, it filters a smaller volume of water. However, it is inexpensive and easy to install, especially suitable for students living away from home or for individuals living alone.
※ The lifespan of the filter cartridge will vary depending on the user’s water consumption; the above-mentioned time is for reference only.
