One of the most common questions people ask before installing water filters is: “What exactly does a filter remove?” The answer is simple — but it varies depending on the type of filter you use. This guide explains the role of each filter type in a clear, positive way so you can choose the system that best suits your taste and lifestyle.
Why do Filters Remove Different Things
Every water filter is designed for a specific purpose.
Some focus on taste, others on clarity, and some on whole-home protection.
The most common categories are:
- Carbon filters (Zip, Billi, under-sink filters)
- Sediment filters
- Whole-home filtration systems
- Reverse osmosis (RO) (used less commonly in Melbourne homes)
Each filter plays a different role — and together, they can make water taste cleaner, fresher, and more enjoyable while reducing the risks of untreated drinking water.
Carbon Filters — Great for Taste, Smell, and Everyday Drinking
Carbon filtration is the most popular choice for Melbourne homes, and for good reason:
It makes your water taste and smell cleaner without removing healthy minerals.
Carbon filters typically reduce:
- chlorine
- odours
- chemical tastes
- organic compounds
- some volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- small particles, depending on the micron rating
Yes — carbon filters remove chlorine, odours, and unpleasant tastes, making water smoother and fresher.
Carbon filters are used in:
✔ Zip systems
✔ Billi systems
✔ Under-sink filters
✔ Many whole-home systems
They are excellent for improving everyday drinking water.
Sediment Filters — Great for Clarity and Clean Flow
Sediment filters focus on the physical side of water quality.
They remove particles you can see — or sometimes feel.
Sediment filters remove:
- sand
- rust flakes
- pipe residue
- dirt
- silt
- cloudiness
They’re commonly used at the entry point of a home or paired with carbon filters.
Why this matters:
Removing sediment helps protect appliances, plumbing, and finer water filters downstream. Sediment filters remove visible particles like dirt, rust, and sand — they do not remove chlorine or chemicals.
Whole-Home Filtration — Clean Water for Every Tap
A whole-home system combines sediment + carbon filtering and improves water quality throughout your house — not just at the kitchen tap.
Whole-home systems typically improve:
- chlorine levels
- taste and odour
- clarity
- shower experience (less chlorine smell)
- laundry water quality
- appliance lifespan (reduced sediment buildup)
This option is great for families who want fresh-tasting water everywhere — and whole-home water filters cover showers, bathrooms, laundry, and kitchen.
Do Filters Remove Healthy Minerals?
Most household filters do not remove natural minerals.
Carbon and sediment filters keep:
- calcium
- magnesium
- potassium
- natural mineral balance
These minerals contribute to the pleasant, clean taste of filtered water.
Only reverse osmosis removes minerals, and these systems are used mainly for specialist needs (not everyday Melbourne homes).
Reverse Osmosis — For Specialised Filtration Needs
Reverse osmosis (RO) is a high-level filtration system that removes almost everything, including minerals.
RO removes:
- minerals
- salts
- fluoride
- heavy metals
- dissolved solids
RO is not necessary for most households — Melbourne’s water quality usually makes carbon + sediment filtration more than sufficient. RO is typically installed only for specific medical, technical, or taste preferences.
Which Filter Is Right for You?
Here’s a simple way to choose:
- If you want better taste and smell:
Carbon filter
Zip or Billi system
- If you want clearer water with fewer particles:
Sediment filter
Whole-home system
- If you want filtered water throughout your home:
Whole-home system
- If you need advanced purification:
Reverse osmosis (only if required)
For most Melbourne homes, a quality water filter or Zip/Billi system is the perfect everyday solution.
The Benefits You’ll Notice Straight Away
After installing a filter, most people notice:
- smoother, cleaner-tasting water
- reduced chlorine smell
- better tea and coffee
- more enjoyable hydration
- clearer soups and cooking water
- less reliance on bottled water
It’s a simple, positive upgrade that makes a difference every single day.
Need Help Choosing a Filter?
Melbourne Filtered Water provides:
- under-sink filtration
- Zip & Billi systems
- whole-home filters
- filter replacement
- CO₂ cylinders for sparkling water systems
- friendly advice based on your home and taste preferences
If you want clearer, fresher-tasting water at home, Melbourne Filtered Water can help you find the right option for your setup.