Gravity-Based Water Purifier – Advantages and Disadvantages

If you are on the lookout for a water purifier that can run without using electricity, gravity based water purifiers might just be it. These non-electrical systems work in an eco-friendly way to weed out the impurities and are particularly effective if your water has low TDS(total dissolved solids) levels. But can they entirely get rid of all the contaminants and are they as good as RO purifiers? Let’s find out!

What is a Gravity-Based Water Purifier?

A gravity-based water purifier operates without electricity, using gravity-driven filtration to remove impurities, bacteria, and chlorine. 

It features activated carbon, ultrafiltration (UF), and sediment filters, making it suitable for municipal water with low TDS. 

Offering a cost-efficient and energy-free purification method, top models include Kent Gold, Tata Swach, and Eureka Forbes Aquasure.

How Does a Gravity-Based Water Purifier Work?

A gravity-based water purifier uses natural downward water flow to remove impurities, eliminating the need for electricity or external pressure. Here’s how the process works:

Step-by-Step Filtration Process

1. Top Chamber: Water is poured into the upper compartment.

2. Filtration Process: Water gradually flows through multiple filtration layers:

• Sediment Filter – Traps dirt, sand, and large particles.

• Activated Carbon Filter – Absorbs chlorine, bad odors, and organic impurities.

• UF Membrane – Removes bacteria, cysts, and microscopic contaminants.

3. Storage Chamber: The purified water is collected in the bottom chamber, ready for use.

Types of Filters Used

• Sediment Filter: Captures large particles like dust, sand, and rust.

• Activated Carbon Filter: Eliminates chlorine, odors, and harmful organic compounds.

• UF (Ultrafiltration) Membrane: Blocks bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms.

This simple yet effective filtration system ensures safe drinking water without electricity, making it ideal for areas with low TDS municipal water.

Advantages of Gravity-Based Water Purifiers

🔌 No Electricity Needed – Works without power, making it ideal for areas with frequent outages.

💰 Budget-Friendly & Low Maintenance – No costly RO membranes or complex electrical components.

🏠 Portable & Convenient – Can be placed anywhere, requiring no complicated installation.

🚰 Effective Filtration – Removes bacteria, sediments, and chlorine, ensuring safe drinking water.

🌍 Eco-Friendly Choice – Unlike RO purifiers, it doesn’t waste water, making it a sustainable option.

Disadvantages of Gravity-Based Water Purifiers

🚫 Not for High TDS Water – Cannot remove dissolved salts, heavy metals, or chemical pollutants.

🐢 Slower Filtration – Water takes longer to pass through layers compared to RO or UV systems.

⚠️ Limited Capacity – Requires frequent cleaning and filter changes to maintain efficiency.

☠️ Ineffective for Industrial Contaminants – Fails to remove arsenic, fluoride, and lead, making it unsuitable for highly polluted water sources.

How to Choose the Best Gravity-Based Water Purifier? (Buying Guide)

1. Analyze Your Water Quality

Gravity-based purifiers work best with municipal water that has low TDS (below 300 mg/L). If your water source contains heavy metals, dissolved salts, or industrial contaminants, an RO purifier might be a better choice.

2. Understand Filtration Technology

The effectiveness of a gravity-based purifier depends on its filtration system. A good model should have:

• Sediment filter – Removes dirt, sand, and debris.

• Activated carbon filter – Eliminates chlorine, bad odor, and organic impurities.

• UF (Ultrafiltration) membrane – Blocks bacteria, cysts, and other microorganisms.

3. Choose the Right Storage Capacity

If you have a small household (2-3 members), a 5-7L purifier should be sufficient. However, for larger families, a 10L+ capacity is recommended to avoid frequent refilling.

4. Factor in Maintenance & Filter Replacement Costs

Unlike RO purifiers, gravity-based models have lower maintenance costs, but filters still require periodic replacement. Check how often the filters need to be changed and whether replacements are affordable and easily available.

5. Compare Price & Brand Reputation

Gravity-based purifiers typically range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000, depending on features, filtration layers, and storage capacity. Opt for trusted brands like Kent, Tata Swach, and Eureka Forbes to ensure reliability and long-term performance.

Gravity-Based Water Purifier vs RO Purifier

FAQs on Gravity-Based Water Purifiers

Q1. Are gravity-based water purifiers good?

A: Yes, they are a good choice for homes that receive municipal water with low TDS levels (below 300 mg/L). They work without electricity and remove sediments, chlorine, and some bacteria, making the water safer to drink. However, they are not suitable for high-TDS or heavily contaminated water.

Q2. Do gravity-based purifiers remove bacteria and viruses?

A: Gravity-based purifiers with UF membranes can remove bacteria and cysts, but they do not effectively remove viruses. If your water supply is at risk of viral contamination, consider using a UV or RO+UV purifier for better protection.

Q3. Can gravity-based purifiers be used for borewell water?

A: No, they are not recommended for borewell water. Borewell water often contains high TDS, heavy metals, and chemical pollutants, which gravity-based purifiers cannot remove. An RO purifier is a better option for borewell or hard water.

Q4. How often should I clean or replace the filters?

A: It is recommended to clean the filters regularly and replace them every 3 to 6 months, depending on the quality of water and usage. This helps maintain the purifier’s efficiency and ensures safe drinking water.