Why do some Singaporeans still use a water filter?
Singapore’s water is widely known to be clean and safe enough to drink directly from the tap. The tap water quality is also within the Environmental Public Health Regulations, and the World Health Organisation Guidelines.
This makes the tap water completely safe to drink. So why do some Singaporeans still take an extra step of buying a water filter?
1. Chlorine Makes Our Hair and Nails Brittle
PUB adds chlorine to tap water. This chlorine is used to disinfect water from harmful bacteria. Although the amount of chlorine is within safe limits, consuming it daily could impact us.
One way chlorine affects us is through our hair and nails. The look and strength of my hair and nails is very important to me. Chlorine strips nutrients away, making our hair and nails look and feel weaker.
Do you know someone who loves to swim? Chances are their hair colour is a lighter shade than yours. This is due to the high level of chlorine in swimming pools. Now picture the same chlorine in your tap water.
Hence, some Singaporeans choose to boil their water. But not all the chlorine is removed in this process. This is why many choose to install a reverse osmosis water filter for drinking water. This filter can remove chlorine from tap water better than many other water dispensers can.
2. The Pipes Underground Aren't New..
The PUB collects water samples from pipes underground for water quality monitoring. This check is done on water tanks across Singapore to ensure water is safe for consumption.
Although the water is safe to drink, it is the underground pipes that I am concerned about. These pipes are left underground for many, many years. What do you think they will look like?
I'm not an expert, but I think they will look like the pipes on the right. However, it is also not possible to dig up all old pipes in Singapore every 5 years to replace them with brand new ones.
That is why to make myself feel more at ease, I use a water filter. This will remove any sediments from these pipes that could have entered my water stream.
3. My Pre-Filter Collects Lots of Sediments
In external pipes, dissolved minerals like calcium settle and harden over time. This forms sediments. When water is stirred up, it can lead to visible sediments in the water.
Pre-filters are are filters that are fixed at the entrance of my house, at the incoming water pipe. Sand and sediments are collected by the pre-filter before it enters my home. This keeps my house water clean and sediment-free.
If a pre-filter can collect so many sediments, without one, just how much
will enter your household? I don't have a pre-filter installed. This is why as an added safety measure, I prefer to use a water filter in my home.
4. I Don't Like The Results of My Filter Sock Test
The most important factor of whether you need a water filter: how clean your water is. It is easy and inexpensive to do a test at home on your own. All you need is a cloth water filter and a rubber band.
Just attach a basic disposable water filter to your tap and monitor how long it takes to change colours. The last time I did this test, my cloth filter started to turn brown in 6 days! EW! This is also why I have my water filter.
When this colour change happens, there are sediments/minerals entering your household. This is when having a water filter would help you, reducing any sediments that are in your water.
After much research, I decided on AOSmith from AOS bath. I have been using it for half a year without any issue and had very good experience. Highly recommended.
Control panel was installed near yard making it much more accessible and can accurately control the water temperature.
Very very good experience! Installation was a breeze thanks to Suruj and Rana. They also helped to clean up after installation. Thanks guys.
Control panel was installed near yard making it much more accessible and can accurately control the water temperature.
Very very good experience! Installation was a breeze thanks to Suruj and Rana. They also helped to clean up after installation. Thanks guys.
Frankie Lau
Google review
I bought an under-sink water filter from them.
After piping and electrical works are done, you can basically forget that the unit is under your sink. There's just a small elegant tap that comes out of your sink counter.
Overall an excellent company with quality products and quality service. Definitely would recommend to friends.
After piping and electrical works are done, you can basically forget that the unit is under your sink. There's just a small elegant tap that comes out of your sink counter.
Overall an excellent company with quality products and quality service. Definitely would recommend to friends.
Jacob Yao
Google review
Conclusion
In the end, Singapore's tap water is clean and meets strict standards. A water filter is not something you need.
For me, I personally feel more comfortable with reduced levels of chlorine. I also feel assured with the extra layer of "protection" from any remaining sediments.
And although benefits may be small, it adds up into convenience and a peace of mind. This makes having a water filter more worthwhile.
Water Filter FAQ
How often do I have to replace my drinking water filters?
Drinking water cartridges should be changed regularly, usually about once a year. This ensures you get to enjoy clean tasting water.
What is the difference between water filter and water dispenser?
A water filter remove sediments and minerals, usually providing better tasting water.
A water dispenser only stores and dispenses water, often related to instant hot or cold water.
What is the difference between whole house filters vs point of use filters?
A whole house filter provides filtered water for your entire home, from your kitchen faucet to your shower head. Examples include chlorine filters and pre filters.
A point of use filter are installed at specific points of consumption. It filters the water as the faucet is turned on. Examples include the reverse osmosis water filter.
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