Why Is Chlorine Added to Drinking Water?

Chlorine is used across Australia—and around the world—as a disinfectant in town water supplies. It’s added to kill harmful microorganisms like bacteria and viruses that naturally occur in raw water from rivers, dams, lakes, and bores. It also keeps the water safe during its journey from treatment plant to tap.

From a government perspective, chlorine ticks all the boxes:

- Effective
- Inexpensive
- Easy to dose on a large scale

So yes—it helps protect public health. But there’s a trade-off.

What’s the Downside of Chlorine?

While chlorination has its place, more and more people are questioning its long-term effects, especially when it comes to health and lifestyle.

• It tastes and smells awful – That chemical tang can put you off drinking water altogether.
• It’s harsh on skin and hair – Especially for kids and those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.
• It can damage beneficial gut bacteria – There’s growing concern about how chlorinated water impacts gut health.
• It may pose long-term health risks – At high levels or in combination with other chemicals, chlorine by-products (like trihalomethanes) have been labelled as potentially carcinogenic.

The Good News? You Don’t Have to Drink It.

Chlorine might be unavoidable at the source, but you can easily remove it at home with the right water filtration system.

Activated Carbon Filtration

Systems like the Puretec range (available at Aqua Power) use carbon to effectively remove chlorine, leaving your water clean, odour-free, and great-tasting. It’s better for your family, your skin, and your peace of mind.

Better Showers, Better Skin

Install a shower filter and you’ll instantly notice the difference—less dryness, less irritation, and a more refreshing clean.

Tank Water? Use Puretec TankSafe

If you’re on rainwater and still using chlorine for disinfection, there’s a better way. Puretec TankSafe is safer, easier to use, and more environmentally friendly than chlorine tablets—and it’s designed specifically for domestic tank systems.

Your Water, Your Way

Whether you’re in town, on tank, or running a bore, we’ve got filtration solutions to suit your setup—and your health goals.

📍 Drop into Aqua Power Puretec Elite Dealer.
📞 Chat with our team of local water specialists