Filtered Water Vs. Tap Water

Although many have been drinking tap water for years, a large amount of people have started switching over to filtered water, through machines in grocery stores, filtered bottled water and even through pitchers that filter the water right in your refrigerator. There are good and bad sides to both, and ultimately your needs will come into play as to which water source you may choose.

  1. Pros of Filtered Water

    • Water filters remove chlorine and different minerals that are high in content in some tap water. In towns and cities that have approved fluoridation of the public drinking water, fluoride can also be removed with the filter. Filters can also remove dangerous lead from drinking water. Different bacterium and toxins possibly found in tap water can be removed by using a filter.

    Pros of Tap Water

    • For those with oral health issues, drinking tap water is important in cities that have fluoridated water. Even one or two glasses per day give an added defense against tooth decay through the fluoride source. Though some are hesitant in drinking fluoridated water, fluoride is safe at controlled levels in public drinking water, and is a naturally occurring element. Drinking tap water is also a benefit to the economy, in that purchasing public drinking water is much like purchasing anything in the economy and boosts revenue.

    Cons of Filtered Water

    • Some much needed minerals found in tap water are removed when the water is filtered prior to drinking. If you are not getting these needed minerals, you will have to go to other sources, such as dietary vitamins, which a doctor will recommend if necessary. A dentist may also recommend fluoride tablets or gels if you are not getting the right amount of fluoride.

    Cons of Tap Water

    • Some tap water carries lead and harmful chemicals, which can be removed with a filter. Make sure that if you suspect harsh chemicals or items in your water to have it tested. Testing water can show if installing a permanent filtration method is necessary.

    Cost Issues

    • Tap water is significantly inexpensive compared to filtered water. Even if you are filtering water on a more basic level, such as pitcher filters, the pitchers can cost upwards of $30 and the filters that need replacing every two months can be anywhere from $5 to $10. Installing a permanent filtration system is extremely costly, but varies depending on area.