What to Look for In an Under-Sink Water Filter
While you’re shopping for an under-sink water filter, there’s a few important things to keep in mind, including:
- Water toxin levels
- Family size
- Space
- Cost
- Installation
- Maintenance
Knowing which contaminants are in your water is the most important factor.
Ask your local water supplier for a toxicity report and use an at-home testing kit to find out.
After all, a carbon filter isn’t going to do you much good if you’re neck-deep in nuclear waste.
Once you get the results, you’ll be ready to start shopping.
The good news is that most under-sink filters will save you space and money, are convenient to use, easy to maintain, and can supply the whole family.
Strengths & Weakness of Different Under-Sink Water Systems
Here’s a quick overview of how the different types of under-sink water systems stack up:
1. Carbon Filtration Systems
- Carbon filtration systems use carbon (activated charcoal) to improve the taste and smell of your water by removing disinfectants like chlorine
- Most incorporate a sediment filter for large particles and rust.
- Some include a third filtration medium of copper and zinc alloy that controls scale and reduces disinfectants, heavy metals, bacteria and algae growth.
- Does not remove the most dangerous contaminants like nuclear waste and arsenic.
2. Ultraviolet (UV) Systems
- $150-$350
- Ultraviolet (UV) systems kill 99.9% of pathogenic microorganisms by zapping their DNA with UV-spectrum light.
- Ideal for homes on private wells that have not been treated with disinfectants like chlorine.
- Many UV systems include a sediment filter to remove large particles, as well as a carbon filter to remove chlorine and heavy metals.
- Most UV systems do not remove dangerous contaminants like arsenic and nuclear waste.
3. Ultrafiltration (UF) Systems
- $200-$500
- Ultrafiltration (UF) systems remove dangerous contaminants like arsenic and nuclear waste.
- Compared to reverse osmosis, UF systems consume less energy, require less water pressure, and produce significantly less wastewater.
- Does not remove fluoride, “hard” minerals or dissolved particles.
4. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
- $200-$600
- Removes 99.9% of microorganisms and dangerous contaminants like arsenic and nuclear waste.
- Some RO systems incorporate UV light for an added layer of protection against bacteria and viruses.
- RO systems soften the water and protect your pipes and appliances from hard minerals.
- Premium RO systems remineralize your water by adding healthy amounts of electrolytes like magnesium and calcium.
- Remineralization also alkalizes the water and balances pH.
- RO systems with remineralization produce the cleanest, most nutritious water possible.
How to Install an Under-Sink Water Filter
Installing an under-sink filter can either be a breeze or a pain in the neck---it all depends on the make and model.
Some carbon filters can be installed in 5 minutes or less with nothing more than a crescent wrench to connect it to the cold water line.
Ultrafiltration (UF) systems are also fairly beginner-friendly---just connect the in-line and out-line using a simple connection adapter.
Reverse osmosis (RO) and ultraviolet (UV) systems, on the other hand, are a whole ‘nother animal...
UV systems require an electrical connection and RO systems require a drain line for wastewater.
Although some under-sink filters connect directly to your existing primary faucet, many systems require a new dedicated faucet.
Installing the faucet is the hardest part---get ready to drill a carefully-placed hole in your countertop!
If you’re pretty tool-savvy, you should be able to install most under-sink filters in an hour or two, but if assembling Ikea furniture is your idea of a “home project,” then it’s time to ring a plumber.
At Cloud Water Filters, we recommend professional installation no matter how handy you think you are.
Our filter membranes last over a year when properly installed, and our built-in software automatically ships replacements right to your door.
Click here to learn more.
