Why chlorine is in tap water
Chlorine is added to drinking water as a disinfectant. Its role is essential: it kills bacteria, viruses and other pathogens that could develop during transport through kilometres of pipes between the treatment works and your tap.
Without chlorine, water could become contaminated on its journey, posing a serious health risk. That is why chlorination has been standard practice across the UK and Europe for decades.
The problem: once the water reaches your tap, it no longer needs this protection. The residual chlorine is then an unnecessary nuisance that can be safely removed before drinking.
The effects of chlorine in daily life
Taste and odour
This is the most noticeable effect. The “swimming pool” taste is the primary reason many households buy bottled water. The intensity depends on the chlorine concentration, which varies by region and season (higher in summer).
Skin and hair
Some people report skin sensitivity from chlorine, notably dry skin after showering. Chlorine can also accelerate the fading of colour-treated hair.
Cooking and beverages
Chlorine can alter the taste of tea, coffee and cooking. Tea enthusiasts particularly notice the difference between chlorinated and filtered water.
Methods for filtering chlorine
1. Activated carbon — the most effective method
Activated carbon is the global standard for removing chlorine from drinking water. Its principle is simple yet highly effective: adsorption. Chlorine molecules and chlorinated by-products bind within the millions of micro-pores of the carbon. A well-sized activated carbon filter removes over 99% of free chlorine.
2. Leaving water to stand
As chlorine is a dissolved gas, it evaporates naturally in 30 to 60 minutes in an open jug. Free but impractical: you must plan ahead, the water is at room temperature, and no other contaminants are removed.
3. Boiling
Boiling water for a few minutes removes chlorine. However, this method is very energy-intensive, time-consuming, and you then have to wait for the water to cool.
Comparison of methods
| Method | Chlorine effectiveness | Convenience | Cost | Other pollutants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activated carbon (tap filter) | Very high | Instant | €0.02/L | Yes |
| Filter jug | Good | Wait for filling | ~€0.07/L | Partial |
| Leaving to stand | Good (free chlorine) | 30-60 min wait | Free | No |
| Boiling | Good | 5-10 min + cooling | Energy cost | No |
Puramane: activated carbon + UV for complete filtration
The Puramane filter combines activated carbon with a 8-stage filtration system including UV treatment. The activated carbon removes chlorine, bad tastes and odours, while UV provides additional microbiological disinfection.
- Chlorine removal and its by-products from first use
- LED display for water temperature and filter status
- No battery: hydraulic energy
- 2,000 litres per cartridge (3 to 4 months)
- €0.02 per litre — the most economical on the market
- Installs in 2 minutes, no tools, 6 adaptors included (taps 16-24 mm)
Price: filter at €44.90, replacement cartridges x2 at €24.90. 2-year warranty, French brand (Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92260).
Remove chlorine from your water
Activated carbon + UV, 8 filtration stages. Immediate taste difference. From €44.90.
Order the filter →Frequently asked questions
Is chlorine in tap water dangerous?
Chlorine at the levels used in drinking water is not considered dangerous according to health authorities. However, it can cause an unpleasant taste and smell, and some people report skin sensitivity when showering. Activated carbon filtration removes residual chlorine before you drink.
What is the best method for removing chlorine from water?
Activated carbon is the most effective and practical method for households. It removes chlorine by adsorption. A tap filter with activated carbon, like the Puramane, filters water on demand, with no waiting. More effective and convenient than leaving water to stand or using a jug.
How long does activated carbon remain effective against chlorine?
Activated carbon effectiveness diminishes as the pores become saturated. For the Puramane filter, each cartridge is designed to filter 2,000 litres, i.e. 3 to 4 months of family use. The LED display shows the filter status so you know when to replace it.