FAQs
General Filtration Questions
The best water filtration system depends on your water source and issues present, such as chlorine, sediment or bacteria. Use our water filter guide to match your water type to the right solution.
If you’re concerned about taste, odour or contaminants, a water filter can significantly improve your water quality. While town water may still contain chlorine or residues, tank and bore water often require treatment. For farms, filtration is required to meet water safety standards.
Before selecting a water filter, understanding the specific contaminants present in your water supply is crucial through a contaminant assessment. Recognising the specific contaminants will aid in selecting a water filter that effectively addresses your water quality concerns.
Contaminants aren’t always visible,but signs can include unusual taste, odour, staining or health concerns. The most reliable way to know is through professional water testing, which identifies any impurities and confirms if treatment is needed.
Yes in most cases a water filtration system is far more cost-effective than buying bottled water. It provides a continuous supply of clean, great-tasting water without the ongoing expense or plastic waste.
Determining the flow rate of water in your household is essential. This helps in ensuring that the selected filter can provide a sufficient supply of clean water without compromising water pressure.
One of the primary advantages benefits of a water filter is the significant improvement in water quality. By effectively removing impurities such as chlorine, suspended sediments, heavy metals, and harmful microorganisms, these filters ensure that the water tastes better and is safer for your health. through reducimg the risk of waterborne diseases. Some water filter systems include remineralisation which ensures the water retains essential minerals for optimal health.
In addition to health benefits, using a water filter can lead to notable cost savings. By filtering tap water, households can cut back on purchasing bottled water, which not only saves money but also helps reduce plastic waste, making a positive impact on the environment.
Convenience is another key factor. Many water filtering systems can be installed directly at the point of use, such as kitchen sinks or refrigerator dispensers, providing immediate access to clean water for cooking and drinking.
Initial Cost: The upfront cost of purchasing and installing a water filtration system can be an investment. This includes the cost of the filter unit and any necessary plumbing modifications.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to ensure the filter functions properly. This includes replacing cartridges and cleaning the system to prevent bacterial growth.
Water Waste: Some filtration systems, particularly reverse osmosis systems, can waste water during the filtration process
Environmental Impact: The disposal of used filter cartridges can contribute to environmental waste. Additionally, the production and transportation of filters have a carbon footprint.
Limited Contaminant Removal: Not all filters can remove every type of contaminant. For example, activated carbon filters are effective against chlorine and some organic compounds but may not remove heavy metals or microorganisms
Altered Mineral Content: Some filters may remove beneficial minerals from the water, potentially affecting its taste and nutritional value.
Dependency: Relying solely on water filters can create a false sense of security, leading to neglect of other important water safety practices.
Water Problems
Standard water filters (like carbon filters) do not remove fluoride. To reduce fluoride, you require a specialised system such as reverse osmosis.
Nitrates are best removed using reverse osmosis filtration.
Water softening is the process of removing hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium from water. This helps prevent scale buildup in pipes, appliances and improves overall water performance.
Chlorine is most commonly removed using activated carbon filtration, but other systems such as reverse osmosis and multi-stage filtration systems can also reduce chlorine. Carbon is typically the most effective and widely used solution for improving taste and odour.
Chlorine is commonly added to drinking water to disinfect and protect against harmful bacteria. It is considered safe at regulated levels however it can affect taste, odour and cause skin or hair irritation. Many people prefer to remove it for improved water quality.
To improve the taste of your water consider removing chlorine, sediment and other impurities. This is done through installating activated carbon filters.
Standard filtration removes physical and chemical contaminants like sediment, chlorine and some metals. Ultra Violet (UV) treatment disinfects water by neutralising bacteria and microorganisms. Both technologies are often used together for a complete water treatment.
If left untreated, under the correct temperature and conditions bacteria can grow in water filters. This makes it important to have a regular maintenance plan to replace filters regularly.
Common types of bacteria include:
Coliform Bacteria: This group includes bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is commonly found in the intestines of animals and humans. The presence of E. coli in water often indicates contamination by faecal matter.
Heterotrophic Bacteria: This is a group of bacteria that use organic substances in their environment to survive and reproduce. While they are generally not harmful, high levels can indicate the potential for other harmful bacteria to develop.
Pseudomonas: This group of bacteria can cause infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems and are commonly found in water and soil.
Installation & Process
Yes, many systems can be self-installed if you’re confident with basic plumbing. For more complex setups or to ensure correct installation, we recommend using a experienced plumber. Filtration Canterbury can organise this service for any sites across New Zealand.
Installation costs vary depending on the system and site requirements. Residential installs typically range from $600–$700, while more complex or multi-site setups can be higher depending on scale, access and system design. We can provide a tailored quote based on your requirements.
Installation time depends on the system and setup. Most residential systems can be installed within a few hours, while larger or more complex installations may take longer. We will confirm installation time based on your specific system design.
We aim to install as quickly as possible, often within a few days depending on availability. For urgent situations, we can prioritise faster turnaround where possible.
Maintenance & Support
The frequency in which filters require replacing depends on the water quality and contaminant type. It's expected that a water filter will last approximately one year before a need to replace the filter.
The water catridge can be "spent" if there is a high loading of contaminats in the water and based on the Micron rating of the filter. The lower the micron rating the more it will hold in the water, therefore the filter will block more quickly.
The filter will eventually become clogged with contaminants resulting in the space for water to pass through becoming minimal. As a result, flow rate will slow significantly into the household. Sometimes filters may need to be changed at more regular intervals, as early as 3 months if not sooner.
Ongoing maintenance typically includes replacing filter cartridges, checking system performance and ensuring all components are functioning correctly. The frequency depends on your water quality and usage but regular servicing is recommended for safe, reliable water.
If something goes wrong, we respond within 24 hours. We stand behind our filtration systems and will troubleshoot, repair or replace components as needed to keep your water running reliably.
Yes, we provide ongoing support and servicing to keep your system performing reliably. We also offer a filter reminder service so you know when it’s time to replace cartridges to prevent bacteria growth and maintain optimal water quality.
Speak to the team
Can’t find what you’re looking for or have additional questions? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our friendly team is always happy to assist.