How to filter tap water (and which method might suit you)

Let’s start with the gold standard.

Zip Water HydroTap – filtered water straight from the tap

If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy better water every day, this is worth a closer look. The Zip HydroTap delivers filtered chilled, boiling and even sparkling water straight from your kitchen tap.

It uses Zip Water’s MicroPurity filtration, which filters water down to 0.2 microns – certified to reduce chlorine, sediment, lead, microplastics and total PFAS (also known as ‘forever chemicals’). The result: water that tastes clean, feels fresh and is ready to use instantly.

A smart under-bench command centre powers your system, neatly tucked away and really easy to manage. You don’t need to make space on the bench or remember to top anything up. It’s fully integrated and built for daily use so that filtered water becomes a part of the rhythm of your home – no extra steps or effort.

Best for: every-day long-term use in metro, regional or remote areas.

Not ready for a full tap upgrade? There are other options – each with its own pros and trade-offs.

Filter jugs

Filter jugs are an easy entry point. They sit in your fridge and use a basic replaceable cartridge to reduce chlorine and improve taste and smell. Some can also reduce sediment or metals, depending on the brand.

They’re inexpensive, require no setup, and are a good fit for renters or anyone with limited space. But they have limited capacity, need frequent refills, and won’t catch everything. It can quickly start to feel like one more chore.

Best for: short-term setups, light use, or when you just want a basic improvement without installing anything.

Tap-mounted filters

These screw directly onto your kitchen tap and filter as you pour. They're one of the quickest and cheapest upgrades around – handy if you're in a rental or short-term home.

Some models reduce chlorine, odours and basic sediment. But don’t expect them to deal with things like microplastics or heavy metals. They can also slow your flow and won’t work with every tap (especially pull-out or designer fixtures).

Best for: basic fixes on a tight budget, or as a stopgap while you plan a longer-term solution.

Under-sink systems

Under-sink systems are installed beneath your kitchen bench and connect to a dedicated filtered tap. They're an easy way to filter tap water and a step up from jugs and tap-mounted filters in both power and design.

Many under-sink systems reduce chlorine, sediment and some heavy metals – and they do it out of sight. So your bench and fridge is clutter-free. But they’re usually ambient temperature only, need a plumber to install, and the filters need changing every 6-12 months.

They’re a practical option if you want a clean look without going fully integrated.

Best for: homeowners or renovators wanting better water and a clutter-free kitchen, without going all the way to a fully integrated tap system.

Reverse osmosis systems

Reverse osmosis filters use a fine membrane to remove a broad range of contaminants including nitrates, salts, fluoride, and some organic compounds.

They’re powerful, but not perfect. Reverse osmosis units are slow, use more water (some of which goes to waste), and strip out beneficial minerals – so the water might taste flat unless you re-mineralise it. They’re also bulky and best installed with professional help.

Best for: households with serious water concerns or specific filtration needs – especially outside metro areas.

Whole-house systems

Whole-house systems filter all the water entering your home – every tap, shower and appliance. They're great if you're using tank or bore water, or if you want to reduce chlorine and sediment across your plumbing. But they usually don’t filter as finely as a dedicated drinking system, and they can’t offer chilled, boiling or sparkling water.

Best for: rural homes, families using alternative water sources, or anyone wanting to protect plumbing and appliances.

Okay, so that covers how to filter your tap water at home. Now let’s look closer: do you need to filter your tap water?

Do you really need to filter tap water in Australia?

The first question to ask here shouldn’t be, “How do you filter tap water?” But rather, “Do we need to?”. Well, that depends. Australia’s tap water is safe (thanks to strict regulation). That’s not in question. But have you ever poured a glass that smelled like chlorine? Noticed a slight haze, a metallic taste, or a flat mouthfeel? It’s not just you. Even in city homes, water can pick up sediment, microplastics, or traces of metal from old pipes on the way to your sink.

So while the water’s safe, it’s not always what you want to put in your body.

Filtering your tap water isn’t about fixing a problem – it’s about making a good thing better. Cleaner. Fresher. More enjoyable to drink.

And when water tastes better, you drink more of it. That simple shift can make a real difference.

How to choose a quality water filtration system

Choosing the right water filter isn’t about finding the most complicated system. You need to find the one that fits your lifestyle – and how you want your water to taste, feel and flow. There are six main things to keep in mind.

Filtration performance

Not all filters are created equal. Look for one that removes what you care about – like chlorine, lead, microplastics, and total PFAS. The key detail? Micron rating. A 0.2-micron filter captures more contaminants than a standard jug or tap filter.

Taste and clarity

Even basic systems can make a noticeable difference if your goal is water that tastes better and looks cleaner. But if you want crystal-clear water that's genuinely enjoyable to drink, aim for a system that filters more thoroughly and consistently.

Ease of use

Some systems need constant refilling. Others need plumbing. Think about your day-to-day. Do you want something quick to install? Or something you can set and forget?

Design and fit

Good design matters – especially in a kitchen you love. Filter jugs can take up fridge space. Tap attachments might not suit every sink. Integrated systems are built to disappear into your bench space with no visual clutter or fuss.

Ongoing maintenance

Check how often filters need changing and how easy it is to do. If you need to change your filter more than once a year (or 6 months with heavy use in a commercial kitchen), you may find it quickly becomes another chore. Our filters are designed for long life and simple replacement – just a quick swap when the time comes.

Sustainability and impact

Filtering your water at home means fewer plastic bottles, less fridge clutter and a lower environmental footprint over time. Some systems go further, using energy-efficient tech or recyclable filter cartridges.

In the end, the best system for you is the one that makes filtered water part of your everyday – without hassle. Clean water that you like to drink. That’s the goal.

FAQ: How to filter tap water

What is the best way to filter tap water?

The best way to filter your tap water is the one that fits your lifestyle. For some, that’s a simple filter jug in the fridge. For others, it’s an integrated system like a Zip HydroTap that delivers filtered chilled, boiling or sparkling water straight from the tap. If you want consistent performance, fewer plastic bottles, and beautiful design in your kitchen, an on-tap system is hard to beat.

Should I filter my tap water in Australia?

Australia’s tap water is safe – but that doesn’t always mean it tastes great or feels clean. Filtering can remove chlorine, sediment, microplastics and even PFAS, giving you water that’s fresher and more enjoyable to drink. It’s also helpful if you have kids, pets, or high-end appliances you want to look after. So while you don’t need to filter your water, many Australians are choosing to – for peace of mind and better taste.

Is boiling water the same as filtered water?

No, it's not the same. Boiling can kill bacteria but doesn't remove chemicals, heavy metals, or microplastics. If your water tastes or smells strange, boiling won't fix that either. A good filtration system removes impurities before boiling, so your tea, coffee, or baby formula starts with cleaner, clearer water.