Despite the fact that tap water quality has improved dramatically in most parts of the world over the past decade, there are still contaminants in the water you drink. Your water quality report tells you about the water in your area, not about the water coming out of your tap.
If your home was built before lead-free pipes were made obligatory, your water’s quality may be below average. Although you can order free test kits, you may want to take measures into your own hands and purchase a faucet water filter to be sure you are drinking quality water.
These filters date back to the 1800s, with Paisley in Scotland being acknowledged as the first town to receive filtered water. From then on, more citywide filters were installed across Europe and the UK. Today, filtered water is available in various parts of the world.
But, with the technological advancement that the filtration industry has faced, there are so many different types of faucet water filters to choose from. As a result, it can be hard to know which is best for our homes. To help you, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to faucet water filters.
In it, we will tell you what a water filter is, why you should drink filtered water whenever possible, the various types of faucet water filters available, as well as how to install one.
We’ll also share some of their pros and cons, how and when to change your filter, and tell you about some of the most reputable manufacturers in the industry today.
A faucet water filter is used to get rid of any impurities in your water. These filters are used across the globe for various purposes, some of which include irrigation, swimming pools, ponds, public and private aquariums, and to make drinking water more accessible.
The filtration process typically involves a fine layer of carbon filtration that stops contaminants from passing through the faucet. Although it sounds very similar to a sieve or screen, a filter removes particles that are much smaller than the space through which the water passes.
There are various types of filters, all of which are good at removing specific types of contaminants. Some of these include carbon, activated carbon, osmosis membranes, metallic alloy, and ceramic filters.
There are numerous reasons you should opt for filtered water whenever possible, here are some of them:
Despite the U.S. government constantly reminding us of the positive effects fluoride has on our teeth, exposure to too much of it has been proven to have a negative impact on brain development.1
Fluoride is commonly added to tap water to avoid tooth decay, but with dental decay rates so low in the U.S., the benefits of fluoridation are not necessarily relevant anymore.
Fluoride is a chemical that is contaminated with trace amounts of metal that can accumulate in our body over time causing neurodevelopmental disabilities.2
While many countries in Europe drink non-fluoridated water, the same cannot be said for America. As a result, if you want to take extra care for your brain, a faucet water filter could be a good investment.3
Firstly, the EPA has two measures for controlling water contaminants, one is solely based on your health, and the other is based on your health and the costs associated with removing contaminants.
Secondly, the EPA cannot control all contaminants that enter your water. With new chemicals being developed nearly everyday, it is near impossible to keep track of what is entering our water streams.4
Although many of our systems are now regulated by machines, these can malfunction. Mistakes happen and to avoid being affected by them, a faucet water filter is key.
Whether you feel your water department is doing an awesome job or not, your water can still be contaminated because of your pipes.
While lead pipes are no longer used, some have not been replaced and are still in service, meaning your water could be contaminated with lead among other chemicals and materials.5
There are various types of water filters you can choose from depending on the contaminants in your water, your consumption needs, your budget, and the maintenance required. Let’s take a look at them:
These are the simplest and cheapest type of water filter on the market today. Traditionally, they are filled manually and are not connected to your plumbing. They are portable, do not require any installation, and can be used in temporary living situations.
Unfortunately, although they’re great for households with one or two people, they can be a nuisance for larger families. Also, some types of carafes only filter through very few contaminants.
Faucet water filters are easy to install and are a great option for filtering cooking and drinking water directly from your tap. They are perfect for people renting a property as they can be removed and reinstalled easily, and they do not cost a lot of money.
These types of filters reduce a huge variety of contaminants and often come with special adapters that allow them to fit on a range of standard faucets.
Another option is a countertop water filter. Great for renters and people who move regularly, these are easy to install and use. They’re also able to filter larger quantities of water than carafe filters and are less likely to clod.
Their downside is that they do take up counter space and some people find them aesthetically unappealing as well.
Under the sink water filters are often a top choice for people with small living quarters as they do not take up much space. They are high capability filters that often offer a separate drinking water faucet.
Although they can dispense unlimited amounts of water, you will need a plumber or someone with basic plumbing skills to drill a hole through the countertop and install your filter for you.
Another type of under the counter filter is reverse osmosis water filters. They remove a wide range of contaminants and use a separate holding tank for filtered water.
Despite being able to separate even dissolved solids, RO water filters produce a lot of waste water and are normally very slow. They also need to be sanitized more often and parts need to be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
These filtration systems come with various features depending on the one you choose. Some of the most notable ones to consider when choosing a faucet water filter include:
Aside from your initial investment, you need to consider how much it will cost you to maintain your faucet water filter. For example, a reverse osmosis water filter will be significantly more expensive to upkeep than a regular faucet water filter.
Generally speaking, water filters are easy to install. Faucet water filters and countertop filters require you to simply screw the end onto the faucet.
On the other hand, under the sink filters come with their own faucet and aside from drilling a small hole into your countertop, you also need to plumb them into your water system.
Generally, filters need to be maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations which you will receive when purchasing your faucet water filter.
Reverse Osmosis water filters typically need to be taken care of a little better than other types, with regular sanitization as well as membrane and filter replacements required on a regular basis.
If you have very little kitchen space as it is, a countertop water filter could be an inconvenience. If you want a filtration system that doesn’t take up space and is aesthetically pleasing, go for faucet water filter or one that can be hidden away under your sink.
There is a huge variety of water filter models on the market today. You can choose between those that offer simple odor and taste removal features, or delve deeper into avoiding fluoride as well as other chemical and bacterial impurities.
Models that offer all-in-one filtration methods should be favorable as they will give you higher quality drinking and cooking water.
How your faucet water filter is installed will completely depend on the type of filter you choose and your handyman skills.
To install a countertop or faucet water filter, you just have to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Normally, all you’ll have to do is unscrew the standard diffuser on your kitchen faucet and replace it with the diverter valve.
Under the sink faucet water filters and reverse osmosis filters are more complicated and require a basic level of plumbing skills or DIY knowledge. Alternatively, you can hire a plumber.
Once again, following the manufacturer’s instructions is recommended, but simple things to remember when installing an under the sink faucet water filter include:
Installing a water filtration system in your home has a number of undeniable benefits. While they are becoming increasingly popular, they still come with their own set of drawbacks.
Here are the pros of installing a faucet water filter:
A faucet water filter has the capacity to remove harmful contaminants from the water you drinks and cook with. From chlorine to dissolved solids, fluoride, and other pathogenic bacteria, the right water filter will stop any of these from affecting both you and your loved ones.
A water filter will allow you to remove the impurities that can sometimes make your water smell and taste unpleasant. A faucet water filter means you can enjoy fresh water, from the tap.
Degrading plastic has become a serious problem across the world. A faucet water filter will reduce the need for plastic bottled water, thus having a positive impact on the environment. That’s not to mention a reduction in the presence of microplastics in your drinking water.6
Aside from the fact you will no longer have to spend money on buying bottled water, the initial investment of purchasing a faucet water filter is very little and maintenance costs are minor. You’ll thank your lucky stars you bought one in the long run.
Here are the cons of installing a faucet water filter:
Unfortunately, no matter which filtration system you choose, some contaminants are likely to get through. You must choose a good multi-stage filter that combines various methods and materials to stop as many impurities from making their way into your drinking water.
Although maintenance is minimal depending on the model you choose, you will most likely have to clean and replace parts regularly at an extra cost. That said, they cost very little and are still a good investment.
Certain filtration systems come with a significant drop in water pressure. While some are hardly noticeable, others can make water flow slower, so do your research before making a buying decision.
We don’t see this as a huge drawback, but some may find having to install a second tap annoying. You can find models that do not require a second tap, but cheaper models often do. Be aware of your space and your DIY capabilities when choosing your faucet water filter.
Changing your water filter is essential to getting the best possible results out of it. Aside from the fact that it may stop filtering all the necessary impurities, you may find that an old filter slows your water pressure as well.
A water filtration system is like a car, if you don’t do regular maintenance on it, it will stop working. But, how do you know when your filter is getting old? Here are some basic maintenance tips to bear in mind:
The lifespan of your faucet water filter is affected by a range of different factors. The quality of the water itself plays a driving role in dictating how long your filter lasts. If your filter is working hard at blocking out contaminants it will need more regular maintenance.
Water that is heavy with minerals also produces a larger scale build up, thus clogging your filter more quickly. Lastly, the amount of water used will affect how often you should change your filter.
Of course, if you have a family of eight instead of four, you’ll most likely have to change your filter twice as often.
You should consider keeping a spare filter in your home at all times in case you detect signals that your filter needs to be changed. The first way to know if you should change your water filter is to refer to your manufacturer’s manual.
That said, if you have a large household you may need to change your filter more often. For example, if a strange odor or taste comes from the water, your filter may be old. If the water pressure suddenly plummets, check your filter for scale build up.
By choosing a faucet water filter with a clear container you’ll also be able to have a clearer indication as to whether or not your filter needs changing.
As with any product, there are certain water filter manufacturers that are known to be more reliable than others. If you’ve decided to take the plunge and buy a faucet water system, here are some brands we believe you should consider:
Pur has a very exciting history. Founded in 1986 by Brian Sullivan at the age of 24, the brand is best known for its PU Survivor 35, the first hand operated desalinator which kept William Butler hydrated at sea for 66 days.
From there, the company went on to invent the first faucet water filter with Automatic Safety Monitor (ASM), a tool that lets people know when the filter cannot remove contaminants, and therefore, needs replacing.
Pur designed the first pitcher to remove microbial cysts and recently aided in relief efforts in Michigan by testing the waters and providing filters to people.
The brand’s faucet water filters are known to reduce more than seventy contaminants and are certified to remove 99% of lead.
Known on an international level, Culligan was founded in 1936 and sells its products to more than ninety countries across the world. Culligan creates customizable faucet water filters no matter what problems you are having with your water.
One the company’s biggest breakthroughs is its wireless technology. Culligan’s ClearLink PRO allows people to enjoy reverse osmosis filtered water with the touch of one simple button from their main faucet.
Not only this, Culligan has a range of drinking water systems, all of which pride themselves on offering cleaner water thanks to their three advanced filtration methods.
Brita is a family business that was founded in 1966. It has a huge focus on sustainability, building awareness on the number of plastic bottles that end up in landfills and oceans.
The company’s products are distributed across sixty different countries worldwide and include carafes, kettles, and faucet water filters.
Brita filters are made of activated carbon and ion exchange resin. They claim to have double action capabilities- one to remove impurities that could affect the taste and smell of the water, and one that reduces limescale, metals, and other contaminants.
The company has played a front seat role in supporting the Breast Cancer Care Charity and has worked with artists such as Jason Mraz to reduce bottled water waste, offering free filtered water to fans, volunteers, community outreach projects, and environmental organizations.
Known for being a science company, DuPont is dedicated to solving global problems and creating sustainable solutions in everything from food and personal care, agricultural products, industrial biotechnology, as well as various other technologies.
Dupont is recognized worldwide as a company that produces materials that help protect those working in the most dangerous work environments, for example, firefighters, medical teams, and law enforcers.
The company creates a range of water filtration systems that aim to provide healthier, clearer, and better-tasting water to households across the globe. DuPont manufactures carafe water filters, whole house filtration systems, and faucet water filters.
There are certain things you need to think about when choosing your home’s water filtration system. You need to first take into consideration how many people live in your household and how much water is being drunk and used for cooking.
Look at faucet water filters that use multiple filtration methods so that you are sure contamination is kept to a minimum. Be sure that your filter stops dissolved solids as well as various other materials and chemicals from passing through as well.
You then need to establish how much space you have for your filtration system and how much you are able to spend on it.
Look at the various models on the market today and the various features offered by manufacturers. Some brands have designed products with indicators that flash or change color when the filter needs to be replaced, and others come with free filter replacements.
If you still need a hand deciding on the right filtration system for your home, check out our faucet water filter buying guide for more information.
In it, we share more detailed information about faucet water filters as well as give you an insight into what other customers truly think about some of the best products on the market today.