Alkaline Water Filter vs Reverse Osmosis

With more people becoming conscious of what’s in their water, the demand for high-performance water filtration systems has exploded. But with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when comparing an alkaline water filter to a reverse osmosis system.

Are they doing the same thing? Is one better than the other? Do you need both?
Let’s explore how alkaline water filters and reverse osmosis systems work together to improve the water in your home and your lifestyle.

What is reverse osmosis?

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a highly advanced water purification process that uses pressure to push tap water through a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane filters out microscopic contaminants and removes a minimum of 90.8% of total dissolved solids, including:

✅ Unpleasant taste and odour
✅ Bacteria and viruses (e.g. E. coli)
✅ Parasites and cysts (e.g. giardia and cryptosporidium)
✅ Sediment and turbidity (e.g. sand, dirt and rust)
✅ Chlorine and other disinfection chemicals
✅ Fluoride and other total dissolved solids (TDS)
✅ Herbicides and pesticides
✅ Heavy metals e.g. lead and mercury
✅ PFOS and PFAS as found in some fire retardants
✅ Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) e.g. benzene

Reverse osmosis systems are one of the most comprehensive filtration systems available and are great for households with poor water quality, people who have specific health concerns or families who just want better tasting water.

Key features of reverse osmosis systems

Most RO systems are multi-stage, often including:

•    Pre-filter
•    Carbon filter
•    Deionising filter
•    Reverse osmosis membrane
•    Post-filter (usually carbon)
•    Optional remineraliser/alkaline cartridge

Because RO systems remove almost everything from your water - including beneficial minerals, they’re extremely effective at purifying water, but the result is often neutral or slightly acidic, mineral-free water.

This is why many people choose to add a remineraliser or alkaline cartridge to their reverse osmosis system.

What is an alkaline water filter?

An alkaline water filter (also known as a remineraliser cartridge) is a type of water filter cartridge that not only removes basic impurities but also increases the pH level of water, making it more alkaline. These filters typically add beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium back into the water. Creating great tasting drinking water that is alkaline and has beneficial minerals.

When to use an alkaline water filter?

Alkaline water filters are used after the rigorous reverse osmosis process, as water is often left acidic. Therefore, alkaline water filters are used to raise the pH level of water to a level considered neutral or alkaline.

The best alkaline water filter systems?

Pure Water Systems offers a range of reverse osmosis systems that include remineraliser cartridges to leave your water fresh, purified and alkaline.

Shop our alkaline water filters today! Our friendly team are here to help. If you have any questions about which system is the right fit for you and your family, phone our product specialists on 1300 808 966.