Most homeowners in Southeast Michigan buy bottled water for one reason.
They think it’s safer.
But during a recent Hire It Done episode, Adam Helfman and water expert Jerrad Beauchamp of Beauchamp Water Treatment Solutions broke down why that assumption is often wrong—and sometimes counterproductive.
If you care about your health, your appliances, and your long-term costs, this is a conversation you need to hear.
Let’s clear the confusion.
Why Homeowners Rely on Bottled Water
Most people don’t buy bottled water because they love plastic.
They buy it because:
- They don’t trust their tap
- They’ve heard horror stories about lead or PFAS
- They want “purified” water for their family
That fear isn’t irrational—especially in Michigan.
But bottled water isn’t the solution most people think it is.
What “Purified” Really Means
On the show, Jerrad explained something many homeowners miss.
Most bottled water labeled “purified” is created using reverse osmosis—the same process used in high-quality home filtration systems.
The difference?
- Bottled water is processed off-site
- It’s stored in plastic
- It sits for weeks or months before you drink it
At home, reverse osmosis systems produce purified water on demand, without plastic exposure.
The Microplastics Problem Nobody Talks About
One of the most eye-opening moments from the episode focused on microplastics.
Plastic bottles break down over time. Heat, light, and storage conditions accelerate that breakdown.
The result?
Tiny plastic particles end up in the water itself.
Ironically, many homeowners switch to bottled water to avoid contaminants—only to introduce new ones.
As Jerrad explained, testing for microplastics is possible, but it’s expensive. And most people don’t test bottled water at all.
That’s why eliminating plastic from the process entirely is often the smarter move.
Why In-Home Filtration Is More Controlled
When water is filtered inside your home, you control:
- The materials used
- The filtration stages
- The maintenance schedule
- The final water quality
There’s no mystery storage facility. No heat exposure in transit. No plastic leaching.
It’s water treated where it’s used.
City Water vs Well Water Myths
Another misconception addressed on the show is that bottled water is only necessary for well water homes.
In reality:
- City water can pick up contaminants through aging pipes
- Well water can contain iron, arsenic, bacteria, or sulfur odors
Neither source is automatically “safe” or “unsafe.”
What matters is what happens after the water enters your home.
Why Taste Isn’t the Same as Safety
A common homeowner reaction is:
“My water tastes fine, so it must be okay.”
Taste only tells part of the story.
Water can:
- Taste fine but contain PFAS
- Smell fine but contain bacteria
- Look clear but contain heavy metals
That’s why testing—not taste—is the baseline for smart decisions.
Bottled Water vs Home Filtration Costs
Another big myth: bottled water is cheaper.
Over time, it rarely is.
When you factor in:
- Weekly purchases
- Storage space
- Plastic waste
- Transport costs
Most homeowners spend far more on bottled water than they would on a quality in-home filtration system.
Once installed, home systems produce purified water for pennies per gallon.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
Water treatment is not about selling the biggest system.
It’s about matching the solution to the problem.
That’s why professional water providers:
- Test first
- Explain options clearly
- Customize systems
- Avoid pressure tactics
As discussed on the episode, education always beats fear-based selling.
Why Southeast Michigan Homeowners Need Local Expertise
SE Michigan has unique water challenges:
- Industrial legacy contaminants
- Mixed municipal and well systems
- Older plumbing infrastructure
Local testing and region-specific knowledge make a difference.
What works in another state may not work here.
The Bottom Line on Bottled Water
Bottled water feels like a safety net.
But for many homeowners, it’s a temporary fix that creates long-term costs and new risks.
Clean water isn’t about buying cases every week.
It’s about treating water once, correctly, at the source.
And that source is your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Water Treatment
Is bottled water safer than tap water?
Not always. Many bottled waters use reverse osmosis—the same process available in home systems—while introducing plastic exposure during storage.
Does reverse osmosis remove microplastics?
Yes. High-quality reverse osmosis systems remove microplastics, heavy metals, and many chemical contaminants.
Can cheap filtration systems add microplastics?
Yes. Low-quality resins and economy filters can break down over time and release microplastics into your water.
Do I need water filtration if I have city water?
Often, yes. City water can pick up contaminants through aging pipes before reaching your home.
Is water testing really necessary?
Yes. You can’t solve a water problem without knowing what’s in your water.
Does home filtration reduce water pressure?
When designed and installed correctly, pressure loss can be avoided or corrected.
Is bottled water cheaper than home filtration?
Long-term, bottled water usually costs more than a professionally installed filtration system.
Can I customize my filtration system?
Absolutely. Water treatment is modular and can be tailored to taste, health, and appliance protection.
How often do filters need maintenance?
It depends on the system and water quality, but professionals provide clear maintenance schedules.
What’s the biggest mistake homeowners make with water treatment?
Buying equipment without testing—or choosing the cheapest option instead of the right one.
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