Is Filtered Water Necessary in Singapore?

Water keeps us hydrated and in Singapore, we get some of the cleanest tap water in the world. The Public Utilities Board (PUB) checks, cleans and tests our water every day. It even surpasses the World Health Organization (WHO) standards.

Despite this, many people still opt for water filtration in Singapore for their homes and offices. Whether it’s for improved taste, added safety, or just peace of mind, filtered water has become a popular choice. But is it truly necessary, or merely a personal preference? Let’s explore in this guide.

How Clean is Singapore’s Tap Water?

Singapore’s tap water undergoes a thorough purification process before it reaches your faucet. The PUB oversees this process and conducts over 500,000 water tests annually.

Here’s what makes Singapore’s water so clean:

It surpasses the safety standards set by the WHO.
It undergoes multiple stages of cleaning before reaching your home.
It doesn’t need additional filtration to be considered safe.

Is Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Even though Singapore’s water is safe, some people still question its quality. Let’s explore a few reasons why.

1. Chlorine

Singapore adds chlorine to the water to eliminate germs and prevent bacteria growth. While this ensures the water’s safety, it can also lead to a strong smell, which some people liken to the scent of swimming pool water.

Although the chlorine levels remain within safe limits, many people opt for filters to remove the odor and taste.

2. Water Tanks in Private Buildings

HDB flats receive tap water directly from the PUB’s system. However, in condos, offices, and landed homes, the water is first stored in tanks before being delivered to taps.

These tanks require regular cleaning, but sometimes building managers neglect the cleaning schedule. When this happens, water can accumulate dirt, bacteria, and rust, leading to the following issues:

Bacteria growing in stagnant water.
Rust and dust settling in pipes.
Dirty water flowing into homes.

Since PUB doesn’t inspect these tanks directly, some people choose to install filters for added peace of mind.

3. Old Pipes and Rust

Water travels through miles of pipes before it arrives in your home. In older buildings, some pipes are made of metal, which can deteriorate over time.

This can lead to:

Rust floating in the water.
Metals contaminating the water supply.
A strange taste in drinking water.

While newer buildings use improved piping materials, older homes may still experience yellowish or metallic-tasting water.

4. Brownish or Yellowish Water

Sometimes, when people turn on their taps, they find yellow or brown water. This can occur when:

Repair works may release dirt in old pipes.
Rust contaminates the water supply.
Grime builds up in storage tanks.

While the water is generally safe to drink, many people install filters to remove any unusual color or taste.

Should You Choose Bottled Water Instead?

Some people skip tap water and buy bottled water instead. But is that really the best choice?

1. Too Expensive

Bottled water can be expensive. If you buy it daily, the cost adds up quickly.

2. Environmental Impact

Plastic bottles contribute to pollution. In Singapore alone, millions are discarded each year, and only a small portion is recycled.

3. Fewer Safety Checks

While PUB tests tap water over 500,000 times annually, bottled water doesn't undergo the same level of scrutiny. Some brands may not meet the highest safety standards.

Given these concerns, filtered water is often a smarter choice.

What Do Water Filters Remove?

Water filters are designed to capture unwanted substances while keeping beneficial minerals intact. Different filters work in various ways:

1. Sediment Filters

Trap dirt, sand, and dust.
Make water clearer.

2. Carbon Filters

Reduce chlorine and unpleasant odors.
Improve taste.

3. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filters

Remove heavy metals and tiny plastics.
Provide the cleanest water possible.

The best filter depends on your needs.

Who Should Get a Water Filter?

Not everyone needs a water filter, but for some, it can be a smart choice:

1. People Sensitive to Chlorine

If you dislike the taste or smell of chlorine, a carbon filter can help remove it.

2. People Living in Older Homes

Older buildings often have aging pipes. A filter can block rust and dirt from getting into your water.

3. People with Water Storage Tanks

If your home stores water in a tank, a filter helps protect you from any dirt or bacteria.

4. People Who Want Cleaner-Tasting Water

Even if your water meets safety standards, a filter can make it taste fresher and more pleasant.

How to Pick the Right Filter

Selecting the best filter depends on what you want to remove from your water:

1. What’s in Your Water?

To remove chlorine: Choose a carbon filter.
To catch rust: Pick a sediment filter.
To clean out metals and bacteria: Use reverse osmosis.

2. Considering the cost?

Some filters need replacing more often.
Reverse osmosis filters are pricier but remove the most contaminants.

3. Is It Safe and Reliable?

Make sure to buy filters that are certified for water safety.
Avoid cheap, untested brands.

Conclusion

Singapore’s tap water meets some of the strictest safety standards globally, making it safe to drink for most people. However, if you're sensitive to chlorine, concerned about water tanks, or live in an older home, a filter might be a good option. Many prefer the added peace of mind that comes with an extra layer of filtration.

At Happie.sg, we offer a variety of affordable, efficient, and easy-to-install water filtration solutions, specially designed for Singaporean homes.

Is Filtered Water Essential in Singapore?