How each system works
The filter jug
A filter jug is a pitcher with a built-in filter. You fill the upper reservoir with tap water, it passes through the filter by gravity and collects in the lower reservoir. The process typically takes 3 to 8 minutes for 1 to 2 litres.
The jug filter contains activated carbon and sometimes ion-exchange resin. Its lifespan is limited: roughly 100 to 150 litres per cartridge, meaning a change every 3 to 4 weeks.
The tap filter
A tap filter attaches directly to your kitchen tap. Water is filtered in real time at mains pressure, with no waiting. A switch or lever lets you toggle between filtered and unfiltered water.
The Puramane filter uses 8 filtration stages (activated carbon, ion-exchange resin, UV sterilisation) with a cartridge lasting 2,000 litres — 3 to 4 months for an average household.
Advantages of the tap filter
- Instant filtered water: no waiting, no filling. Turn the tap and filtered water flows.
- No clutter: the filter sits on the tap. No jug on the worktop, no space taken in the fridge.
- Far greater volume: a Puramane cartridge filters 2,000 L versus 100 to 150 L for a jug cartridge. That is 13 to 20 times more.
- Fewer changes: every 3 to 4 months for the Puramane, versus every 3 to 4 weeks for the jug.
- More advanced filtration: the Puramane 8-stage system combines multiple technologies for purer water.
Advantages of the filter jug
- Portability: the jug moves easily. Put it on the table or chill it in the fridge.
- No installation: no fitting to the tap, no adaptor. Just fill and go.
- Low entry price: a jug costs between €15 and €30. Accessible for trying filtration.
Switch to the tap filter
The Puramane filter installs in 2 minutes and filters 2,000 L per cartridge. From €44.90.
Discover the Puramane filter →Annual cost comparison
For a household using around 2 litres of filtered water per day (730 L/year):
| Item | Tap filter (Puramane) | Filter jug |
|---|---|---|
| Initial purchase | €44.90 | ~€20 |
| Cartridges / year | 1 pack of 2 = €24.90 | 8 to 10 cartridges = €40 to 60 |
| Year 1 total | ~€70 | ~€60 to 80 |
| Year 2+ total | ~€25/yr | ~€40 to 60/yr |
| Cost per litre | €0.02 | ~€0.05 to 0.08 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a tap filter more economical than a filter jug?
Yes. A filter like the Puramane costs around 50 euros per year (2 replacement cartridges). A filter jug needs 8 to 12 cartridges per year, costing 40 to 70 euros, but filters 3 to 4 times fewer litres overall. The tap filter is cheaper per litre filtered.
Is a filter jug as effective as a tap filter?
A filter jug typically uses activated carbon to reduce chlorine and improve taste. A tap filter like the Puramane combines 8 filtration stages including activated carbon, resin and UV sterilisation for more comprehensive filtration.
Can a tap filter fit any tap?
The Puramane filter comes with 6 adaptors compatible with the vast majority of standard kitchen taps. Installation takes 2 minutes with no tools. It is not compatible with pull-out spray taps.