Why water filtration deserves a second look
For many Australians, turning on the tap is something we do without a second thought. After all, town water is treated, regulated, and generally safe to drink. But “safe” doesn’t always mean ideal. Whether it’s the taste of chlorine, concerns about sediment, or the growing awareness of PFAS chemicals, more homeowners are starting to take a closer look at what's actually in their water—and what kind of filter can help.
But with so many options out there—from jug filters to whole-house systems—knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to simplify the process
Understand Your Water Source First
Mains (Town) Water
Most Australians are connected to a mains supply, where water is treated and disinfected—often using chlorine or chloramine. While these chemicals are essential for killing bacteria, they can affect taste and odour. Other concerns include disinfection byproducts, trace heavy metals from plumbing, and emerging contaminants like PFAS.
Rainwater or Tank Water
Common in rural and semi-rural homes, rainwater may seem “clean”, but it can harbour bacteria, parasites, and organic debris from roofs and gutters. Filtration is a must if rainwater is your primary drinking source.
Bore Water
Bore or well water varies greatly in quality depending on local geology and land use. It may contain sediment, iron, manganese, nitrates, or even pesticide runoff, and usually needs a multi-stage treatment approach.
What are you trying to remove?
To choose the right filter, think about the specific water issues you're trying to solve. Here's a breakdown of common contaminants and the filter types that address them:
Concern
Filtration Method
Chlorine and bad taste/odour
Activated carbon (carbon block or GAC)
Sediment (dirt, rust, sand, microplastics)
Sediment cartridges (5-20 micron range)
Fluoride, heavy metals
Reverse osmosis (RO) or specialised media
PFAS
Reverse osmosis (best option) Carbon filters will also reduce levels
Bacteria, viruses, parasites
Microfiltration and UV disinfection
Hard water/scale
Water softeners or conditioners
Comparing filter types: what’s right for you?
Different homes—and people—have different needs. Here’s how the most common filter types stack up:
1. Water Filter Jugs and Ceramic Filters
These entry-level options typically rely on basic carbon filtration, are affordable, and easy to use. However, they do pose some limitations, such as:
- Not addressing serious contaminants like PFAS or bacteria
- Requires frequent cartridge changes, typically every 4–6 weeks.
- Doesn’t effectively filter sediment like sand, rust, and dirt (as particles are too large).
- Sediment can clog the filter prematurely, reducing its effectiveness and flow rate.
- Most jugs only hold about 2 litres, making them impractical for families or high-use households.
- No protection for appliances, pipe & fixtures, or for bathing and showers.
2. Under-Sink and Benchtop Filters
Installed at a single point (usually the kitchen tap), these filters offer more robust protection. Options range from simple carbon cartridges, to advanced reverse osmosis systems.
Good for:
- Households focused on safe drinking and cooking water
- Targeting chlorine, PFAS, fluoride, or heavy metals
- Benchtop or countertop filtersare a great option for renters, or those who prefer a portable option.
3. Mains Water Whole House Water Filters (Point-of-Entry)
These are installed at the mains line to filter all the water entering your home—showers, laundry, kitchen, everything.
Good for:
- All households
- Protecting plumbing and fixtures
- Protecting water-using appliances
- Enhancing water quality for skin and hair
- Clean safe drinking water at every tap
- Whole house filters with carbon cartridgeswill reduce some levels of PFAS
Note: Whole-house filters can be combined with point-of-use systems (like reverse osmosis) for significant reduction of PFAS.
4. Rainwater Filters
Rainwater whole house filters:
Designed specifically for homes that rely on tank water, these systems are tailored to handle the unique challenges of rainwater—like organic matter, bacteria, and variable water quality. Installed where the rainwater enters your home, they provide comprehensive protection for every outlet.
Good for:
- Homes using rainwater as their main water supply
- Reducing bacteria, viruses, sediment, and odours
- Protecting pipes, hot water systems, and appliances from sediment build-up
- Improving water clarity, smell, and taste
- Whole-house protection including showers, laundry, and kitchen
- UV sterilisation to kill bacteria after filtration
For best results, combine a rainwater point-of-entry system with a tank treatment solution likeTanksafe,which prevents bacterial growth at the source.
Tip: For rains-to-mains switchover systems where town water is occasionally used, consider atriple stage filter with a carbon block and UV.The carbon block reduces chlorine when switching over to mains water, ensuring your water always tastes great.
To learn more about different rainwater filter options, see ourBacteria contaminants page.
Filter Certifications: What matters in Australia and New Zealand
When choosing a water filter in Australia or New Zealand, it’s important to look for products that meet relevant local standards and certifications.
WaterMark certification is key—this ensures the product complies with plumbing regulations and is safe for connection to the mains water supply.
Additionally, filters that meet AS performance standards (such as AS 3497 for drinking water treatment systems) have been tested for effectiveness and material safety under local conditions.
What to consider when choosing a filter:
Match your system to your household size
A compact system might be ideal for one or two people, but larger households often require higher-capacity solutions to keep up with daily demand.
If considering an undersink unit, check the available space under your bench.
Comparing brands
When comparing products across brands, be sure to compare:
- The cartridge size: a smaller cartridge will require replacement sooner
- The flow rate: to ensure water pressure isn’t decreased significantly
- Warranty period: does the brand offer standard consumer warranty, or a stronger warranty term?
- The construction materials: Is the product constructed for durability?
- Online reviews: Check out reviews of the brand, outside their own website (think Google and forums).
- Filter stages: How many stages of filtration are there? What medium do the cartridges use?
Installation: DIY or professional?
We recommend all filters be installed by a licensed plumber, but maintenance and cartridge changes can usually be done by the homeowner.
Don’t overlook maintenance
Every filter will eventually need replacement. Check how often cartridges must be changed and how simple the process is before committing.
Still unsure? A few scenarios to guide you
You’re a renter, and you want to:
Improve quality of drinking water: Try an under-sink or benchtop carbon filter.
For those who prefer a portable fitting, Puretec offer two options: thebasic benchtop filter CNB1and theslimline design CT15.
For those with permission from their landlord to install an undersink filter, aPureMix filteris a great option for most residential applications on mains water.
Reduce chlorine from showers: Try fitting ashower filter, like the SF240-CH.
You want to avoid chlorine in both your drinking water, and your bath or shower:Look into awhole-house filter with carbon pre-filtration.
You’re concerned about PFAS or fluoride in your area:A certifiedreverse osmosis system under the sinkmay be best, paired with a carbon filter at the point of entry.
You collect rainwater for drinking:You’ll likely need asediment filter, carbon filter, and UV steriliserworking in tandem.
One size doesn’t fit all—and that’s ok.
Choosing the right water filter starts with understanding your water quality and household needs. From simple jugs to multi-stage systems, there’s a solution for every setup. What matters most is that your filter works for your water—not just your neighbour’s.
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