Worried About Contaminants in Your Drinking Water? Here’s What You Need to Know

Clean drinking water isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Yet many Australian homes unknowingly consume water that contains contaminants like chlorine, heavy metals, and microbes. This guide breaks down the most common risks in your drinking water and how the right filtration system can protect your family’s health.

Key Takeaways

• Drinking water in Australia can contain chlorine, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants.

• Effective filtration methods like reverse osmosis, UV purification, and carbon block filters are proven to remove harmful substances.

• Professional installation and maintenance of water filtration systems ensure long-term safety and peak performance.

Common Contaminants in Australian Drinking Water

Chlorine and Byproducts

Chlorine is used to disinfect water, but it can react with organic materials to form trihalomethanes (THMs). These byproducts are linked to increased cancer risks over time.

Heavy Metals

Contaminants like lead, arsenic, and mercury can enter your water supply through corroded pipes or runoff from industrial areas. Long-term exposure is associated with neurological issues, kidney damage, and developmental delays in children.

Microbial Contaminants

Untreated or poorly filtered water may contain E. coli, Giardia, or Cryptosporidium. These can cause serious gastrointestinal illnesses and dehydration.

Health Risks of Contaminated Water

Chemical Contaminants

• Heavy metals: Can cause kidney failure and nervous system damage.

• Chlorine byproducts: Associated with bladder cancer and reproductive issues.

• PFAS ("forever chemicals"): Persistent in the environment, they’re linked to hormonal disruption and immune system suppression.

Microbial Risks

• Short-term: Vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue.

• Long-term: Weakened immunity and higher risk of chronic infections.

Effective Filtration Methods for Cleaner Drinking Water

1. Whole House Filtration Systems

Protects every tap in your home by filtering water at the point of entry. Removes sediment, chlorine, and some heavy metals.

2. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Ideal for homes needing ultra-pure water. Removes fluoride, nitrates, lead, and dissolved solids with precision.

3. UV Water Purification

Destroys 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and parasites—no chemicals needed.

4. Carbon Block Filters

Great for chlorine removal and improving taste and odour. Effective against volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

5. Tap Filters & Pitcher Systems

A cost-effective option that improves taste and reduces chlorine, though limited in heavy metal or microbe removal.

Recommended Puretec Water Filtration Products

Puretec CF Series

• Removes chlorine, sediment, and taste/odour issues

• Great for homes with town water

• Easy to install under the sink

Puretec ESR2-T5 Reverse Osmosis

• Eliminates fluoride and heavy metals

• Provides high-purity drinking water

• Ideal for health-conscious families

Puretec Hybrid G6

• Combines carbon filtration with UV purification

• Treats bacteria, viruses, chlorine, and PFAS

• Perfect for whole-home protection

Why Choose Professional Installation?

Guaranteed Performance

A licensed plumber ensures your filter is installed correctly and complies with Queensland plumbing standards. Poor installation can lead to leaks, inefficiency, or even contamination.

Ongoing Support

We offer filter cartridge replacements, UV lamp swaps, and full servicing. View our water filter cartridge replacements for long-term upkeep.

Final Thoughts

Clean water is foundational to your health. Whether you’re filtering out chlorine, metals, or bacteria, having the right system in place makes a difference. At JR Gas & Water, we only supply top-tier products and offer award-winning, same-day service across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Ready to upgrade your drinking water? Explore our full water filtration collection or call in our expert team to help find the perfect solution for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to remove chlorine from my water?
Activated carbon filters like the Puretec CF Series are highly effective at reducing chlorine.

Do reverse osmosis systems remove all contaminants?
Yes, they remove most dissolved solids, fluoride, and heavy metals. For bacteria and viruses, pair with a UV system.

How often do I need to replace water filters?
Most cartridges should be changed every 6–12 months. UV lamps typically last 12 months.

Is boiling water enough to make it safe?
Boiling kills bacteria and viruses but doesn’t remove chemicals like chlorine or lead.

Can I install a water filter myself?
Some under-sink options are DIY, but for whole-house or UV systems, we strongly recommend professional installation to ensure compliance and safety.