NTM Water Filters for the Home

Reduce exposure to NTM bacteria in showers and household water

Nontuberculous mycobacteria, commonly called NTM, occur naturally in soil and water. They can also be present in municipal water supplies and household plumbing.

When contaminated water leaves a showerhead or tap, tiny droplets and aerosols may be released into the air. These can be inhaled. People with bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, COPD, existing NTM lung disease or weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to infection. The CDC confirms that NTM can be found in household water and inhaled through aerosols produced by showers and other water sources.

SWP point-of-use filters create a physical barrier between the household water supply and the person using the outlet.

Why ordinary water treatment may not be enough

Municipal water is treated to make it safe for the general population. However, NTM can tolerate commonly used disinfectants and may survive within biofilm inside water heaters, pipes, taps and showerheads.

This does not mean that every household water supply contains dangerous levels of NTM. It means that vulnerable people may wish to take additional practical steps to reduce their exposure.

SWP filters use hollow-fibre membrane technology with a pore size of 0.15 microns. The membrane acts as a mechanical barrier, retaining bacteria before the water leaves the shower or tap.

NTM Info & Research includes point-of-use filtration with a pore size below 0.2 microns among the measures that may help reduce exposure to NTM in household water. Read its exposure-reduction guidance.

Choose the right filter for your home

Shower-Safe

A filtered showerhead designed to reduce exposure to bacteria carried in shower water and aerosols.

0.15-micron hollow-fibre membrane
Reusable shower housing
Replaceable filter cartridge
Available in white and chrome
Suitable for standard flexible shower hoses
Typical filter life: four to six months, depending on use and water quality

Shower Filters

Tap-Safe

A compact point-of-use filter for compatible bathroom or kitchen taps.

Filters water immediately before it leaves the tap Useful for handwashing, face washing and other daily activities Replace the filter when the flow noticeably decreases or the recommended capacity is reached.

Tap Filters

Under-Sink Filter

Designed for homes where a filter cannot be attached directly to the tap.

Installed beneath the sink
Options for cold-water or separate hot- and cold-water lines Longer filter life than smaller tap-mounted products Professional installation may be advisable.

A physical barrier—not a chemical treatment

SWP filters do not add chemicals to the water. Water passes through thousands of hollow fibres containing microscopic pores. Water can pass through these pores, while bacteria larger than the membrane pore size are retained inside the filter.

This point-of-use approach provides protection at the outlet where exposure occurs. It does not disinfect the building’s complete plumbing system or remove biofilm elsewhere in the pipework.

Important information

SWP filters are designed to reduce exposure to bacteria in water. They cannot guarantee that a person will not acquire or experience a recurrence of an NTM infection. They should form part of a wider exposure-reduction plan agreed with the person’s respiratory consultant or healthcare professional.

Filters must be installed, maintained and replaced according to the product instructions. Actual service life depends on water quality, pressure and usage.

Protect the outlets you use most

Start with the shower and taps used most frequently. If you are unsure which product fits your plumbing, send us a photograph of the shower or tap connection and we will help you identify the most suitable option.