Water filtration levels
Not every water filter purifies equally thoroughly. From basic filtration to reverse osmosis (RO): the higher the filtration level, the more harmful substances are removed from your drinking water.
You think your water is clean…
In the Netherlands, tap water is safe to drink, but it may still contain residues such as PFAS, pharmaceutical residues, microplastics, and heavy metals.
Many standard water filters only improve taste and odor, but do not completely remove these invisible substances. Do you want to be absolutely sure your water is clean and safe?
Then you arrive at the highest level of filtration: reverse osmosis (RO). This technology filters up to 99% of contaminants from your drinking water.
How clean do you want your drinking water to be?
Not every filter purifies water in the same way. Below you can see the different filtration levels, from basic filtering to maximum purity with reverse osmosis from PureAqua
Level 1 – Activated carbon filtration
Mainly improves taste and odor by reducing chlorine and other undesirable flavors.
A good first step, but many substances still remain
Mainly improves taste and odor by reducing chlorine and other undesirable flavors.
A good first step, but many substances still remain
Level 2 – Ultrafiltration (UF)
Filters bacteria, microplastics and small particles from the water.
Ensures cleaner water, but dissolved substances remain partially present
Level 3 – Nanofiltration (NF)
Goes beyond ultrafiltration and also removes a portion of pesticides, limescale, and heavy metals.
A more powerful filtration level with broader protection
Level 4 – Reverse osmosis (PureAqua)
The highest level of filtration. Removes up to 99% of contaminants such as PFAS, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and microplastics.
The cleanest water you can get at home
FAQs
What are filtration levels?
Filtration levels indicate how thoroughly a water filter purifies your drinking water. The higher the level, the more unwanted substances are removed from the water.
What is the difference between a standard water filter and reverse osmosis?
A standard water filter mainly improves taste and odor. Reverse osmosis (RO) also filters substances such as PFAS, heavy metals, microplastics, and bacteria from the water. Reverse osmosis is the highest achievable level of filtration.
Isn't tap water in the Netherlands already clean enough?
Dutch tap water is safe to drink, but may still contain traces of, for example, medication residues, PFAS, microplastics, or substances from pipes.
Does RO also remove minerals from water?
Yes, RO also filters minerals out of the water. That is why PureAqua systems add healthy minerals back in for an optimal taste balance.
Can you taste the difference with filtered water?
Many people experience a softer, fresher, and purer taste than regular tap water
Where can I get more information?
View our product pages or contact PureAqua for personal advice.
