The best countertop water filter can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and the functionality of your kitchen. To be specific, using these filters is ideal for removing contaminants by using a simple DIY Tool. That said, before getting one for your kitchen, there are a few key factors that you need to consider.
That is the primary purpose of this guide – to help you make a better decision regarding water filtration applications. Using this type of filter will not only eliminate contaminants and bacteria, but it will also alkalize your drinking water. As such, it’s a filter that will improve your health and overall well-being. The good thing about these types of filters is that they are easy to set up DIY. Below is some useful information to help you get started with the selection process:
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Factors to Consider When Buying a Countertop Water Filter
How to Install a Countertop Water Filter
Setting up a countertop water filter is a simple process. You may have to get an adjustable wrench for the installation process. That said, some types are available with convenient wrenches that you can use for the process. The following are some of the steps involved:
- Put the water filter close to the faucet. Ensure the filter sits close enough to the faucet, such that you can connect the water line conveniently.
- Detach the aerator component for the faucet
- If the faucet features an exterior thread, use it to connect the filter. Plus, if the faucet has an internal thread, use an adapter to connect the faucet, and seal it using a screw. Ensure you complete the sealing with a washer. Also, avoid screwing the adapter tightly since it can cause negligent damage.
- Connect the diverter valve to the faucet. Once it’s complete, start the water and check the consistency of the water flow
- When you adjust the diverter valve, ensure that flows out from the filter.
How Countertop Water Filters Work
While they might seem like basic devices, countertop filters consist of many different components. These components work to filter out the water, but some brands might have additional filtration procedures. Here is what you can expect:
Mechanical Filtration
It’s the first procedure in the filtration procedure. Water travels through the filter, which has microscopic pores. On average, these pores have sizes of between o.1 – 0.3 microns. These are small enough to remove particles as small as minerals and more. Plus, it will also work well to remove bacteria and large parasites.
Water Softening
It’s often the second procedure in the filtration of water. The process occurs through ion exchange resins, that will eliminate magnesium and calcium from the water. As such, the water becomes “softer” in nature. The method also works to remove heavy metals and toxins that exist in the water.
Activated Carbon Filtration
The third type is the most important because it’s powerful and can remove various kinds of contaminants. The common ones, including herbicides, volatile organic substances, chlorine, and more. These are substances that can accumulate in the body over time and pose a health risk.
Alkalization (Optional)
Just as the name suggests, the filter works to restore the original compounds in the water during this process. Alkaline water is much safer to consume than conventional types of water.
Remineralization (Optional)
While it’s the most difficult to find on the consumer market, it can be a great way to restore your water quality. Remineralization filters will release calcium and magnesium ions in water, to make it healthy for consumption.
FAQ & Answers
If you still clarify some of the factors associated with water filters, check out the following questions
Q. Does a countertop filter eliminate chlorine from tap water?
A. Yes. Any water filter with carbon and a multi-stage structure will eliminate chlorine
Q. Is filtered water a better option compared to bottled water?
A. No, and yes. Yes, because filtered water does not contain contaminants, and is readily available. No, because bottled water contains a better balance of mineral water.
Q. Does the taste and flow rate of water help determine when to change the filter?
A. No, these factors are not important. Some filters can still deliver great tasting water, even if after exceeding their lifespans. Remember to consult with the product instructions to determine the best time to change water filters.
Q. Can I connect a water filter to several faucets?
A. No. These units are designed to be installed only on one faucet. However, you can quickly adjust it, and install it around your preferred faucet.
Q. Will bacteria develop in my faucet water filter?
A. Yes. While the filter works to improve the quality of water, it can also lead to bacteria’s development. Thus, it’s good to ensure you flush the water for a few seconds before switching on the filter. Repeat this process a few times to ensure the best results
Q, Do I need a large countertop to install a water filter?
A. No. Modern countertop filters are compact and can easily fit around small spaces in your kitchen – perfect for compact spaces.
Best Countertop Water filter Under $100
Brita Ultra Max with 1 Longlast Filter, Extra Large 18 Cup, Black
Space efficient, simple, and durable. These are just some of the few benefits you can expect when using the Brita Ultra Max Longlast Filter. This unit can hold 18 cups of 1.13 gallons of water to make it ideal for large families and more. Plus, it also fits neatly on countertops, and refrigerator shelves have a modern and compact design.
The BPA-free long-lasting filter is also certified to reduce well over 99% of lead, chlorine, mercury, asbestos, and more. As such, you are always sure of great tasting water when you have this water filter with you. Even more, the filter features an electronic indicator, which shows when it’s the right time to get your filter replaced. Thus, the Brita Ultra max will provide a 3x longer lifespan when compared to PUR lead reduction filters.
You will be pleased to know this unit features a spigot, making it easy to pour the water. Plus, with the unique flip-top lid, refilling this unit is a breeze. It’s a powerful filter, which you can use to replace 900 standard 16 oz water bottles. Thanks to this convenient filter, you will find it easy to stay hydrated, and it even makes up for a plastic waste-free solution.
PROS:
- Space efficient and can hold 19 cups of water
- BPA certified filter will reduce lead and chlorine
- Comes with an electronic indicator
CONS:
- The electronic indicator could be larger in size
AmazonBasics AMZB-G30CW Filtration System
Enjoy high-quality water when you have the Amazonbasics AMZB-G30CW Filtration System. This 5 stage countertop water filtration system is highly effective and will remove various types of impurities. For instance, it can remove chlorine and the unpleasant odors you typically associated with unfiltered water. Plus, attaching this unit to your kitchen or bathroom faucet is a highly convenient procedure.
To make things better, the 30,000-gallon filter is maintenance-free, and won’t require any filter changes, to make it highly convenient for your needs. It also fits the conventional faucet and is easy to set up using DIY techniques. Thanks to the convenient diverter valve, you will find it easy to switch between filtered and unfiltered water.
With such a convenient water filter, you will have easy water on demand. Functionality does end there when you have the Amazonbasics filter in your hands. Wait, there is more? Well, this unit also has a heavy-duty construction, such that you have a filter for longevity purposes as well. Its also easy to use, because you just have to press a button, and voila! Clean water comes out from the spout on the filter.
PROS:
- 5 stage filtration system with a high-quality filter
- Comes with a convenient diverter valve
- Can reduce the presence of chlorine and particulates
CONS:
- N/A
iSpring CKC1C Countertop Drinking Water Filtration System with Carbon Filter
The iSpring CK1C Countertop Drinking, Water Filtration system, is also an excellent addition to your countertop. It’s a filtration system with a clear or see-through housing, which will let you visually inspect the filter to determine when its time to make a change. Plus, it comes with a 5-micron carbon cartridge that can eliminate well over 90% of impurities since its ultra-safe. These include impurities such as sand, silt, sediment, rust, and more from your water.
Plus, it’s also exceptionally effective when removing volatile organic compounds that might exist in your water. The common ones include herbicides, industrial chemicals, and pesticides. There is no drilling required when using this unit because it’s highly convenient to use.
There is nothing better than when you get a fully functional water filtration system for your needs. Thus, this is what you can expect when using the iSpring CK1C countertop filter. It’s available with two faucet adapters, a plastic wrench, O-ring and more. The inclusion of a high-quality coconut shell filter ensures you enjoy clean and healthy water each time. With such a unique combination of features, it’s easy to see why this unit is ideal for apartments, houses, etc.
PROS:
- Comes with a clear housing for convenience
- Has a 5-micron carbon block cartridge
- Easy to install and portable design construction
- Available with a plastic wrench and two faucet adapters
CONS:
- Replacing the filter is not easy
Aquasana AQ-4000W Countertop Drinking Water Filter System, White
Capable of removing various types of impurities from your water, the Aquasana AQ-400W water filter system is also an excellent recommendation for your needs. While this unit filters out contaminants, it won’t compromise the mineral structure of your water. In fact, it works to retain minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium for health water each time.
The filter is an exceptional 11 times the capacity of modern filter pitchers on the market. It is easy to attach and does not require permanent fixtures or installation procedures. The water is filtered right from your tap. Also, the water filter system does not need a plumber, and performing replacements is a breeze.
A three-stage filtration system backs the unique twin cartridge mechanism. The system features a unique combination of carbon filtration, sub-micron filtration, and ion exchange mechanisms. For the best filtration results, this unit forces water under pressure over the filtration material – the material provides well over two million square feet of surface area. Also equipped with the filter is selective claryum filtration technology. The technology will remove harmful contaminants and will preserve beneficial minerals.
PROS:
- Does add contaminants to your water
- Retains health minerals such as calcium and potassium in your water
- Easy to attach and does not require fixtures
CONS:
- Small water filter jar size
Best Countertop Water filter Between $100 to $200
APEX EXPRT MR-2050 Quality Dual Countertop Drinking Water Filter
Designed to help you enjoy high-quality water conveniently, the APEX EXPRT MR-2050 Water filter is also an excellent recommendation. This unit will eliminate 99% of the substances that commonly exist in tap water such as chlorine. Plus, it also removes various other impurities such as radon, benzene, chloramine, water, and more. The makers of this unit have also done well to ensure it will prevent the accumulation of microorganisms in your water.
While most filters will strip the useful minerals from your water, this type will add magnesium, potassium, and calcium – perfect for raising the water alkalinity levels. You will also be pleased with the unique way in which this unit sits on your chosen surface. It’s easy to install, and you can easily connect it to most household kitchen faucets. The good thing is that it’s also available with all the installation hardware you need to set it up for your needs.
Similar to all the high end filters on the market, this unit is made using heavy duty plastic. Thus, you are sure of a filter that offers longevity, and also complements the appeal of your modern kitchen setting. By using this countertop alkaline water filter, you will stop wasting money on the conventional and disposable bottles of water today. Therefore, the water filter makes up for a reliable addition to your modern countertop.
PROS:
- Will remove 99% of substances that you commonly find in water
- Easy to connect to modern faucet models
- Comes with all the installation hardware
CONS:
- The installation hardware makes this set heavy
CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter
Water is an essential resource for your well being. Thus, this is why the CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter would be an excellent addition to your kitchen. It’s a highly efficient water filter that you will find easy to install and set up in your chosen space. The most notable aspect of using this filter is that its easy to connect directly to the cold-water supply in your kitchen. Plus, the installation process only takes a few minutes, and you will only need a wrench for the procedure.
Thanks to micro sediment membranes’ inclusion, you have a more than reliable way to filter out your water. More so, the UC-200 process will purify your water without compromising the beneficial minerals. Yes, that’s right! It’s a filter which removes contaminants, while enhancing the quality of your water each time.
The bacteriostatic filtration system is unlike most that you have come across on the consumer market. To be specific, the filter is exceptionally durable, and it’s not susceptible to issues such as bacteria or mold. More so, it’s also available with a compression inlet for convenient use.
PROS:
- Easy to assemble and set up for water filtration
- Has a unique 3 stage filtration process
- Comes with micro sediment membranes
CONS:
- Somewhat large that most filter brands
APEC FILTER-MAXCTOP US MADE 90 GPD Complete Replacement Filter
Clean water is easy to prepare when you have the right resources. Thus, this is why the APEC Filter MAXCTOP filter would also be a serious contender on this list. The filter has the correct combination of components to make it effective at filtering most types of water. For instance, the filter features a sediment, coconut shell carbon, and dow filter membrane. For this reason, you will find it to be highly effective at cleaning most types of water.
Also, the Filmtec 90 GPD membrane has been individually tested to provide the best filtration results. As one of the best filters on the market, this unit can remove well over 99% of the contaminants in your water. The carbon filters are more powerful than most filters on the market to make things better, and it’s also not susceptible to leaking issues.
Thanks to the super high capacity filters, you are sure of optimal performance with every water filtration session. It’s a standard-sized filter that features a 1/4@” JG quick connector fittings. These fittings make it easy to connect or disconnect your filter for ease of use. The pre-filters on this unit will remove dirt, sand, chlorine, unusual tastes, and more. With such a unique combination of filtration features, you can be sure of a unit that will also extend your filter’s longevity.
PROS:
- Comes with a sediment, shell carbon and filmtec membrane
- Certified to remove well over 99% of contaminants in water
- Equipped with a powerful pre-filter for top performance
CONS:
- N/A
Santevia Gravity Water System - Countertop Model
Protect your home from water contaminants when you have the Santevia Gravity Water System. This unit will restore your tap water, for clean and great tasting water results each time. It will even mineralize the water, all through the use of gravity, with no chemicals or artificial materials required during the entire process.
Even more, this filter is the most advanced water filter system on the market, and it offers longevity. As one of the most unique filters on the market, this unit even features a fluoride filtration system. It will eliminate fluoride filter chemicals, without leaving any residual compounds in the water. Even more, you should know that 94% of tap water in the USA contains microplastics. For this reason, this filter features a 0.3-micron filter that will virtually remove all contaminants from the water.
The aligned magnets on this unit will activate, realign, and energize the water for improved absorption. The porous maidan stones work to oxygenate the water, while also adding minerals such as manganese and calcium.
PROS:
- Comes with a fluoride filtration mechanism
- The 0.3-micron filter is powerful
- The aligned magnet will help re-energize the water
CONS:
- Replacing the filter is not easy
SVAGO Kitchen Countertop Drinking Water Faucet Filter
Discover the excellence of the SVAGO Kitchen Countertop Faucet Filter. Whether you want a refreshing glass of water or ongoing water for coffee, this unit is perfect. Its an excellent filter that will provide great tasting water – perfect for small kitchen spaces. The water filter comes with a diverter valve, which ensures you retain the functionality from your kitchen faucet. It lets you do this by just switching between filtered and unfiltered water.
The makers of this unit have also made it easy to check the remaining lifespan of your filter. How is this possible? It’s all thanks to the 240-display screen, which informs you of the right time to replace the filter. The filter is powerful and can remove various types of contaminants. These include chlorine, lead, cysts, and various other impurities.
As a fully functional water filter, this unit comes with all the essential tools you need for convenient installation. These include a filter cartridge, wrench, faucet adapter, and gasket.
PROS:
- Comes with a convenient diverter valve
- Equipped with a 240-display screen
- Available with installation tools for convenience
CONS:
- It takes a few minutes to set up effectively
Best Countertop Water filter Over $200
Frizzlife Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
The Frizzlife Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration system is simple and powerful. It offers superior performance, whereby it can filter out particles as small as 0.0001 microns in size. The filter also supports 4 stage ultra-reverse osmosis technology, to make it convenient for your needs. With this filter, you are sure of a product that can eliminate various types of contaminants. These include lead, chlorine, heavy metals, arsenic, and more. The good thing is that you get all these benefits with just the simple push of a button.
Equipped with an advanced drain water recycle mechanism, this unit has a drain water ration that can reach 5:1. Thus, this water filter is exceptionally efficient compared to most brands you will find on the market. Thanks to the convenient inbuilt smart screen, you have a reliable and intelligent indicator. Why? The indicator will inform you of when to perform filter replacements. Also, it will indicate when it’s the right time to refill the tank.
You will also be pleased with the fact this unit is easy to install in your chosen space. Aside from the kitchen, you can use it in your office, bedroom, and more. It’s a tankless, small, and stylish product for your needs. The selection button lets you choose varying levels of water for your needs.
PROS:
- Equipped with a powerful 0.0001-micron 4 stage filter
- Has an advanced drain water recycle mechanism
- Installation free and easy to change filter
- Portable and stylish filter design
CONS:
- N/A
Avalon A8CTBOTTLELESSWHT Countertop Self Cleaning Touchless Bottleless Filter
Realize what you have been missing when enjoying clean water when you finally get the Avalon A8CTB0TTLELESSWHT countertop filter. This unit comes with a full installation kit to make things highly convenient for your needs. To be specific, the installation kit features a tubing, three-way plastic, push connect adapter, a shut-off valve, and detailed instructions. As such, you are sure of a powerful filter that you can use to improve your water quality.
Plus, thanks to the unique dual filtration mechanism, the quality of water is always exceptional. The dual filters feature a sediment and carbon block filter that can filter as much as 1500 gallons of water. To make things convenient, the water filter is available with a convenient hot and cold water spout. When using the water cooler dispenser, you can choose between different outputs that will suit your needs.
Designed to be a bottleless water cooler system, you can forget about constant purchases of water. Besides that, the water is filtered with the dual filtration system, which features a sediment and carbon block filter. The filter also comes with a self-cleaning mechanism that will sanitize and purify the dispenser. As such, you are sure of a unit that will prevent germs and bacteria accumulation – perfect for making high-quality water.
PROS:
- Comes with a full installation kit
- The dual filtration setup is powerful
- Equipped with hot and cold water spouts
CONS:
- The water spout is small for some
AQUA TRU Countertop Water Filtration Purification System
Make dirty water a thing of the past when you have the AQUATRU Countertop Water filtration system. This unit features a powerful reverse osmosis system, which is perfect for your overall health and well-being. It will purify your water, and it contains all the minerals required to raise your body’s pH. Plus, it also does well to prevent an “acidic” environment – which is also excellent for boosting your overall health.
Even more, the filter is powerful and can remove well over 82 contaminants. It’s 15x more powerful than the conventional filters you will find on the market. The filter eliminates toxins such as chlorine, radium, fluoride, copper, and more. The best part about using this filter is that it does not require any installation and is simple to use.
A large number of filters and water purifying systems claim to be effective against contaminants and harmful chemicals. However, this is not true, and you will be safe only with legitimate filtration products. With the AQUATRU filtration system, you can feel confident that you will get clean water with convenience each time. Furthermore, the filter uses a 4 step filtration system that is highly effective at combating contaminants. The filter even has a simple to use dispensing button, that lets you fill your glass up fast. Thanks to digital display inclusion, you will find it easy to determine when it’s the right to change the water filters.
PROS:
- Will restore the nutrient structure of your water
- Can remove various types of toxins
- Does not require any installation of plumbing
CONS:
- The digital display is small
KFLOW Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System, Countertop RO Water Filter
Enjoy a reliable supply of clean water when you have the KFLOW Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System. This 4 stage filter system will block impurities and convert ordinary tap water into drinking water within a relatively short time span. As such, you are sure of enjoying water with a crisp and sweet taste. Plus, the reverse osmosis membrane on this unit offers an exceptional 0.0001um filtration accuracy level. It does this while also eliminating 99% of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, arsenic, radium, and more.
All the materials on this filter are made using food-grade material, which is perfect for your overall health. You will be pleased with the impurity elimination rate that this unit can provide compared with most generic filters on the market. Moreover, the filter is easy to install, to make it perfect for novice users or convenient use in your kitchen space. What’s more, the filter has an elegant appearance, which blends well with most modern spaces or kitchen countertops.
As you would expect with all high-end water filters, this unit is also available with unique features to make things convenient. What exactly is this? Well, the filter features an electronic filter indicator, which will remind you of the time remaining to replace the filter. Also, the spiraled filter system makes filter replacement a highly convenient procedure.
PROS:
- Comes with a robust reverse osmosis membrane
- Hassle-free installation for convenient use
- Made using food grade-level material
CONS:
- Not easy to detach the components on the filter
Finally
Water is perhaps one of the most critical resources for overall health and well being. However, gaining access to clean water is not always easy – especially with the ever-increasing water supply restrictions. Thus, this guide has been about identifying the best countertop water filter brands on the market you can get for your kitchen. When you have one of these units in your kitchen, getting clean water becomes a simple process. The good thing is that most brands have done well to incorporate their product with unique mechanisms for the best results.
