3 Key Differences: Bottled Water vs Filtered Water

Did you know that 64% of bottled water in America comes from public water sources? So you could be paying to drink the water you can get for free at home. 

This is just one of several shocking facts about water and our perception of filtered water from our taps and bottled water. Do you know what the differences are? Or which is safer to drink?

If not, read on and learn what’s really the difference between bottled water vs filtered water. 

1. Filtered Water Is Cleaner

It hasn’t been long since the tainted tap water crisis occurred in Flint, Michigan. It caused us all to stop and consider water purity.

Most recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) voted against monitoring and regulating the levels of potentially harmful perchlorate in America’s tap water.

Perchlorate affects iodine intake by the thyroid, which is vital for fetus and youth development. That aside, EPA has set limitations on over 90 other contaminants in our water.

They also test the water daily and make the results available online. In addition to this, a water filter system can remove up to 99.6% of pollutants. These include:

• Pesticides
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs)
• Lead
• Mercury 

As a result, water that is filtered is healthy drinking water and is safe for pregnant women and children.

On the other hand, bottled water is regulated by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They do not require bottled water companies to test against these contaminants.

So, while companies may test their waters, they don’t have to report the results. There is also no law to state that water companies must write the ingredients on bottles. So, filtered water wins in terms of the filtered vs bottled water health debate. 

2. The Shelf Life of Refrigerator Filtered Water vs. Bottled Water

Taking a closer look, the average shelf life of an unopened water bottle is two years. After this time, plastic chemicals may have seeped from the container into the water.

Many of us drink refrigerator filtered water daily. However, it will only last for six months if stored in a safe manner. The challenge of deciding between refrigerator filtered water and bottled water depends on how often you drink it and whether it’s stored safely. 

3. Bottled Water Sources Are Vague

For the regulators to deem bottled water “spring water,” the source must flow naturally from the earth’s surface. But, similar terms such as mountain water or glacier water are not regulated.

As a result, there is confusion about bottled water sources. Thankfully, we know that rivers, lakes, and groundwater are filtered water sources. You can even use this map to see your local drinking water providers. 

Bottled Water vs Filtered Water

The differences between bottled and filtered water surprise many people. But, the only way to ensure that you have the cleanest drinking water is to filter it. So, if you choose filtered water in the battle between bottled water vs filtered water, we can help.

We’re specialists in water treatments for properties. Call All A’s Plumbing today to discuss your needs and enjoy clean water. We can install the right water treatment system for your home or business which will enable you, your family, and others to enjoy safe and healthy water.