Buyer's Guide & Information

Best Countertop Water Filters Reviewed

These systems remove chemicals and offer reliable filtration for clean drinking water from your kitchens countertop.

by Matt Moran

Installing a countertop water filter in your kitchen is one of the easiest ways to enhance your home’s drinking water. Even if you think your tap water is perfectly safe to drink, you might be surprised about the hundreds of contaminants that come in every glass of tap water. A countertop water filter works to eliminate these contaminants, and some even work to alkalize your water and enhance its pH levels.

This guide provides you with everything you need to know before buying a new water filtration system for your home. Each of the reviewed products below work to remove chemicals and offer reliable filtration to give you and your family clean drinking water at all times.

How Countertop Water Filters Work

The process of filtering water may seem simple, but as it turns out, it is actually very complex. Filtering water, according to NSF International standards, isn't easy. There are 3 main steps for the water to go through, including mechanical filtration, water softening, and carbon filtration. After that, some countertop filters offer additional steps like alkalization and remineralization.

The most important steps, though, are 1 to 3. Mechanical filtration means that the water is mechanically pushed through the small pores of a filter, which helps to minimize larger impurities like rust and sediment.

Water softening uses ion exchange technology to remove heavy metals and toxins that are responsible for making your water harder. And carbon filtration uses activated carbon to remove organic contaminants like herbicides, pesticides, and disinfectants like chlorine.


Alkalization & Remineralization

If you opt for a water filter that comes with extra filtering powers, you can enjoy drinking water that has been alkalized and remineralized. Alkalization is the process of changing a water’s pH to make it more alkaline and less acidic.

Research shows that the ideal pH level of drinking water is at least 8.5, but most tap water has a much lower pH level than this. Lastly, look for a water filter that remineralizes the water and adds back any minerals that might have been lost during the filtering process.

We've reviewed some of these pH meters that you can confidently use at home. 


Benefits of Countertop Water Filters

The main advantage of investing in a countertop water filter is that you'll have easy access to drinking water in its purest form. There are tons of health benefits that come along with drinking filtered water simply because a filtration system helps to minimize harmful toxins and chemicals, like chlorine, lead, and fluoride.

On top of that, using a water filter can give your water a more pleasant taste and smell. Lastly, turning to water filtration is much more environmentally-friendly than purchasing filtered water that comes in bottles, plus there it is much more cost-efficient. A recent study showed that the average cost of a 16-oz bottle of water ranges from $1 to $2, while the average price of 100 gallons of filtered water is about $0.11.


Buying Guide: Countertop Water Filters

Type of Filter

The type of filtration system you choose should be your first priority when shopping around for the best countertop water filters. It is suggested that beforehand you do a test of your tap water to see what contaminants it contains, and then use this list and compare it with the contaminants removed by a water filter.

The most common contaminants in tap water are chlorine, fluoride, and lead, but you might be surprised to find that you’ve also been drinking trace amounts of pesticides.

Filtration Capacity & Filter Life

Every filter comes with a unique capacity and filter life. The capacity refers to how many gallons of water the filter is capable of filtering before it’s time to invest in a new one. This capacity determines the filter life. Typically, every 40 gallons of filter capacity can be translated into about 2 months of use.

This means a filter with 40-gallon capacity should be switched out after 2 months, an 80-gallon capacity can last 4 months, and a 120-gallon capacity can last 6 months. The best water filter pitchers typically come with a 40 to 120-gallon capacity, but countertop water filters are designed to last much longer. You should be able to find a filter that comes with at least a 6-month lifespan, if not 1 year.

Flow Rate & Filter Micron Rating

There's nothing more frustrating than wanting to fill up your reusable water bottle, but you're in a rush, and you don't have the time to watch the water slowly trickle through the filter. The solution is to find a filter with a fast flow rate, but even when you do that, you need to be realistic about how fast a filter can operate. There are several steps involved in filtering your water, so you’ll need to have some patience.

The other consideration along with flow rate is a filter’s micron rating. According to the Wix Filters FAQs page

a micron rating is a value assigned to a filter, indicating that filter's ability to remove a certain size of particle.”

You’ll want to find a filter that comes with a low micron rating. The lower the rating, the smaller the filter's pores, which means even the tiniest molecules won't be able to pass through.

pH Alterations

Drinking filtered water that alters the pH of tap water is becoming more common. You’ve probably seen bottles of alkalized water on the shelves of your local grocery store. Alkalized water has been altered in pH levels to make it less acidic, which is linked to many health benefits. Healthline says that ,

"not all alkaline water is equal and that it “must also contain alkaline minerals and negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP). ORP is the ability of water to act as a pro- or antioxidant.” 

If drinking alkaline water is on your list of things to do, look for a countertop water filter that has a negative ORP rating, since this means that the water is more antioxidizing in nature.

Water Quality

Before even considering a top-rated countertop water filter, you must consider the quality of your tap water. Water all around the world ranges in the contaminants it contains, its pH levels, and whether it is hard or soft. In order to change your water for the better, you first must know what needs to be done. To gauge the quality of your water, you can purchase a water testing kit on Amazon.

Ease of Installation

One of the perks of choosing a countertop water filter as your primary filtration system is that most models are easy to install.

That said, some come with more difficult installation than others, and some are tricky when it comes to changing out the filter with a replacement.

The easiest type to install is the faucet model that attaches directly to the kitchen faucet, and it's ready to use. Others, like the AlcaPure shown here, simply require you to fill a reservoir with tap water to get started, and are marketed as "zero installation."

AlcaPure Purifier Countertop

Cost Over Filter Lifetime

The initial cost of a high-quality countertop water filter should be overlooked. Over time, you’ll save a massive amount of water by eliminating bottled water from your day-to-day life. Although tap water is the cheapest way to stay hydrated, it is not worth the health risks that come along with consuming contaminants and toxins.

That said, you should still consider the costs of the filter over time. No filtration system on Earth doesn't require replacement filters, so check to see how long each filter is expected to last and how much each replacement will set you back. It's worth it to pay a slightly higher cost for a filter that is meant to last one full year than one that will only provide you with 6 months of clean drinking water.

Certifications

There are a few water filter testing organizations that you can trust, including the NSF, ANSI, and WQA. The main stamp approvals to look for come from the NSF, which is the most reputable certifying organization for water filters in the world. Be wary of products that make claims like "meets NSF standards," because this doesn't mean it has actually been certified.


9 Best Countertop Water Filters Reviewed

1. APEC RO-CTOP

Our Top Pick!

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

1000+ Gallons

Contaminants Removed

99%

Filtration Media

Reverse Osmosis

Filter Life

1 Year

Certification

WQA

Our top pick for the best countertop water filter is the APEC RO-CTOP filtration system. It rightfully deserves the #1 spot for many reasons, but what we love most is the installation-free operation. As soon as the APEC arrives in the mail, you’ll be able to start enjoying clean drinking water immediately. It’s compatible with all standard faucet designs (except for pull-out and sprayer designs). Simply attach the included components and enjoy water that is as close to contaminant-free as possible.

Not only is this our top pick because of installation ease, but it is also the best countertop reverse osmosis water filter. It is a high-performance RO solution, which means that contaminants are removed by forcing water through a permeable membrane. It uses a 4-stage filtration process and features a high capacity so that you’ll only have to change the filter once per year with regular use.

This model is so lightweight and compact that you can easily move it from faucet to faucet within the home. It has up to 99% removal rate, working to eliminate common contaminants like arsenic, fluoride, copper, and lead. It also removes chlorine and any unpleasant tastes and smells that often come along with chlorinated water. This means that all of your beverages consumed at home will taste better, including coffee and tea. On top of all this, you’ll receive lifetime support from the WQA-certified water specialists at APEC. 

Pros
  • 4-stage filtration
  • Easy installation
  • Fits all standard faucets
  • Easy transport
Cons
  • No remineralization
  • No alkalization

2. Zero Installation Purifier AlcaPure

Runner Up

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

1000+ Gallons

Contaminants Removed

99%

Filtration Media

Reverse Osmosis

Filter Life

1 Year

Certification

None

The next best thing when it comes to choosing a best-rated countertop water filter for the home is the AlcaPure Purifier. This is the best high-end countertop water filter, which is why we’ve rated it as our runner up. The only downside is that with high-end products comes a high-end price, and this is no exception for the AlcaPure.

But if you’re OK with paying the high cost that comes along with this countertop filter, chances are you’ll feel that it was completely worth it. It has the potential to transform ordinary tap water into clean, healthy water, and it even alkalizes H20 to the optimal pH level. On top of alkalization, the AlcaPure also remineralizes the water to a certain extent by returning some of the minerals that were lost during the filtration process.

It removes 99% of impurities, including fluoride, chlorine, heavy metals, and more. Another perk to choosing this model is that it is 100% ready to use right out of the box. There's no assembly required, no leaky diverters, and no messy hoses. Plus, the entire machine is BPA free, so you don’t have to worry about the harms of bisphenol-A affecting you and your family.

Even with the high price tag, this model is one of the best on the market. It looks good sitting on any countertop, alkalizes the water to a pH of 7 or 8, and leaves your drinking water tasting fresh and clean. All you have to do is fill the bottom compartment with tap water, push a button, and in 15 minutes, the top compartment will be filled with 0.5 gallons of 99% impurity-free drinking water.

Pros
  • Beautiful convenience
  • Alkalizes to 7-8 pH
  • Remineralizes after filtration
  • No messy hoses
Cons
  • Only 0.5 gallons at a time
  • High cost

3. New Wave Enviro

Best 10-Stage Home Countertop Water Filter

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

1500 Gallons

Contaminants Removed

99.9%

Filtration Media

Resin Ion Exchange

Filter Life

1 Year

Certification

NSF

Some of the best countertop water filters come with 4 or 5 stages of filtration, but the New Wave Enviro goes above and beyond when it comes to filtering out impurities. This is the best 10-stage home countertop water filter to make our list. It works through 10 different stages to produce freshwater and filter out the most common contaminants contained within tap water. It even has a stage for filtering out inorganic arsenic.

Installation is easy, and replacing the filter once every year is even easier. The New Wave can keep a family of 4 hydrated for a full year. When it comes time to replace, simply remove the cartridge and put a new one in place. This is an environmentally-friendly solution that is perfect for cutting back on the cost of bottled water. It makes staying hydrated more accessible than ever.

Enviro products are NSF certified, and tens of thousands of families are enjoying clean, fresh-tasting water thanks to the New Wave. The main concern of Enviro is to keep people safe, especially since more and more contaminants are showing up in our tap water. Aside from eliminating arsenic, the 10-stage filtration system filters out lead, chlorine, pesticides, mercury, and more.

The only downside of choosing the New Wave is that it is not the most pleasing product in terms of aesthetics. Some people say that the large white canister is not a nice addition to the kitchen. The New Wave company could put a bit more focus on design features, in our opinion. It's certainly not as nice to look at as the high-end Alca Pure, but for the price, function, and ease of installation, it’s still one of our top picks.

Pros
  • Family-owned company
  • Easy installation and replacement
  • Space-saving countertop design
  • 10 filtration stages
Cons
  • Lacks aesthetic appeal

4. Apex MR1050

Best Countertop Alkaline Water Filter

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

1000+ Gallons

Contaminants Removed

99%

Filtration Media

Resin Ion Exchange

Filter Life

3+ Months

Certification

NSF, FDA, ANSI

After doing a quick water test, you might come to realize that you’ve been drinking highly acidic water for years. Drinking water with a low pH (high acidity level) is directly linked to a variety of health issues, plus it can leave your water tasting metallic. Culligan Water says that 

“it places adults at risk for health problems such as cancer, stroke, kidney disease, memory problems, and high blood pressure."

The solution? Install the Apex MR1050 in your home. This is the best countertop alkaline water filter that continuously works to raise the pH levels of water as it filters out impurities. The MR1050 reduces 99% of harmful contaminants from your tap water while also increasing pH by adding back minerals into the water after filtration.

This water filter is capable of filtering out chlorine, chloramine, benzene, radon, and heavy metals. Once all of these things are filtered out, the MR1050 remineralizes the water by adding back in magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Through remineralization, the water becomes more alkaline. This is a cost-effective method for filtration, remineralization, and alkalization all-in-one.

For installation, simply place the filter near the faucet and use the included hose attachment. It connects to all standard domestic faucets and is designed to sit conveniently on the countertop. In terms of aesthetics, you’ll love that this model comes in a variety of color options, including a sleek chrome finish, matte black, and several bright color options.

Pros
  • Remineralizes and alkalizes
  • Official certifications
  • Multiple color options
  • Works with most faucets
Cons
  • Shorter lifespan

5. Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed

Best Countertop Gravity Water Filter

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

6000 Gallons

Contaminants Removed

99.999%

Filtration Media

PF2 Fluoride Filtration

Filter Life

2+ Years

Certification

None

A gravity-fed water filter works exactly as you would expect. The water is loaded in from the top of the filtration device and fed through using the forces of gravity. The perk of choosing the best countertop gravity water filter is that you can use it virtually anywhere, no power source required. This is just one of the many advantages of choosing the Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed filtration system.

The Berkey features powerful purification that works not only to filter the water but completely purify it. It is capable of removing up to 99.999% of viruses and bacteria as well as protozoa, inorganic minerals, heavy metals, and pharmaceutical drugs. The economical and long-lasting design has an impressive 6000-gallon capacity before needing to be replaced. Most filters of this nature have between 1000 and 1500-gallon capacity, so there’s really no comparison.

There are several size options to choose from, the most popular one being the 3.25-gallon capacity. There is also a 1.5, 2.25, 4.5, and 6-gallon option, so the one you choose depends on how many people will be using the filtration system. The 3.25-gallon is capable of hydrating 2 to 4 people for one full day, which makes it an excellent solution for camping trips and weekends away at the cabin.

Although the Royal Berkey allows users to drink confidently virtually anywhere, this is not the ideal solution for everyone. It’s a great choice for outdoor adventurers, but if you’re looking for a permanent filtration solution for the home, this might not be the one. For that, it makes more sense to choose a faucet attachment like the Apex or New Wave.

Pros
  • Easy to use gravity-fed design
  • No power source required
  • Powerful purification
  • Impressive filter capacity
Cons
  • Not ideal for permanent home filtration
  • Slow flow rate

6. cleanwater4less

Best Budget/Cheap Model

Filter Micron Rating

0.7

Capacity

10,000 Gallons

Contaminants Removed

97%

Filtration Media

Activated Carbon

Filter Life

2+ Years

Certification

None

Trying to improve your water-drinking habits but also stick to a budget? The solution is cleanwater4less, which is the best budget model for countertop water filtration. The initial cost of this system is low, but the best part of all is that there are no replacement filters necessary. This means there is just a one-time cost for delivering up to 10,000 gallons of clean drinking water to the entire household.

This model uses activated carbon filtration to filter out sediment, chlorine, volatile organic compounds, and taste/odor from water. It has a stylish design that utilizes an attractive diverter for connecting the filter directly to standard kitchen faucets. Everything required for installation comes right in the box, so there’s no need to start searching for your toolbox.

Some say that the 10,000-gallon capacity is a bit of an overstatement, while others claim that this filtration system truly does last that long. The only thing to be aware of is that the flow rate will decrease a bit over time, but this is true of any countertop water filter. Sediment and mineral build-up can be expected, especially if your tap water is riddled with impurities.

Even if this model doesn’t last you the full 10,000 gallons, you should have no trouble getting your money’s worth. Especially once you calculate the cost of drinking bottled water (and the costs to your health of drinking tap water), you’ll see that there’s no better option than the cleanwater4less in terms of value for price.

Pros
  • Sleek stainless steel design
  • No replacement filters required
  • Long lifespan
  • Easy diverter valve installation
Cons
  • No fluoride filtration
  • Only 97% of contaminants removed

7. Cuckoo CP-MN031BK

Best Kitchen Countertop Filtered Water Dispenser

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

1000+ Gallons

Contaminants Removed

99.99%

Filtration Media

Carbon, Nano, Mineralizer

Filter Life

1 Year

Certification

None

If you’re looking for a high-tech kitchen countertop water filter that delivers sparkling clean water, check out the Cuckoo CP-MN031BK Direct Flow filtration system. The Cuckoo looks great on any countertop and produces crystal clear water with the push of a button. While filtering your water, the machine also works to remineralize it with magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

The Cuckoo does this by using 3 separate filtration cartridges: Carbon, Nano, and Mineralizer. With these 3 filtration methods working together, water is free from harmful bacteria, viruses, tastes and odors, heavy metals, and other contaminants, all without losing out on the essential minerals necessary for the human body to function at its fullest.

Aside from its powerful filtration abilities, the best part of the Cuckoo is its sleek countertop design. This is why so many people are willing to pay a higher price tag. The machine itself looks similar to a Keurig, but all that is required for operation is the push of a button.  There is minimal setup that takes the average person about 15 minutes, but once done, drinking filtered water has never been easier.

Here’s what the manufacturer has to say about replacing the filter:

“Cuckoo’s filter replacement System informs you when each filter needs to be changed and specifies the exact filter to change. Cuckoo worked hard to develop the simplest filter change on the market – No twisting, turning, hassle or leaks.” 

The only downside to replacing the filters is that they don’t come cheap, but they certainly get the job done when it comes to filtering, remineralizing, and alkalizing your tap water.

Pros
  • Sleek countertop design
  • Remineralizes and alkalizes
  • Filter replacement alarm
  • cETLus mark of approval
Cons
  • Some setup required
  • High cost of replacement filters

8. Lake Industries

Best Stainless Steel Model

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

1000 Gallons

Contaminants Removed

97%

Filtration Media

Resin Ion Exchange

Filter Life

1 Year

Certification

NSF

If you’ve invested in stainless steel appliances for the kitchen, it makes sense to also invest in the best stainless steel model for a countertop water filter. Stainless steel is a timeless material, which means the Lake Industries stainless steel water filter will never go out of style. This model connects directly to the kitchen faucet so that you can divert the tap water to the filtration system.

It features a long-lasting 1,000-gallon filter, so depending on how many people are using it, you can get away with changing the filter just once per year. It effectively filters out 97% of chlorine, volatile organic compounds, radon, and all tastes and odors. Lake Industries reviewers claim that even their coffee and tea taste better thanks to this filtered water.

Lake Industries takes so much pride in its products that every unit is backed with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t love how it works or you're not 100% satisfied with the way your water tastes, you'll receive your money back, no questions asked. The chances of this happening are slim to none, though.

The stainless steel design looks good, is easy to clean, and is highly durable. Although you will have to change the filter once a year, you can expect to be using this filtration system for years to come.

Pros
  • Heavy-duty stainless steel construction
  • Sleek design
  • Satisfaction guaranteed
  • Price is right
Cons
  • Flow rate decreases over time

9. Home Master TMJRF2 Jr F2

Best Countertop Fluoride Water Filter

Filter Micron Rating

0.5

Capacity

500 Gallons

Contaminants Removed

93%

Filtration Media

Activated Carbon, Activated Alumina

Filter Life

3 Months

Certification

None

The debate over whether or not fluoride in water is safe will continue until the end of time. Time Magazine says that,

“the U.S. began adding fluoride to some public water supplies in the 1940s, in an effort to strengthen teeth and prevent decay… At high doses, fluoride can actually damage people’s teeth, according to the World Health Organization—and some research suggests it’s also tied to more serious side effects, including bone cancer and cognitive impairments.”

So although there is still a lot of debate regarding fluoride, research is suggesting that it might not be as beneficial as they once thought. For this reason, so many people are choosing to filter out fluoride along with the other common tap water contaminants. Filtering out fluoride is made easier than ever with the Home Master TMJRF2 Jr F2 countertop filtered water dispenser.

The Home Master dispenser delivers highly pure water through a 3-stage filter that removes up to 93% of fluoride, chlorine, and other chemicals. The efficient space-saving design fits nicely next to the kitchen sink, even if you’re short on space. Installation is simple and takes only minutes before the dispenser is ready to use. It’s highly portable, so you can move it from one room in the house to another.

If you’re focusing on fluoride elimination from your water, this is a great choice. But the downside is that this filter isn’t as effective at eliminating a long list of contaminants as some other models we’ve covered. It focuses on fluoride and chlorine, but if you want contaminant-free water in every aspect, you might consider one that has a 99.9% filtration rating instead of just 93%.

Pros
  • Efficient space-saving design
  • Effective for minimizing fluoride
  • Advanced multi-stage filter
  • Perfect for any sink top
Cons
  • Low filter capacity
  • Short filter lifespan

Countertop Water Filter Styles

  • Sink-Top Filter
    The sink-top filter, also referred to as a faucet filter, is a filtration system that attaches directly to the kitchen faucet. It allows you to easily switch between filtered and unfiltered tap water, which makes it easy to go from washing dishes to filling up a glass of water that is suitable for consumption.
  • Gravity-Fed Filter
    A filter that is gravity fed requires no electricity or connection to a water supply. It is a freestanding unit that sits on a countertop and filters water that has been poured into the top of the unit. This is amazing for camping trips or visiting areas with no running water.
  • Water Distillers
    Fresh Water Systems says that a water distiller works by “converting water into vapor before condensing it and returning it to a liquid state. During the evaporation process, impurities like bacteria, heavy metals, and arsenic are eliminated because they are unable to turn into steam. As the water transitions from a liquid to a gaseous state, these contaminants are left behind in the boiling chamber.”

Countertop Filtration Systems Explained

Carbon Filtration

Carbon filtration is an effective method not only for minimizing contaminants but eliminating any unpleasant tastes or odors. It works by using activating carbon to attract impurities from the water before passing it through to the drinkable water chamber. This is a great method if your municipality disinfects water with chlorine and chloramine.

Ceramic Filtration

Ceramic filtration is the best method if the water in your geographic location is known to contain bacteria, parasites, and cysts like Giardia. These have a low micron rating, which means that they can capture tiny microscopic parasites that many filters aren't able to eliminate. This is thanks to the porous surface of ceramic, which most bacteria are unable to penetrate.

Ultrafiltration

Ultrafiltration is one of the most effective water filtration methods since it filters the water multiple times. It uses an extremely fine membrane that has a low micron rating, just like ceramic filtration. It is capable of reducing nearly all water contaminants.

Water Distillation

All distilled water goes through the same process. The water is heated up and turned into steam. This is extremely effective since chemicals, viruses, and heavy metals are unable to convert into steam. Once the steam is converted back into a liquid state, it is free from nearly all impurities.


All About Water Contaminants

Physical Contaminants

There are many types of drinking water contaminants, but one of the most common is contamination from sediment or organic material.  Physical contaminants like this typically enter a water supply due to soil erosion, and they can affect the color, taste, and safety of your drinking water. These contaminants are relatively large, unlike chemicals and bacteria, so they are easy to filter out.

Chemical Contaminants

It’s scary to think just how chemicals are contained within your tap water, but many of these chemicals are put there on purpose. Municipalities use chemicals like chlorine and chloramine to disinfect the water.  Although this disinfection is necessary, it is suggested that you do whatever you can to filter out these chemicals. They are linked to some long-term health problems, plus they can leave an unpleasant taste or smell in your water.

Biological Contaminants

The EPA says that "biological contaminants are organisms in the water. They are also referred to as microbes or microbiological contaminants. Examples of biological or microbial contaminants include bacteria, viruses, protozoan, and parasites.”

Consuming harmful bacteria can be life-threatening. Bacteria is much more difficult to filter out than sediments or chemicals, which is why you should invest in a filter with a low micron rating.

Radiological Contaminants

Radiological contaminants emit radiation due to unstable atoms from unbalanced protons and neutrons. The most common radiological contaminant is lead. The CDC says that common sources of lead in drinking water are 

“lead pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures. Certain pipes that carry drinking water from the water source to the home may contain lead. Household plumbing fixtures, welding solder, and pipe fittings made before 1986 may also contain lead."


Countertop Water Filters Compared

  • Vs. Whole House Water Filters
    Using a whole house water filter will deliver filtered water throughout the entire house, but installing a whole house filter isn't easy. It is also extremely costly, so if you're looking for a simple, affordable solution, a countertop water filter is the better choice.
  • Vs. Under Sink Water Filters
    An under sink water filter is advantageous in the sense that it is entirely out of sight. However, the advantages stop there. An under sink water filter is more difficult to install, plus it is easy to forget about filter replacements when your filtration system is out of sight, out of mind.
  • Vs. Water Filter Pitchers
    A water filter pitcher is extremely convenient and works by pouring water into a pitcher, then the filtration mechanism inside filters out contaminants. Many people prefer water filter pitchers since they can be conveniently stored in the fridge and keep your drinking water cold. The problem, though, is that these need to be refilled continuously, and the filter has a shorter lifespan than the best countertop water filters.

Installing or Changing Countertop Systems

Most countertop water filters are straightforward to install. There is a minimal setup process that takes just a few minutes, especially ones that attach to the kitchen faucet. Some models require you to use an adjustable wrench, but many manufacturers include a small plastic wrench in the package. Here are the basic steps involved to install your new countertop filtration system:

  • 1
    Place the filter close to the sink so that the included water line can connect the filter and the kitchen faucet.
  • 2
    Remove the faucet aerator. This is easy; you should be able to find the steps with your faucet user manual.
  • 3
    Faucets with external threads can connect directly to the filter. For a faucet with an inside thread, you'll need to use the filter adaptor to connect the two.
  • 4
    Follow the filter’s manual to connect the diverter to the faucet. Water will flow normally from the faucet until the diverter is turned. Once turned, water will flow from the filter spout.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What is remineralization?

Remineralization is the process of adding minerals back to the water that has been filtered. This is a useful step since most filters work to filter out everything, which means both the good and the bad. By remineralizing the water, you’ll be able to add back the minerals that were lost in the filtration process.

Is tap water chlorinated?

Government municipalities add chlorine to their water sources to disinfect it. The Water Quality and Health Council says that 

“the EPA requires treated tap water to have a detectable level of chlorine to help prevent contamination.”

The argument is that chlorine at low levels is completely safe, but it is still best to filter out chlorine from your home’s tap water.

How can I test my water quality at home?

Lifehacker says that to test the water in your home, simply test it yourself.

“You can buy a test kit from your local home center or online,” says Lifehacker. “The kits usually come with a package of strips that contain reactants that change color to indicate the presence of various contaminants in your water.”

How often do I have to change the filters?

This depends on the filter you choose. Filter lifespan depends on its filtering capacity. For every 20 gallons of filter capacity, you should be able to get a full month of use out of your filter. Look for a filter that features at least a 120-gallon capacity, which generally lasts about 6 months before a replacement filter is needed.

What should I do with the used filters?

Depending on your filter of choice, there are 3 options: reuse, replace, or recycle. The most common method is a replacement, which is necessary once your filter has reached its filtering capacity and becomes too clogged to operate correctly.

Just find a compatible filter for your filtration system and follow the replacement instructions provided by the manufacturer. Check the guidelines in your area to see if it’s possible to recycle the filter rather than just throwing it in the trash. 

How should I maintain these units? How do I flush them?

It’s extremely common for bacteria to buildup within a filtration system, so flushing the filter is a good idea. This is as easy as running the filtered water for 20 seconds before collecting drinking water for yourself. Not only does this minimize bacteria from your drinking water, but it also helps to maintain the unit.

What happens if I do not replace my water filter?

The most common problem that occurs from failing to replace a water filter is clogging. Contaminants will continue to collect as you use the filter, and eventually, there will be so much contamination that the filter won’t be able to push clean water through. You should always follow your unit’s guidelines for replacement.

What is the best system set up for well water treatment?

The most common well water contaminants include heavy metals like arsenic, lead, copper, and chromium, as well as fluoride, which is found in almost all water supplies.

Because well water contains so many contaminants, you’ll want to find a filtration system that uses at least two methods of filtration, like activated carbon and ion exchange. This won’t be difficult to find when you choose from one of the countertop water filter reviews listed here.


Conclusion

In conclusion, we’ll do one more recap of our top pick for the best home water filter countertop model, the APEC filtration system. This filter utilizes a 4-stage RO filtration process and is effective for eliminating 99% of impurities that are commonly found in tap water.

There’s zero installation and lifetime support provided by the APEC company, but best of all, this filter is expected to last one full year before a replacement is needed.

Matt is a freelance writer, English graduate, & keen traveler from the UK. As a specialist plumbing expert, he enjoys writing about everything there has to do with at-home plumbing products & related problems. When he isn’t writing, he’s usually drinking coffee or planning his next adventure. In his spare time, he also runs his own blog all about digital nomad life.

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