shower filters - the facts you need to know

On these pages we've done our research and compiled the facts regarding water and water filtration. We hope we can bring you information that will allow you to make an informed choice regarding the health of yourself and your family. Much of the information we have gathered here is from the Drinking Water Introspective, which is a government body which regulates the England and Wales water quality. You can get more information from http://www.dwi.gov.uk.
Shower Filter Facts - PureShowers.co.uk

What is hard water?

Water which contains calcium and magnesium compounds is called hard water. When rain water - which is naturally soft - seeps through the ground it picks up minerals from soil and rocks it passes through. The Drinking Water Introspective state that two thirds of our drinking water in England comes from above ground sources and one third comes from underground geological formations that store rainwater. The rainwater seeps through porous strata such as sandstone and chalk. Below is a map of England which shows the hardness of water around England.
Map of England displaying water hardness
Source: " A Consumers' Guide to Water Softeners " - copyright British Water

Please see the benefits page to see the effects of hard water on you and your family.

Water Distribution

Water is delivered to our homes through various methods and distribution networks. These networks are made from cast iron, plastic or cement. Residues from treatment and corrosion of the pipes can sometimes settle in areas of low water flow. When deposits are disturbed, this can result in discoloured water arriving through the pipes into homes.

Water Treatment

Water is treated at treatment plants before it gets to all of us. There are three main processes in the treatment process:

  • Clarification: This is a process which removes silt, algae, colour, magnesium and aluminium, and various other matter which may be found in raw water. A chemical called coagulant, which is usually Iron or Aluminum salt is added to the water. Making the material coagulate into larger pieces to be removed easier.
  • Filtration: The water is then filtered through beds of sand or other material where particles are trapped.
  • Disinfection: In England the most common method of disinfection is with the use of Chlorine. Chlorine is used to kill bacteria in the water supply, water companies need to leave a portion of the chlorine in water to ensure that bacteria is controlled on the way from the treatment plant to our taps. For further information please take a look at our chlorine shower filter page.