Our awareness of health and well-being has never been greater, and the focus on drinking water quality has also increased significantly in recent years. Although European tap water is strictly controlled, residues of chlorine, lime, medicines or microplastics can still occur. That is why more and more people are opting for a tap water filter that protects their health and improves the taste of their water.
Thanks to modern technology, these substances can now be easily filtered out – compactly, efficiently and even directly under the sink. But how does a water filter actually work? And do you need a water filter in Europe? In this blog, you will learn the most important facts about the structure, function and advantages of water treatment systems.
Why should you filter water?
Tap water in Europe is considered one of the cleanest in the world – yet it can pick up traces of limescale, heavy metals or microplastics on its way through old pipes. In addition, many substances, such as residues from medicines or pesticides, are only partially filtered out during water treatment. Over time, this can lead to accumulation in the body, which in turn can contribute to drug resistance or physical complaints.
Does it make sense to filter tap water?
Yes – for several reasons. A high-quality water filter not only improves the taste, but also protects you and your family in the long term from potential pollutants such as metals, microplastics and medication residues. Filtered water is clearer, softer and ideal for drinking, cooking, or baby food.
What does a water filter filter out?
A modern water filter removes a variety of substances that may be present in tap water. These include:
- Limescale – contributes to rapid wear and tear on household appliances
- Chlorine – can irritate mucous membranes and gives drinking water a chemical taste
- Heavy metals such as lead, copper or mercury – suspected of being carcinogenic and can cause kidney damage
- Microplastics – tiny plastic particles from environmental or household residues that can disrupt the endocrine system
- Medication and pesticide residues – residues that enter the waterways and can impair our immune resistance or cause irritation
- Bacteria and viruses – often transmitted quickly in family households.
Which type of filter is best for tap water?
There are countless ways to filter water and remove contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and residues. Among the most popular are:
| Filter type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Sediment filter | Filters coarse particles from the water. |
Does not remove chemical contaminants or microorganisms. |
| Reverse osmosis filter | Membrane only allows water molecules to pass through, effectively removing heavy metals and nitrates. |
Also removes beneficial minerals and generates more wastewater during filtration. |
| Activated carbon filter | Absorbs particles such as chlorine, giving the water a better taste. |
Does not remove minerals or microorganisms. |
| Ion exchanger | Exchanges calcium ions for sodium or potassium ions, effectively removing limescale for softer water. |
Removes important minerals such as calcium and magnesium and increases the sodium content. |
| Alkaline filter | Adds minerals that make the pH of the water more alkaline and thus (supposedly) more beneficial to health. |
More bitter taste and scientific evidence of health benefits is limited. |
| UV and infrared filters | Use light sources to kill viruses and bacteria. |
Does not filter out solid residues or chemical contaminants. |
What is the best way to filter tap water?
As you can see, not every water filter is suitable for all types of water filtration. An activated carbon filter is useful for improving the taste of water, but it does not filter out heavy metals and other pollutants. The same applies to UV and infrared filters, which kill bacteria and are therefore good for camping and trips into nature, for example, but leave solid particles behind. To filter tap water most effectively and combine the advantages of all systems, the best solution is to combine several filters in one.
All AquaTru water filters are therefore equipped with three filters: sediment, activated carbon and reverse osmosis filters. This guarantees thoroughly purified water for every household and use. Not sure which model is best for you? Take our product quiz to find the right water filter in just a few steps.
How does the water filter system work?
At the heart of every AquaTru system is a patented 4-stage reverse osmosis technology, which removes up to 99% of all contaminants from drinking water. The water passes through three filters in succession:
- Pre-filter: Removes coarse particles such as rust, sand or lime.
- Reverse osmosis membrane: Filters even the finest contaminants, including heavy metals, nitrates, drug residues and microplastics.
- Activated carbon filter: Neutralises unpleasant odours and gives the water a neutral taste.
Thanks to precise filter technology and a patented design, AquaTru systems remove up to 5 times more contaminants than conventional reverse osmosis systems. The result: crystal-clear, pure water where you can taste the difference.
What are the advantages of filtering water?
A filter for tap water offers numerous advantages – for your health, the environment and everyday life.
- Health & well-being
Filtered water supports a conscious lifestyle. It protects the body from potentially harmful substances and not only tastes better, but also fresher. Ideal for families, pets and anyone who cares about their health.
- Sustainability & environmental awareness
Water filter systems reduce your plastic consumption, as you no longer need to buy bottled water. This saves resources and avoids waste – a plus for you and the environment.
- Long-term savings
Compared to bottled water, a water filter system is significantly cheaper in the long run – AquaTru water filters, for example, only use around £2 worth of electricity per year. Once installed, you save money every month – and always have fresh drinking water at your fingertips.
Clean water at the touch of a button – or straight from the tap
Whether installed on the kitchen counter or under the sink, water treatment systems that combine several types of filters can contribute to a healthy life and a clean living environment. With AquaTru, you can be sure that no contaminants will enter your water or your body. Discover the AquaTru collection now and enjoy the best water quality every day.