A water purifier is a device designed to remove harmful contaminants from water, making it safe for drinking. The market offers a variety of purifiers that employ different technologies to eliminate impurities.Some of the most common water purification technologies include reverse osmosis, activated carbon filtration, ultraviolet (UV) light, distillation, chlorination, ozonation, and ceramic filtration.
- 1 How we test water filters
- 2 What to look for when shopping for the best water filter
- 3 What is the healthiest way to filter water?
- 4 Should the water purifier always be on?
- 5 What should we check before buying a water purifier?
- 6 Advantages and disadvantages of water purifiers
- 7 How do I choose the right water purifier for my home?
- 8 What are the different types of water purification technologies?
- 9 How often do I need to replace the filters on my water purifier?
- 10 Can I install a water purifier myself, or do I need a professional?
- 11 How does a water filter pitcher work?
- 12 What contaminants should a water filter pitcher remove?
If you reside in an area with poor water quality or plan to travel to a place where the water may not be safe to drink, water purifiers are essential for ensuring that you have access to clean and safe drinking water.Choosing the right water purifier for your specific needs is crucial, taking into consideration factors such as your water source’s quality, your budget, and the particular contaminants you may need to remove. Regular maintenance, including filter replacement, is also vital to guarantee proper functionality of your water purifier.
The 8 Best Water Purifiers Buying Guide for 2023:Our choice
1.Aquasana 2-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System
Under-counter water filters provide the advantage of purifying all the water that flows out of the faucet. While some options may be expensive and complicated, the Aquasana 2-Stage Under Sink Water Filter strikes a balance between affordability and effectiveness. Plus, it even includes a chrome faucet!
Although the filter’s features and functions are impressive, the installation process can be challenging, and it is designed to be a DIY project. Plan to invest a decent amount of time into setting it up, as it’s known to be difficult. Some users have reported minor leaks from the plastic joints included in the setup, so be cautious when installing them.
Once properly installed, the two-stage filtration system can remove up to 97% of chlorine, lead, asbestos, herbicides, and pesticides, eliminating over 60 common water contaminants with each use. The flow rate is only 0.5 gallons per minute, which is cost-effective since filtration typically costs at least 10 cents per gallon. Overall, the Aquasana 2-Stage Under Sink Water Filter is an exceptional choice for those looking for affordable and effective water filtration.
2.Brita Extra Large 18 Cup Filtered Water Dispenser
For those who want plenty of filtered water readily available but don’t want the hassle of a DIY installation for an under-counter or countertop filter, the Brita Ultra Max Dispenser is an excellent option.
With an 18-cup capacity, this slimline dispenser has enough water for the whole family. It is designed to sit comfortably on a counter without taking up too much space, but it can also fit into a refrigerator. As it is a heavy item when filled with water, it features a spigot on the front to make it easy to fill up cups or bottles, and it has a good flow rate.The Brita Ultra Max Dispenser comes with Brita’s long-life filters that need replacement after filtering 120 gallons of water (there is an indicator on the lid to remind you when to change it). However, you can also use the standard 40-gallon filters if you prefer.
Some users have found it difficult to remove the black plastic lid to replace the filter, and the dispenser itself can be cumbersome and heavy to move. Nonetheless, refilling the dispenser is straightforward, with water entering at the top and filtering through to the bottom.Brita claims that its filter can eliminate up to 99% of chlorine and lead, along with other contaminants such as cadmium, mercury, and benzene. Owners generally report an improvement in the taste of the water.If you desire a large water capacity without plumbing in a water filter, the Brita Ultra Max Dispenser is an ideal choice.
3.Bluevua RO100ROPOT Reverse Osmosis System Countertop Water Filter
This RO system requires no plumbing or installation, making it extremely user-friendly. Simply plug it into any power source and enjoy filtered water whenever you desire! To help maintain the system, we have included a manual flushing function. If the banana-shaped water volume button and the round water-making button flash together, follow the reminder and press them simultaneously to initiate the six-minute self-cleaning process to flush out any remaining contaminants.
The water system automatically enters power-saving standby mode when not in use, reducing power consumption. Additionally, leftover water from a cycle is not considered wastewater, so more water is saved for various household purposes.Four filtration levels are utilized to ensure the purest water possible. The system can filter out 99.9% of all potential contaminants, allowing you to confidently drink your own tap water.
4.Express Water RO5DX Reverse Osmosis Filtration
The Express Water reverse osmosis water filtration system can reduce up to 99.99% of Lead, Chlorine, Fluoride, Nitrates, Calcium, Arsenic, and more, providing you with water that tastes as it should.Our water purification system is designed to provide you with the healthiest water on Earth. All of our water filters are engineered to work together, producing the safest and best-tasting water you will ever drink.
Professional installation can be expensive, which is why Express Water’s quick and easy-to-understand design allows you to install and understand everything about your new water filtration system without wasting money.With Express Water’s water filtration systems, you don’t have to worry about refilling or activating your water filter. The system will automatically fill your water tank with high-quality drinking water.
5.Bluevua RO100ROPOT Reverse Osmosis System Countertop Water Filter
The RO system featured here requires no plumbing or installation. You can simply plug it into any power source and enjoy filtered water at any time. The system comes with a manual flushing function to help maintain its performance. When the banana-shaped water volume button and the round water-making button flash together, follow the reminder and press them simultaneously to trigger the 6-minute self-cleaning process and flush out any remaining contaminants.
To save power, the water system automatically enters a power-saving standby mode when not in use. Additionally, leftover water from a filtration cycle is not deemed wastewater and can be used for other household purposes.
The system utilizes four levels of filtration to ensure the purest water possible, filtering out up to 99.9% of all possible contaminants. The countertop water filters can last between 12-24 months, providing 1-2 years of clean drinking water before needing replacement. The filters are also designed to save water with an impressive 2:1 Pure to Drain ratio. The monitor display shows the service life of the filters and water quality, making it easy for you to keep track of when to replace the filter tubes.
6.APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series
The high-quality and durable filters in this system are capable of eliminating up to 99% of various contaminants, including chlorine, unpleasant tastes and odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and harmful substances such as fluoride, arsenic, lead, nitrates, heavy metals, and over 1,000 other types of pollutants. The maximum level of total dissolved solids (TDS) that can be filtered is 2000 ppm, and the recommended feed water pressure range is between 40 and 85 psi.
7.ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour Pitcher
Pros
- Can be used as a pitcher or water spout
- Comes with water tester
- Affordable
Cons
- Only fits 12 cups at a time
- Does not filter as much as a reverse osmosis filter
If you prefer having chilled filtered water readily available in the refrigerator (and don’t want the hassle of constantly refilling pitchers), this option is ideal for you. The water filter pitcher is lightweight and boasts a unique design that features both a top pour and side spigot for quick access to clean water while the top compartment is still filtering. Customers appreciate its sleek appearance and included water testing meter, which assists them in determining when it’s time to change the filter. With each filter providing 20 gallons of clean water, you can expect them to last approximately one to two months based on usage. Ensure that you replace the filter and wash and dry the interior of the pitcher to prevent mold from forming.
8.PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System
Pros
- Easy to attach
- Light up when filter needs to be replaced
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not filter as much as a reverse osmosis filter
- Filter needs to be replaced every 3 months
The PUR carbon filter is equipped with three screw attachments that can be easily fitted onto most faucets, except pullout or handheld ones. Customers find it a breeze to install and appreciate the improvement in the taste of their water. The filter comes with an attached light that alerts you when it’s time to replace the filter, preventing dirty filters from contaminating your water. Each filter can typically clean 100 gallons of water and lasts for around three months. This filter has NSF certification, and it can reduce up to 70 contaminants, making it a great option for those who want to safeguard their kitchen tap water from lead, pesticides, and disinfection byproducts without the need for a more extensive reverse osmosis system.
How We Selected
To determine the best water filters, we spoke with several registered dietitians about the differences between the types of water filters and the types of contaminants they filter. We prioritized filters that have been third-party certified, but didn’t use that criteria as automatic grounds for dismissal from our list.
In reviewing the various water filters on the market, we took into consideration filtration methods, contaminants removed, ease of installation, and lifetime costs and maintenance. We offered a range of filter types so you can find one that best meets your needs—and your budget.
Types of water filtration methods:
- Activated carbon filters: These filters use activated carbon to soak up impurities that produce unpleasant tastes or odors. This can include organic matter, volatile organic compounds, chlorine, and others per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- Ion exchange filters: Water is passed through synthetic resin. Harmless charged ions on the surface of the resin are exchanged with harmful charged contaminants in the water. This can be useful for removing arsenic, chromium, cyanide, and other impurities.
- Reverse osmosis filters: This process forces water at high pressure through semipermeable filters, removing a larger range of contaminants such as heavy metals, bacteria, and viruses.
- Mechanical filters: Water is passed through a mesh filter that traps particles. These types of filters remove larger materials such as sand, silt, and organic matter.
- UV filters: Ultraviolet light can be used to remove microbial contamination in water, reducing bacteria, protozoa, and viruses present. UV light is not, however a filter, but rather a method of disinfection. It does not remove contaminants such as heavy metals, chlorine, or chemicals. UV filtration will not improve the taste or smell of your water.
- Commonly filtered contaminants: Different filters are able to filter varying contaminants. The common contaminants include those that can impact taste and smell, such as chlorine. Chlorine is often added to water as a disinfectant to kill microbial organisms, but it can result in an unpleasant taste.
Other contaminants water filters may remove include microplastic particles, fluoride, larger particles like sediment or sand, or harmful toxic heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic.
The contaminants a filter is able to remove will vary, so be sure to check for a list of contaminants your filter removes or reduces.
Installation
Water filter installation will vary based on the type of filter. Certain filters such as pitchers, counter top, water bottle, and certain faucet attachments and under sink filters can be installed on your own. For whole house filters, you will likely need to hire a professional.
Lifetime Costs & Maintenance
Water filters need to be replaced every so often to ensure they continue to function properly. Smaller filters such as pitchers, faucet attachments, or countertop filters often have to be replaced every 2 to 3 months. While this is usually an easy process, it can add to overall costs over time. Larger filtration systems, such as whole house filters, often require less frequent replacing.
How we test water filters
In order to find the best water filters, we search the filter market and use our categorical expertise to narrow it down to the most promising products.
We take into account how easy it is to set up and, if applicable, how easy it is to pour and how much water it holds. We also read each instruction manual for clarity and look at whether pitcher models are dishwasher safe. As applicable, we test performance factors like how quickly it filters a cup of water and measure how much water the tap water reservoir can hold.
We also verify contaminant removal claims via third-party data. We review how long each filter lasts and the yearly cost to replace filters if changing filters at the recommended time frame.
What to look for when shopping for the best water filter
When shopping for a water filter, there are several factors to consider in order to choose the best one for your needs. Some important things to look for include:
- The type of filter: Different types of water filters are designed to remove different types of contaminants. For example, some filters are designed to remove bacteria and viruses, while others are designed to remove chemicals and heavy metals. Make sure you choose a filter that is designed to remove the specific contaminants that are present in your water.
- The filter’s performance: It’s important to choose a filter that has been certified to meet certain performance standards. This will ensure that it effectively removes the contaminants from your water.
- The filter’s flow rate: The flow rate of a water filter refers to how much water it can filter in a given amount of time. A higher flow rate means the filter can provide more clean water quickly, so consider this factor if you have a large family or high water usage.
- The filter’s lifespan: Most water filters have a limited lifespan and will need to be replaced after a certain amount of time or a certain number of gallons of water have been filtered. Look for a filter with a long lifespan to save money and reduce waste in the long run.
- The filter’s price: Water filters can vary widely in price, so consider your budget when shopping. Keep in mind that a more expensive filter may be more effective at removing contaminants, have a longer lifespan, or have a higher flow rate, so it could be worth the extra cost.
- The filter’s maintenance requirements: Some water filters require more frequent maintenance and replacement of parts than others. Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your filter when choosing one.
Overall, the best water filter for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to do some research and compare different filters before making a decision.
What is the healthiest way to filter water?
There are several ways to filter water, and the healthiest option will depend on the specific contaminants present in your water and your personal preferences. Some common methods for filtering water include:
- Activated carbon filters: These filters use activated carbon, which is a highly porous form of carbon, to remove contaminants from water. Activated carbon filters are effective at removing many different types of contaminants, including chlorine, chemicals, and some heavy metals.
- Reverse osmosis filters: Reverse osmosis filters use a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. These filters are effective at removing many different types of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
- UV filters: UV filters use ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in water. These filters are effective at removing many different types of microorganisms, but they do not remove chemicals or heavy metals.
- Distillation: Distillation is a process that involves boiling water and collecting the resulting steam, which is then cooled and condensed back into water. This process removes many different types of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
Overall, the healthiest way to filter water will depend on the specific contaminants present in your water and your personal preferences. It’s a good idea to have your water tested to determine what contaminants are present, and then choose a filtering method that is effective at removing those contaminants.
Should the water purifier always be on?
It’s not necessary for a water purifier to be on all the time. Most water purifiers are designed to be used on an as-needed basis, and only need to be turned on when you want to use the filtered water. This means you can turn the purifier off when it’s not in use to save energy and prolong the lifespan of the filter.
However, some water purifiers are designed to be installed on your main water supply line and provide filtered water to your entire home. In this case, the purifier would need to be on all the time in order to provide filtered water to your taps. If you have a whole-house purifier, you should check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the best way to use and maintain it.
Overall, the decision to keep your water purifier on or off will depend on the type of purifier you have and how it is installed. If you have any doubts or questions, it’s a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a plumber or water treatment professional.
What should we check before buying a water purifier?
Water quality, TDS, and water pressure are the main factors that you should check before buying a water purifier.
Advantages and disadvantages of water purifiers
The main advantage of using a water purifier is that it can effectively remove contaminants from your drinking water, making it safer and healthier to consume. This can help reduce your risk of waterborne illnesses and improve the overall quality of your drinking water.
Some other potential advantages of using a water purifier include:
- Improved taste: Water purifiers can remove unpleasant tastes and odors from your drinking water, making it more enjoyable to drink.
- Flexibility: There are many different types of water purifiers available, so you can choose the one that best meets your needs and fits your budget.
- Convenience: Many water purifiers are portable and easy to use, so you can take them with you when you travel or use them in different areas of your home.
On the other hand, some potential disadvantages of using a water purifier include:
- Cost: Water purifiers can be expensive, especially if you need to replace the filters regularly.
- Maintenance: Some water purifiers require regular maintenance and cleaning to keep them working properly.
- Ineffectiveness: Not all water purifiers are effective at removing all contaminants from your drinking water. Some may only remove certain types of contaminants, while others may not remove contaminants at all.
- Reduced mineral content: Some water purifiers can remove beneficial minerals from your drinking water, reducing its nutritional value.
In general, the advantages of using a water purifier outweigh the disadvantages, as long as you choose the right purifier for your needs and maintain it properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Water purifiers can remove a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, algae, fungi, minerals, and man-made pollutants.
The specific contaminants that a water purifier can remove depend on the type of purification technology it uses. For example, reverse osmosis systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals and dissolved solids, while ultraviolet (UV) systems are effective at killing bacteria and viruses.
How do I choose the right water purifier for my home?
- Consider the quality of your water source, your budget, and your specific needs when choosing a water purifier.
- If you get your water from a municipal source, you can usually find out about the quality of your water by contacting your local water utility or checking their website.
- If you get your water from a well or other private source, you may need to have it tested to determine what contaminants are present.
- Your budget will also be a factor when choosing a water purifier. There are a wide range of options available at different price points.
- Consider your specific needs, such as whether you need a purifier that can remove specific contaminants, or one that is portable for use while traveling.[1]Choosing a water-purifier for home?
What are the different types of water purification technologies?
There are several types of water purification technologies, including:
- Reverse osmosis
- Activated carbon filtration
- Ultraviolet (UV) light
- Distillation
- Chlorination
- Ozonation
- Ceramic filtration
- Each of these technologies is designed to remove specific contaminants from water. For example, reverse osmosis systems use a membrane to filter out a wide range of contaminants, while UV systems use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses.
How often do I need to replace the filters on my water purifier?
The frequency with which you need to replace the filters on your water purifier will depend on the specific model and the quality of your water.
Some purifiers have filters that need to be replaced every few months, while others have filters that can last for up to a year or more.
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on when to replace the filters on your specific model.[2]Water filter how often should I change them?
Can I install a water purifier myself, or do I need a professional?
Some water purifiers are designed to be easily installed by the homeowner, while others may require the assistance of a professional.
If you are comfortable with basic plumbing and have the necessary tools, you may be able to install a water purifier yourself.
However, if you are uncertain about your ability to install a water purifier, it is recommended to hire a professional. Incorrect installation can lead to poor performance or even damage to the purifier.
How does a water filter pitcher work?
A water filter pitcher is designed to remove a wide range of contaminants from tap water, including chlorine, chemicals, and some heavy metals. The specific contaminants that a water filter pitcher can remove will depend on the type of filter it uses and its performance ratings.
Most water filter pitchers use a type of filter called an activated carbon filter. Activated carbon is a highly porous form of carbon that is effective at removing many different types of contaminants from water. It can remove chlorine, which is commonly used to disinfect tap water but can give water a harsh, unpleasant taste and smell. Activated carbon filters can also remove chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides, and industrial pollutants, as well as some heavy metals, such as lead and mercury.
It’s important to note that not all water filter pitchers are the same, and some may be more effective at removing certain contaminants than others. If you are concerned about specific contaminants in your water, it’s a good idea to check the performance ratings of the water filter pitcher you are considering and choose one that is effective at removing those contaminants. You can also have your water tested to determine what contaminants are present and choose a filter that is designed to remove those contaminants.
What contaminants should a water filter pitcher remove?
Most water filter pitchers will improve the taste and smell of drinking water by ridding it of odorous chemicals such as chlorine. Some more expensive or high-quality models also remove heavy metals, pesticides, PFAs, pathogens and other contaminants. Each water filter pitcher should state clearly on the packaging or website the exact materials it is intended to remove from water.
References