Many homeowners are concerned about the quality of their tap water, even though most public water supplies in the U.S. are generally safe to drink. Installing a water filter can give you added peace of mind by improving taste, reducing contaminants, and addressing specific water quality issues.
From basic pitcher filters to whole-house systems, there are many options available to fit different needs and budgets. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best water filter for your home with the help of Ask This Old House plumbing expert Richard Trethewey.
Water Filter Types
Before diving into specific filter options, weigh the different types of water filters available. Each type has its own advantages and best uses. Whether you want a basic filtration system or a more advanced solution, understanding these options will help you make a better choice.
Pitcher Filters
Pitcher filters are one of the simplest and most affordable ways to filter tap water. These portable containers have built-in filters that remove impurities as the water passes through.
Key features of pitcher filters include:
- Low initial cost
- Easy to use and maintain
- Improved water taste and smell
- Chlorine and sediment removal
While pitcher filters are convenient, they have limited capacity and require frequent refilling. They’re ideal for small households or as a supplement to more extensive filtration systems.
Faucet-Mounted Filters
Faucet-mounted filters attach directly to your kitchen faucet to filter water on demand. Their greater capacity and ease of use make them a convenient upgrade from pitcher filters.
Some advantages of faucet-mounted filters include:
- Easy switch between filtered and unfiltered water
- Simple installation with no plumbing required
- Higher flow rate than pitcher filters
Faucet-mounted filters may not be compatible with all faucet types and can slow down water flow.
Under-Sink Filters
If you want more extensive filtration without cluttering your countertops, under-sink filters are a great solution. You install these systems beneath the kitchen sink, and they typically come with a dedicated faucet for dispensing filtered water.
The benefits of under-sink filters are:
- Multiple filter stages for better purification
- They’re hidden under the sink and save counter space
- Greater capacity than pitcher or faucet-mounted filters
- Options for reverse osmosis filtration
Under-sink filters typically require more installation effort, and you may need to hire a pro.
Countertop Water Filters
Countertop water filters are another user-friendly option for easy access to clean drinking water. They sit on your kitchen countertop and connect to your existing faucet.
Below are some common features of countertop water filters:
- Portable, so you can move them as needed
- Medium filtration capacity
- Simple to install and remove
- Often include multiple filtration stages
Countertop water filters are great for renters or those who don’t want to modify their plumbing. They’re also easier to use than under-sink systems, though they can take up valuable countertop space.
Advanced Water Filtration Systems
Advanced filtration systems address a wider range of water quality issues. These are ideal for homeowners who require a higher level of purification.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are among the most effective water purification methods available for home use. These systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids, heavy metals, and some microorganisms.
Some key benefits of reverse osmosis systems are:
- Ideal for homes with specific water quality concerns
- Often include multiple filtration stages
- Produce extremely pure water
- Remove up to 99% of contaminants
While RO systems are highly effective, they still have some drawbacks. They can be more expensive to install and maintain, and they produce some wastewater during the filtration process.
Whole-House Water Filters
Whole-house water filters are the way to go if you want to filter all the water entering your home. These systems, installed at the main water line entering your home, filter all water used for drinking, bathing, and appliances.
Here are some advantages of whole-house water filters:
- Customizable based on your specific water quality issues
- Filter water for all purposes, not just drinking
- Protect plumbing and appliances from sediment and scale
- Require less frequent maintenance than point-of-use filters
These systems are available in a variety of types, from simple sediment filters to more complex systems that address multiple water quality issues.
UV Water Purifiers
UV water purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses in the water. While they don’t filter out chemicals or particulates, they are excellent for addressing microbiological contamination.
Benefits of UV water purifiers include:
- Don’t use chemicals
- Easy to install and maintain
- Effective against bacteria and viruses
Since UV purifiers don’t remove chemicals, they’re often used alongside other filtration methods for comprehensive water purification.
Choosing the Right Water Filter for Your Needs
Selecting the best water filter for your home depends on several factors, including your water quality, budget, and specific concerns. Here are some steps to help you make the right choice:
- Test your water: Before investing in a filtration system, have your water tested to identify any specific contaminants or issues.
- Determine your filtration goals: Are you primarily concerned with improving taste and odor, or do you need to remove specific contaminants?
- Consider your budget: Factor in both initial costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
- Evaluate your space and installation requirements: Some systems require professional installation, while others are do-it-yourself (DIY)-friendly.
- Think about your water usage: Think about how much filtered water you need and how frequently you’ll use it.
- Review customer feedback: Look for reviews and testimonials to gauge the performance and longevity of different water filters.
Maintaining Your Water Filter
Regular maintenance helps your water filter work properly. Follow these tips to keep your system efficient:
- Check the filter’s seals and connections for any leaks.
- Clean and sanitize pitcher filters and faucet-mounted filters regularly.
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines closely to avoid voiding warranties.
- Keep records of filter changes and maintenance for whole-house systems.
- Monitor water flow and quality to detect any issues early.
- Replace filter cartridges according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Schedule regular professional inspections for complex systems.
Neglecting water filter maintenance can reduce the system’s effectiveness and even lead to bacterial growth in some cases.