Water purifiers remove impurities, contaminants, and pollutants from drinking water. They are essential appliances in many homes, especially in areas where the quality of the water supply is questionable. Water purifiers are important for maintaining good health, as drinking contaminated water can lead to various health problems such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid.
They are also important for maintaining the taste and odor of the water, as contaminants can affect the taste and smell of the water. This article will provide an overview of water purifiers and discuss the different types of technologies used, the benefits of using a water purifier, and factors to consider when choosing the best water purifier for your home.
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Top 10 best water purifiers in India
Following are the Best Water Purifiers for Home in India.
Benefits of using water purifier at home
There are several benefits to having the best water purifier for the Home:
Protects against Waterborne Diseases
One of the most important reasons to use a water purifier at home is to protect yourself and your family from waterborne diseases. Contaminated water can contain a variety of harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can cause serious health problems. Some common waterborne diseases include cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea. These diseases can be particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Using a water purifier at home ensures that the water you and your family consume is free from harmful contaminants. Different types of water purifiers, such as UV-based and RO-based purifiers, use different techniques to kill or remove microorganisms, making the water safe to drink.
Improves Taste and Smell of Water
Another benefit of using a water purifier at home is that it improves the taste and smell of water. Chlorine and other chemicals used to treat water can give it an unpleasant taste and smell. These chemicals are added to water to kill microorganisms but can also make the water taste and smell bad.
A water purifier can remove these chemicals, as well as other impurities, such as sediment and dirt, which can also affect the taste and smell of water. This can make the water more palatable and enjoyable to drink, leading to better hydration.
Saves Money in the Long Run
Using a water purifier at home can also save you money in the long run. Buying bottled water can be expensive, especially if you and your family consume a lot of it. Additionally, it generates plastic waste which is harmful to the environment.
On the other hand, a water purifier is a one-time investment that can save you money in the long run. Not only will it provide you with a steady supply of clean and safe drinking water, but it will also save you the expense of buying bottled water. Moreover, it is an environmentally friendly option.
Retains Essential Minerals
Another benefit of using a water purifier at home is that it can help to retain essential minerals in water. Some water purifiers remove beneficial minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, from water while purifying it. These minerals are important for maintaining good health and can be beneficial for bone, teeth, and heart.
However, some advanced water purifiers are designed to retain essential minerals, while still effectively removing impurities. This can provide you with the best of both worlds: clean and safe drinking water that is also rich in beneficial minerals.
Easy to Maintain
Another advantage of using a water purifier at home is that it is easy to maintain. Most water purifiers require minimal upkeep and are straightforward to clean and maintain. All you need to do is to replace the filter periodically to keep your water purifier working efficiently. This makes it a hassle-free option for ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water for you and your family.
So, it is evident that using a water purifier has numerous benefits, including improved health, taste and odor, cost savings, environmental benefits, and convenience.
Different types of water purification technologies
There are several types of technologies used in water purifiers to remove impurities and contaminants from drinking water. Some of the most common technologies include:
Gravity-based filtration
Gravity-based filtration is one of the most basic and oldest methods of purifying water. It involves passing water through a ceramic or a candle filter to remove impurities such as dirt, sand, and other particles. The water is poured into the top chamber of the filter, and gravity pulls it through the filter into the bottom chamber, leaving the impurities behind. Gravity-based filters are simple, affordable, and easy to maintain, making them suitable for use in remote and rural areas where electricity is not available.
Ultraviolet (UV) Sterilization
UV sterilization is a method of purifying water by exposing it to ultraviolet rays. UV rays have the ability to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that may be present in the water. UV sterilization is highly effective in eliminating pathogens and is widely used in homes, offices, and other commercial settings. The UV lamp emits UV-C light which kills the microorganism. UV purifiers do not remove dissolved impurities, but often combined with other purification method for better result.
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
RO is a water purification process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities from water. The water is forced through the membrane under high pressure, leaving impurities such as dissolved salts, heavy metals, and other particles behind. RO purifiers are highly efficient and can remove up to 99% of impurities from water, making it suitable for use in areas where the water supply is highly contaminated. The downside of the RO is that it also removes beneficial minerals and can lower the pH of the water, which requires to add minerals back.
Carbon Filtration
Carbon filtration is a method of purifying water by passing it through a bed of activated carbon. Activated carbon has the ability to adsorb impurities such as chlorine, pesticides, and other chemical compounds, making the water safe to drink. Carbon filters are commonly used in water purifiers, faucet-mounted filters, and pitcher filters. Carbon filter can eliminate bad taste, odors and certain chemical contaminants, but it may not remove microorganisms and dissolved contaminants.
Distillation
Distillation is a water purification method that involves heating water to create steam, which is then cooled to produce purified water. The impurities such as dissolved minerals, microorganisms, and other contaminants, stay behind, making the water safe to drink. Distillation is an effective method for purifying water, but it is also energy-intensive and, therefore, not commonly used for household purposes.
Ceramic Filtration
Ceramic filtration is a water purification method that involves passing water through a ceramic filter to remove impurities. Ceramic filters are made of porous ceramic material, which is a physical barrier to remove particles such as dirt, sand, and other impurities. Ceramic filters are highly effective in removing bacteria and other microorganisms, making it a suitable purification method for areas where water is contaminated with pathogens.
Ultimately, the choice of water purification technology will depend on the individual or organization’s specific needs and the water supply’s quality. It’s important to research and consult with experts to determine the best option for your situation.
Top things to consider while buying a water purifier
When it comes to buying a water purifier, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you choose a purifier that meets your specific needs. Below are some top things to consider when buying a water purifier.
Type of Water Purification
You should first consider the type of water purification technology the purifier uses. As mentioned in the previous section, the most common water purifiers are gravity-based, UV-based, RO-based, and carbon-based. Each type of purification technology has its unique features and benefits. For example, RO-based purifiers are highly efficient in removing impurities but can also remove beneficial minerals. UV-based purifiers are highly effective in killing bacteria and viruses but do not remove dissolved impurities.
Water Quality
Another essential factor to consider is the water quality you will be purifying. An RO-based purifier will be a good choice if your water supply is heavily contaminated with dissolved impurities and heavy metals. On the other hand, if your water supply is mainly contaminated with bacteria and viruses, a UV-based purifier would be a better choice. It’s also important to be aware of the water hardness in your area and the presence of specific contaminants; this way, the water purifier can be adjusted accordingly.
Capacity and Flow Rate
The capacity and flow rate of the purifier are also essential factors to consider. The capacity refers to the amount of water that the purifier can purify before the filter needs to be changed. The flow rate refers to the amount of water the purifier can purify per hour. A purifier with a higher capacity and flow rate will be more efficient and require less maintenance.
Maintenance and Replacement Costs
Maintenance and replacement costs are other important factors when buying a water purifier. The cost of replacing the filters and other parts can vary depending on the type and brand of purifier you choose. Some purifiers have filters that need to be replaced every few months, while others have filters that can last up to a year. It’s important to factor in the cost of these replacement filters when deciding which purifier to buy.
Brand and Features
Finally, you should consider the brand and features of the purifier. Some brands are more reputable and offer better customer service than others. In addition to the basic features, some purifiers have advanced features such as water storage, a digital display, and a UV lamp timer. These advanced features can make the purification process more convenient and efficient.
Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the best water purifier for your home.
Maintenance tips for water purifiers at home
Maintenance of a water purifier is an important aspect that should not be overlooked. Regular maintenance of your water purifier will help ensure that the water you and your family drink is free from contaminants and is working efficiently. Below are some tips to help you keep your water purifier in top condition.
Cleaning the Pre-Filter
Most water purifiers come with a pre-filter that removes larger particles such as sand, dirt, and rust. The pre-filter should be cleaned at least once a month to ensure it works efficiently. To clean the pre-filter, remove it from the water purifier, wash it with water, and let it dry completely before reinstalling it.
Changing the Cartridge Filter
The cartridge filter is the heart of a water purifier and is responsible for removing impurities from the water. It should be changed at regular intervals as recommended by the manufacturer. Failing to change the cartridge filter can lead to a build-up of impurities and a decrease in the purifier’s efficiency. Be sure to dispose of the used filter properly.
Sanitizing the Water Tank
Over time, bacteria and other microorganisms can grow inside the water tank of a purifier, which can lead to water contamination. To prevent this, the water tank should be sanitized at least once a month. To sanitize the water tank, empty it, clean it with a solution of water and chlorine bleach, then rinse it with clean water before refilling it.
Checking for Leaks
Periodically check your water purifier for leaks, particularly around the water tank, hoses, and connections. Leaks can cause damage to the purifier and can also lead to contamination of the water. If you notice a leak, have it repaired as soon as possible.
Proper Storage
When not in use, your water purifier should be stored clean and dry. Avoid storing the purifier in a damp or humid area as this can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria inside the unit.
By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your water purifier functioning properly and ensure you have access to clean, purified drinking water at all times.
Conclusion
Water purifiers are essential appliances that ensure the safety and purity of the drinking water in your home. They help protect your family’s health and improve the taste and odor of the water. With so many options available in the market, it is essential to research and chooses a water purifier that meets your specific needs and budget.
