Is FloWater the Same as Distilled Water?
No, FloWater is not distilled water. The primary difference lies in the purification process and the final composition of the water. Distillation involves boiling water and collecting the condensed steam, which removes nearly all impurities, minerals, and electrolytes, resulting in a flat-tasting, demineralized product. FloWater, on the other hand, uses a proprietary 7-stage purification system that includes advanced osmosis (a form of reverse osmosis) to remove up to 99.9% of contaminants, but crucially, it then adds a blend of electrolytes and minerals back into the water. This re-mineralization is a key step that makes FloWater fundamentally different from distilled water.
The 7-Stage FloWater Purification Process
To understand the distinction completely, it's essential to examine the intricate filtration system that FloWater utilizes.
- Sediment Filter: The process begins with a filter that removes large, solid particles like dirt, rust, and silt that can originate from tap water pipes.
- Activated Carbon Filter: This stage tackles smaller contaminants. The carbon filter removes chlorine, radon, heavy metals, and other compounds that cause unpleasant odors and tastes.
- Advanced Osmosis (AO): This is a highly efficient form of reverse osmosis, utilizing a semi-permeable membrane to remove a broad spectrum of remaining impurities. These include bacteria, viruses, lead, heavy metals, pesticides, and other dissolved solids. FloWater claims its AO system is five times more efficient than standard reverse osmosis systems.
- Activated Oxygen Injection: In this stage, small amounts of activated oxygen (O3) are added to the water. This acts as a natural sanitizer for the system's tanks and internal parts, preventing the growth of bacteria and improving the water's taste.
- Alkaline Enhancement: A proprietary blend of ten trace minerals is added to raise the water's pH level. This creates alkaline-enhanced water, which can help neutralize acidity in the body.
- Electrolyte Enhancement: Essential electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, sodium, and calcium are added back into the water. These minerals are vital for proper hydration and body functions such as bone strength and immune defense.
- Coconut Carbon Filter: The final step uses a filter made from real coconut husks. This gives the water its crisp, fresh taste and polishes off any remaining odors or flavors.
Why the Reintroduction of Minerals Matters
Distilled water, by definition, lacks any dissolved minerals. This can result in a flat, unappealing taste. For everyday drinking, filtered water that retains or re-adds beneficial minerals is often the preferred choice. The re-mineralization in the FloWater process restores these key elements, providing a refreshing taste and contributing to better hydration. While distilled water is necessary for specific applications like CPAP machines or laboratory use, mineralized water is generally better for daily human consumption.
Comparison Table: FloWater vs. Distilled Water
| Feature | FloWater | Distilled Water |
|---|---|---|
| Purification Method | 7-stage process including advanced reverse osmosis, activated oxygen, and carbon filtration. | Boiling water and condensing the steam. |
| Mineral Content | Minerals and electrolytes are reintroduced after purification. | Nearly all minerals are removed during the process. |
| Taste | Crisp, fresh, and clean taste due to added minerals and final coconut carbon filter. | Often described as flat or flavorless due to lack of minerals. |
| pH Level | Enhanced with minerals to be slightly alkaline. | Neutral (7.0 pH) or slightly acidic, as it lacks alkaline minerals. |
| Primary Use | Daily drinking, hydration, and cooking. | Technical applications like lab work, humidifiers, and irons. |
| Efficiency | The AO system is 5x more efficient than standard RO. | Requires a significant amount of energy and often produces substantial wastewater. |
The Health and Taste Advantage
For most people, the health and taste benefits of mineralized water make FloWater a more suitable option than distilled water for everyday consumption. The addition of electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, and calcium helps support healthy body functions, which is especially important for active individuals or those needing to replenish minerals lost through sweat. Distilled water, lacking these electrolytes, can potentially lead to an imbalance over time. The unpleasant taste of demineralized water is also a significant drawback for regular hydration, whereas FloWater's final coconut carbon filter ensures a refreshing and clean flavor profile.
Conclusion
In short, the answer to the question, "Is FloWater distilled water?" is a definitive no. While both are methods for purifying water, their processes and end products are fundamentally different. FloWater utilizes an advanced 7-stage system that intentionally re-adds vital minerals and electrolytes for enhanced taste and hydration. Distillation, conversely, produces a demineralized water that is best reserved for specific, non-drinking applications. For anyone seeking highly purified, great-tasting, and mineral-enriched water for daily use, FloWater offers a distinct advantage over its distilled counterpart. For more information on the purification technology, visit FloWater's official technology page.
