Activated Carbon Vs Bottled Water – What’s the Difference?

If you’re looking for a good comparison of the Activated carbon filtering and physical filtration of bottled water, you’ve probably come across the question of ‘Brita vs bottled water’. In this article, we’ll examine each method, including their pros and cons, as well as the environmental impact. We’ll also cover the taste. Which is better? Here’s what you need to know.

Activated carbon filtering

There are some important differences between bottled water that has been treated with activated carbon. Activated carbon is a better filter than others, and it removes more contaminants from water than any other filter. The effectiveness of activated carbon filters depends on the water temperature and flow rate. Most small filters work best with cold water and low pressure. Activated carbon is also dependent on the type and quality of its source. Coconut shells are a good source of activated carbon, but it is also available in coal and wood products.

Activated carbon works by adsorption, which means it attracts and binds impurities to its surface. This large surface area acts as a sponge, absorbing contaminants as it passes through. While many people may want to drink water that tastes and smells clean and is free of contaminants, the carbon filtering process is not a complete solution. Activated carbon filters are not effective at removing all contaminants from water. Because nitrates and dissolved minerals don’t bind to the carbon, they remain in the water.

Physical filtration

The differences between bottled water and purified water are mostly in the filtration process. There are three types of filtration: physical, chemical, and biological. Activated carbon is the most popular type of filtration process, which pushes water through a layer of carbon that traps contaminants. Brita’s filters use this technology as a foundation. This filtration method is effective at removing most common impurities.

However, the disadvantages of bottled water are primarily related to cost and maintenance. Physical filtration systems are typically more expensive than bottled water, but they are easy to use and are easy to install. They also provide clean water straight from your faucet, which can save you money on bottled water. Physical filtration can also reduce toxins and microplastics in water. For these reasons, physical filtration can be an effective solution for reducing bottled water costs and preserving water quality.

Environmental impact

A recent study from the Beverage Marketing Corporation shows that the volume of bottled water sold increased by nearly 20 percent in the United States between 1977 and 2019. However, there is a significant environmental difference between bottled water and Brita filtered water. For starters, Brita pitchers and dispensers are 100% recyclable. That means they eliminate 1,800 single-use plastic bottles from a household every year.

Activated carbon is responsible for the chlorine removal. Without chlorine, water will harbor bacteria, viruses, algae, and fungi. Carbon filters can harbor these organisms. Even Coca Cola steam-sanitizes their carbon filters to prevent them from harboring bacteria, viruses, and other organisms. To ensure that their water is safe to drink, Brita filters must be cleaned and replaced regularly.

Taste

A comparison of the taste of filtered and bottled water is a necessary step in choosing a healthier option. While bottled water may be the obvious choice for many people, filtered water is healthier and has a smaller environmental impact. When choosing between the two, the Brita BB10 is the best choice. Brita filters are tested for safety and have earned Gold Seal product certification from the Water Quality Association.

Public water supplies are filtered and often have chlorine added to combat bacteria and viruses, but this can leave water tasting terrible. Using a Brita water filter can reduce this chemical and produce water with a better taste than bottled water. The carbon filtration system in the Brita water filter helps reduce the taste of chlorine by up to 99.9 percent. Brita water filter bottles can also help reduce certain Class VI matter, like rust and lead.