Water, our go-to thirst quencher in Malaysia’s tropical heat, is more than a beverage; it’s a lifeline. However, with pollution concerns growing, having a dependable water filter from PureGen Water is like having a superhero protect your hydration.
So, let’s take a dive into the world of water filters and see which one works best for your drinks, and also your normal daily water use.
What Are The Main Sources Of Water Contamination in Malaysia?
Before getting into the various types of water filters in Malaysia, it’s important to understand the main toxins common in Malaysian water sources. These contaminations may differ based on the location and source of the water.
Types Of Contaminants
Sediments: Sand, silt, and other particles can enter the water supply, causing cloudiness and disagreeable tastes.
Chlorine: Although chlorine is commonly employed in water treatment plants to disinfect water, it may leave an unpleasant taste and odour.
Heavy Metals: Heavy metals, including lead, mercury, and arsenic, can seep into water from natural deposits or industrial contamination, causing major health concerns.
Microorganisms: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can pollute water, causing illnesses such as cholera and dysentery.
Chemical Pollutants: Pesticides, herbicides, and industrial chemicals can contaminate water and pose long-term health hazards.
What Are The Types Of Water Filter Available In Malaysia?
Water filters use a variety of processes to remove pollutants and purify water. Here are some of the most prevalent types of water filters available in Malaysia:
Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters are extremely effective in eliminating chlorine, silt, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and disagreeable tastes and odours from water. They operate by adsorption, in which pollutants attach to the surface of the carbon filter.
These filters are reasonably priced and come in a variety of configurations, including pitcher filters, faucet-mounted filters, and under-sink systems, and it’s also one of the most commonly used products in Malaysia.
Reverse Osmosis System (RO System)
RO systems employ a semi-permeable membrane to remove a variety of pollutants, including heavy metals, dissolved solids, bacteria, and viruses. The membrane lets water molecules flow through while capturing bigger particles and pollutants.
RO systems are recognised for their high levels of purification, but they can waste a lot of water during the filtering process, and it can also cost significantly higher.
Ultrafiltration (UF) Systems
UF systems employ membranes with bigger holes than RO membranes to remove suspended solids, bacteria, and virus particles from water. While UF systems are less successful at eliminating dissolved solids than RO systems, they use less water and require less maintenance.
Ceramic Filters
Ceramic filters are made of porous ceramic material, which traps impurities when water goes through. They are excellent in removing bacteria, silt, and some protozoa, but they may be ineffective against viruses and dissolved chemicals.
Ceramic filters are frequently used in combination with activated carbon filters to improve filtering.
Ultraviolet Water Filters
UV water purifiers employ ultraviolet light to purify water by destroying germs’ DNA and rendering them harmless. UV purifiers are quite successful at destroying bacteria and viruses, but they do not remove other impurities or particles from water.
As a result, they are frequently used in conjunction with other filtering technologies to provide complete water purification, which can usually be seen in industrial uses. Nevertheless, it can also be used in various types of homes, in a much smaller scale.
Step By Step Guide On Choosing The Right Water Filter For Your HomeStep 1: Evaluate Your Water Quality
Examine your water supply thoroughly for any potential contaminations. This might contain sediments, chlorine, heavy metals, microorganisms, and other contaminants. If you are unsure about the quality of your water, consider having it analysed by a respected laboratory.
Example: Assume you live in a location where the water frequently has a strong chlorine smell and flavour. In this instance, you’ll need a filter designed particularly for chlorine and its byproducts.
Step 2: Determine Your Filtration Needs
Once you’ve determined which pollutants are present in your water, you may prioritise their removal. Different filters excel at eliminating different sorts of impurities, so be sure your filtering requirements match the filter’s capabilities.
Example: If your water test indicates significant levels of heavy metals such as lead or mercury, you’ll need a filter that can remove them effectively, such as a reverse osmosis system or a filter with specialised heavy metal removal cartridges.
Step 3: Set a Budget
Determine how much you are willing to spend on a water filtration system. Prices vary greatly based on the type of filter and its characteristics. Consider both the initial cost of the filter and future maintenance costs such as filter replacements.
Example: Let’s imagine you have a limited budget but yet want good filtering. In this instance, you may use a pitcher-style activated carbon filter, which provides adequate filtering at a reasonable price.
Step 4: Consider Installation and Maintenance
Consider if you are comfortable installing the filter yourself or whether you will need to call an expert. Also consider the filter’s continuing maintenance requirements, such as how frequently you’ll need to change filter cartridges or membranes.
Example: If you are not good with tools, you may select a filter that is simple to install and does not require any plumbing adjustments, such as a countertop or pitcher filter. On the other hand, if you’re ready to spend in expert installation, an under-sink RO system offers a more permanent alternative.
Step 5: Read Reviews and Compare Options
Read reviews, compare product characteristics, and get suggestions from friends and family who have used water filters before. Look for filters that have undergone independent testing and certification to fulfil quality and performance requirements.
Example: Before making a selection, you might read online reviews and forums to see what other Malaysians have to say about various water filter manufacturers and models. Pay attention to things like filtering efficacy, durability, and client happiness.
Conclusion
Access to clean and safe drinking water is critical for overall health and well-being. In Malaysia, where water quality varies greatly, investing in a dependable water filter is a wise choice. Understanding the many types of water filters available, as well as considerations such as water quality, filtering effectiveness, budget, and maintenance requirements, can allow you to select the ideal water filter for you.
Whether you choose an activated carbon filter, RO system, UF system, ceramic filter, or UV purifier, investing in water filtration protects your and your family’s health and safety. For more information about water safety in Malaysia, please refer to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia.
