Does the thought of contaminants in your drinking water concern you? Impure water isn’t always discolored and doesn’t always have a bad odor. It can, therefore, be challenging to know the state of your water.
Having a water filter can clean out most impurities and remove any nasty odor. Plus, countertop filters are very easy to install and purify water on-demand.
Stick with us; we’re discussing why you should filter your water, and taking a close look at the best countertop water filters.
Why Do You Need a Water Filter?
Drinking water straight out of the faucet might seem like a reasonable thing to do — it’s inexpensive and plentiful. However, doing this can be risky. Unfiltered water can contain all sorts of impurities and contaminants, of which there are four general categories:
- Biological: This classification represents the organisms in water, often referred to as microbiological contaminants or microbes. These include viruses, parasites, protozoans, and bacteria.
- Chemical: Nitrogen, bleach, salts, pesticides and metals are all chemical contaminants. These are compounds or elements that are either man-made or naturally occurring.
- Radiological: Not as common as others, but can be very harmful. Radiological contaminants are chemical elements that have unbalanced protons and neutrons. This results in an unstable atom that might emit ionizing radiation. Examples include plutonium, uranium, and cesium.
- Physical: These impact the physical build-up or appearance of water. Examples include organic material or sediment suspended in lakes, rivers, and streams due to soil erosion (1).
Not all contaminants are harmful. Minerals such as magnesium and calcium are essential parts of our diets.
All drinking water is expected to have some level of impurities. However, some areas can have a higher amount of harmful contaminants, such as lead.
The intake of contaminants can be hazardous for those with a weakened immune system. In this case, installing a high-quality water filter can be a life-saver.
Water filters have been shown to decrease the risk of different cancers such as colon, bladder, and rectal. There’s also evidence it reduces the risk of developing any gastrointestinal diseases (2).
Why Choose a Countertop Water Filter
Countertop water filters are compact devices that can either be attached to your faucet or stand alone. They can be the perfect addition to a small kitchen with limited counter space.
They’ll remove most impurities from water, but perhaps their biggest advantage is that they filter water on-demand.
How to Find the Best Countertop Water Filter
Buying a great countertop water filter requires a bit of planning before you make your choice. We’ve made a quick list of everything you need to consider before you start shopping.
1. Type
“Countertop” only refers to where the filter is placed, of which there are two main types:
- Faucet: This kind of filter is directly connected to your faucet. It filters water efficiently and is easy to use. Many of the models can be attached to the faucet aerator, and you can install them quite quickly. A downside is the pricing.
- Pitcher: These filters are very popular and efficient, and differ in that they aren’t connected to your faucet. A pitcher consists of two parts; a filter and a container. Water is purified using a carbon filter.
It’s important to consider the size of the filter you’re thinking about buying. Although countertop water filters are on the smaller side, some might not fit right beside your faucet.
Pitcher filters can have varying capacities, and some are compact enough to fit inside a refrigerator. With these, you can have clean and cold drinking water at the ready.
2. Materials
Plastic is the most common material for a countertop water filter. However, if you do go for a plastic filter, read the product description carefully to make sure it’s BPA-free. BPA (Bisphenol A) can leach chemicals and contaminate your “clean” water.
A note on BPA: it’s commonly found in polycarbonate plastics and is used in many food and drink packages. It’s also present in epoxy resins, which are widely used as lacquers on metal products such as bottle tops and food cans. How much BPA leaks into your drinking water depends on the temperature of the water or container.
Studies report
If you’re feeling unsure about using plastic filters and their impact on the environment, seek filters that are made from recycled materials.
3. Filter Capacity
If you’re a big family, you’ll need a device that can keep up with the demand. In this case, a pitcher filter might not be the best choice.
An important thing to note is that a filter with a larger capacity won’t have to be replaced as often. This can save you time and money in the long run.
4. Ease of Use
It’s convenient to have a water filter that can be set up straight out of the box. However, some models might require a professional to fit.
Pitcher filters are quick to set up, and they come with instructions to help you get started. Water dispensers are also straightforward to use.
5. Replacements
Because water filters absorb or attract contaminants, it’s crucial to replace them regularly. Before you make a purchase, we suggest you research how easily you can obtain replacements when needed.
Buying an expensive product that doesn’t have a replacement filter can be very frustrating and a waste of money. Some products will include one or two replacements meaning you’re covered for some time before you need to purchase any more.
6. Warranty and Aftercare
Many products come with a 30-day return warranty after the purchase. We highly recommend finding a filter that comes with a return and exchange period, but also provides aftercare. Then, you’ll be covered should something go wrong or you’re not happy with the filter.
Some brands offer a fantastic aftercare service to ensure your water filter is working optimally. These might cover up to a year of care, or provide an extended warranty against craftsmanship and machine defects.
7. Water Quality
A common concern among potential filter-buyers is how water quality will improve. This depends on the filter being used and what impurities you might have in your water. Many homeowners choose to get their water tested before buying a filter for this reason.
If you have a significant amount of fluoride in your water, you’ll need a filter that can handle this issue. Activated alumina filters are highly effective in removing fluoride.
Some water filters will state in their description which minerals will and won’t be filtered. You can use this as a guide to determine which is the best countertop water filter for your needs.
8. Taste
This may not be a big issue for some people, but the taste of the filtered water is often a deal-breaker. Some filters tend to give a chlorine-like taste, while others are tasteless. Consider your preferences before choosing a product.
If you’re concerned about taste and odor, we recommend reading customer reviews to see others’ findings. Some manufacturers will claim that their products are odor-free. However, by reading reviews, you might discover a different story.
9. Appearance
Appearance might not be a huge concern for everyone, but it’s still something to consider. Countertop water filters will be out on display at all times, so it’s best to get something you don’t mind looking at often.
Some models can look quite bulky next to the faucet, while others might have a color that won’t go with your kitchen.
The Best Countertop Water Filters of 2021
Having a filter in your home can give extra peace of mind that your water is safe. It can also save you a few bucks to drink water from the faucet instead of buying expensive bottled.
Taking into account these considerations, we have created our list of the best countertop water filters by looking at reviews from both experts and consumers.
1. APEC Portable Countertop Water Filter
Ease of use is an essential factor for most homeowners, since installing a water filter can seem like a tough job. This filter is portable, lightweight, and has a casing to protect the filter and improve its look.
It’s an excellent fit for smaller homes such as apartments, condos, and motorhomes. You attach the filter to your faucet and then enjoy clean water straight from your tap. APEC also claims it will improve the taste and odor of the water.
The device uses a large filter that can remove a considerable amount of contaminants.
Why We Love It
Noise-Free
Was that thunder? Or, was it the filter? Sadly, this is true for many water filters — they’re noisy. However, this APEC model is nearly silent, creating only a minor buzz; no need for earplugs!
Portable
If you’re a frequent traveler or enjoy seeing the country from your motorhome, this filter can be ideal. Its lightweight design is easy to pack, and the case acts as a safety barrier.
Easy Installation
Installing a water filter can sometimes seem like a task for a plumber. But, with John Guest quick-connection fittings, this filter is a breeze compared to others. It also comes with faucet adapters that connect to different types of faucets.
Lifetime Support
Unfortunately, sometimes malfunctions happen. However, this filter comes with free lifetime support. APEC has a large team of WQA-Certified Water Specialists who provide you with technical support whenever needed.
99 Percent Removal Rate
This filter uses a reverse osmosis system to clean your water from impurities such as arsenic, chromium, fluoride, lead, and copper. It will suit nearly every home and water quality.
Keep In Mind
Slows Flow Rate
A few customers noted that the filter slowed their water flow rate significantly. We suggest you keep a large pitcher or jug full of water for drinking.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Reverse osmosis |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Not specified |
| Contaminants | Lead, fluoride, arsenic, copper, barium, cadmium, radium |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste and odor |
2. pH Regenerate Faucet Water Filter
Homeowners looking to add another sleek element to their kitchen should consider this. The device uses a high pH alkaline filter system, effective at getting rid of metals and minerals.
It has a super chic and modern look that will complement most kitchens. You can also connect it to other faucets around your house.
The filter is long-lasting, depending on water quality. However, it should last you an average of at least six months.
Installation is a breeze and doesn’t require any plumber-exclusive tools. It comes with several standard connectors, so you won’t have to run to the supply store for extras.
Why We Love It
Suited for Multiple Kinds of Use
You can use the filter for drinking and cooking water, or you can install it in the bathroom. It attaches easily to the spout of your faucet and has a large switch to change between tap water and filtered.
Removes Metals and Minerals
In areas with hard water, you might notice a decrease in water flow due to sediment build-up. Water softeners are useful, but they won’t filter contaminants.
This filter will remove a large number of contaminants such as zinc, iron, selenium, lead, and chlorine. It’ll soften your water and reduce the amount of build-up.
Long-Lasting Filter
The filter has a large capacity and can last you up to 12 months. However, areas with very hard water will need a replacement more often.
Improves Water Quality
Impurities such as metals or chlorine will often alter the taste and odor of the water. This is a common issue for many homeowners, who deliberately avoid tap water for this reason.
This filter will also improve your water in other ways. The PH007 filter breaks down molecules into patterns that are recognized by your cells. The result? An enhancement in your body’s absorption rate leading to better hydration.
Keep In Mind
Drips
The filters’ faucet tends to drip after being shut off. A few customers took notice of this, saying it has to be positioned over the sink.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Alkaline ionized |
| Weight | 4.5 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Up to 12 months |
| Contaminants | Metals, minerals |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste, odor, remineralizes |
3. Apex Countertop Alkaline Filter
In areas with high amounts of minerals and sediments present in the water, this filter could really come in handy. It uses a clear alkaline filter to remove all sorts of contaminants, including chlorine, radon, and sediment.
The filter stands nicely on the counter next to your sink, and because it’s clear, you can see it in action. It’s effortless to install and doesn’t require any complicated plumbing or fittings.
One thing we appreciate about Apex is the fact that it follows the strict guidelines set by the NSF and FDA. The filter is BPA- and lead-free, so it won’t add any impurities to your clean water.
Why We Love It
Connects Easily to Faucets
The filter will easily connect to any standard faucet, and it sits directly on your countertop. Everything you need to install the device is included. All you have to do is remove the aerator screen and attach the collar of the diverter valve.
It can even connect to pull-down faucets. This is something most countertop water filters won’t be able to do.
Reduces Contaminants
Removing sediment from the water can improve your faucets, showers, and appliances since they won’t get clogged. The clear filter will additionally remove water-borne illness sources like giardia cysts and cryptosporidium.
Improves Water
Alkaline water filters are known for improving water quality significantly. With this filter, you’ll receive added essential minerals in your water such as calcium and magnesium. Such minerals help to reduce fatigue by protecting the bones and supporting the immune system.
Made in the U.S.
Being made in the U.S, it holds up to the strict guidelines provided by the NSF and FDA. If you’re worried about product materials, this should give you some peace of mind.
Keep In Mind
Not Tasteless
Several customers note a chlorine taste, however, it’s not considered to be overbearing, and the water is still safe to drink.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Clear alkaline |
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Not specified |
| Contaminants | Metals, sediments,cryptosporidium, giardia cysts |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste, odor, remineralizes |
4. CleanWater4Less Countertop Water Filtration
For families with children, it’s essential to always have clean water ready. Children are more sensitive to contaminants, so a filter is a must-have if you have poor water quality.
CleanWater4Less has designed this smart countertop, which can produce up to 10,000 gallons of water. It’s easy to install and can be attached to your kitchen faucet. You can also use the small faucet on the filter — it requires no plumbing or tools.
A common problem with countertop water filters is that they tend to slow the water flow significantly. However, this filter provides water flow at 1 GPM. It’s not the same rate as your faucet, which will average 2.2 GPM, but it’s about the same as a bathroom tap.
Why We Love It
Large Capacity
Producing 10,000 gallons of clean water makes it an excellent choice for families. The large capacity also means the filter will last you longer. This can save you money in the long run.
Five-Stage Filter
As the water enters the filter, it will first pass through a sediment pre-filter that gets rid of hard minerals. Next, it will pass through four filters, including a high-grade granulated activated carbon filter and a micron filter.
It’s effective at removing certain chemicals and organic chemicals from water, such as chlorine and hydrogen sulfide. These contaminants change the taste and odor of the water.
Easy Installation
If you want to get your new filter up and going right away, there aren’t many that are easier than this one. It doesn’t require tools or plumbing; simply attach the adapter to the spout.
Keep In Mind
No Replacement
Although 10,000 gallons is a lot of water, once you reach that, the filter will no longer work.
It can last a long time if you only need the water for drinking. However, if you plan on using it for cooking or maybe cleaning fruits and vegetables, it might not last as long as you’d expect.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Granulated active carbon |
| Weight | 3.35 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | 10,000 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chemical, organic chemicals |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste, odor |
5. Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
If you’re looking for something to effectively clean your water that isn’t confined to one spot, a pitcher is what you need. The great thing about pitcher filters is that you can take them anywhere.
This specific pitcher is highly effective at removing a significant amount of contaminants, including lead and fluoride. It requires no installation and can be used straight out of the box.
It has been tested to meet and exceed standards 42 and 53 set by NSF. Combine this with the added lifetime guarantee and customer support, and you can feel a bit more at ease if anything goes wrong.
Why We Love It
Triple Filter
The triple-capacity filters can produce 150 gallons. This means it will give you 450 gallons before it needs to be replaced. Although the CleanWater4Less model can take a lot more, this is still a decent volume of water.
High-Quality
Made in the U.S., the filter is BPA-free and made of FDA-approved materials. It’s recyclable, vegan-friendly, and designed to fit a healthy lifestyle. Aquagear has tested the pitcher rigorously to make sure it meets the NSF standards.
It effectively removes lead, chlorine, chloramines, fluoride, chromium, and mercury.
Lifetime Guarantee
Taking a chance on a product isn’t always easy. However, because of the lifetime guarantee, you can feel more at ease. Aquagear claims they’ll replace any product that breaks, free of charge.
Keep In Mind
Slower Than Others
As you fill the pitcher from the top, the water will slowly run through the filter. However, this process is prolonged and is similar to the function of a coffee filter, only slower.
To combat this, all you’d need to do is prepare the filter in advance of when you need more water.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Not specified |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | 450 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, mercury, lead, fluoride |
| Improves Water Quality | Removes harmful contaminants but leaves essential minerals |
6. iSpring Countertop Water Filter
If you want to add a splash of color to your kitchen while getting clean water, this is for you. The high filter comes with its own faucet, but can be used in the kitchen faucet as well.
It’s easy to install and requires no drilling or complicated plumbing. The case is available in five bright colors while remaining clear, so you can see the water coming through the filtration process.
The filter removes a high amount of contaminants, including VOCs (volatile organic compounds). It also removes bad tastes and odors from the water.
With the 30-day money-back guarantee, one-year limited warranty, and lifetime technical support, we’re happy to include this filter on our shortlist.
Why We Love It
Thorough Filter
The filter is a CTO (chlorine, taste, and odor) carbon block with coconut shell. It removes 95 percent of chlorine, odors, salts, sediment, sand, and rust from your water. We also love that it removes VOCs like herbicides, pesticides, and industrial chemicals.
It’s tested by a third party to meet the NSF/ANSI standards.
Installation is a Breeze
Installing the filter can be done in no time. You get everything you need, such as a plastic wrench, two faucet adapters, tubing, and an O-ring. It doesn’t require any drilling, and you won’t need to use any specialized tools.
If you decide you want to filter another faucet in the house — the bathroom, for example — you can quickly move it.
Fun Design
The bright colors might not suit everyone’s taste, but for those who like a bit of flash, you’ll get it here. The casing is available in five colors — all are clear and will give you a good view of the filter. The clarity is very helpful when you need to determine whether the filter should be changed or not.
Keep In Mind
No Flow Restrictor
Water filters have a slower flow rate compared to kitchen faucets. This is usually fixed using a restrictor, which keeps the flow manageable. However, this model doesn’t have this feature, so you can’t turn the faucet fully on.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | CTO carbon block |
| Weight | 4 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Six months |
| Contaminants | Sand, rust, odors, chemicals, VOCs |
| Improves Water Quality | Balanced pH water, removes odors |
7. Ecosoft Countertop Water Filter
A compact water filter is the best choice for smaller kitchens. It’s also an excellent choice for those who don’t like a bulky device next to the faucet.
By using an activated carbon block filter, the device removes a significant amount of contaminants. Made in Europe, the product sets high standards, and it shows. The materials are European Food Grade, BPA-free plastics.
Installation is easy and you can do it yourself in minutes. The filter attaches directly onto the faucet, and there’s a switch to change between filtered and unfiltered water.
Why We Love It
High-Quality Filter
The product uses an activated carbon block with a coconut-based shell. Coconut is a milder product compared to the standard coal carbon material. Another benefit of using coconut is that it’s excellent at removing lead, chlorination, and sediment.
Everything is Included
You get everything you need to get your new filter up and running in no time. The key coconut carbon filter block and colorful casing of your choosing are included.
You also get a wrench, leak-proof rings, faucet adapter, chrome faucet with base, filter tubing, and additional adapters.
Long-Lasting and Replaceable
The filter will last you a good three to six months, depending on water quality. Once it stops working, you can easily find a replacement for another round of clean drinking water.
Keep In Mind
Not Suitable for Very Hard Water
Some customers who live in areas with very hard water noticed the product had a difficult time keeping up. The filter needed to be changed sooner than expected.
An option to combat this is to grab a water softener.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Coconut-based carbon block |
| Weight | 3.22 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Three to six months |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, sediments, lead |
| Improves Water Quality | Removes odors |
8. Brita Extra Large Water Dispenser
For large families, a small countertop filter may not be enough to provide water for high demands. This water dispenser will hold 1.13 gallons of water; that’s about 18 cups.
It has a compact design that fits nicely on any countertop. You can also place it in the refrigerator for instantly clean, cold water.
Water dispensers may not be known to have the best filters. However, the active filter in this model removes 99 percent of lead and reduces cadmium, asbestos, and more. It’s also a long-lasting filter that features an electronic indicator, letting you know when it needs changing.
Why We Love It
Large Capacity
Having ready filtered water at all times can make life as a parent much more manageable. The dispenser can hold 1.13 gallons — enough for the whole family.
Efficient Filter
The active filter will quickly remove lead and reduce levels of other contaminants, including asbestos and lead. One filter can produce 120 gallons of clean water before replacement is needed.
Brita claims it only needs to be replaced every six months. An electronic indicator will let you know when it’s nearly time for a replacement.
Compact Design
One thing we like about this Brita filter is the size. It’s a compact design that won’t take up much space on the countertop or tables; it will even fit in the fridge.
Keep In Mind
Filling Reservoir is Small
The reservoir at the top is significantly smaller than the tank itself. This causes slow filling times since you need to wait for a certain amount of filtration to occur before refilling the reservoir.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Active filter |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Filter Lifetime | Six months |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene |
| Improves Water Quality | Removes odors and tastes |
9. Big Berkey Countertop Water Filter
Aesthetics plays a big part for many since countertop water filters are designed to be on display at all times. The tall, sleek look of this filter can add a modern feel to any kitchen.
It’s made of stainless steel and reaches 21 inches in height. It can also hold 2.25 gallons of water at a time, which is excellent for high-demand homes.
The filter can remove multiple contaminants such as benzene, bisphenol A, e. Coli, fluoride, and many more. Depending on your local water quality, the longevity of this filter is very impressive.
Big Berkey has made it possible for customers to add or remove different features and filters to make the device even more efficient.
Why We Love It
Highly Effective
The processing system involves two elements and two fluoride filters. They work in conjunction to filter out an incredible array of contaminants and sediment. Each purification element will last through 3,000 gallons, and the fluoride filters can do 1,000 gallons each. Combined, that’s a whopping 8,000 gallons!
Excellent for Families
The tank can hold 2.25 gallons. This should be more than enough for four to 16 people. It’s made of durable stainless steel and fitted with an easy spigot, making it a durable product in a busy home.
Easy Installation
Because this is a water dispenser, you won’t have to deal with connectors, adapters, tools or any complicated installation processes. Simply set it up and pour the water into the tank.
Keep In Mind
Requires Significant Maintenance
Several customers mentioned that the filters require a lot of maintenance. If left unmaintained, the flow can drastically slow down.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | Purification elements, fluoride filters |
| Weight | 8.69 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | 3.000 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene |
| Improves Water Quality | Yes |
10. AEX EXPRT Dual Countertop Water Filter
The two filters in this popular model are a carbon block and an alkaline filter. Working in conjunction, the overall product is highly effective at removing multiple kinds of contaminants such as chloramine, bacteria, and heavy metals.
There’s an added benefit of a clear casing, so you can see exactly what’s going on. This also means there’s no tinkering needed when it comes to changing the filter since you have complete visibility.
Despite the bigger size, it’s still easy to install; it connects quickly to any standard faucet. If you’re feeling unsure about the product, you get a 30-day return window with a money-back guarantee.
Why We Love It
Five-Stage Filter
As the tap water enters the cartridge, it will first go through a KDF-55 filter. This is effective at removing bacteria and heavy metals while trapping microorganisms. The more significant part of the cartridge is the carbon block, which removes chemicals from the water.
At the top, there’s an alkaline filter that adds healthy magnesium, potassium, and calcium to the water.
High-Quality
The product is made in the U.S. and meets the standards set by the NSF, and the materials used are lead- and BPA-free. This ensures that the end product you receive is of the highest quality.
Customer Support
You’ll get a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not pleased with the product. The filter also comes with a limited one-year warranty against material and workmanship defects.
Keep In Mind
Dripping
The small filter spout tends to drip after being shut off. This was only a minor issue for some customers but is something to be aware of.
Additional Specs
| Filtration System | KDF-55, GAC, Alkaline |
| Weight | 9.25 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Not specified |
| Contaminants | Chemicals, bacteria, heavy metals |
| Improves Water Quality | Adds essential minerals |
Detailed Comparison
| Product | Best | Filtration System | Weight | Filter Lifetime | Contaminants | Improves Water Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| APEC Portable Filter | Compatibility | Reverse osmosis | 10 lbs | Not specified | Lead, fluoride, arsenic, copper, barium, cadmium, radium | Better taste and odor |
| pH Regenerate Faucet Filter | Modern Design | Alkaline ionized | 4.5 lbs | Up – 12 months | Metals, minerals | Better taste, odor, remineralizes |
| Apex Countertop Filter | Warranty | Clear alkaline | 5 lbs | Not specified | Metals, sediments,cryptosporidium, giardia cysts | Better taste, odor, remineralizes |
| CleanWater4Less Filtration | Capacity | Granulated active carbon | 3.35 lbs | 10,000 gal. | Chemical, organic chemicals | Better taste, odor |
| Aquagear Filter | Countertop Pitcher | Not specified | 2.2 lbs | 450 gal. | Chlorine, mercury, lead, fluoride | Removes harmful contaminants but leaves essential minerals |
| iSpring Filter | Colorful Design | CTO carbon block | 4 lbs | Six months | Sand, rust, odors, chemicals, VOCs | Balanced pH water, removes odors |
| Ecosoft Filter | Compact Filter | Coconut-based carbon block | 3.22 lbs | Three – six months | Chlorine, sediments, lead | Removes odors |
| Brita Extra Large Dispenser | Filtered Water Dispenser | Active filter | Not specified | Six months | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene | Removes odors and tastes |
| Big Berkey Filter | Looking | Purification elements, fluoride filters | 8.69 lbs | 3.000 gal. | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene | Yes |
| AEX EXPRT Dual Filter | Dual Filter | KDF-55, GAC, Alkaline | 9.25 lbs | Not specified | Chemicals, bacteria, heavy metals | Adds essential minerals |
How Will I Know if the Filter Stops Working?
It depends on which filter you’re using. One way to know it’s not working is the presence of contaminants, although, this requires testing. If you installed the filter to remove bad tastes or odors from your water, you might begin to notice these again.
Certain metals and bacteria, like coliform, can discolor your water and give it an unpleasant odor and taste (4).
Which Filter Is Best for Microbe Removal?
If your water is sourced from a private well, there’s a risk of microbiological contamination. Even the best countertop water filter might not be enough to filter these out.
It’s safer to choose a bigger filtration system such as a whole house filter. This purifies all water that enters the house. Another option is a reverse osmosis filter, which is highly effective in removing bacteria and viruses like e. Coli and rotavirus (5).
Which Filter Can Remove Fluoride?
Fluoride is best removed using an activated alumina filter or a reverse osmosis model. Most homeowners choose reverse osmosis since it’s effective and safe.
Many customers raised concerns about aluminum leaking into the water when using an activated alumina system. Although it has been shown that only small amounts are leaked, it’s still a concern for some (6).
The Verdict
The very best countertop water filter will give you clean water when you need it without taking up too much space. One important thing you need to take into account is how much space you have in your current kitchen.
Once you know this, your buying decision is much easier to make. We then recommend you factor in your household size and compare this to the capacity of each water filter above.
Which water filter do you have your eye on? Do you have any questions for us? Get in touch in the comments section below.
