What Is Filtered Water? Types of Water Purification Systems Explained

Did you know that approximately 900,000 people in America become sick every year from drinking contaminated water—whether from private wells or public systems? Despite EPA standards for safe water, harmful contaminants still make their way into millions of homes.

So what is filtered water, and how can a home water purification system protect your health?

If you're ready to learn about water purifiers, the different types available, and which is right for your home, keep reading.

What Are Water Purification Systems?

Water purification and filtration are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences:

• Water filtration removes impurities like dirt, chlorine, and sediments.
• Water purification takes it a step further—removing bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals using advanced methods like reverse osmosis or distillation.

Most modern systems combine both methods to ensure your water is safe and great-tasting.

Risks of Contaminated Water

Contaminated water isn’t just unpleasant—it can be dangerous. Drinking unsafe water can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Cholera
• Dysentery
• Typhoid
• Diarrhea — responsible for nearly 500,000 deaths globally each year

A reliable water purification system is a crucial investment for your family's health.

Types of Water Purification Systems

1. Filtered Water Dispensers (Portable)

Ideal for emergency kits, camping, or backpacking. These compact systems filter small amounts of water from rivers, lakes, or questionable sources.

Best for: Short-term use
Limitations: Not suitable for daily household use

2. Faucet Filters

These filters attach directly to your faucet and allow you to switch between filtered and unfiltered water.

Pros: Easy to install, affordable
Cons: Frequent filter changes, limited flow speed

3. Under-Counter Filtration Systems

Installed under your sink, these systems connect to your plumbing and deliver purified water through a dedicated faucet.

Pros: High-capacity, discreet, efficient
Cons: Requires installation and filter replacements

4. Whole-House Water Filters

If you want clean water from every tap, whole-house systems filter all the water entering your home. Great for families, businesses, and farms.

Capacity: 20–150 gallons per minute
Ideal for: Showers, laundry, drinking, and cooking

5. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems

RO systems push water through a semi-permeable membrane, filtering out contaminants like lead, arsenic, fluoride, and bacteria.

Pros: Extremely effective
Cons: Slow process, may remove healthy minerals
Tip: Choose systems that reintroduce essential minerals and balance pH

6. Ultraviolet (UV) Light Systems

These systems use UV light to deactivate bacteria and viruses by disrupting their DNA. Great as a standalone unit or add-on to other filters.

Pros: Chemical-free, environmentally friendly, low maintenance
Cons: Doesn’t remove sediment or chemicals (combine with RO or carbon)

7. Activated Carbon Filters

These filters use highly porous carbon to trap impurities and improve taste.

Pros: Long-lasting, removes chlorine, odors, and VOCs
Cons: Less effective against heavy metals and microbes

Choosing the Right Water Purification System

When selecting a water filtration system, consider these factors:

• Contaminants in your local water (get it tested!)
• Flow rate and water usage in your home
• Filter replacement schedule and maintenance
• Installation type (DIY vs. professional)
• Budget — from portable filters to high-end whole-house systems

Find Your Ideal Water Purification System

Whether you’re looking for a simple faucet filter or a powerful whole-house solution, we’ve got everything you need to make safe, great-tasting water a reality in your home or business.

At Supreme Water Sales, we carry top-rated water filtration systems, reverse osmosis units, UV filters, and replacement cartridges. Our experts can help you choose the best system for your unique needs.

→ Browse our water filtration systems now

Clean water isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Make the switch today and protect your family from harmful contaminants.