The Best 7 Under Sink Water Filter Systems
Having an under the sink water filtering system is a great way to ensure that you and your family have fresh drinking water the whole time. Naturally, if you’ve never purchased such a product before, things might get a little confusing at first. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the best under sink water filter system.
The Pelican 3-Stage Drinking Filter uses the latest in system design and filtration technology to filter taste and odor issues from your water
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Filters Over 60+ Contaminates Including: Chlorine, Chloramines, Lead, Cysts, Mercury
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It can eliminate up to 99.99 percent of the lead found in water, as well as a variety of different contaminants that nobody should ever have to drink.
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Supreme quality - designed, engineered and assembled in USA to guarantee water safety & your health.
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The CuZn UC-200 will not resolve issues caused by water being excessively hard (such as lime scale mineral deposits).
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Super capacity filters guaranteeing to remove chemicals, taste and odors. Feed Water Pressure: 20-85 psi
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Effectively removes lead, arsenic, heavy metals, VOCs and harmful chemicals cloudiness and colors and more
View DealFeatures to Look For
Everyone wants a water filtering system that gets the job done, but what are the exact features to look out for?
- The filtering capacity of the system is important because some filters are capable of removing a wider range of contaminants, even the smallest ones.
- You also want a system that doesn’t impact the normal water pressure in your household. This is important because if your house already has lower water pressure and the system decreases it even more, it will be really frustrating to try and fill up a glass of water.
- The longevity of the cartridge is another important thing to keep in mind and pay attention to. Every good water filtering system should have a cartridge that lasts at least six months. Keep in mind that a filter with a longer lifespan actually means that it’s better built. When you see that a cartridge can last for years, it means that the components used to make it are of higher quality.
How to Choose
If you’ve never had to shop for a under sink water filter, here are some things you should know about:
Check out the contaminant removal efficiency. Without putting it into too many words, some water filters are efficient in removing some contaminants, while others are more effective in getting rid of others. Every good water filter manufacturer will provide an in-depth list of the different contaminants that their products can remove, so you have to first get your water tested and know which contaminants you’re dealing with. Then, you can look for filters that are efficient against heavy metals, minerals, pesticides, chlorine, bacteria, etc.
Filtered water output is important, especially if you use a lot of tap water at once. The capacity of these filters different from one product to another, so you need to verify this feature before buying a particular filter model.
Related: How To Choose The Best Water Softener For Your Home
Ease of installation matters (unless you call in a professional). Most people like to try and install these water filters themselves, without having to call a plumber. If you are one of those people, how about taking a look at the user manual before buying the product (it should be available somewhere on the product page). This way, you can tell how simple or complicated the setup process is and plan your next steps accordingly.
Take a look at the ease of maintenance. Every once in a while, your filters will need cleaning and cartridges need to be exchanged. Take a look at how much new filters for your model cost, and then check out how often they need replacing. This way, you can calculate the average cost of filter maintenance per year and determine if that number suits you.
Types of Under Sink Water Filters
If we’re talking specifically about the types of under-sink water filters and not focusing on the entire category as a whole, there are two main types of filters: simple and conventional.
Simple under-sink filters are only called “simple” because they are easy to install, and not because the filtering method is simple in itself. These filters will divert your cold water supply through the filter, without the need for a separate faucet for water delivery. These filters are inefficient in cleansing hot water, but they are very popular with homeowners that don’t want a separate filter for their new system.
Conventional systems use the original technology that was first seen in these types of filters. To make them work, you will be required to divert the cold water from the main type to the system by using a connection (which is typically a short plastic tube). Unlike the aforementioned category, conventional systems require an additional faucet to deliver the filtered water. That means that you will still have your regular faucet with unfiltered hot and cold water.
What Are These Filters For?
Water filtration systems that are mounted underneath the sink can have huge benefits for people who spend a lot of time in the kitchen cooking or like to drink clean tap water. Some of the superpowers that water filters come with include:
- Sediment removal – Using different treatment technologies and advanced filtering systems, these units are capable of removing sediments from your tap water.
- Chlorine elimination – Carbon filters used in these products are capable of removing chlorine from the water. Some models come with two carbon filters: one for trapping larger contaminants and one for making sure chemicals are filtered from the water.
- Nitrate reduction – Nitrites and nitrates aren’t something you want in your tap water, so choosing under-the-sink filters that can remove them is super important.
- Bacteria destruction – Depending on the type of cartridge used in a particular water filter, these might also be capable of destroying bacteria and microorganisms from the water source.
Undersink vs. Countertop Water Filters
If we were to divide water filtration systems based on their placement inside the kitchen, the two categories would be countertop and under-sink filters. Needless to say, both of these have their advantages and drawbacks, and we’re going to look at both of them.
Then it comes to filters that are mounted under the sink, here are some important considerations:
- Pro: They are hidden. Because they are mounted under the sink, they will always be out of sight, which means your kitchen design stays intact.
- Con: They are larger in size compared to a system that’s mounted above the counter.
- Pro: They offer good filtration rates, which is particularly important if you cook a lot/wash a lot of dishes/drink a lot of tap water.
- Con: They are more difficult to install compared to some countertop systems that don’t require installation at all.
As for countertop filtration systems, here is the good, the bad, and the ugly:
- Pro: Water systems that go over the counter are very easy to install compared to their under-sink counterparts.
- Con: They have slow filtration rates, which is a downside if you have a larger household.
- Pro: They are smaller in size compared to systems that go underneath your sink, but…
- Con: …They are not as aesthetic because they are mounted in plain sight and can interfere with the design of your kitchen.
Top 7 Best Under Sink Water Filter System Review
1. Best Value: Pelican 3-Stage Under-Counter Drinking Water Filter
The Pelican under sink water filter is designed to ensure that you get clean water every time but without paying exorbitant prices for filters with fancy features that you don’t need. It is basically a 3-stage filtration system that uses advanced technology to ensure the waste you drink is tasteless and odorless.
The low-maintenance design is focused on yearly maintenance to avoid spending money on consumables or adding one more thing to the list of stuff you already have to worry about. The process itself is as easy as removing the cover and replacing the cartridge.
The carbon filter located inside the under sink water filter retains minerals that are commonly found inside your tap water (such as magnesium or calcium). Some of the features include faucet and faucet tubing, an inlet fitting with shut-off, but also a comprehensive installation guide.
The Pelican 3-Stage Drinking Filter uses the latest in system design and filtration technology to filter taste and odor issues from your water
View DealPros:
- Low maintenance.
- 3 faucet options.
- Easy cartridge replacement.
- Good price.
Cons:
- Significant price fluctuations (best buy it on sale).
2. Best for Small Homes: Pelican Under Counter Drinking Filter System
If you want a good water filter that’s inexpensive and suitable for smaller homes and apartments, here is a product that will serve you right. It is a water filter delivered with compatible cartridges, all the hardware needed for installation, but one that also gives you the possibility to choose between three different faucet options.
It can filter more than 60 different contaminants that are usually found in tap water, including mercury, chlorine, chloramine, and others. It comes with a LED that indicates for how long you can still use the filter before a replacement is needed. It has a maximum operating pressure of 80 PSI and the filters are best exchanged after every 450 gallons of water filtered (which is usually around 6 months). The maximum operating temperature is 100 degrees (F).
This under-counter water filter is designed to help with water that’s rich in contaminants, but it has managed to draw the attention of many homeowners because of its compact design, so don’t be surprised if users claim this is the best under sink water filter. This Pelican filter received quality certificates 42 and 53, so you can rest assured of its efficiency in removing those 60+ contaminants we spoke of earlier.
Filters Over 60+ Contaminates Including: Chlorine, Chloramines, Lead, Cysts, Mercury
View DealPros:
- All installation hardware included.
- 3 faucet options.
- Space-saving solution.
- Comes with filter cartridges.
Cons:
- Short filter lifespan.
3. Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter
We debut with our series of short reviews by talking about the Frizzlife under the sink water filtering system. This system is based on a two-stage filtering process that works with 0.5-micron contaminants and has a compound filter at the core.
It comes with a faucet and dedicated brass feed water adapter valve that doesn’t require any additional plumbing to get the system up and running. It has an auto shut-off design that’s based on a twisted movement so that you can install or remove the filter without the need to turn off the entire water supply.
When you’re ready to replace the cartridge, you don’t have to throw away the entire plastic housing. You can simply replace the core part of the filter after about 1,600 gallons of water. For the most part, one filter should last about eight months.
It can eliminate up to 99.99 percent of the lead found in water, as well as a variety of different contaminants that nobody should ever have to drink.
View DealPros:
- Easy to install.
- Auto shut-off design.
- Simple filter replacement.
- No plumbing required.
Cons:
- Slow water flow.
4. APEC Top Tier Alkaline Mineral pH+ 75 GPD 6-Stage
APEC is no stranger to providing water purifying solution and this is one filtering system that will knock your socks off. Granted, it’s not the most affordable option out there but it is a system based on advanced components and filtering technology that will remove up to 99 percent of whatever contaminants might find their way into your water.
The cartridges are made with food-grade calcium so you can rest assured that the water they filter is absolutely safe for consumption. What these filters actually do is enrich the water with calcium minerals that improve its alkalinity.
This six-stage water filter is designed to work with water pressure that varies between 40 and 85 psi, which should cover the needs of plenty of households. Thanks to the installation videos, mounting this water filtering system should be a fairly easy process.
Supreme quality - designed, engineered and assembled in USA to guarantee water safety & your health.
View DealPros:
- Double carbon blocks.
- 99% contaminant removal.
- Calcium mineral cartridge.
- Makes healthy alkaline water.
Cons:
- Expensive
5. CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter
Next up, we have the CuZn UC-200 water filter that stands out of the crows because it’s really easy to install. Since it doesn’t require a third faucet, you can simply connect this to your kitchen sink’s cold water line and you’re good to go. You will, however, need an adjustable wrench to tighten the connections.
This is also a three-stages type of filter that is equipped with membranes that will filter out even the smallest of sediments, leaving you and your family with fresh water the entire time. Thanks to its bacteriostatic filtration system, this product will not increase the chances of mold and bacteria formations.
The filter can purify up to 50,000 gallons of water or holds on for about five years before requiring a replacement. However, the manufacturer advises against buying this filter if you have hard water issues and recommends that you look into their reverse osmosis system which is more suitable for mineral removal.
The CuZn UC-200 will not resolve issues caused by water being excessively hard (such as lime scale mineral deposits).
View DealPros:
- 5 years lifespan.
- Easy to install.
- Bacteriostatic filter.
- Reduces organic and inorganic contaminants.
Cons:
- Does not work with hard water.
6. APEC WFS-1000 Water Filter System
One more APEC filtering system on the list? Yes, because these things are monsters in the positive way of the word. This is a three-stage water filtering system with three different reservoirs that house components meant to remove as many impurities from the water as they possibly can.
It features a super-capacity sediment filter that’s good for removing dust, particles, and rust. It also has a super-capacity carbon block that can remove chemicals, taste, and odors. The middle filter can remove chlorine, odors, taste, cloudiness, and VOCs. The system doesn’t interfere with your household’s regular water pressure and can still deliver between 20 and 85 psi.
Super capacity filters guaranteeing to remove chemicals, taste and odors. Feed Water Pressure: 20-85 psi
View DealPros:
- Super-capacity sediment filter.
- Super-capacity carbon block.
- Lead-free chrome faucet.
- Improved alkalinity.
Cons:
- Complaints about the dispenser.
7. iSpring US31 3-Stage Under Sink High Capacity Tankless Drinking Water Filtration System
If you’re looking for something less expensive, but still reliable, you can count on iSpring to deliver just what you’re looking for. This water system has a filter for sediments that will clean the liquid of impurities. This filter is enhanced with carbon filtration, plus an additional layer of GAC filtration. That means that aside from debris, the filter can clear water of heavy metals, chemicals, and even bacteria.
This entire thing is based on a three-stage process and features tanks that are designed to be elegant and practice. The first stage housing is clear to make it easier for you to view the impurities, always being able to inspect the filter in a matter of seconds. The system can be installed without the help of a professional, and the materials in its composition are FDA regulated.
The filter doesn’t modify your water pressure to any significant extent as it is designed to provide a fast water flow rate. It can withstand a water pressure of up to 90 psi. Depending on the quality of your water, these filters can last between six months and a full year.
Effectively removes lead, arsenic, heavy metals, VOCs and harmful chemicals cloudiness and colors and more
View DealPros:
- Clear housing for filter inspection.
- Meets FDA standards.
- Long lifespan.
- Doesn’t decrease water pressure.
- Easy to install.
Cons:
- Complaints about wrench compatibility.
Bottom Line
It’s important that you find an under the sink water filtering system that can eliminate as many contaminants from the water as possible. Aside from making sure that the filters are efficient, you should also check to see what their average filtration lifespan is or how easy they are to mount.