Water quality: Why it should be a key design consideration in New Zealand homes

When we plan our homes, we often focus on how much natural light there is, what building materials we’re using, and how the end result will look and feel. But the water running through our taps isn’t always top-of-mind, despite its daily impact on our health and comfort.

Why water quality matters in home design

Even in New Zealand, where mains water is considered safe, water can contain impurities such as sediment, chlorine, heavy metals and microorganisms – affecting taste, odour, health, and the performance of appliances.

Experts in transforming water in residential and commercial buildings, Puretec delivers integrated water filtration solutions that align with leading building wellness standards, such as the WELL Building Standard, helping architects and builders deliver projects that promote occupant health, productivity, and long-term asset value.

“The healthiest building can be let down by its water quality, and that is why Puretec goes the extra mile in our mission within our reach to ensure that all citizens receive water that is safe and healthy,” shares Puretec’s Scott Marshall. “The healthiest, most sustainably designed building can be undermined by poor water quality. By specifying water filtration at the base-build stage, you can ensure every occupant – whether in a luxury residence or a high-use commercial facility – has access to clean, great-tasting, and safe water from every tap.”

Designing with water quality in mind

By integrating water filtration into a home’s design at the outset, there is less impact on occupants’ health, and the dwelling’s plumbing and appliances won’t be impacted by harsh chemicals and buildup. 

“Chlorine in tap water can gradually corrode copper pipes and damage high-end tapware and finishes. More importantly, water may also carry organic and inorganic matter, bacteria, viruses and other pollutants that pose health risks.

“By integrating filtration into your base build, you’re not only delivering a healthier space – you’re extending the life of your investment and reducing environmental impact by lowering energy use and detergent waste.”

Running unfiltered water has been found to severely reduce the lifespan of appliances – especially those that heat water – and clog showerheads, tapware, and drains.

“Filtered water can save enormous amounts of money and provide huge efficiencies by keeping appliances at top efficiency, and making them last longer. Save appliances, save money, and save the planet, too.”

Introducing the Hybrid E: The next evolution in water filtration

Key features of Hybrid E

• Kills up to 99.99 per cent of bacteria with Radfire UV technology, along with reducing sediment, viruses, and harmful microbes – making the system beneficial for rainwater use.
• Improve the colour, taste and smell of water to experience reliable, safe water for drinking, cooking and washing. 
• Available in two different wall mount models to suit your surrounding environment and the needs of your home. 
• The premium Hybrid E AMC model features a tough aluminium cover to protect against harsh weather conditions.
• The standard Hybrid E includes a new straight-edged wall mount structure.
• Both AMC and standard models offer a range of cartridge configurations to suit the needs of residential projects. 
• Maintenance is hassle-free with quick cartridge changes and a built-in UV lamp timer and alarm to keep things running smoothly.

“At Puretec, we work directly with architects, builders and developers to design filtration solutions that integrate seamlessly into residential and commercial builds. From compact point-of-use systems to whole-building filtration, we ensure water quality matches the quality of your design.”

Learn more about the Hybrid E, and explore more whole-house filtration solutions from Puretec.

Disclaimer: Radfire™ is a registered trademark.