27th Apr 2026

Why Filtered Water is Better For Your Health

Filtered water tends to taste better than water straight from the tap. But does that make it better for you? When you live in the UK and drink from a supply that’s already tightly regulated for safety, does filtering your water make any difference to your health?

Truth is, filtered water can be even cleaner than tap water. That allows you to improve on taste, consistency and the overall experience of drinking water. And for most people, that is all that matters.

 

Is tap water safe to drink?

 

In the UK, tap water is some of the safest in the world. It’s processed at water treatment plants so that bacteria, viruses and other contaminants are removed, and it’s governed by strict legal standards that ensure it’s safe by the time it reaches your building.

This includes disinfection using chemicals like chlorine that eliminate microorganisms and ensure safety throughout the water supply network. Without this process, tap water would be far more likely to become contaminated.

That said, chlorine and the process of moving water through miles of piping can leave your water tasting and smelling less than great. As water makes its way through your local supply network, it can also absorb other elements from the pipes and infrastructure around it. Older pipes can cause higher levels of certain metals, like lead or copper, for example.

By the time tap water reaches your glass, it can still contain traces of:

 

• Chlorine and by-products from chlorination
• Minerals left in the water, such as calcium and magnesium (which can build up over time in hard water areas)
• Trace metals from plumbing materials
• Small particles of sediment or microplastics

 

While trace minerals and contaminants are usually well within safe limits in your tap water, they can affect how water tastes, feels and performs on a daily basis.

 

What does filtering water remove?

 

Water filters work by running water through a filter media that is specially designed to block certain compounds while letting others pass through.

Depending on the type of filter you use, you can effectively:

• Reduce chlorine, which can improve taste and odour
• Eliminate sediment and other fine particles
• Minimise certain heavy metals that come from your plumbing system
• Minimise limescale accumulation if you live in a hard water area

 

It’s worth noting that lots of modern water filters are actually designed to be selective. Instead of stripping water of everything, they’ll allow healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium through, too. This improves the taste of water while still providing nutritional value. Think of it this way: filtering water isn’t about changing it, but improving it. Don’t want the chemicals? Filters can help with that. Want some of the minerals? You can keep those too.

 

Can filtered water improve your health?

 

For the majority of the UK population, no. There’s no real evidence that filtered water is any healthier than tap water that you can safely drink from your faucet. If your tap water is already safe to drink, buying or filtering water isn’t a medical requirement.

Filtered water can still help you live a healthy lifestyle, just in less obvious ways. Chief among these is hydration. Better tasting water that smells good and is refreshing to drink means you’re more likely to drink enough throughout the day.

And when you’re hydrated, you feel better. You’ve got more energy, you can concentrate better, your digestion improves and everything just feels easier.

On top of this, there’s the peace of mind you get from knowing your water is as clean as can be. Even if all contaminants are well within safety limits, some people prefer to reduce their exposure further if they can. Water filters give you that extra level of reassurance, especially if you live in an area with older pipes or fluctuations in water quality.

 

Why do people choose filtered water?

 

People choose filtered water because it tastes better. Simple as that. Chlorinated water can have a taste and smell that puts people off. In hard water areas, high mineral levels can impact how water feels in the mouth. Filtered water takes away a lot of these factors, leaving you with fresher, crisper water.

Filtered water is also consistent. The quality of tap water can change depending on where you live, the age of your pipes, and even the time of day. Filtering your water means you know you’re always going to enjoy the same great taste, time after time.

Cumulatively, these small differences matter. They make you want to drink more water.

 

Can filtering water increase hydration?

 

When water tastes better and feels premium, you’re more likely to drink it. This is especially important if you work or live somewhere with easy access to sugary drinks, espresso machines and enticing coffee shop menus.

Filtering your water can help you to drink more and stay hydrated. Sure, hydration is important, but so is water waste. A lot of plastic bottles end up in our oceans, and if you’re reaching for bottled water instead of from the tap, chances are you’re contributing. By filtering your water at home or work, you can improve the taste of water while also doing your bit for the planet.

 

Filtered water vs. bottled water: which is better?

 

Filtered water doesn’t make you healthier than bottled water. But it can definitely make you better hydrated. And it’s a lot better for the planet than disposing of plastic bottles. If you don’t like the taste of water from your tap, bottled water is one solution. But by installing a filter, you can permanently improve the taste of your tap water without hurting the environment.

 

Conclusion

 

When you’ve got great-tasting water that’s available whenever you need it, you’re more likely to drink enough throughout the day. That’s the real benefit of drinking filtered water. Billi’s stylish integrated water filters deliver beautifully filtered water, boiling, chilled or sparkling – all at the touch of a button, fitting seamlessly into your kitchen to give you wonderful-tasting water wherever you need it.

Contact us to find out more information about how our products can improve your hydration.