Though similar in principle, the technology used in individual home systems that can be purchased "off-the-shelf" and placed below the kitchen sink is not the same as what Sparcq Water proposes. Sparcq water treatment plants are true utility-grade systems that are far more efficient than the typical home system. Households should bear in mind that in-home systems need frequent recurring maintenance, which includes replacement of filters and costly membranes. Furthermore, the systems are not particularly energy efficient when it comes to electrical power consumption. Lastly, it is of note that a significant amount of waste water is generated by these systems. Reliance on a large-scale, centralized purification system is a much more efficient, eco-friendly and economical solution in most every case.