How To Choose The Right Water Purifier For Your Family: Your Guide To Clean, Safe Drinking Water

We've all been there, the moment you realise your tap water is not as clear as it should be, or worse, it tastes a little too much like chemicals. In those instances, you wonder how many others might be facing the same dilemma. Clean, safe drinking water isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. But with the countless water purifiers on the market, how do you make the right choice for your family? After all, you're not just investing in a product; you're investing in your family's health.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your old purifier, the decision is not as simple as picking the first option you see. Understanding what your water needs are, how different types of filters work, and what your family truly requires is key to making an informed choice. Let's take a deep dive into how you can find the perfect water purifier for your home and check the top 8 on Flipkart from MarQ, KENT, LIVPURE, Pureit, and more to make your buying journey easier.

Also Read: Why Your Water Purifier Might Be Working Less Than You Think (And What To Do About It)

Tips To Select A Water Purifier: Ensure Clean And Safe Drinking Water; Photo Credit: Unsplash

1. Understand Your Water Quality

The first step to choosing the right water purifier is understanding the quality of water you're dealing with. Is it hard water, contains high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), or is it prone to bacteria and viruses? Different purifiers cater to different water issues. In areas where TDS levels are high, reverse osmosis (RO) is typically the best option. On the other hand, UV filters are great at disinfecting water that might be contaminated with harmful microorganisms.

A simple water test can reveal what impurities are present, which helps narrow down the choice of purifiers. Some brands even offer free water tests or guides that can assist in determining the most effective solution.

By assessing your water's quality, you'll not only be ensuring that the purifier you choose will work optimally but also that it will do so in a cost-effective manner.

2. Choose the Right Type of Filter for Your Needs

There are several types of water purifiers available, each catering to specific needs. The most common ones are:

• Reverse Osmosis (RO): Best for removing TDS, heavy metals, and salts, especially in hard water areas.
• Ultraviolet (UV): Effective for disinfecting water contaminated by microorganisms but doesn't remove dissolved solids.
• Ultrafiltration (UF): A middle ground between RO and UV, ideal for areas with moderate contamination.
• Activated Carbon: Effective in removing chlorine, sediment, and improving taste.

Consider your home's water source. If you're using municipal water that is chlorinated and filtered but may contain harmful microorganisms, a UV purifier might be sufficient. However, if you're dealing with high levels of TDS or mineral-laden water, an RO system would be better suited to your needs.

Selecting the right filter ensures you're not over-spending on features you don't need or, worse, compromising on your water's safety.

3. Capacity Matters: Size Your Purifier Right

No two families have the same water requirements, and this is where size matters. The capacity of a water purifier refers to how much water it can filter per day and how much it can store. For a small family of two to four people, a purifier with a storage capacity of 5-8 litres should suffice. Larger families or households with high daily water consumption may need a purifier with a capacity of 10 litres or more.

It's important to choose a purifier that can meet your household's needs without being overkill. A larger capacity purifier will cost more, both in terms of upfront price and maintenance, but may not be necessary for smaller households. Conversely, a small purifier may struggle to keep up with a large family, leading to constant refills.

Consider both your water consumption and the available space in your kitchen when deciding on capacity.

Tips To Select A Water Purifier: Ensure Clean And Safe Drinking Water; Photo Credit: Unsplash

4. Energy Consumption and Operating Costs

When investing in a water purifier, it's crucial to keep operating costs in mind. Some purifiers, especially RO systems, require more electricity for filtration and may result in a higher power bill. Additionally, regular maintenance like changing filters can add up over time. UV and UF filters tend to be more energy-efficient and less costly to maintain.

While energy consumption isn't always the first thing that comes to mind when choosing a water purifier, it can have a significant impact on the long-term cost. Choose a purifier that balances efficiency with the size of your household and your energy consumption patterns. Keep in mind that the initial cost may be higher for certain models, but energy-efficient purifiers can save you money over time.

5. Installation and Maintenance: Hassle-Free Solutions

A purifier might look great in the showroom, but is it easy to install and maintain? Installation requirements vary from model to model. While some need professional assistance, others come with DIY kits. Before purchasing, check whether your purifier requires a dedicated space or any special installation arrangements, especially if you're considering an RO system with a storage tank.

Maintenance should also be a priority when selecting a purifier. While all purifiers require regular cleaning and filter replacements, some models may be easier to maintain than others. A good rule of thumb is to look for a purifier with easy-to-replace filters and an indicator that notifies you when it's time for a change.

Some models offer long-lasting filters, reducing the need for frequent replacements. As with any home appliance, read the user manual and product reviews to understand the maintenance requirements.

6. Consider the Water Taste and Smell

We've all experienced it that slightly metallic or chlorine-laden taste in our drinking water. For many, a purifier's ability to enhance the taste and smell of water is just as important as its ability to purify it. Activated carbon filters are particularly good at improving the taste and removing any unpleasant odours that might be present in the water.

If your family is sensitive to the taste or smell of water, it's worth considering a purifier with an additional activated carbon filter. Some purifiers even come with mineral cartridges to enhance the taste and re-mineralise the water after it's been purified.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the water not only meets health standards but is also pleasant to drink. After all, you don't want to feel like you're drinking a science experiment every time you fill a glass.

Tips To Select A Water Purifier: Ensure Clean And Safe Drinking Water
Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Certifications and Quality Assurance

When purchasing a water purifier, it's important to look for certifications from recognised authorities, such as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Water Quality Association (WQA), or NSF International. These certifications ensure that the purifier meets certain safety and quality standards, giving you peace of mind about the product's reliability and effectiveness.

In addition, check if the manufacturer offers any warranty or after-sales support. A good warranty can save you from unexpected repair costs, while a strong customer support service will make sure that any issues are resolved quickly.

Do your research, read reviews, and always choose a trusted brand that stands behind its products with proper certifications and support.

8. Budgeting for Your Water Purifier

Finally, let's talk about the budget. With so many options available, water purifiers can range from budget-friendly models to high-end systems. The price of a purifier is influenced by its features, filtration technology, capacity, and brand. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that this is an investment in your family's health.

That said, there's no need to overspend on features you don't need. For example, a family of three with moderate water consumption doesn't need a high-end RO system. A UV or UF filter could meet their needs at a lower cost.

When setting your budget, consider both the upfront cost and the long-term maintenance costs. It's a good idea to go for a model that balances price with performance, ensuring that you get the best value for your money.

Products Related To This Article

1. MarQ by Flipkart Innopure UV without RO 12 L UV + UF + Minerals + Copper Water Purifier

2. Always Dellpure Zinc Copper 9 Stage Purification Water purifier With LED INDICATOR 12 L RO + UV + UF + TDS + ALK + Copper Water Purifier

3. Aqua Fresh Smoke Audi 18 ltr drink pure India 1st BIS

4. Aqua Fresh Opel copper ltr+copper filter 18 L RO + UV + UF + Copper + TDS Control Water Purifier with Prefilter

5. Kinsco Aqua Punch Pro With ISI Mark RO+UV+UF+TDS Adjuster 18 L RO + UV + CU Guard + Alkaline Enhancer + Mineral Water Purifier

6. Kinsco Aqua Punch 15 L RO + UV + UF + Copper + TDS Control Water Purifier with Prefilter

7. Pureit by HUL Wave Plus 7 L RO + UV + Minerals Water Purifier Suitable for all - Borewell, Tanker, Municipality Water

8. LIVPURE LIV-PEP-PRO-PLUS+ BLACK 7 L RO + UV + UF Water Purifier Suitable for all - Borewell, Tanker, Municipality Water

9. LIVPURE LIV-PEP-STAR-COPPER 7 L RO + UV + UF + Minerals + Copper Water Purifier

10. KENT Marvel (111166B) 8 L RO + UV + UF + TDS Control + UV in Tank Water Purifier

Choosing the right water purifier for your family can seem like a complex task with so many options on the market. However, by taking the time to understand your water quality, needs, and the features each purifier offers, you can make an informed decision that provides your family with safe, clean, and great-tasting water for years to come.

Remember, a water purifier is more than just an appliance; it's an investment in your health and well-being. By following these simple steps, understanding your water's quality, selecting the right filter, considering maintenance and cost, and prioritising certifications, you'll be well on your way to choosing the perfect purifier. Cheers to clean, safe drinking water.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.