Water is essential for life, but it can also contain harmful contaminants that affect our health and well-being. That’s why many people choose to use water filters to purify their drinking water and improve its taste and quality. But how do you know which water filter is best for your needs? In this article, we will explore the different types of water filters, their benefits and drawbacks, and how to choose the best one for your home.

APEC ROES-50 Reverse Osmosis System

Crafted with precision in the USA, the APEC ROES-50 Reverse Osmosis System stands as a testament to its supreme quality and unwavering commitment to water safety. Engineered to remove an astounding 99% of impurities, including arsenic, chlorine, lead, fluoride, and heavy metals, this system boasts technology that surpasses expectations. With a maximum total dissolved solids capacity of 2000 ppm and a feed water pressure range of 40–85 psi, it ensures unparalleled water purity.

WQA-certified and backed by two decades of success, this system uses premium, long-lasting filters to treat tap and well water, delivering an endless supply of clean, crisp water that outshines bottled alternatives. The included 100% lead-free designer faucet, along with Certified JG premium-grade tubing and parts, guarantees impurity-free water. Compact in design, it fits snugly under the sink for a seamless installation experience.

With a robust construction and a purification method based on reverse osmosis, the ROES-50 is America’s No. 1 rated water filter brand. The 50-gallon capacity ensures a constant supply of pure water. Say goodbye to impurities and embrace a noise-free, trouble-free system that provides dependable, refreshing hydration. Upgrade your water quality with the APEC ROES-50, the pinnacle of excellence in water purification.

Pros:

• Supreme quality, designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA
• Removes up to 99% of impurities, including arsenic, chlorine, lead, and fluoride
• WQA Certified for water safety
• Premium, long-lasting filters for tap and well water
• 100% lead-free designer faucet and certified tubing
• Compact under-sink installation
• America’s No. 1 rated water filter brand
• 20 years of proven success

Cons:

• Initial investment costs
• Requires installation under the sink
• Regular filter replacements are needed

Brita Standard Everyday Water Pitcher

Upgrade your hydration game with the Brita Standard Everyday Water Pitcher. This BPA-free pitcher doesn’t just hold 10 cups of water; it holds the promise of a greener, tastier lifestyle. Bid farewell to single-use plastic bottles. By making the simple switch to Brita, you’ll save a remarkable 1,800 bottles annually, based on a 16.9-ounce size. The space-efficient design fits seamlessly into your refrigerator, offering easy access to refreshments while saving shelf space.

Crafted for convenience, the pitcher features an easy-fill locking lid and a user-friendly pour design. Standing at a height of 10.47 inches, with a width of 5.59 inches and a length/depth of 10.94 inches, it’s your go-to solution for efficient, eco-friendly hydration. Brita, a trusted water filter brand, takes the lead in reducing chlorine taste and odor, mercury, copper, zinc, and cadmium, ensuring every sip is cleaner and purer.

Compatible with Longlast and Standard water filters, maintaining freshness is a breeze. Replace your Longlast filter every 120 gallons (approximately every 6 months) and the Standard filter every 40 gallons (approximately every 2 months). With the Brita Grand, enjoy not just water but a sustainable, flavorful lifestyle.

Pros:

• BPA-free construction ensures safe and healthy hydration.
• Eco-friendly, saving up to 1,800 single-use plastic bottles annually.
• The space-efficient design fits perfectly on refrigerator shelves.
• Easy-fill locking lid and user-friendly pour for convenience.
• Brita, the #1 water filter, tackles chlorine, mercury, copper, zinc, and cadmium.
• Compatible with Longlast and Standard filters for flexible usage.

Cons:

• Plastic material may not be as durable as other materials.
• Requires periodic filter replacements for optimal performance.

PUR Faucet Water Filtration System

Experience pure hydration with the PUR Faucet Water Filtration System, your gateway to cleaner, better-tasting water. This 3-in-1 powerhouse is certified by WQA and NSF to reduce 70 chemical and physical substances, including lead, setting it apart as the only faucet filter brand with such comprehensive certifications. Say goodbye to microplastics commonly found in tap water—PUR is NSF-certified to tackle that too.

Featuring a quick, tool-free installation and an on/off lever for on-demand filtered water, this system includes a genuine PUR Faucet Mount Water Filter, certified to provide up to 100 gallons or three months of refreshing hydration. The filter change light ensures you never miss a beat in maintaining peak performance.

Crafted from polished stainless steel in a sleek chrome finish, the system is not just functional but also visually appealing. With a single-lever handle and compatibility with most standard faucets, enjoy the convenience of mineral-rich water straight from your tap.

Cost-effective and reliable, the PUR Faucet Water Filtration System is your ticket to savings, helping you cut costs by up to $30 a week. Trusted for over 35 years, PUR stands as the #1 selling brand in faucet filtration, synonymous with rigorous standards and certifications. Upgrade your water experience effortlessly with PUR.

Pros:

• Certified by WQA and NSF to reduce 70 chemical and physical substances, including lead
• NSF certified to reduce microplastics in tap water
• Quick, tool-free installation with on/off lever for filtered water on demand
• Filter change light for timely replacement
• Genuine PUR Faucet Mount Water Filter lasts up to 100 gallons or three months
• Compatible with most standard faucets
• Cost-effective, potential savings up to $30 a week
• Trusted #1 selling brand in faucet filtration for over 35 years

Cons:

• Limited to single-hole installation
• The chrome finish may show water spots over time

ZeroWater 7-Cup Water Filter Pitcher

Elevate your hydration experience with the ZeroWater 7-Cup Water Filter Pitcher, a sleek and efficient solution for crisp, clean water. The 5-stage filtration system removes virtually all total dissolved solids (TDS), ensuring the purest taste in every sip. Certified by NSF to reduce lead, chromium, and PFOA/PFOS, this pitcher goes above and beyond in delivering water that surpasses industry standards.

Featuring a convenient one-hand, push-to-dispense spigot, filling your cup or favorite water bottle is effortless and mess-free. The included TDS meter lets you track water quality, prompting a filter change when the meter reads 006. Made from BPA-free materials, this eco-friendly pitcher not only promotes sustainability but also eliminates the need for up to 300 single-use plastic bottles per filter.

Compact and stylish, the 7-Cup Dispenser with an ergonomic handle is designed for your convenience. The package includes the ZeroWater 5-Stage Filter with Ion Exchange Technology, ensuring your water is free from impurities. Choose the ZP007RP model for a smarter, more sustainable way to enjoy 1.7 liters of refreshing, purified water.

Pros:

• 5-stage filtration for pure, great-tasting water
• NSF certified to reduce lead, chromium, and PFOA/PFOS
• One-hand, push-to-dispense spigot for easy filling
• Eco-friendly, saves up to 1800 plastic bottles per year
• Compact design with ergonomic handle

Cons:

• Requires filter change when TDS meter reads 006
• A limited 7-cup capacity may be insufficient for larger households

Discover the perfect blend of style and functionality with the iSpring CKC1 countertop water filter. Elevate your kitchen with its elegant and compact design that seamlessly integrates into any space. No drilling is required, and its portable and easy installation make it ideal for small kitchens.

Experience ultra-safe drinking water with the included 5-micron Carbon Block Cartridge, removing up to 95% of chlorine, odors, sand, silt, sediment, and rust. Tested independently to meet NSF/ANSI standards, this countertop filter ensures your water is of the highest quality.

The complete filtration system includes a standard 10-inch CTO cartridge, a plastic wrench, two faucet adapters, tubing, and an O-ring for a hassle-free, leak-free installation. With a low-maintenance design, simply replace the filters every 6 months to enjoy continuous purity.

Crafted with durable carbon fiber material, this countertop water filter stands at 12 inches tall, offering a natural look on any counter. Its special features make it portable, and the 30-day money-back guarantee, 1-year limited warranty, and lifetime technical support from Atlanta, Georgia, ensure peace of mind. Upgrade your water quality effortlessly with the iSpring CKC1—where elegance meets efficiency.

Pros:

• Elegant and compact design
• Ultra-safe filtration (95% removal of chlorine, odors, sediment, etc.)
• Easy, drill-free installation
• A complete filtration system included
• Portable and suitable for small spaces
• Durable carbon fiber construction
• 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year limited warranty
• Lifetime technical support from Atlanta, Georgia

Cons:

• Requires filter replacement every 6 months

Best Water Filters Buying Guide

Deciding which water filter is right for your needs can be a daunting task. With so many different types of filters on the market, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each before making a purchase. This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when shopping for a new water filter.

What are the different types of water filters?

There are several broad categories of water filters to choose from. The type you need will depend on your water quality issues and preferred method of filtration.

Pitcher Filters

Pitcher-style filters use a filtering pitcher to remove contaminants as you pour water into the container. These are easy to use and affordable, but they have limited filtration capabilities. Pitcher filters use a simple carbon filter to remove chlorine and improve taste and odor. However, they do not reduce major contaminants like lead or arsenic. Pitcher filters need frequent filter replacements.

Faucet Mount Filters

Faucet-mount filters screw directly onto your existing kitchen faucet. They filter water on demand and are easy to install. Like pitcher filters, faucet mounts primarily use carbon filters to remove chlorine and improve taste and odor. More advanced faucet filters may reduce additional contaminants through ion exchange or membrane filtration. However, filter capacity is lower than in countertop and under-sink systems.

Countertop Filters

Countertop filters offer robust contaminant reduction with the convenience of on-demand filtered water. Countertop systems run water through multi-stage filtration systems, combining methods like carbon filtration, UV irradiation, and reverse osmosis. This allows countertop units to effectively remove sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, microorganisms, and more. Countertop units take up space and require filter changes around twice per year.

Under-sink filters

For whole-house water filtering, under-sink filter systems are a great choice. Water is filtered at the point of use rather than throughout the home. Under-sink filters provide thorough filtration for drinking and cooking using multi-stage filtration media. Installation is more complex than other options, but maintenance is relatively infrequent.

Whole House Filters

Whole-house filtration systems are installed on your main water line to treat all water entering your home. This provides filtered water from every faucet and shower. Effective whole-house systems use backwashing filters, sediment filters, and carbon tanks to remove a wide range of contaminants. Installation costs are higher, but ongoing maintenance is minimal.

What Contaminants Need to Be Removed from Your Water?

The specific contaminants present in your tap water should guide your filter selection. At minimum, most systems will remove chlorine and particulate matter that affect taste and odor. Additional filtration technologies target specific contaminants like lead, arsenic, microorganisms, nitrates, phosphates, and more. Identify your water quality priorities, then look for a system that uses the appropriate filtration method.

What is your preferred filtration method?

Some filtration technologies are better suited for certain contaminants than others. Consider which method aligns with your water quality needs:

• Carbon filtration is best for removing chlorine and improving taste and odor. Also effective for pesticides, solvents, VOCs, and radon.
• Reverse osmosis is excellent for removing total dissolved solids like arsenic, fluoride, radium, nitrates, and phosphates. Can also filter out microorganisms.
• UV irradiation destroys microorganisms and pathogens without chemicals. Limited effectiveness for chemical contaminants.
• Ceramic filtration physically blocks sediment, parasites, bacteria, and protozoa. May also filter some chemicals.
• Ion exchange removes heavy metals like lead and copper. It is also effective for nitrate and radium reduction.

What is your budget for a water filtration system?

Water filter systems range widely in terms of upfront costs and long-term filter replacement needs. In general:

• Pitcher and faucet mount filters have the lowest upfront investment but require frequent and ongoing filter purchases.
• Countertop and under-sink systems have moderate upfront costs but less frequent filter replacement needs.
• Whole-house systems require professional installation and the highest initial purchase price. But they have the lowest long-term maintenance costs.

Consider lifetime costs in addition to your budget for the initial system. A more expensive system may save money in the long run through fewer frequent filter replacements.

Conclusion

Choosing the right water filter involves identifying your specific water quality concerns, preferred filtration method, budget, and maintenance preferences. With so many options, it can help to make a list of your needs and rank filters based on which best fits them. Investing in the right system will provide clean, contaminant-free water for all your drinking and cooking needs. Take the time to research and select the ideal water filtration system for your home and family.

Frequently Asked Question

What types of contaminants can a water filter remove?

Water filters can remove various contaminants, depending on their type and filtration mechanism. Common contaminants include sediment, chlorine, heavy metals like lead and mercury, bacteria, viruses, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

How often should I replace the filter cartridge?

The frequency of filter cartridge replacement depends on the type of filter and the level of water contamination. Typically, manufacturers provide recommendations for replacement intervals, which can range from every two to six months. Some advanced filters come with indicators that signal when it’s time to replace the cartridge.

Are all water filters compatible with my faucet or plumbing system?

Not all water filters are universally compatible with all faucets or plumbing systems. Before purchasing a water filter, it’s essential to check its specifications and compatibility with your faucet or plumbing. Some filters attach directly to the faucet, while others require installation under the sink or at the point of entry into the home.

Do water filters affect the taste and odor of water?

Yes, water filters can significantly improve the taste and odor of water by removing impurities and contaminants that contribute to unpleasant tastes and smells. Filters with activated carbon or charcoal are particularly effective in enhancing water quality in terms of taste and odor.

How do I know if a water filter is certified for safety and effectiveness?

Look for water filters that are certified by reputable organizations such as NSF International or the Water Quality Association (WQA). These certifications ensure that the filter meets specific standards for safety, performance, and contaminant reduction. Additionally, reading customer reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the filter’s effectiveness and reliability.