How Do Drinking Water Filters Work?

When it comes to hydration, not all water is created equal. Tap water may be safe in many regions, but it can still contain contaminants that affect taste, health, and even the performance of your equipment. That’s where high-quality drinking water filters make a difference.

In this article, we’ll explain how drinking water filters work, why they are essential for both homes and workplaces, and which solutions we recommend for the cleanest, best-tasting water.

Why Filtration Matters

Filtration is the process of separating out impurities from the water supply. While municipal water treatment plants remove many harmful elements, several contaminants often remain by the time water reaches your tap.

Common impurities include:

• Microplastics and PFAS (“forever chemicals”) that carry harmful toxins
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect taste and health
• Sediment and rust from aging pipework
• Harmful bacteria such as Legionella and Pseudomonas
• Chlorine that disrupts gut health
• Excess calcium and magnesium that create limescale buildup in hot systems

By adding a drinking water filter, these contaminants are effectively reduced, leaving you with healthier, cleaner-tasting water while also protecting your dispenser or filtration system from scale and sediment damage.

The Multi-Stage Filtration Process

Drinking water filters are designed with multiple layers to tackle different impurities:

1.

Prefiltration Layer

This initial stage removes the largest particles like sediment, sand, and rust. It’s typically made of synthetic fiber, often reusable, and protects the finer filter media downstream.

2.

Micro-Membrane or Impact Filter

Water then passes through an integrated membrane or impact filter, removing microplastics, bacteria, and other fine contaminants. The performance depends on the micron rating—the smaller the rating (e.g., 0.2 micron), the more substances it removes.

3.

Activated Carbon Block

At this stage, the filter uses adsorption (not absorption) to trap chlorine, VOCs, odors, and other organic contaminants. Thanks to its microporous structure, carbon is one of the most effective media for improving taste and odor.

4.

Scale Inhibition Technology

For hot water systems, filters often add polyphosphate beads or ion exchange resins. These prevent calcium and magnesium from sticking to internal surfaces, reducing limescale buildup and extending the lifespan of your equipment.

Why Filter Replacement is Essential

Over time, the filter media becomes saturated with impurities, reducing its effectiveness. That’s why most carbon filters should be replaced every six months. Regular replacement ensures clean, safe water and keeps your equipment running efficiently.

Choosing the Right Drinking Water Filter

For Borg & Overström water dispensers and tap systems, we recommend the following:

• At least 1 micron filtration for basic protection
• 0.2 micron filters for the highest protection against bacteria, microplastics, and even some viruses
• Scale inhibition filters if your unit has a hot water function, to prevent limescale buildup

For homes and offices looking for a compact and reliable solution, our Under-Sink Drinking Water Filtration System is a perfect choice. It delivers premium filtered water directly from a dedicated tap, ensuring clean drinking water for you and your family.

For workplaces, hospitality, and high-demand environments, the Borg & Overström E4 Water Dispenser combines advanced filtration with chilled, sparkling, and hot water options—all from one stylish unit.

Final Thoughts

Drinking water filters are more than just a taste upgrade—they protect your health and your equipment. Whether at home or in the workplace, investing in the right filtration system ensures you’re drinking water that’s safe, refreshing, and free from unwanted contaminants.

Explore our full range of water filtration systems to find the perfect fit for your needs.