With the global increase in water pollution and the subsequent rise in demand for cleaner, safer drinking water, reverse osmosis (RO) systems have steadily been gaining popularity. Both individuals and corporations are becoming more aware of the negative environmental impacts of plastic bottled water and are transitioning towards more sustainable options. This shift in sentiment has created a substantial market for companies like Sküma® and AquaTru® that offer innovative RO water systems. This article provides an in-depth comparison of these two prominent competitors in the water purification market.
Sküma® presents is an environmentally conscious brand, seeking to reduce plastic waste from bottled water while also providing enhanced hydration. Its Super-Filter® reverse osmosis (RO) membrane effectively removes 99% of impurities in water, including fluoride, heavy metals, and microplastics, while its Infusion™ system pumps beneficial nutrients into the water.
On the other hand, AquaTru®’s mission is to make tap water safe for consumption again. Their 4-stage reverse osmosis technology is designed to eliminate 83 contaminants, transforming tap water into pure, clean water that customers can trust.
Filtration performance
Reverse osmosis has long been considered a prime way of efficiently filtering even the most contaminated water. This method works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, which removes impurities and results in purer water.
Both Sküma® and AquaTru® use this technology in their water purification systems, albeit with some differences in their approach. In this section, we will compare the effectiveness of these two systems in removing impurities, the ease and capacity of filter changes, the production of wastewater, and the warranties and guarantees offered by each company. This comparison will help potential customers understand the strengths and weaknesses of each system and make an informed choice about which is most suitable for their needs.
Impurities Removed
Sküma® employs a three-stage reverse osmosis process through its Super-Filter® membrane, effectively removing 99% of impurities in water. This includes contaminants like fluoride, heavy metals, and microplastics.
On the other hand, AquaTru® uses a four-stage reverse osmosis purification process. It effectively removes 83 contaminants, including fluoride, chlorine, chloramines, lead, chromium 6, arsenic, nitrates, 'forever chemicals' (PFAS), and pesticides & herbicides.
Filter Change - Ease & Capacity
The Super-Filter® in Sküma®'s system is designed for convenience, needing to be changed only once a year.
AquaTru, however, requires a more frequent change of its pre-filter (the first stage of its filtration process) every 6 months or 600 gallons, whichever comes first.
Warranty and Guarantee
Sküma® offers a 2-year warranty on its water purification system, which shows their confidence in their product.
Conversely, AquaTru® provides a warranty that guarantees the water purifier to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the original purchase date. However, this warranty does not include filters.
Remineralisation
Most people are aware that pure demineralised RO water is not common in nature and thus not ideal for human consumption. This is why remineralisation, the process of adding minerals back into the water, is an important aspect of water purification.
Liquid vs Solid Mineralisation - Pros and Cons
Sküma® uses its proprietary Infusion™ technology to reintroduce minerals and vitamins into the purified water. This takes the form of a concentrated liquid mix that is added to the water, enhancing its quality and providing functional benefits. Each bottle of Infusion™ provides 60 litres of water.
AquaTru, on the other hand, does not appear to have a similar remineralisation process.
Capacity
The capacity of the remineralisation process largely depends on the supply of the remineralisation agent. In Sküma's case, each bottle of Infusion™ is capable of providing remineralisation for 60 litres of water.
As AquaTru® does not appear to offer a remineralisation process, capacity in this aspect is not applicable.
Types of Remineralisations
Sküma® stands out in this aspect as it not only adds minerals back into the water but also vitamins and even flavours, providing a more enhanced and tailored drinking experience.
AquaTru® offers remineralisation through the use of optional filters and drops.
Energy consumption
With the rise in energy prices across Europe, it's increasingly important to consider the energy efficiency of home appliances.
The Sküma® water purifier has an input power of 100 - 240V and operates at a frequency of 50-60Hz. It consumes 8W of power in idle mode. The energy consumption for hot water production is relatively high at 1600W, while the power used for filtration is 30W. This suggests that while Sküma® is energy-efficient during idle and filtration modes, its hot water production is significantly more energy-consuming.
On the other hand, specific data on energy consumption for AquaTru® is not available. It has an input power range similar to Sküma, at 100-240V and 50-60Hz, but the energy consumed during idle mode, hot water production, and filtration is not specified.
This comparison suggests that Sküma® may offer more energy-efficient operations in idle mode and during filtration, but the energy consumption for hot water production could be a factor to consider depending on the usage pattern.
Hot water production
Sküma® offers instant hot water on demand with an adjustable temperature choice (50ºC, 75ºC, 85ºC, Max). It has a built-in German-made heating element designed to replace traditional kettles, providing instant hot water and reportedly reducing energy waste.
AquaTru, on the other hand, does not provide a hot water feature.
Price
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a water system is price, encompassing both initial costs and ongoing costs.
The initial cost of Sküma® ranges starts at £349.00 depending on the chosen pack. The filter, which is meant to be changed on a yearly basis, costs £40.00. Each bottle of Infusion™, which provides 60 litres of water, is priced at £14.2 with a monthly subscription.
The AquaTru® water purifier's initial cost ranges from $349.00 to $449.00 depending on the model. The cost of filters, which need to be replaced every 6 months, can cost up to £100 on a yearly basis, in addition to remineralisation filters costing from £20 to £65.
Conclusion:
Both Sküma® and AquaTru® utilize advanced reverse osmosis technology for water purification. Sküma® sets itself apart with its Infusion™ technology, which adds minerals and vitamins to the water, and an instant hot water feature, providing additional functionality. It requires filter replacement once a year and offers packages starting from £349.00.
AquaTru®, on the other hand, offers multiple models to cater to different needs, requires filter replacement every six months, and is priced around $349.00-$449.00.
The choice between Sküma® and AquaTru® depends on individual preferences for enhanced water, hot water availability, as well as considerations of cost and maintenance.
