If you live in Portugal, or just moved here, you've probably already learned two things:
- The tap water is safe.
- The tap water… doesn’t always taste great.
Depending on the region, Portuguese tap water can swing between “surprisingly nice” and “why does this taste slightly like a public swimming pool?” (Hello, chlorine.)
That’s exactly why under-sink water filters have quietly become the go-to solution for both locals and expats across Portugal.
Why an Under-Sink Water Filter Works So Well in Portugal
Portugal’s water network is modern and regulated — but taste, chlorine levels, and old building pipes vary a LOT by district.
An under-sink filter solves this because it:
- reduces chlorine (the main taste culprit)
- improves taste and clarity
- reduces micro-impurities and pipe sediment
- keeps healthy minerals intact
- removes PFAS via activated carbon
- requires zero countertop space
- operates without electricity or wastewater
It’s the “install once → enjoy forever” solution.
Chlorine Levels in Portugal: The Real Reason Water Tastes Off
The water is safe — and highly regulated by Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (APA). But safety ≠ taste.
In practice, chlorine levels differ significantly:
- Porto → generally higher chlorine
- Lisbon → varies by freguesia and building age
- Algarve → often mineral-heavy, taste varies
So if your water sometimes tastes metallic, sandy, sharp or a bit like pool water — it’s normal. And fixable.
Why Under-Sink Filters Beat Pitchers in Portugal
Filter jugs are fine for student apartments. Not for grown-up kitchens.
Under-sink water filters offer:
- higher performance
- faster flow
- better chlorine & taste reduction
- more effective PFAS reduction
- longer lifespan
- no plastic parts sitting in humid Portuguese kitchens
Pitchers + Southern European humidity = not a great combo.
What To Look For in a Water Filter in Portugal
1. Strong activated carbon
This is what handles taste, chlorine, PFAS, microplastics, VOCs and organic compounds.
2. KDF (copper + zinc)
Creates natural redox reactions that help reduce chlorine and certain heavy metals — and helps the filter stay stable over time.
3. A PP membrane stage
Important in older Portuguese buildings where sediment or rust may appear from internal pipes.
4. Mineral-friendly filtration
Portugal’s water is naturally mineral-rich — you want to keep it that way!
5. Stainless steel housing
Because plastic housings age fast in heat and humidity.
6. Simple installation
Portugal’s plumbing can be… creative. A plug-and-play solution helps.
Is an Under-Sink Water Filter Worth It in Portugal?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Absolutely yes.
If you:
- buy bottled water regularly
- don’t like the taste of your tap water
- want a more sustainable option
- have kids
- care about coffee quality
- do we have to go on?
…an under-sink filtration system is the most practical upgrade you can make.
Who This Guide Is For
- Expats in Lisbon, Cascais, Porto, Algarve
- Families
- Renters and homeowners
- Anyone wanting better-tasting water
- Anyone tired of buying bottled water
To sum it up: If you live in Portugal, this applies to you.
PJURE’s System (10-Second Version)
Designed for European water, including Portugal.
- Stainless steel housing
- Coconut activated carbon
- KDF (copper + zinc)
- PP membrane
- Mineral-friendly media
- No electricity
- No wastewater
- 5 min installation
- Clean, crisp, mineral-rich water
Full breakdown of the tech:
mypjure.com
Conclusion: Portugal + Under-Sink Filter = Great Match
Portugal has beautiful water sources — it just needs a little help at the last step.
A good under-sink water filter makes your tap water taste the way it should: clean, crisp and fresh.
Your morning lemon water will thank you.
Your coffee will too.
And your recycling bin will finally breathe.
