Comparisions
Kettles that use a filter
As far as we know there is only one other type of kettle that also purifies water. This kettle uses an activated carbon filter. The disadvantage is that the filter must be changed regularly because it not only becomes less effective with use, it could also emit large amounts of impurities when saturated.
Recent research shows that activated carbon filters often give off significant amounts of arsenic, particularly when they are new.
Source: Extractable Arsenic from activated carbon drinking water filters, Neil F. Gandy and Richard P. Maas, Water Conditioning & Purification, November 2004.
Bottled water
Bottled water sales have rocketed throughout the world. In some places it is just fashionable, but in large parts of the world it is a necessity. But not even bottled water is always perfectly safe to drink. Several brands have been criticised for their level of impurities. In November 2004 the American Society for Microbiology presented a study that showed that 40 percent of 68 tested bottled water brands contained bacteria or fungus.
A
litre of the most exclusive spring water could cost
the same as
3,000–4,000 litres of ordinary tap
water!
Water purifiers
There are many types of water purifier on the market, from simple carbon to advanced reverse osmosis filters. Purity does not compete with these but in most cases is the perfect complement. In hot climates water even has to be boiled after filtration.