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We’re all inundated with drinking water choices these days from spring water to tap water, filtered water to bottled water. The list is endless and that’s before we even consider the ‘flavoured’ water options out there!
It can be difficult to decide what is the right choice for your home or workplace and one of the questions we get asked a lot is ‘What is the difference between filtered and spring water?’
As we’ve been selling both for almost 30 years you could call us somewhat experts in filtered and spring water so let’s take a look…
Is There a Difference in the Water Itself?
Filtered water is actually tap water that has been through a filtering process, whereas naturally occurring spring water comes from bodies of saturated rock.
Filtered water, although not a natural product, has been through a purifying process to remove pollutants that can be present in tap water. Chemicals and odours are removed during the process, and this improves the quality and taste of the water.
Spring water goes through a natural filtration process in beds of rock and stone, which also contributes to its mineral richness. It then goes through a second, human-driven filtration process which includes additional filtering and bacteria removal.
What About the Required Equipment?
Is there a difference between filtered and spring water dispensers and maintenance?
Filtered Water
There is a range of options when it comes to having filtered water in your home or workplace.
One option is to simply install a filtration tap and water filter (the filter requires replacing every 6 months), or a discrete under-sink chiller filtration system, which can be a more cost-effective option.
If it’s instant hot water you’re looking for, a hot water dispenser that also filters your water is also an option.
Finally, you can have a stand-alone filtered water dispenser which can be self-filled or mains connected.
The mains connected option is by far the most convenient if you have a nearby water connection.
You may consider the self-filled option if you’re unable to store spring water bottles or don’t have a nearby water tap. The maintenance of self-filled filtered water dispensers can be time-consuming both in terms of filling the bottle itself, but also because it requires some additional servicing.
Spring Water
The spring water options are slightly more straightforward and include two main decisions:
- What temperature of water do you require: room temperature, hot & cold or cold & cool
- How the cooler’s colour, size & style fit in with your home or workplace
Another consideration for spring water is the ongoing replacement of the spring water bottles themselves.
Is There a Cost difference between filtered and spring water?
In order to decide on the most effective option for your home or workplace there are a couple of factors to consider:
- How much water will you use? If for example you’ll use more than 3 bottles of spring water per month then filtered water could be more cost effective for you
- Would you prefer to keep ongoing rental costs down? If so, a spring water dispenser may be a better option as the same dispenser can be 3-4 times cheaper than the filtered water alternative
Filtered or Spring Water for Your Home or Workplace?
When it comes down to deciding which is right for you, there are several key factors that make up the difference between filtered and spring water:
- Do you prefer to drink natural spring water versus filtered tap water?
- Would you prefer your drinking water straight from the tap or would you consider a freestanding dispenser?
- Are you happy to receive your water bottle deliveries every 4 weeks?
- What about your drinking water temperature? Would you like the option of cold and hot at the touch of a button?
- Would you prefer not to have water storage taking up room in your fridge?
The answers to these questions will help to decide what is the right choice for you but feel free to talk to you about your options and what is best for your home or workplace.