Is Filtered Water Good for You? Unveiling the Benefits and Considerations
by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated January 09, 2025
In today’s fast-paced world, staying hydrated is more important than ever, and the quality of the water we drink plays a crucial role in our overall health.
In the UK, tap water is generally considered safe to drink, but many people are turning to filtered water for its purported benefits. But is filtered water
actually better for you? In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages and potential downsides of drinking filtered water, addressing common concerns and
helping you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
What Is Filtered Water?
Filtered water is water that has gone through a filtration process designed to remove impurities, chemicals, and contaminants. This can be done using
various methods, including activated carbon filters,
reverse osmosis system , and UV filters. These
filters aim to purify the water by removing substances like chlorine, lead, heavy metals, pesticides, and bacteria, which may be present even in clean
municipal water supplies.
While filtered water is often compared to bottled water, it’s important to note that it doesn’t necessarily come from the same sources or have the same
purity levels. The goal is simply to remove harmful substances that might impact health or taste.
The Benefits of Drinking Filtered Water
There are several compelling reasons why many people in the UK are choosing to filter their water. Let’s take a closer look at the potential health benefits
of drinking filtered water.

Improved Taste and Odour
One of the most immediate benefits of filtered water is its improved taste. Tap water can sometimes have a noticeable chlorine taste or unpleasant odour,
which is a by-product of the chemicals used to disinfect the water. Filtering your water can remove these chemicals, resulting in fresher, cleaner-tasting
water that you may be more likely to drink. For those who struggle to drink enough water, this can make staying hydrated much easier.
Reduction of Contaminants
Filtered water helps remove harmful contaminants that may be present in tap water, especially if you live in an area where water quality varies. Common
contaminants include chlorine, lead, and heavy metals. Long-term exposure to these substances can pose significant health risks, particularly for children
and pregnant women. By using a good quality water filter, you can reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals.
- Chlorine: While chlorine is added to tap water to kill bacteria, it can also irritate the skin and respiratory system. Some people may also find it has a strong taste.
- Lead: Lead contamination can occur in older homes with lead pipes, and exposure to it can cause a range of health problems, from developmental issues in children to kidney damage in adults.
- Heavy Metals: Contaminants like arsenic, cadmium, and mercury can also be found in tap water, and longterm exposure to these can cause serious health issues.
Healthier Skin and Hair
If you’ve ever noticed that your skin feels dry or your hair lacks shine after a shower, the quality of the water might be the culprit. Chlorine and other
chemicals in unfiltered tap water can strip your skin and hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. By switching to filtered water, you may
notice an improvement in the overall appearance and feel of your skin and hair.

Better Hydration
While it may seem counter intuitive, the quality of the water you drink can impact how well your body absorbs and uses it. Water that is free from
contaminants may be more easily absorbed by your cells, helping to keep you better hydrated. Plus, clean, great-tasting water encourages you to drink more,
which is essential for maintaining good health.
Environmental Benefits
Choosing filtered water over bottled water can also help reduce your environmental footprint. The UK has made significant strides in reducing plastic waste,
and opting for filtered tap water can play a role in that. With the right filtration system, you can reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles, which
contribute to pollution and waste.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Filtered Water?
While filtered water offers numerous benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well.

Cost of Filtration Systems
One of the main drawbacks of filtered water is the upfront cost of purchasing a filtration system. While some water filters are relatively affordable,
high-end systems such as reverse osmosis filters can be more expensive. You’ll also need to factor in the ongoing cost of replacing filters.
Maintenance and Proper Use
To get the best results, water filters need to be properly maintained. This means regularly replacing filters, cleaning the system, and ensuring that the
filter is working as intended. If filters are not replaced when needed, they can become clogged with contaminants, which could actually make your water
worse rather than better. It’s important to stay on top of maintenance if you want to reap the full benefits of filtered water.

Is Filtered Water the Best Choice for You?
Ultimately, the decision to drink filtered water depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. If you live in an area with hard water or if
you’re concerned about contaminants like chlorine or lead, filtered water can provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. On the other hand, if
you’re already confident in the quality of your tap water and don’t find its taste or smell bothersome, you might not need to invest in a filtration system.
Choosing the Right Filtration System
If you’ve decided that filtered water is the way to go, choosing the right filtration system is crucial. There are various types of filters available,
including activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and UV filters. Here’s a brief overview of each:
- Activated Carbon Filters: These are the most common and affordable filtration systems. They remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds VOCs, and other chemicals that affect taste and odour.
- Reverse Osmosis Systems: A more advanced filtration method that removes a wider range of contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, and some viruses. However, it can also strip out some beneficial minerals.
- UV Filters: These use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the water. They are highly effective for purifying water, but they do not remove chemicals or heavy metals.
Make sure to choose a system that fits your needs and budget. It’s also worth checking if your water supplier offers a water quality report, so you can
better understand the specific contaminants you might need to filter out.
Conclusion
In summary, filtered water can be a great choice for improving the taste and quality of your drinking water, removing harmful contaminants, and supporting
overall health. While it does come with some costs and maintenance requirements, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, especially for those concerned
about their water quality or looking to reduce their environmental impact. If you decide that filtered water is right for you, take the time to research the
best filtration system for your needs to ensure you’re getting the cleanest, healthiest water possible.
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