Find answers to common questions about our water filtration products and manufacturing process
We produce a comprehensive range of filtration systems designed for various applications. Our product line includes under-sink units with multi-stage purification, countertop models for smaller spaces, whole-house systems that treat water at the point of entry, and commercial-grade units for businesses and institutions.
Each system uses certified components including activated carbon blocks, sediment pre-filters, and optional reverse osmosis membranes. We also manufacture replacement cartridges compatible with our systems, ensuring long-term performance and cost efficiency for our customers across the United Kingdom.
Filter lifespan depends on the specific component and your water usage patterns. Sediment pre-filters typically require replacement every 6 months, while activated carbon cartridges last between 6 to 12 months under normal household conditions.
Reverse osmosis membranes can function effectively for 2-3 years when properly maintained. We provide clear indicators on our units to help you monitor filter status. Water quality in your area, daily consumption volume, and the presence of specific contaminants all influence replacement intervals. Regular maintenance extends system life and ensures consistent water quality.
All Howota products meet British Standards and comply with relevant European regulations. Our manufacturing facility operates under ISO 9001:2015 quality management protocols, and our filtration components are tested by independent laboratories.
We maintain certification for contaminant reduction claims, including chlorine, lead, mercury, and various organic compounds. Each product batch undergoes quality control testing before shipment. Documentation for all certifications is available upon request, and we regularly update our compliance as standards evolve.
Many of our countertop and under-sink models are designed for straightforward installation using basic tools. We provide detailed instructions with diagrams, and most homeowners with moderate DIY skills can complete the process in 1-2 hours.
However, whole-house systems and installations requiring modifications to existing plumbing should be handled by qualified plumbers. If you're unsure about your capabilities or local regulations require professional installation for certain modifications, we recommend consulting a licensed tradesperson. This ensures proper setup and maintains any applicable warranties.
Our systems effectively reduce chlorine, chloramines, lead, copper, mercury, and cadmium. Activated carbon stages remove volatile organic compounds, pesticides, and herbicides, while also improving taste and odour.
Models with reverse osmosis membranes additionally filter out dissolved solids, fluoride, arsenic, nitrates, and certain bacteria and viruses. Sediment filters capture rust, sand, and particulate matter. The specific reduction rates vary by model and are documented in product specifications. We recommend testing your local water supply to select the most appropriate system for your needs.
Reverse osmosis uses a semi-permeable membrane with microscopic pores to separate contaminants from water molecules. Water pressure forces tap water through pre-filters first, removing larger particles and protecting the membrane.
The membrane then blocks dissolved solids, heavy metals, and many microorganisms, allowing only pure water molecules to pass through. Rejected contaminants are flushed away as wastewater. A storage tank holds purified water until needed, and a final carbon filter polishes the taste before dispensing. This multi-stage process delivers thorough purification suitable for drinking and cooking applications.
Replacement cartridges are available directly through our website, where you can order by model number. We maintain stock of all current and recently discontinued filter types at our London warehouse, ensuring quick dispatch within 1-2 business days.
Selected retailers across the UK also carry our replacement filters. You can contact our customer service team at [email protected] or call +44 7589 341276 to locate the nearest stockist. We offer subscription services for automatic filter delivery at scheduled intervals, helping you maintain your system without having to remember replacement dates.
Activated carbon filters preserve most naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium while removing contaminants. These systems improve water quality without significantly altering mineral content.
Reverse osmosis systems do remove both contaminants and minerals, producing very pure water. Some models include remineralisation stages that add back beneficial minerals after filtration. Most people obtain adequate minerals from food rather than water, but if mineral retention is important to you, we can recommend appropriate models or add-on components that reintroduce minerals while maintaining purity.
We offer a 2-year warranty on manufacturing defects for all system housings, fittings, and structural components. This covers materials and workmanship under normal use conditions. Replacement filters and consumable parts are warranted for 90 days from purchase date.
The warranty requires proper installation according to provided instructions and regular maintenance as specified in the user manual. It does not cover damage from freezing, excessive water pressure, or use with water sources outside recommended parameters. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims, which can be submitted through our customer service department.
Standard carbon filtration systems operate effectively with mains pressure between 2.0 and 6.0 bar, which covers typical UK household supply. Reverse osmosis units require minimum pressure of 2.5 bar for optimal membrane performance.
If your property has lower pressure, we offer models with built-in booster pumps. Pressure that's too high can damage components, so we recommend installing a pressure regulator if your supply exceeds 6.0 bar. You can check your water pressure using an inexpensive gauge available at hardware stores, or contact your water supplier for information about pressure in your area.
Our manufacturing process prioritises resource efficiency and waste reduction. Filter housings are made from recyclable materials, and we've designed cartridges for easy disassembly to separate components for proper recycling.
Using our systems reduces reliance on bottled water, eliminating plastic waste and transport emissions. Activated carbon in our filters comes from sustainable coconut shell sources. We're continuously working to extend filter lifespan and improve the recyclability of all components. While reverse osmosis does produce wastewater, our latest models use 50% less water than older designs, and the rejected water can be collected for non-drinking purposes like garden irrigation.
We manufacture systems suitable for both mains water and private well supplies. Well water often contains higher levels of sediment, iron, manganese, and bacteria, requiring more robust pre-filtration.
For well applications, we recommend models with larger sediment filters and UV sterilisation options. It's essential to have your well water tested before selecting a system, as the specific contaminants present will determine the appropriate configuration. Some well water may require additional treatment for hardness or iron before our standard filters. Contact our technical team with your water test results, and we'll recommend the most effective solution for your situation.
Many of our systems include indicator lights or gauges that monitor filter life based on water volume processed. These alerts provide reliable replacement reminders. Additionally, noticeable changes in water flow rate, taste, or odour suggest filters may be nearing capacity.
We provide replacement schedules in the user manual based on average household consumption. Keeping a simple log of installation dates helps track filter age. If your water supply has temporary quality issues or you notice increased sediment, you may need to replace filters more frequently. Regular replacement prevents bacterial growth in saturated filters and maintains optimal contaminant reduction performance.
Flow rates vary by system type and filtration method. Carbon filter systems typically deliver 3-6 litres per minute, sufficient for filling glasses and cooking pots without significant waiting. Whole-house units provide 15-20 litres per minute to supply multiple taps simultaneously.
Reverse osmosis systems work differently, slowly filtering water into a storage tank that dispenses at normal tap flow rates when you need it. Tank capacity ranges from 8 to 15 litres depending on model. This stored water approach ensures you have immediate access to purified water even though the membrane filtering process itself is gradual.
We manufacture commercial-grade systems for restaurants, offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and other organisations. These units feature higher capacity, more durable components, and faster flow rates to meet increased demand.
Commercial models include options for equipment protection in cafes and food service, where water quality affects machinery and product taste. We can design custom configurations for specific applications, with multiple filtration stages and redundant components. Installation, maintenance contracts, and staff training are available. Contact our commercial division at [email protected] to discuss your requirements and receive a tailored proposal.
Regular maintenance is minimal for most systems. When replacing filters, wipe down the housing interior with a mild bleach solution to prevent bacterial growth. Check connections periodically for any signs of leakage or wear.
Reverse osmosis systems benefit from annual sanitisation of the storage tank and tubing. Inspect O-rings and seals during filter changes, replacing them if they appear worn or compressed. Keep the area around your system clean and dry. If your unit has a drain line, ensure it remains clear. These simple steps take little time but significantly extend system life and maintain water quality. Detailed maintenance procedures are included in your product manual.
Since 2008, Howota has been manufacturing water filtration systems in London, supplying residential and commercial clients across the United Kingdom. Our facility on Elmfield Road produces reverse osmosis units, carbon filter cartridges, and sediment filters using materials sourced from certified European suppliers.
The company started when three chemical engineers identified a gap in the UK market for locally manufactured filtration systems. Instead of importing pre-assembled units, we established a production line that allows us to control every stage – from selecting activated carbon grades to testing membrane performance.
Our first product line consisted of under-sink filters for domestic use. Within two years, we expanded to commercial-grade systems for restaurants and offices in Greater London. By 2012, we were shipping to Birmingham, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
Each filter undergoes pressure testing at 6 bar and flow rate verification before leaving our workshop. We use NSF-certified components and maintain documentation for every batch. Our reverse osmosis membranes remove 96-98% of dissolved solids, measured with calibrated TDS meters.
For commercial clients, we design multi-stage systems based on water analysis reports. A café in Brixton required chlorine removal and scale prevention – we installed a three-chamber unit with KDF media and polyphosphate crystals. The system processes 150 litres per hour.
We also manufacture replacement cartridges compatible with major brands. Our carbon blocks use coconut shell material with 5-micron rating, suitable for reducing taste and odour compounds.
Our production facility holds ISO 9001 certification for quality management. We conduct quarterly audits and maintain traceability records for all materials used in manufacturing.
Our team includes specialists in membrane technology, water chemistry, and hydraulic engineering. We work with Thames Water reports to understand regional contaminant profiles – hardness levels in South London differ from those in North London, requiring adjusted filter specifications.
We've developed custom solutions for schools, dental practices, and food production facilities. Each application requires different filtration stages. A bakery in Croydon needed sediment removal and bacterial reduction – we configured a system with pleated filters and UV sterilization.
Technical support is available during business hours. Our engineers can interpret water test results and recommend appropriate filtration methods. We stock spare parts for systems we've installed over the past decade.
We follow British Standards Institution guidelines for water treatment equipment. All components meet WRAS approval requirements for contact with drinking water.
Every unit undergoes leak testing, flow rate measurement, and contaminant reduction verification. We maintain calibration certificates for all testing equipment.
We source food-grade plastics, lead-free brass fittings, and certified filter media. Supplier documentation is reviewed annually to ensure compliance.
We provide installation manuals, maintenance schedules, and performance data sheets. Technical questions are answered by qualified staff, not automated systems.