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What are the best water filters for home use


10 Best Home Water Filters 2022 – Top Water Filtration Systems

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Top pitchers and filtration systems for your home, sink and countertop.

By Jamie Kim

Amazon

We updated this article in April 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive testing done by the Good Housekeeping Institute. Our original top-rated picks — selected by the Kitchen Appliances; Home Improvement and Outdoor; and Health, Beauty and Sustainability Labs — remain the same, though we swapped out discontinued products for new winners including Brita, Aquatru, Sonaki, Culligan, Aquasana and Larq.

We all know how important it is to drink enough water. While many people have water dispensers in their refrigerators, some still rely on good ol' tap water. If that’s the case, you may want to add a water filter to your kitchen tools and gadgets to help filter out harmful contaminants like chlorine, lead, pesticides and more, which can affect taste, quality and in some cases clarity of the water.

The Good Housekeeping Institute is a champion of safety and sustainability, which is why water quality and water filters have been important to us for decades. Our Kitchen Appliances; Health, Beauty and Sustainability; and Home Improvement and Outdoor Labs regularly team up to evaluate the efficacy of popular water filters to ensure they properly filter harmful contaminants. To find the best water filters — including whole-house water filters, under-the-sink water filters, water filter pitchers, water filter bottles and even water filters for your shower — our experts narrowed it to the top-selling options, then collected hundreds of data points and evaluated contaminant removal certifications. We also took into account how easy it was to set up the filter, how quickly it filtered, how heavy it was when filled (if applicable), how easy it was to clean and more.

Best Under-the-Sink Water Filter

Aquasana

3-Stage Max Flow Under Sink Water Filter

Aquasana

Now 62% off

$170 AT AMAZON $225 AT WALMART

BEST SMALL WATER FILTER PITCHER

Aquagear

Water Filter Pitcher

Aquagear

Now 20% off

$56 AT AMAZON $58 AT WALMART

Best Water Filter Pitcher

Brita

Everyday Water Filter Pitcher with Longlast+ Filter

Brita

$45 AT AMAZON $80 AT WALMART

Best Countertop Water Filter

AQUATRU

Connect Countertop Water Filter

AquaTru

$499 AT AMAZON

Best Whole-House Water Filter

Aquasana

Rhino 600,000 Gallons Water Filter

Aquasana

Now 50% off

$604 AT AMAZON $1,015 AT WALMART

Best Water Filter for Backpacking

Brita

Water Bottle with Filter

Brita

Now 15% off

$25 AT AMAZON $25 AT WALMART

Best Water Filter Pitcher that Removes Bacteria

Larq

PureVis Pitcher with Advanced Water Filter

Larq

$148 AT WILLIAMS SONOMA

Most Stylish Water Filter Carafe

Soma

Glass Carafe

Soma

Now 11% off

$53 AT AMAZON

Best Faucet Water Filter

Culligan

Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filter

Culligan

Now 15% off

$29 AT AMAZON $30 AT HOME DEPOT $33 AT WAYFAIR

Best Shower Water Filter

Sonaki

Inline Shower Filter

Sonaki

$70 AT AMAZON

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

✔️ Type and capacity: For pitchers, water bottles and other dispensers that hold water after it’s filtered, you’ll want to keep in mind size versus weight. Larger containers are ideal for refilling less often, but they will often be heavier and may take up more space in the fridge or your backpack. A countertop model saves space in the refrigerator and often holds more water, but it does require room on the counter.

With under-the-sink water filters, faucet filters, in-line shower filters and whole-house filters, there’s no need to worry about size or capacity as these instantaneously filter water as it flows through.

✔️Method: Most water filters use either a carbon filter or a reverse osmosis water filter, which can also include a carbon filter. The primary difference is that most reverse osmosis water filters use multiple filter types to remove more contaminants than carbon filters alone. However, some reverse osmosis systems also remove minerals that some may prefer to leave in. With both reverse osmosis and carbon filters, the contaminants they remove can vary widely, so it's best to check what the model actually filters so it suits your needs.

✔️ Filter replacement frequency: Check how often you have to replace the filter. If you dread changing the filter or simply forget, you may want to look for a long-lasting filter. Also, if you buy filters for the shower, water pitcher and sink, you’ll have to remember to change those separately, so it might be smart to consider a whole-house filter that requires only one filter replacement for the entire home.

No matter which water filter you opt for, it’s no good if you don’t change the filter as recommended. Birnur Aral, Ph.D., says, “The performance of the water filter depends on the quality of the water source and whether or not the filters are replaced regularly.” Some models come with indicators, but it a model doesn’t include one, a slower flow rate or different-colored water are signs that you need to change the filter.

✔️ Price: Consider both the upfront price of the water filter device and the filter refill costs. A water filter could cost more initially, but the price and frequency of the filter refills may save money over the long term. But that’s not always the case, so be sure to calculate the yearly cost of replacements based on the recommended schedule for changing.

Do you really need a water filter?

Access to safe drinking water is an issue across the globe, and it affects communities in the United States. If you’re not sure about your water quality, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) just updated its Tap Water Database in 2021. It’s free and easy to search, and it has information for all states. Enter your zip code or search your state to find details on your drinking water quality based on EWG standards (which are stricter than those of the government). If your tap water does exceed EWG health guidelines, it may be a good idea to consider buying a water filter.

Opting for bottled water is a short-term solution to potentially unsafe drinking water, but it creates a much larger problem with serious long-term implications with regards to pollution. Americans throw away a whopping 30 million tons of plastic a year, only 8% of which is recycled. The majority ends up in landfills because there are many different regulations about what can be recycled. Your best bet is to get a water filter and a cute reusable water bottle — some even have filters built-in!

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

This article was written and tested by Jamie Kim, who is a consistent user and analyst of water filtration products. She’s a freelance writer specializing in product testing and reviews. For this list, she worked with experts across several Good Housekeeping Institute labs: Kitchen Appliances and Culinary Innovation; Health, Beauty and Sustainability; Home Improvement and Outdoors; and Media and Tech.

Nicole Papantoniou contributed insight on the ease of use of pitchers and bottles. Birnur Aral, Ph.D. helped evaluate the contamination-removal claims behind each of our picks. Dan DiClerico and Rachel Rothman provided expertise on installed filters.

Jamie Kim Contributing Writer and Analyst Jamie Kim is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing.

The Best Whole-House Water Filters 2022

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Photo: depositphotos.com

Well and city water can contain a range of contaminants. Though there are a number of water filter options to treat incoming water, it may be better to use a whole-house water filtration system for clear, filtered water as soon as it enters the home plumbing system.

The best whole-house water filter can come in 1-stage, 2-stage, or 3-stage options, with filtration capabilities increasing with each added stage. These systems can also incorporate water softeners to reduce hard metals. Keep in mind the key considerations detailed in the following sections, and check out some of the top products on the market.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GE GXWH04F Water System
  3. BEST FILTER/SOFTENER COMBO: Aquasana EQ-1000-AST-UV Whole House Filter
  4. BEST 1-STAGE FILTER: 3M Aqua-Pure Whole House Sanitary Quick Change
  5. BEST 2-STAGE FILTER: iFilters Whole House 2 Stage Sediment
  6. BEST 3-STAGE FILTER: iSpring WGB32B 3-Stage Whole House Water Filtration
  7. BEST FOR CITY WATER: iSpring WGB21B 2-Stage Whole House Water Filtration
  8. BEST FOR WELL WATER: Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter System
  9. BEST 1-INCH INLET: Culligan WH-HD200-C Whole House Heavy Duty

Photo: depositphotos. com

Types of Whole-House Water Filters

There are a variety of filter types for whole-house systems, including 1-stage, 2-stage, or 3-stage cartridge-based filters, and reverse osmosis systems. These filters work to remove unnatural tastes, smells, and opacities.

Cartridge Whole-House Water Filters

These water filters use a replaceable cartridge to remove contaminants ranging from .04 to 500 microns. Cartridges can include sediment filters, heavy metal filters, organic chemical filters, and more. Depending on the needs of the home, the user can pick and choose the best cartridge to use in the filter, and once every 3 months to 1 year, the cartridge should be changed.

Reverse Osmosis Whole-House Water Filters

This type of filter is more effective than a cartridge system and is capable of removing particles as small as 0.0001 microns. These systems remove all organic molecules, viruses, and most minerals, producing pure, filtered water. However, reverse osmosis whole-house water filters are very expensive to install and maintain.

Due to the high costs, these systems aren’t very popular and can be difficult to find without going directly to a supplier. One exception is single-faucet reverse-osmosis water filters, which are very popular and more affordable.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Whole-House Water Filter 

Before choosing a filtration system, take time to consider some important factors that can help you make the best choice, including the type of contaminants, flow rate, and installation requirements. With an understanding of these features, it becomes easier to decide which option would be the best whole-house water filter for your home.

Types of Contaminants

A wide variety of contaminants can affect the incoming water supply, both from city water and well water. Common contaminants include disinfectants, sediment, microorganisms, heavy metals, and organic chemicals. Whole-house water filter systems come in 1-stage, 2-stage, or 3-stage options.

3-stage filtration systems will remove the most contaminants to improve water quality, ensuring that it’s safe for use, but it’s a good idea to check the National Drinking Water Database created by the Environmental Working Group to determine what contaminants may be affecting your water. Below is a detailed list of possible contaminants:

Chlorine, chloramine, fluoride, chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, uranium, radium, strontium-90, benzene, 1,2,3-trichloropropane, 1,4-dioxane, estrogen, sediment, bacteria, viruses, parasites, iron, lead, nitrates, nitrites, arsenic, antimony, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, selenium, pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides.

Water Flow Rate

The water flow rate of a whole-house water filter determines the maximum amount of water that can pass through the filter in a given time period. This is typically measured in gallons per minute or GPM. A whole-house water filter needs to have a water flow rate high enough to adequately supply large appliances, like showers and dishwashers, which average a flow rate of about 5 GPM.

To help accommodate the needs of the entire home, most whole-house water filter systems have a high water flow rate, ranging from 10 to 25 GPM, though some systems have lower flow rates and others have higher ones.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing whole-house water filter systems isn’t as easy as putting in a faucet filter. The water needs to be shut off to the entire house, the lines need to be drained, and the user will typically need to cut the water pipe and install a set of fittings suitable for the filter. It’s advised to have a professional plumber or water filter installation company install the water filter unless you have experience with plumbing, including both cutting and soldering new plumbing fittings.

Once the filter is installed, the cartridge will last for between 3 months to 1 year on average, depending on water usage, water quality, and filter type. Changing the cartridge isn’t difficult with most whole-house water filters. Just turn the water off and drain the lines, then unscrew the filtration tank(s) and remove the old cartridge. Put a new cartridge in, screw in the filtration tank, and recharge the water system.

NSF/ANSI-Standard Certification 

Look for certifications from NSF International, an independent organization devoted to developing public health standards for water filtration. It rates water filters and gives them an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) certification if they meet certain minimum requirements.

The Water Quality Association (WQA) is the leading accredited agency for testing and certifying water to NSF/ANSI standards. Typical NSF/ANSI certification standards include NSF/ANSI 42, 44, 53, 55, 58, 401, 244, and 231.

Softening Capability 

While some whole-house water filters can use heavy metal cartridges to reduce the presence of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals, most products are equipped with sediment filter cartridges, or cartridges intended to filter biological or chemical contaminants. If you experience hard water in your home, then it’s advised to invest in a whole-house water filter and softener combo.

This ensures that the water is properly filtered, but that it’s also treated with salt molecules, which bind to hard metals and render them inert. Removing these minerals from hard water is integral to maintaining the durability of the pipes, faucets, and hot water tank. Users who don’t want to add salt to their whole-house filter system can get a salt-free softener that coats the hard metal particles to prevent them from sticking to the plumbing infrastructure.

Our Top Picks

These products are considered among the best whole-house water filters on the market. The top options were chosen based on the important product information and features discussed above, with significant attention given to product efficacy and overall value.

Photo: amazon.com

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3-stage whole-house water filters are the best type of cartridge filter available because they can be equipped with three different filter cartridges, allowing this whole-house filter system to remove a wide range of contaminants. The Express Water whole-house water filter comes with three filter cartridges that last for 6 months to a year before needing to be replaced.

This filter has a 15 GPM flow rate and 1-inch connections, so users need to make sure their incoming pipes are 1 inch in diameter. The first stage of the filtration process removes sediment, sand, rust, and dirt down to a size of 5 microns.

The second stage captures iron, lead, chloramine, algae, viruses, chlorine, and other heavy metals and microorganisms. The final stage captures filtration media like chlorine, pesticides, pharmaceutical runoff, and other chemicals, improving the taste of your drinking water.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the Express whole-house water Filter at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Photo: amazon.com

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This well-priced General Electric whole-house water filter is made to be used with GE whole-home system filter cartridges, which have a range of filtration capabilities to remove dirt, silt, sand, rust, and other sediments from the incoming water supply. Each filter cartridge lasts for up to 3 months, improving the quality, odor, and taste of the home’s drinking water.

This whole-house water filter has a maximum flow rate of 12 GPM, though it works best at a flow rate of 4 GPM. The inlet connections for this filter are 3/4-inch in diameter, and this water filter also comes with a mounting bracket to make installation easier. A reminder light on the water filter indicates when to change the filter cartridge, so users don’t need to estimate.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the GE whole-house water filter on Amazon or at The Home Depot.

Photo: amazon.com

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The Aquasana whole-house water filtration system features carbon and KDF filtration cartridges that last up to 3 months, capturing filtration media like iron, lead, chloramine, chlorine, pharmaceuticals, and a variety of other contaminants.

It also has a UV purifier that kills viruses, bacteria, and 99.9 percent of other microorganisms. After filtration and purification, the water passes through the salt-free softener, which coats any heavy metal minerals that passed through the filters, preventing them from sticking to the pipes, faucets, and hot water tank, providing better water quality.

While there is a high cost associated with this whole home water filtration system, few products are more capable of removing contaminants from the entire home’s water supply, including 99.9 percent of microorganisms, 97 percent of chlorine, and a significant reduction in the mineral buildup. Though the water filter only has a maximum flow rate of 7 GPM, it can be adapted to either 3/4-inch or 1-inch pipes.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the Aquasana whole-house water filter on Amazon or at The Home Depot.

Photo: amazon.com

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This 3M Aqua-Pure whole-house water filter is a 1-stage filter with a single filtration tank that’s equipped with a carbon filter cartridge. The whole-house water filter meets the minimum requirements to be NSF/ANSI 42 certified, ensuring that it removes chlorine, sand, dirt, rust, and other sediments from the water. It has a 1-inch inlet connection and a maximum flow rate of 20 GPM, though the filter performs best at 10 GPM.

The filter cartridge lasts for about 6 months to a year, depending on the average amount of daily water used in the home. When it’s time to change the filter, users don’t need to unscrew the filter; instead, they’ll just pull the locking latch upward, turn it a quarter-turn to the left, then pull down. Replace the filter cartridge, then reattach the filter and lock the latch to secure the filter with no leaks.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the 3M Aqua-Pure whole-house water filter on Amazon.

Photo: amazon.com

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The iFilters whole-house water filter is a 2-stage filtration system that uses both a sediment filter and a carbon filter cartridge to remove harmful contaminants from the incoming water supply, including sand, dirt, rust, silt, and chlorine. This improves the taste, odor, and overall quality of the water, filtering out any particles larger than 5 microns in size.

Install the whole-house water filter on 3/4-inch pipes, or adapt existing plumbing to fit the 3/4-inch connections. Take advantage of the built-in pressure relief valves to quickly and efficiently remove the filter housing in order to replace the filter cartridge about once every 6 months.

However, users should note that the typical flow rate for this 2-stage filter is just 3 GPM, though it does have a maximum flow rate of about 6 GPM. This means that the water pressure in the home may be reduced to certain plumbing fixtures, like the shower or dishwasher, with the installation of this filter.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the iFilters whole-house water filter at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Lowe’s.

Photo: amazon.com

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This iSpring product is a good option for those who have significant concerns about the quality of the incoming water because it can remove a wide range of contaminants using the three individual filtration tanks and included filter cartridges.

The water filter comes equipped with a sediment removal cartridge that traps sand, dust, silt, dirt, and rust. It also has a carbon block cartridge to remove chlorine, VOCs, harmful chemicals, and to improve the taste and odor of the water. The third cartridge is an iron- and manganese-reducing filter cartridge, ideal for homes with heavy metals.

The whole-house water filter is also available with a GAF and KDF filter cartridge that can remove lead, mercury, pesticides, herbicides, and hydrogen sulfide, which may be a better option for some users. This water filter has a high maximum flow rate of 15 GPM and has 1-inch connections. The filter cartridges should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on the amount of water typically used in the home.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the iSpring WGB32B whole-house water filter at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Overstock.

Photo: amazon.com

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This whole home water filter is specifically made for use with city water and can filter up to 97 percent of chlorine out of the incoming water supply. It has 1-inch connections and a maximum flow rate of 15 GPM, ensuring that showers, washing machines, and dishwashers are not impacted by the installation of the filter.

The activated carbon filter cartridge of this iSpring whole-house water filter can remove chlorine, VOCs, and harmful chemicals, improving the taste and odor of the water. The sediment filter removes dust, sand, silt, dirt, and rust, ensuring that no particles larger than 5 microns pass through the filtration system. These filter cartridges last for 6 months to a year, depending on the amount and condition of the water used by the household.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the iSpring WGB21B whole-house water filter on Amazon.

Photo: amazon.com

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Those with private well water systems can experience significant contamination in the water supply, so it’s advised to invest in a whole-house water filtration system like this Aquasana product. It incorporates a sediment pre-filter, an activated carbon filter, a sediment post-filter, and a UV filter to remove up to 99.99 percent of viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms; 97 percent of chlorine; and a significant reduction of lead, mercury, pesticides, VOCs, and more.

The whole-house water filter also includes a salt-free water softener that coats any heavy metals to prevent them from binding to water pipes, faucets, and other plumbing fixtures. This water filter has a maximum flow rate of 7 GPM, and the filter cartridges should be replaced every 3 months. The drawback of this system is that it takes up a lot of space and may be difficult to install, so users should consider hiring a professional plumber or water filter installation tech if they are uncomfortable with plumbing.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Aquasana whole-house water filter on Amazon.

Photo: amazon.com

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Connect this whole-house filter system to 1-inch piping with its 1-inch inlet and outlet connections. The large diameter of the water inlet and outlet helps prevent the reduction of water pressure in the home, though the specific water filter cartridge can impact the flow rate. This product comes equipped with a heavy-duty sediment filter to remove rust, sand, sediment, and other material from the water and has a maximum flow rate of 10 GPM.

The Culligan whole-house water filter can also be used with 12 different Culligan filter cartridges to remove a wide range of contaminants based on the water composition and quality of the home plumbing system. Choose any of the six standard filter cartridge options if a maximum flow rate of 4 GPM is acceptable, replacing the cartridges every 3 to 4 months.

Or, go for any of the six heavy-duty filter cartridge options, which increase the flow rate to a maximum of 10 GPM and last for up to 6 months before they need to be replaced.

Product Specs 

Pros

Cons

Get the Culligan whole-house water filter at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Target, or Best Buy.

Our Verdict

Selecting the best whole-house filtration system for your home can be difficult with so many options on the market. One of the best options overall is the Express Water whole-house water filter with a powerful 15 GPM flow rate and long-lasting cartridges. This unit can filter out sediment, sand, rust, and dirt as small as 5 microns and the easy-to-chance twist-off cartridges last for 6 months to 1 year. Plus, this model comes with a solid free-standing stainless steel frame.

Alternatively, the GE whole-house water filter is a solid budget-friendly choice. With 4 to 12 GPM ratings, this unit is easy to install and filters out dirt, silt, sand, rust, and other sediments. It also comes with ¾-inch inlet connections and a mounting bracket. Plus, the cartridges last for up to 3 months.

How We Chose the Best Whole-House Water Filters 

A whole-house filtration system provides enhanced water quality for better tasting and smelling drinking water, and prevents harmful minerals and toxins from polluting your water supply. Selections for the best options available depended upon type, flow rate, filtration, compatibility with household water systems, the longevity of the filter’s cartridges, and ease of installation.

As the type of water filter greatly influences the level of filtration included, the above list has prioritized 1-stage, 2-stage, and 3-stage options for different levels of filtration and personal preference. With these types in mind, many of the above models come with varying flow rates of 3 to 20 GPM depending upon an individual home’s water consumption. The above water filters also vary between 1-inch and ¾-inch inlets or connections to be compatible with your home’s current water system.

Cartridges are also key in whole-house water filtration systems, which is why most last anywhere between 3 month and 1 year depending upon water consumption and filtration type. Finally, each of the above water filtration systems is easy or moderately difficult to install. But, most come with informational guides and kits which should make the process easier.

FAQs 

After deciding on a whole-house filtration system there may be some lingering questions about whether you really need this system or how to go about changing the filter. Keep reading for detailed answers to these questions and get additional information about the best whole-house water filter.

Q. Do I need a whole-house water filter?

Individuals with older homes with outdated plumbing, like lead pipes and fittings, or homes that use well water should consider using a whole-house water filter. These systems can remove dirt, rust, sediment, parasites, and depending on the system, they can also remove heavy metals and harmful chemicals. Even homes with new plumbing can benefit from a whole-house water filter.

Q. How do you change a whole-house water filter cartridge?

Changing a whole-house water filter cartridge isn’t difficult if you follow these simple steps.

  1. First, turn off the water to the house using the building control valve (BCV) or inlet valve.
  2. Close the outlet valve on the other side of the filter if applicable.
  3. If the system doesn’t have an outlet valve, open nearby taps to drain water from the pipes.
  4. Place a bucket under or near the filter to catch any remaining water.
  5. Unscrew the filter housing from the top of the filter.
  6. Water will spill out, so this is when to use the bucket and have a towel ready.
  7. Remove the old filter and put it into the bucket to dispose of when the job is done.
  8. Place a new filter into the housing and screw it back on.
  9. Turn the water back on slowly, allowing the water system to fully recharge.
  10. Open the outlet valve, if applicable, or close the taps that were opened to drain the system.
  11. Clean up the water, check for leaks, and dispose of the old filter.

Q. Can a whole-house water filter remove 100 percent of contaminants?

While whole-house water filters can remove a large number of contaminants, the water continues moving through the pipes to the taps, potentially picking up contaminants along the way, so these systems cannot guarantee 100 percent contamination removal.

Q. Can I drink water filtered with a whole-house water filtration system?

While some whole-house water filters can remove harmful contaminants like parasites, chemicals, and heavy metals, not all filters are made for this function. They are typically used for sediment, rust, and dirt. If there are concerns about the incoming water supply, it should be tested at a certified lab before drinking instead of taking chances with your health.

Q. How long does the whole-house water filter usually last? 

Whole-house water filters can last from 3 months to a year before needing a new cartridge. The length of time depends on the specific product, water condition and the water usage in the home.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

90,000 which water filter is better for home

Content

The reason for many human diseases is the use of poor quality water. In a centralized water supply, water is purified, but not enough, besides, it is filled with chemical impurities. Drinking such water is not safe for health. It is believed that the water from the well is pure. But it is not always the case. Water from a well or well may be tasty, but chemically unsuitable for drinking. To solve the problem of drinking water, purification technologies are being developed. Today, there are several ways and devices for cleaning. It is important to study what water filters are, and decide which optimal filter is suitable in a particular case. In order not to stumble, it is necessary to analyze the various options by examining the sources, which indicate the whole truth about water filters.

Filtered drinking water from the tap

Selection

There are the following selection criteria for water filters:

  1. Number of contaminant elements to be eliminated. The more contaminants are eliminated, the higher the cost of the filter.
  2. The volume of purified water per day of the corresponding quality. Approximate calculation: the need per person is up to 3 liters of drinking water per day. This number is multiplied by the number of people living in the house. It is advisable to take the resulting volume in three times.
  3. Possibility of the filter to soften and degrease water.
  4. The presence of environmentally friendly components in the device.
  5. Rating position of cleaning devices and reviews on the forum.
  6. Equipment cost.

Criteria help determine how to choose a water filter for each individual application.

Water purification methods are:

  1. Mechanical. Prevents the passage of foreign particles. It is set as the first degree of filtration.
  2. Sorption. Activated carbon is used as a sorbent. It absorbs foreign matter.
  3. Bactericidal. This type of cleaning is used to decontaminate harmful microorganisms by destroying them using various methods:

Types of filters

Hot water filter

Gas heater for home or garden: which is better?

Main line type hot water filter is made of steel or heat resistant plastic. The cleaning element for the filter is a fine-mesh metal mesh or a non-woven polystyrene foam cartridge.

How hot water filters look like

The device is mounted in a horizontal pipe of the water supply system on a threaded connection, performs mechanical cleaning of the flow, holding fractions up to 5 microns. If necessary, the filter can be easily removed and washed under running water. Popular among consumers are devices for filtering hot water from GEYSER, Typhoon and HONEYWELL.

Hot water treatment equipment can be installed in a cold water system without loss of efficiency. In reverse order, replacement is prohibited, because. The cold water filter is not designed for high temperatures.

Faucet nozzle

Faucet filter nozzle is a compact device that filters water from chlorine and iron, and also softens it. Such a water purifier does not crash into plumbing systems, but is mounted directly on the faucet. According to the installation method, there is a removable and stationary device. To install a removable cleaner, an adapter is installed on the tap, on which the filter is easily mounted and dismantled. The stationary device is not removed.

Tabletop cleaner

It is installed in the kitchen, has a separate faucet and is placed on the countertop or sink. Due to the fact that the cleaning element is larger, its efficiency is higher than the nozzles on the faucet. Due to the small dimensions, the nozzle on the faucet is not able to provide a good effect of water purification and softening, as well as its low productivity. There is a shower filter, which does not aim at a high degree of purification, but is intended for dechlorination and softening of water - this is the best filter for giving and at home.

The forum shows user reviews that compare prices and quality of manufacturers. One of the most common complaints is low productivity. The test purchase, which was determined by the forum, presented an overview of the best manufacturers Aquaphor, Instapure and Geyser. The latter uses the Aragon cartridge for household filters as a filter element.

Faucet Filter Options

Water Cooler

Water cooler is most commonly installed in offices, schools, homes, etc. The main task of the cooler is to heat or cool drinking water. A tank with purified water is installed in home coolers, but if the device is connected to the supply of a centralized water supply system, then 4 or 5 degrees of purification are mounted. Among them are mechanical cleaning, sorption and degreasing. A filter element for ultraviolet cleaning and reverse osmosis can also be installed. The choice of purification steps depends on the quality of the water in the plumbing system. The higher the degree of purification, the larger the dimensions of the cooler.

To install the cooler, it is enough to insert a container with purified water into it with the neck down and plug it into the socket. A cooler with a cleaning system is connected directly to the water supply, it is called a purifier. To connect the purifier to the water supply, a flexible hose with a diameter of 6 mm and a length of up to 3 meters is connected. If the device needs to be installed at a distance remote from the pipeline, then the connecting tube can be hidden under the plinth.

Coolers of good quality at an affordable price from Hotfrost, Crystal and COOPER&HANTER.

Pitcher filter

Pitcher water filter is the easiest and most convenient way to clean. Due to its compact dimensions and low weight, the jug is easy to transport, it is the best filter for travel.

The pitcher has two sections, between which a filter element is installed. Water is poured into the first compartment of the jug, passing through the cartridge, it is cleaned, and clean water flows into the second compartment of the jug. The stonecrop speed is low, not all impurities are removed using a jug filter. Depending on the desired result, a cleaning element of various types is used.

Reviews have been left on the forum, which have been reviewed and rated for pitcher cleaner manufacturers. A test purchase of well-known manufacturers Novaya Voda, Brita, Barrier, Geyser and Aquaphor was made in order to select the optimal jug. Comparison of technical indicators determined the rating, in which the first places were taken by "Barrier" and "Aquaphor".

House filter jug ​​

Sink filter

Sink filters are effective household stationary devices. They got their name from the way the kitchen sink is installed under the sink. In view of the dimensions, the question arises: how to install a water filter so that it does not take up much space and does not spoil the design of the room in the kitchen. The best place is under the sink. In this case, there is a space that is practically not used, and there is also a pipe of the plumbing system and the sink itself nearby.

The cleaning device consists of several modules, their number is up to five sections, depending on which filter element is installed and what requirements are set for water quality. The number of purification levels may be less than the number of modules, since technology allows one section to perform two or three degrees of cleaning.

The capacity of such equipment is up to 2 liters. To avoid interruptions in the supply of drinking water, a hydraulic accumulator is installed under the sink. To optimize performance, it is advisable to install two taps per sink. One is connected directly to the supply of the plumbing system, and the other to the cleaning device. Thus, untreated technical water flows from the first tap, and drinking water from the second tap. A device of this type is most often used for the kitchen of an apartment or house.

Installation sequence:

  1. An additional faucet for purified water cuts into the sink or countertop.
  2. A tee cuts into the water supply with a stopcock.
  3. Filter elements are installed in the device.
  4. Remove shipping plugs and connect flexible hose to filter inlet and outlet.
  5. The water tap is connected.

Reviews, which shows the review of the forums, determined the rating of manufacturers: "Barrier", "Aquaphor" and "Aquafilter". The device "Barrier-bio" has "Aragon" as a purifier. Aragon is a cartridge patented by Barrier-Bio. Due to the fact that aragon is used in its design, it often ranks high in the rating, and consumers leave positive feedback on the forums.

Filter under the sink with hydraulic accumulator

Main cleaner

The main flow water filter is mounted in the water supply system, while the pressure in the pipe does not increase much. Such equipment has a high throughput. Depending on the purpose, there are various types of filter element:

There are main filters for hot and cold water. The difference is in the heat-resistant case.

The magnetic force is used to soften the water. The impurities of magnesium and calcium contained in the water precipitate under the action of a magnetic field.

Installation sequence:

High-quality in-line filters at an affordable price are produced by Titan and Aquafilter.

Reverse osmosis filter

Reverse osmosis filter effectively purifies water from impurities. The main cleaning element is a membrane, passing through which water is almost completely cleared of chemical and biological contaminants.

To ensure a long service life of the reverse osmosis filter, it is advisable to install additional degrees of mechanical and sorption purification. Additional cartridges are installed in front of the reverse osmosis water filter in the supply of the plumbing system to pre-purify the water, otherwise the reverse osmosis membrane will clog quickly and is expensive.

Given that in addition to pollution, the reverse osmosis filter retains 95% of minerals, a mineralizer is installed. It fills demineralized water with useful components.

Reviews on the forum show that the reverse osmosis filter has a high degree of purification, sometimes even too much. A review of manufacturers has determined the rating of reverse osmosis purifiers. The leading positions in the rating are occupied by Aquaphor Osmo and Aqualine.

Reverse osmosis filter manufacturer «Ecosoft»

Before the device of such a cleaner, you must first install a pre-filter that will trap larger impurities. Then a reverse osmosis filter system and an expansion tank are installed. A water tap is mounted on the sink and the system is connected using flexible hoses and fittings.

Fine filter

Three-stage fine filter water purifier - this is the name given to it in contrast to the pre-filters, which perform coarse water purification.

In order to purify water and give it the required qualities, several degrees of purification are used. The three-stage filter with different properties is able to perform filtering sufficiently, it will take up little space. If you buy Barrier equipment, then it has Aragon cartridges with high filtration rates. The installation sequence corresponds to the reverse osmosis filter installation technology.

What the Aragon cartridge looks like

Pre-filter

Pre-filter is used for coarse mechanical cleaning of rust particles, sand and other contaminants using a fine mesh.

With a coarse cleaning, the in-line filter will extend the life of the fine cleaning equipment, as well as save household appliances from damage due to clogging. Before installing a filter for fine water or reverse osmosis, a pre-filter is installed. The most popular among pre-filters is the Aquaphor device.

The pre-filter is attached to the inlet with a bracket. Shut-off valves are installed before and after the cleaner. Next, a cleaning element is installed, which directly performs filtration.

Pre-filters have a high capacity so as not to reduce the pressure of the plumbing system.

Ion exchange softener

Water softener is used to reduce the level of hardness salts in water. For this, ion exchange resins are used. Water, passing through the filter, reacts with the resin and destroys salt compounds. The most popular softeners are Filter 1 Ecosoft and Organic Big Blue. The water softener is installed according to the installation technology of the main purifier, but its functions are different.

Polyphosphate cleaner

Polyphosphate water filter is designed to soften water to protect household appliances from scale and deposits. Such a softener is a plastic flask in which there is a cleaning element, sodium polyphosphate acts as its role.

Water passing through the cleaner reacts with the softener, causing hard salts to coat with sodium polyphosphate and lose their ability to form scale. Such a device is inexpensive and effective, it is the best filter for household appliances, but it is not recommended for drinking water.

Popular polyphosphate filters are "Filter 1" and "Aquafilter FHPRA". A polyphosphate filter is installed as a main device, but a special salt is used as a filter element.

Polyphosphate water filter

Iron filter

Iron filter water purifier designed to reduce metal levels. Rusty water reacts and the heating element of household appliances rusts. It is unacceptable to use such water as drinking water. There are several types of iron removers. Which water filter is better to install for iron removal depends on the purpose for which it will be used.

Well-known manufacturers of such devices are Ecosoft and Oxydizer. Iron removers can be installed in the form of a special cartridge that can be installed in a multi-stage filter. The second type of iron cleaner is a cylinder filled with a special resin. To install it, a flexible hose is connected from the water supply to the cylinder, through which water is supplied. After passing through the filter resin, the outlet water returns back to the pipeline.

The best filter. Video

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The video below will share the secret of how to choose and install the best filter.

It is important to choose the right filter in order to buy one that can provide the necessary cleaning. To do this, you need to conduct a water test, it will show the chemical composition and the required degree of purification. The rating of manufacturers will help you make the right choice of water filter.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT WATER FILTER - which is better

Running water from a tap is like puddle water. In it, a symbiosis of minerals, rust, bleach, microflora and microorganisms “blooms” in a lush color. Use it for watering - no matter what. Drinking is more expensive for yourself, dysbacteriosis and poor health are provided.

The water filter solves this problem. Which is better to buy, you will understand after reading this article.

How can I find out the quality of water at home?

Before choosing a water filter, you need to understand what it has to deal with. It should be remembered that household testers will show only long-term results, and no one is immune from “false-negative” results: when the test does not work as it should. And only a chemist will understand this, and an ordinary person will take the result for granted.

Therefore, it would be better to take water samples to a laboratory for quality control. There are two scenarios.

  1. Collecting water yourself in a clean glass container (plastic can additionally pollute it) and bring it to the nearest sanitary and epidemiological station (SES) is a budgetary, but time-consuming option.
  2. Call a specialist from a private laboratory - more expensive, but faster.

The laboratory may offer a comprehensive test, while the SES may not have the necessary reagents, you will have to take water for the test several times.

In conclusion, the main 6 water parameters will be indicated:

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How to calculate the daily use of drinking water?

The right amount of water correlates with the weight. Doctors advise drinking 250 ml of pure water for every 8 kg of weight. Fragile, weighing 60-65 kg, 2 liters of water will be enough, but 110 kilograms will need almost 4 liters. Also, another 1.5-2 liters should be added to this figure. soups, teas and coffees. As a result, the average family of 3 people will consume at least 10-15 liters. per day, 70-80 liters. per week or 300-350 liters. per month. And that's just for drinking.

Based on the above figures and water quality, it is worth choosing the right filter. Below you can find out how much resource capacity is enough for each type of filter.

As you can see from the table, on average, it is advisable to change the filter for the house once a year and a half. The reason is that over time, “waste” accumulates in it and the device will work worse.

Read: How to change the faucet in the kitchen with your own hands: 3 steps

Types of filters by design: 3 common

Popular for ease of use and compactness. The device is convenient to take with you anywhere. If you change the filter in a timely manner and clean the container, you can use it for years. The principle of operation is simple - water is fed into a funnel with filters, and passing through it, it is purified.
2. Flow through - filter cartridge installed in the pipe under the tap
Water, before entering the faucet, will undergo multi-stage filtration. Installation will require plumbing skills, so it is best to call a specialist for this matter. An example of a good filter is Breeze EURO-Lux (BRF0228).
3. Faucet attachment - the filter is installed on the faucet itself
Such devices come with a universal mount, so they will fit on any crane. You can install it yourself, without the help of a plumber.

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Types of filters by cleaning method

Filters differ in cleaning method. As of mid-2020, the models listed in the table below are in demand:

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What to look for when choosing a water filter?

First you need to decide what the filter is for, otherwise it will not live up to your expectations. Backfill is not suitable for apartments, it does not adsorb chlorine. And the reverse osmosis filter is not designed for wells, since the water will have time to be saturated with substances while it goes through the pipes to the house.

To choose the right option for you, you should pay attention to 5 parameters.

Will it be possible to do it yourself.

In a family of 6-8 people, you will have to change the pitcher cartridges every week. One or two of the potential of sorbents will last for a month.

You have to wait 3-5 minutes before drinking water from the "jug" until it clears up. Flow models clean instantly.

If the user drinks exclusively bottled water, cartridge and ion exchange models are suitable for him, which will remove metals and microorganisms, soften the water.

Some need to be replaced with new ones, while others need to be flushed and replaced regularly.

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