Sixty percent of the human body is made of water. Every cell, organ and tissue are inundated with water which carries the nutrients to them, washes and takes away the wastefrom them. This water is then filtered by the kidneys to remove the toxins from the body and keep it clean and healthy.

Water regulates the body temperature and protects your brain, tissues, spinal cord and joints. It aids digestion via saliva and digestive juices. This universal solvent makes all the minerals and nutrients available to the body. It also helps digest fibre which ultimately helps bowel movements. We have also written a complete guide about the best water purifiers.

Water prevents dehydration due to heat, exercise and sweating. It prevents coming down with fever, contracting illness, vomit or diarrhoea.Water also helps prevent bladder infections or stones of the urinary tract.

If you are pregnant, 75% or your baby is water thus fluid intake helps your baby to grow healthy. If you are nursing, then the intake helpsoptimizelactation. It helps your baby grow healthy bones and teeth. These may seem solid but 25% of these too, are water. Thus, on an average, you should consume 2.4 litres of water daily

According to the Center for Disease Control, most people in good health get their fluids by drinking water, beverages, soups and through meals. Yet, to track your health and hydration level just check your urine. If it is clear, you are well-hydrated. if it is dark, you need to drink water. Usually, the first urine of the day after a night of good sleep is darker so don’t worry. Check out our complete guide about the best whole house water filters.

Safe Drinking Water

Now we know the importance of water for our body; how do we make sure that it is safe? In the water cycle; the water evaporates to makes clouds. These clouds grow saturated with water which falls to the ground as rainwater and snow. This rainwater and snowmelt feed our fresh water supplies such as lakes and reservoirs.

As water is a universal solvent it dissolved everything into it. As our environment isn’t clean and human impact has made it even more contaminated the water is even more unsafe to drink. The list of contaminants is long and depends on the source of the water.

There may be the agricultural runoff with fertilizers and pesticides in it. Or industrial pollutants and urban runoff such as car emissions, road surface wash-offs, pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Or water treatment chemicals such as chlorine and other by-products.

This lengthy list is as overwhelming as the anthropogenic by-products flooding the environment. These contaminants cause mutations and problems of the liver, kidney, liver, nervous system, etc. Thus, it is important to understand the shortcomings of water supply system so that you can protect your family.

The EPA standards aren’t as stringent as you would like them to be. There are enforced measures and there are unenforced measures. The EPA tries to achieve the maximum contaminant removal goal, but this requires money. Due to budgetary constraints, unhealthy levels of contaminants still make it to your home

For example, the prescribed levels of a well-known carcinogen, arsenic is 0.00 ppm, yet 0.01 ppm makes it to your tap water. Besides, as there are constant inventions, uses and mixing of chemicals each second. There is a new and lethal cocktail being created in the environment that runs off into the water supply increases health risks. The EPA can remove only one out of three such contaminants from our water supply.

Moreover, regulatory standards fail, processes fall short, equipment malfunctions and mistakes happen. Humankind is imperfect as highlighted by anEnvironmental Working Groupreport, that states that the department failed to stop the water contamination by carcinogens like Trihalomethanes between 2004-09.

Sometimes pipes rupture and contaminants like lead leach into the water supply. Besides lead pipes are still used today. Another health hazard is the fluorides that cause enamel fluorosis and increased chances of bone fracture.

So How Do We Improve the Quality of our Water?

There are various water purification methods as demonstrated by these filters. There are Point-of-Use (POU) and Point-of-Entry or Source (POE or POS) filters.

Tap water filters are faucet-mounted devices which are inexpensive and easy to install. Simply remove the aerator and screw on the filter.

The activated charcoal filter (ACF) removes chlorine, odours, lead and improves the taste of the water.The contaminants bond chemically to the activated carbon as it flows through the filter. ACFs cannot remove hardness, limescale, sodium, fluorine, microbes and heavy metals.Charcoal filters can process 100 gallons of water before they need a change or reactivation.

Carafe water filtersuse activated charcoal and hold only 1 – 2 glasses of water in them. They can be put in the fridge to cool the water while filtering by the gravity method.Nowadays, the refrigerators have a similar built-in filter,but these clog up quickly and require frequent servicing and replacements.

Countertop and Under the counter filters are connected to the incoming water supply. They provide clean and safe water for drinking and cooking. The smaller compact countertop systems sit next to the sink or hang on the wall. While the under-the-counter ones are fitted in the cabinetry under the sink. These filter 450 – 1500 gallons of water and remove mercury, cysts, chlorine, lead, etc. If they are fitted with an ultraviolet system, they kill the microbes too. These are POS filters thus the filtrationhappens only at that source i.e. the kitchen sink.

Reverse osmosis filters use the pressure in the incoming water to push water through semipermeable membranes. This traps the solids and other contaminants which are larger than the water molecules. The system generates wastewater that can be used for gardening. It must be flushed periodically to clean the membrane and the flow of the water should be slow for best results.As the membrane traps essential minerals like magnesium and calcium, the filtered water is soft water. A carbon mineral filter is fitted to add the useful minerals back into the water.

Point of Entry filters purify the water at the point it enters the building. The water is clean and safe to drink from every faucet in the house. Itremoves contaminants such as sediments, chlorine, other harmful chemicals, etc.

If the system is enhanced with the UV light, then it kills microbes too. If you receive hard water these systems have RO and other technology such as alkaline ionizers that electrolysis the water. The infrared filters soften the water using heat and light to negatively charge the water, softening it.

The Essential Features of An Under-Sink Filter

Water pressure should be just right so that the water is filtered properly but you don’t have to wait long for a glass of water.

Filtering capacity depends upon the components of the cartridge. Some may have a good overall filtering capacity but fail to remove a contaminant due to lack of a certain component. Thus, before you chose your cartridge, use the water testing kit to determine what types of contaminants are there in your water supply then pick your water filter.

Ease of installation and servicing are a huge factor while choosing your filter. The installation occurs once but the servicing such as change of filters, cleaning them, etc should be easy and quick.

Cartridge longevity should be 3 – 6 months, they should be easily available and reasonably priced and made of high-quality material.

TOP 15 BEST UNDER SINK WATER FILTERS IN 2022

Picture	Name	Features	Price	Rating
Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
	1. WaterChef U9000 Premium	1,000 GALLON Rated Capacity	$$$	4.8
	2. Aquasana 3-Stage Max Flow Under Sink Water Filter System	Removes up to 99%	$$$	4.8
	3. iSpring RCC7 5-stage Reverse Osmosis Filtration System	3-year Manufacturer Warranty	$$$	4.7
	4. Global Water RO-505	100% LEAD FREE faucet	$$$	4.6
	5. iSpring RCC1UP-AK Water Filtration System with Booster Pump	11W ultraviolet sterilizer	$$$	4.6
	6. APEC WFS-1000 3 Stage Under-Sink Water Filter System	1 year Satisfaction guarantee	$$$	4.5
	7. iSpring WCC31 3-Stage, Tankless Water Filtration System	3 stages of filtration	$$$	4.5
	8. Aquasana 2-Stage Water Filter System	Only 10 cents per gallon	$$$	4.5
	9. 3M Aqua-Pure Model 3MFF100	0.2 nominal micron rating	$$$	4.4
	10. Ecosoft 5-Stage RO Water Filter System	1 Year Warranty	$$$	4.3
	11. 3M Aqua-Pure Model AP-DWS1000	Sanitary twist-off cartridge	$$$	4.2
	12.CuZn UC-200 Under-Counter Water Filter	Bacteriostatic and Not Susceptible	$$$	4.1
	13. American Plumber WLCS-1000	small as 0.5 microns	$$$	4.0
	14. FS-TFC Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System	dimension: 11.5” x 5” x 11.5″	$$$	4.0
	15. APEC CS-2500	maximum 1.67 GPM (6.321 LPM) flow rate	$$$	3.9

1. WaterChef U9000 Premium

WaterChef is a brand by the Water Safety Corporation that has been designing, manufacturing and selling high-quality water filtration systems since last 30 years.

Design and Build

The WaterChef U9000 Premium is aesthetically designed with an 18/8 surgical stainless-steel body for durability and beauty. The Premium has a designer faucet with a brass construction and a ceramic disc valve that can withstand 34 to 100°F and 125 PSI of water pressure. If you get the optional refrigerator kit, it will filter your faucet and refrigerator water.

The unit requires one cartridge per year and the intelligent monitor tracks the maintenance schedule. This system is unsurpassed in contaminant reduction as it has a proprietary 3-ply pleated pre-filter that increases the dirt holding capacity lengthens the cartridge life. It is only 8.8 inches tall, 11.2 his deep and 12 inches wide. It weighs only 7.85 pounds. It is easy to install, powerful and occupies very little space.

Functionality

The WaterChef removes 50 plus contaminants from the tap water, such as chlorine, lead, agricultural pesticides, cysts of giardia and cryptosporidium. It removes industrial pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other carcinogens too. It adds beneficial elements back to the water such as calcium and magnesium that improve the taste of the water.

Capacity

The rated capacity of the WaterChef Premium filters 1,000 gallons. And for most households, it requires only one cartridge per annum.

Additional Features

The Premium Designer series faucet with a brushed nickel finish comes with built-in Intelligent Monitor LEDs and batteries. The surgical stainless-steel housing assembly has a pre-installed filter cartridge, a T-valve, its tubing and a wingnut. There are an installation and user guide and an NSF performance data sheet. The Premium comes with a lifetime warranty and a sixty days money-back guarantee.

Pros

– out of sight in the cabinet

– zero clutter

– easy to change filters

– remove 50 plus contaminants

– adds beneficial elements and improve water taste

Cons

– could be enhanced with IR, UV and other filters

Why it is the best of the lot

The WaterChef is out of sight and does not interfere with the design of your kitchen. Its installed in the cabinet under your sink, so the countertops are clutter-free. Besides, it has a good filtration rate of 1000 gallon of water through one cartridge. It is tested and certified by NSF and meets NSF/ANSI Standards 42 & 53.

2. Aquasana 3-Stage Max Flow Under Sink Water Filter System

Aquasana is committed to the overall well-being of people through potable water. They use the best in the class components that are recyclable and biodegradable.

Design and Build

Aquasana brings you the Claryum Technology which uses activated carbon to reduce pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, VOCs, MTBE, etc. The catalytic carbon removes chlorine and chloramines.The mechanical filters remove contaminants less than a micron in size such as asbestos and the chlorine-resistant cysts of giardia and cryptosporidium.The ion-exchange gets rid of heavy metals like mercury and lead leaving behind only healthy minerals making for delicious pure water.

The Aquasana app allows your smartphone to track the gallons filtered, environmental impact, savings in dollars and alerts you when it is time to change the filter via Bluetooth. You can replace the filter with a simple twist.

Functionality

The Aquasana system removes 99% of the 77 enlisted contaminants such as mercury, lead, asbestos, chlorine, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, chloramines, etc., retaining beneficial minerals like potassium and calcium. The only system with Claryum filtration technology, certified by the NSF for standards 42, 53 + 401 and P473.

Capacity

Aquasana has a 44% faster water flow than the previous model and economical at 8 cents per gallon. The sediment pre-filter improves its performance capacity to filter 800 gallons of water. Another plus is that there are no additives and no waste-water is generated during the filtration process. Thus, the water tastes better and so do the beverages and food.

Additional Features

The Aquasana filter unit comes with a faucet, three filter cartridges, two screws with anchors, a faucet rubber washer, a spacer, a faucet washer, nut, one lithium manganese dioxide battery, a chrome nut, two plastic collars, one plastic tube insert, a brass nut, one brass tube insert, one brass tee and poly tubing. The unit comes with a 1-year warranty and 90-day guarantee.

Pros

– Claryum Technology

– absolute purity

– eco-Friendly

– premium finish

– smart system to alert for filter change

Cons

– the filter needs replacement twice as often as other systems

3. iSpring RCC7 5-stage Reverse Osmosis Filtration System

iSpring Water Systems LLC specializes in reverse osmosis water filtration systems for residential and commercial purposes. They aim to make healthy drinking water accessible to all households in a sustainable manner.

Design and Build

The iSpring RCC7 is made from premium quality components certified by the Water Quality Associationagainst the NSF/ANSI standard 58. This means you have a highly reliable, minimal maintenance system to serve you for many years. It is easy to install by yourself or just call the customer care to send the technician. The system features an elegant European design with a brushed nickel tap and see-through housing that fits under the sink.

The purification occurs in 5 stages that remove the contaminants and improve the water quality in a progressive manner. There are three pre-filters – the polypropylene sediment filter, the granular activated charcoal filter and the carbon block filter. These remove the large contaminants and protect the reverse osmosis membrane from chemicals like chloramines and chlorine. At the heart of the system is thereverse osmosis filter that removes contaminants as small as 0.0001 microns. This means something as small as the water molecule can only squeeze through and nothing else. The fine granulated activated carbon filter removes the odours to deliver pure sparkling water without hardness.

Functionality

This system features the Reverse Osmosis water filter for clean healthier water. It filters and softens the water removing 99% of over 1,000 contaminants such as lead, chlorine, arsenic, fluoride, pharmaceuticals, asbestos, lime, sodium, bacteria, giardia, viruses, etc. This water ensures clear ice cubes, fresher beverages, better tasting food, healthier baby formula and water.

Capacity

The iSpring RCC7 membrane rates up to 75 gallons per day.

Additional Features

The box contains the RO systems and components such as the faucet, a storage tank, filter cartridges with the RO membrane. There is a 3-year warranty with a lifetime support.

Pros

– 5 – stage filtration

– removes over 1000 contaminants

– minimal maintenance system

– high filtration capacity

Cons

– a few installation complaints

– short filter lifespan

4. Global Water RO-505

Global Water Solutions is committed to creating affordable and adaptable solutions to meet the increasing need for safe drinking water in abundance. They adapt cutting-edge technology into their systems that process potable water.

Design and Build

The Global RO-505 comes with quick-connect fittings that have the system functional in minutes. The colour-coded filters come with clear instructions on each one of them. All the components are 100% lead-free and all parts of the system are universal that have passed the NSF standards.

The water passes through 5 stages in this Reverse Osmosis System to make it clean and safe to drink. In stage one, the water flows through an NSF approved5-micron polypropylene sediment filter. This sieves out large and fine particles such as mud, silt, dustand sand. In stage two, the water through a 10 -inch coconut shell Granulated Activated Carbon(GAC) filter. This filter adsorbs odours, colours, turbidity, chlorine, organic compounds, etc.

In stage three, the Chlorine, Taste and Odour (CTO) carbon block filter made of coconut shell further purifies the water removing the VOCs, etc. In stage four, thehigh-quality Thin Film Composite (TFC)reverse osmosis (RO) membrane filters out 99% of the contaminants. It removes heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic and dissolved chemicals.

In stage five, the inline cartridge serves as a polishing filter to remove the residual taste or odour. This results in clean, fresh and greatly palatable potable water.

Functionality

The Global RO-505 is a 5-Stage ROsystem with premium NSF filters that remove 99% of contaminants from the water.

Capacity

The Global Reverse Osmosis system can make 50 gallons of water available on demand,daily.

Additional Features

The RO system comes withtwo sediment filters, two GAC activated carbon filters, two CTO block carbon filters, one RO membrane and two inline filters. In addition to a year’s warranty, there are a tank, a faucet, some coloured tubing, an installation kit and valves.

Pros

– once the tank pressure reaches 65% the system shuts off automatically

– replacement filters included

– easy to install

– large filtration capacity

Cons

– high wastage ratio 1:3

5. iSpring RCC1UP-AK Water Filtration System with Booster Pump

iSpring from Alpharetta, GA notches up their performance through this powerful, capable and dependable residential reverse osmosis system.

Design and Build

The booster pump in the iSpring modulates the low water pressure that flows through the membrane to optimize every aspect of the reverse osmosis. The UV light in the flow sensor switches on and off automatically to kill the water-borne microbes. This lengthens the bulbs life and saves electricity. Thecalcium carbonite filter is used to balance the pH while red mineral stones are used to add back ionized minerals removed during the RO process. The 100 GPD long-lasting multilayer membrane along with GAC & CTO filters have been fitted to ensure finest micron layered filtration to remove the smallest impurities.

Functionality

This 7-stage system can handle city water, well water or water from natural bodies such as lakes, rivers and ponds. The filter clears out more than 1,000 pollutants such as chlorine, fluoride, mercury, etc. The semipermeable RO membrane filters particles 0.0001 microns small at the rate of 100 gallons per day. The alkaline remineralization filter balances the pH of the water by adding ionized minerals. The 11W ultraviolet sterilizer kills the viruses and bacteria. It is energy efficient and pocket-friendly as it powers on and off with the flow of water.

Capacity

The filter can provide 75 gallons of clean drinking water per day on demand.

Additional Features

The unit comes with a 1-year money back guarantee, one-year warranty and lifetime technical support. Just register yourself on the official website or use the customer service. The box has the RO system, a brushed nickel faucet, a storage tank, filter cartridges with the RO membrane.

Pros

–  pre-installed booster pump to handle low pressure

– a 100 GPD RO membrane

– calcite filter to balance the pH

– red mineral filter for remineralization

– ultraviolet sterilizer to kill microbes

– compact size to fit under the sink

Cons

– the filter needs replacement every 6 months

6. APEC WFS-1000 3 Stage Under-Sink Water Filter System

Advanced Purification Engineering Corp or APEC; the leading brand of residential reverse-osmosis filtration systems in the USA. All their systems are designed, engineered and built in the USA. Their systems are known to provide a continuous on-demand stock of superior filtered water directly to your faucet.

Design and Build

The APECWater Filtration System delivers clean and fresh drinking water at an affordable price. This complete 3-stage water filter system is made from high calibre components to offer long-lasting, reliable performance. The filters at the three stages are made of premium material and last over a year. The performance remains excellent and the operation economical as its easier on the pocket and the environment.

Functionality

The APEC 3 – stage filtration system has three pillars. The first pillar houses a high grade and high capacity 10-inch-long polypropylene (PP) sediment filter. It removes rust, dust and particulate matter. It is a 100 percent pure PP depth filter that has an exceptional capacity to hold particulate matter. This means a longer life and fewer changes

The second pillar contains a 10-inch-long Extruded Carbon Block (ECB) of premium quality. This block adsorbs the tastes, odours, chlorine, turbidity, colours, VOCs and other chemicals. The third pillar is again made of 10 inches long Extruded Carbon Block (ECB) that removes the residual chemicals, tastes and odours. This scrubbing of the water ensures a great taste and safe drinking water.

Capacity

The APEC filters 2000 gallons per set of filters. It needs 20 – 85 PSI of water pressure and 40-100°F of temperature to function at its optimum capacity.

Additional Features

The APEC comes with John Guest quick-connect fittings, a 5-foot food grade tubing, versatile ½ – 3/8-inchfeed-water adapters and a lead-free faucet also included. The unit has an installation kit with wrenches, tape, manual and a one-year warranty.

Pros

– Premium filter with a long life

– makes the tap, pond and well water potable

–  3 stage filtration removes most contaminants

Cons

– does not remove fluorides and lead

– limited application in contaminant removal

7. iSpring WCC31 3-Stage, Tankless Water Filtration System

iSpring is back to serve you clean healthy water through the WCC31. All their filters have been tested by an independent 3rd party to meet NSF and ANSI Standard. It uses BPA-free, food-grade materials and lead-free dispensing faucet.

Design and Build

The iSpring has transparent housings that allow for visual monitoring of filter cartridges. It is an easy do-it-yourself installation. You can also call for help. Filtration occurs in 3 stages. In stage one, the water passes through the PP sediment filter to remove particulate matter like sand, dirt, rust, etc.In stage two, the CTO or GAC filter removes the volatile organic compounds (VOCs). tastes, odours and turbidity. In stage three, the 5-micron CTO filter processes the water further to remove the remaining VOCs, colours, odours, chemicals and cloudiness to deliver sparkling potable water. All filters last from 6 to 12 months depending on the demand and use.

Functionality

The iSpring delivers an on-demand fast flow rate that is fifty times faster at one-tenth the cost of bottled drinking water or pitchers. The processed water can not only be used for drinking but also washing vegetables and other uses where clean water ensures health and hygiene.

Capacity

The iSpring WCC31 cleans 2000 gallons of water at the POU, POS or POE. In other words, this filter can provide potable water to the entire house or as a standalone in a place like a commercial or public place.

Additional Features

The iSpring comes with the 3 filters – 2 sediment filter and two carbon block filters – food grade tubing, adaptor and extensions to hook it up to your ice-maker in the fridge. The unit is backed by a 1-year moneyback guarantee, 1-year warranty and a lifetime support from iSpring.

Pros

– clean housing for filter inspection

– 3 premium grade filters

– food grade tubing and adaptor

– no wasted water after rinsing the filters

Cons

– should be enhanced with RO, UV and IR filters

8. Aquasana 2-Stage Water Filter System

Aquasana continues with its commitment to bring you clean drinking water in a sustainable manner. All their filters use the signature Claryum technology for filtration and biodegradable, minimum waste filters. This ensures clean tasty water and minimal plastic waste in the landfills.

Design and Build

The Aquasana under sink water filter is a 2-stage water filtration system which dispenses the water through a lead-free brushed nickel tap. The filters are easy to change due to the twist-off design. The Claryum technology consists of Activated Carbon that adsorbs organic chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, MTBE and VOCs.

The Catalytic Carbon isolates the chloramines and chlorine. The Ion Exchange removes the heavy metals such as lead, arsenic and mercury.While the Absolute Sub-Micron Mechanical Filtration(ASMF) filters out the chlorine resistant cysts of giardia and cryptosporidium, asbestos, etc. The resultant water retains the beneficial minerals in the water.

The replacements have been designed for ease thus there is no need to disconnect water lines. The filter housing twists off easily for replacement of filters. The AQ-5200 alerts you for a change of filters.

The unit has been designed for the minimum environmental impact that uses minimal disposable plastic parts.

Functionality

The Aquasana uses the Claryum technique to remove 99% of the 77 known contaminants such as asbestos, mercury, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, etc. There is no waste and nothing is added to the water during filtration. Besides, it retains the healthy minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium.

Capacity

The filters process 500 gallons per filter set at 10 cents per gallon. This is a way higher productivity to other products in the market. The life of a filter set is 6 months making them cost-effective.

Additional Features

The unit comes with the filters, housing, tubing and a Lithium metal battery that lasts 1590 hours. There are an installation guide and 1-year warranty.

Pros

– certified for removing PFOA and PFOs

– Claryum technique for maximum filtration

– beneficial minerals retained

– 500 gallons per filter

Cons

– should have a UV filter

9. 3M Aqua-Pure Model 3MFF100

3M is a brand of Aqua Pure Water Conditioning. The company has 23 years of expertise in the water treatment and purification business and their products are professionally installed. These products are a range of under the sink potable water systems to whole house filtration systems.

Design and Build

The 3MFF100 can be fitted to the primary faucet for a full flow water filtration. The faucet can be a POS or POE source. This NSF approved advanced 3-stage carbon-block filtration-on-demand device provides clear, clean, better-tasting water. The pleated membrane removes everything belowone micron in size. It wraps a carbon block that captures larger particulate matter.

The filtration system comes with everything that may be required for installation. And the Sanitary Quick Change or the SQC cartridge is designed for a fast & easy change with a minimal effort. The filter life depends on the incoming water quality. To maximize the efficiency and performance of the system keep an eye on the incoming water supply and schedule maintenance.

Functionality

The 3M Aqua-Pure is an advanced system that purifies 6,000 gallons over two years. It removes particulate matter up to 0.2 microns, leads, chlorine, VOCs, odours, cysts of protozoans and microbes. This means better-tasting water for baby formula, tea, coffee and cooking.

Capacity

The 3MFF100 has a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute with a capacity of 22712 litres.

Additional Features

The 3MFF100 Filter System includes everything needed for installation. The package includes a mounting bracket, mounting screws and tubing. There is a head assembly with a built-in, shut-off valve that allows for a quick and easy change of the SQC filters without turning off the water supply.

Pros

– removes VOCs like benzene, toxaphene, p-Dichlorobenzene

– pleated cartridge surrounding a carbon block for efficient filtration

– Sanitary Quick-Change filters

Cons

– recommended for city water supply only

– water from water bodies such as wells & lakes will clog it

10. Ecosoft 5-Stage RO Water Filter System

Ecosoft water professionals have been in partnership with Dow Chemicals since the 1990s. They combine their chemical engineering and purification system backgrounds to bring you crystal-clear water for commercial and residential uses.

Design and Build

The Ecosoft 5 stage system is a combination of mechanical filtration and reverse osmosis purification technology. The installation has three stages- a pre-treatment assembly, the reverse osmosis membranes and the carbon postfilter. The filtered water is stored in a storage tank; which can be hung or kept on the countertop. The entire system is compact and can be fitted in the under-the-sink cabinet.

The system consists of 5 stages – the stage 1 prefilter is made of 5-micron polypropylene (PP)cartridge removes any particulate matter such as metal, SPM, leaves, sediments, etc.The stage 2 prefilter is made of granulated carbon (GAC) made from coconut shell removes the smells, colour and tastes by adsorption. The stage 3 cartridge is briquetted carbon or charcoal processes the water further removing VOCs, turbidity, etc.

Stage 4 is the 1-micron reverse osmosis membrane filters out the smallest of cysts and microbes, organic and organochlorines. The stage 5 is the carbon postfilter gives a final polish to the water ensuring it is crystal clear and sparkling. The service life of a cartridge is three months for the pre-treatment modules, 1.5 years for the reverse osmosis membrane and 1 year for the carbon postfilter.

Functionality

The Ecosoft removes all kinds of water pollution in 5 stages removing 99.8% of contaminants. It is perfect for office, homes, RV home, restaurants, etc.

Capacity

This is NSF-certified system filters 500 gallons per filter for lessthan $0.07 per gallon.

Additional Features

The system comes with the RO membrane and carbon post filter in place on the main assembly. The two sediment filters and one GAC filter need to be screwed on. The colour coded tubing come with washers, adaptors, a storage tank, a user manual and 1-year warranty.

Pros

– 5 stage filtration

– uses 1 and 5-micron filters to remove impurities

– uses 1-micron RO membrane to remove smallest of microbes

Cons

– the wash-water requires draining

11. 3M Aqua-Pure Model AP-DWS1000

3M is a well know brand ofAqua-Pure Drinking Water System. Their products deliver consistent performance, superior quality and value for money over years of service.

Build and Design

The AP-DWS1000 system incorporates an advanced dual-stage carbon-block filtration process. The system can be fitted at the POE or POS for filtration on demand. Carbon is the most preferred media as it has a very high adsorption capacity in a very small footprint. To give you an idea, one pound of carbon has a surface area of 100 – 125 acres that can sieve out most pollutants.

This is a closed system where the filtered water is dispensed via a dedicated faucet. The top assembly comes with an automatic shut off indicator that reminds you to change the filter cartridges. The Sanitary Quick Change (SQC) filter cartridge are designed such that they are easy to change.

Functionality

The AP-DWS1000 removes particulate matter which may come from the water source or from the plumbing such as sediment and rust. It reduces chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs, cysts of protozoans, MTBEs, tastes and odours for safer better tasting drinking water. This is a cost-effective solution that pays off by replacing purchases of bottled water while using the fixtures and plumbing on the estate.

Capacity

The flow rate of AP-DWS1000 is 0.6 GPM or 2.27 LPM at an optimum temperature of 40-100°F or 4.4-37.8°C. The capacity of each filter is 625 gallons or 2366 litres. The water pressure for optimum functionality should be between 25-125 PSI or 172-862 kPa delivered through 1/4-inch push-in fittings for connection.

Additional Features

The 3M AP-DWS1000 system includes all components required for installation such as a dedicated chrome faucet, a mounting bracket, quick-connect fittings, a shroud and tubing. There is a built-in shut-off value that indicates when it is time to change the filters. There are a 10-year limited warranty and an installation manual that instructs on operation and maintenance too.

Pros

– dual stage carbon-block filtration

– automatic shut-off for filter change reminder

– SQC cartridge for a quick change

– dedicated water faucet

Cons

– UV filter to kill microbes

12. CuZn UC-200 Under-Counter Water Filter

The CuZn Water Systems Inc are in the water filtration business since last 27 years. They build customized and environmentally responsible water, fluid and air treatment systems.

Build and Design

The CuZn UC-200 filtration uses a 3-step process.The water passes through a Micro Sediment Membranes(MSM), Coconut Shell Carbon and KDF-55 filter. The MS membranes remove large particulate matter like bits of leaves, sand, dirt and rust. The activated coconut shell carbon adsorbs offensive tastes, odours, THMs, agricultural runoff and chlorine. The KDF 55 is a high-purity copper-zinc alloy and a processing medium. It employs the redox chemical process, which is short for oxidation-reduction. In this reaction, electrons are transferred between molecules resulting in benign substances which may add to the taste or simply wash out of the filter. For example, chlorine forms a chloride that passes through the filter. While copper, mercury, lead and other heavy metals react with the alloy and plate onto the medium’s surface giving you potable water. KDF 55 removes 98% of water-soluble heavy metals, controls micro-organisms and reduce limescale while improving the taste of foods and beverages.

Functionality

The in-line UC-200 model can be fitted beneath any sink to filter over 50000 gallons of water on demand. The filter has patented trace minerals (Copper-Zinc) filter tested to NSF standards 42 and 61. The virgin acid-washed carbon from coconut shells combined with the copper and zinc filter removes or reduces sediment, chlorine, algae, limescale, moulds, tastes, odours, and other contaminants. Due to copper and zinc bacteria cannot grow inside these filters. The filter is meant to purify municipal water supply.

Capacity

The CuZn filter purifies an incredible 50000 gallons over 5 years. Making a cost-effective solution.

Additional Features

The box has a capsule enclosing the KDF-55 filtration medium and the catalytic carbon. The product carries a 90-days satisfaction guarantee and 5-year warranty.

Pros

– CuZn filters are Bacteriostatic

– easy installation

– in-line filter

– dual stage filtration

Cons

– does not soften water

– not meant for use with well-water

13. American Plumber WLCS-1000

American Plumber is a trusted name for last 80 years. This business house designs, engineers, develops and manufactures their own reliable filtration systems. They are a well-known and popular name in the water filtration market.

Build and Design

The American Plumber WLCS-1000 is an in-line filter with a dedicated faucet. This prevents leakage and leaching of contaminated water into the drinking water system. The filter comes with a Pentek housing which encloses a set of dual filters. The dual filters are 9.75 inches by 2.4 inches by 2.4 inches in dimension. They remove the larger impurities to prepare the water for the finer filtration of up to 0.5 microns in diameter. The filter removes 99% contaminants to produce cleaner, healthier water for cooking and drinking. There is a filter life monitor with light and sound that alert you when to change the filters. The life of the filters depends on the quality of incoming water. The filters are easy to remove and replace due to the twist off housing.

Functionality

The WLCS-1000 is a point of use (POU) application to remove chlorine tastes and odours. It removes sediments, hardness, lead and cyst of pathogens, organic and chemical pollutants from the water making it potable.

Capacity

The filters are tested and certified by NSF for a filter life of over 1,000 gallons over one year. It is recommended to replace filters every 6 months or filtering 500 gallons.

Additional Features

The WLCS-1000 comes with everything required for installation such as the filter system the cartridges, the faucet, the tubing, wrench, adaptors etc. There are an installation manual and one-year warranty.

Pros

– easy to install

– POU application

– removes impurities up to 0.5 microns

– easily replaceable filters

– filter-life monitor to indicate when to change the filters

Cons

– should have RO and ionization systems

14. FS-TFC Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System

The FS-TFC manufactures the reverse osmosis membranes. This model comes from the manufacturer with an extra set of replacement filters.

Design and Build

The FS-TFC RO Water Filtration System is wall-mounted and compact in size. It is only 11.5 inches by 5 inches by 11.5 inches and the tank is 10 inches by 10 inches by 14.5 inches. All these components fit into the under-sink cabinets.

The 5-stage filters are the 5 millimicron PP filter, the CTO filter, 1 millimicron PP filter, one 100-gallon reverse osmosis membrane and a T33 reverse osmosis system. In stage 1, the 5 mm filter removes large particulate matter such as dirt, rust, silt, etc. In stage 2, the CTO filter adsorbs colours, odours, chlorine and organic matter.

In stage 3, the 1 mm PP filter removes the sediments colloids, suspended matter. In stage 4, the RO membrane removes 99% of bacteria, viruses, chemicals and heavy metals. In stage 5, the post-carbon T33 filter freshens the water further by removing chlorine, odours, etc to improve the taste.

The water is sparkling fresh after these 5 stages. All the filters should be replaced in 6-12 months except for the RO membrane which has a lifespan of 12-24 months.

Functionality

The 5-stage filter is of supreme quality and design with a high current flow of 18LPH water per hour. This means you can have safe and clean drinking water in minutes. It removes 99% contaminants such as lead, arsenic, chlorine, fluoride, bacteria, viruses and heavy metals.

Capacity

100 gallons per day

Additional Features

The unit comes with a brushed nickel faucet, a storage tank and two sets of filter cartridges, an FS-TFCservice guarantee, 1-year warranty and a lifetime technical support.

Pros

– 5 stage filtration system

– ergonomic design to fit under the sink

– removes 99% of contaminants

– unit comes with replacement filters

Cons

– customer complaints about the cheap material used in filter construction

15. APEC CS-2500

APEC brings you 30 years of unbeatable experience and reputation in this water filtration system for commercial, residential and industrial use.

Design and Build

The APEC CS-2500 is an under-sink filter system that requires a flow pressure of 125 PSI at 40 – 100 F. Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters are made by heating raw organic materials (such as coconut shells or coal) in the absence of oxygen. These materials are rich in carbon and are used to activate and increase the surface area of adsorption to trap the contaminants. They are also referred to as charcoal filters.

The granular activated carbon (GAC) filter removes VOCs, chlorine, odours, tastes, etc. The filter length is 15 inches by 3.5 inches and the pore size is 10 microns. This in-line filter requires a 3/8-inch hose size. The filter weighs only 3 pounds and comes with all the components necessary for installation. It unit delivers high-quality water at an affordable price.

This is due to its high rejection rate that the filter is dependable. The food grade materials used to build the unit mean no smells of plastic and other components. The filter life may vary according to the water it is filtering. If you get water from a municipal source then the filter may last longer than a natural source such as a well, spring or a pond. The filters should be replaced every 12 months and are easy to replace due to the twist connections.

Functionality

The APEC CS-2500 is an in-line filter that can be used to deliver potable water in commercial, industrial and residential premises.

Capacity

This premium quality, ultra-high capacity water filtration system delivers 50000 gallons of water per year.  The high-flow, low-restriction design of the filter supports a maximum flow rate of 1.67 GPM or 6.321 LPM.

Additional Features

The APEC CS-2500 comes with the encapsulated filter and hoses. The unit comes with a lifetime technical support by the certified WQA water specialist for APEC. You can avail the two-year APEC warranty if you register your unit on their official website.

Pros

– filtration capacity 50000 gallons/year

– GAC filter to remove 99% impurities

– easy installation

– easy filter replacement

Cons

– should come with the added security of an RO membrane

-chemicals like iron and nitrates are not removed by GAC