Drinking filtered water has been proven to improve health, boost energy levels and prevent disease. But not all filtration systems are created equal.
Countertop water filters have many advantages over bottled options, including affordability paired with ease of use. Here’s how to choose the best countertop water filter for your home.
Easy to Clean
Unlike pitcher filters, which use gravity water filtration, many countertop systems dispense instantly clean and great-tasting drinking water. They also have a sleek design that looks great in most kitchens and require no under-the-sink installation. Many are small enough to be portable and can be used while traveling.
They have longer filter lifespans and often come with convenient indicator stickers that let you know when it’s time to change the filters. They are also easier to keep clean than pitchers. The Epic Pure, for example, can easily be cleaned with a bit of warm water and soapy sponge and comes with a handy digital display that lets you know when the filters need changing.
Other models are more complex, with one like the Big Berkey requiring a little extra care and maintenance. The filters need to be removed and soaked in vinegar twice a year to eliminate any buildup. It’s also recommended to remove the outer lid and allow it to air dry, then place a cotton ball in the top opening before using it again.
Another important consideration is that some countertop filters remove healthy minerals from the tap water, such as calcium and magnesium. While this may be fine for some, others prefer to drink their water with these natural compounds in it. For this reason, it’s always best to have a professional water test and consultation done before you invest in a filter system that will affect your entire home’s water quality.
Easy to Install
If you’re concerned about the contaminants in your home water (you might have received a home water test result or a social media post about the issue) and want to stop purchasing bottled water, a countertop filter can be an ideal solution. These systems connect to your kitchen faucet and dispense clean, filtered water when you need it.
Countertop filters are easier to install and maintain than a water pitcher. They operate directly at the kitchen faucet and are not dependent on your refrigerator’s ice maker, which can be a problem with some refrigerators. Most countertop water filtration systems also come with a reminder timer to let you know when it’s time to change the filter.
Some models like the NU Aqua even feature a remineralization stage that improves your drinking water by adding back healthy minerals removed in the filtration process. This system costs less than $100 upfront and includes two replacement filters, so you can start using it right away.
This model from iSpring features three filtration stages, starting with a composite and granular activated carbon filter that reduces bad taste and odors and eliminates E. coli, bacteria, and harmful cysts (Cryptosporidium and Giardia). It’s then passed through a coconut shell carbon block filter that removes chlorine, odors, rust, silt, sediment, and volatile organic compounds. It’s also easy to install and takes up very little space on your counter.
Easy to Operate
When it comes to water filtration, it is important that the system be easy to operate and maintain. Countertop water filters are ideal for this, as they do not require any permanent fixtures and use simple filters that are easy to swap out. In addition, many of these models come with detailed, image-guided instructions that make the process even easier.
Additionally, most of these systems are easily accessible, making them perfect for people with limited mobility or small children. For instance, a typical countertop model can be used by simply unscrewing the faucet’s aerator and screwing on the diverter valve that is attached to the filter. After this, water can be poured directly from the filter into pitchers, ice cube trays, or other containers.
While all countertop filters are designed to remove certain contaminants, it is important that you choose a model that meets your specific water quality needs. To help you select the right one, we recommend scheduling a free home water test and consultation with your local Culligan Water Expert.
The pH Recharge 1F is a great option for people who are looking for a convenient and effective solution to their water quality concerns. It has a large capacity but is compact enough to fit on a countertop or even in a fridge shelf, making it ideal for smaller homes. This model also features a triple-filter system, which reduces impurities and adds minerals to produce clean, safe, alkaline water. It also requires no wastewater or storage tanks, and the filter can be used for up to 96 gallons before it needs to be replaced.
Easy to Maintain
Having clean, safe water available is important for meeting your body’s daily water requirements. Staying hydrated promotes cardiovascular health, increases skin elasticity, regulates body temperature, reduces dry mouth and eliminates waste from the body. But tap water isn’t always safe to drink, especially if you live in an area with contaminated water. Fortunately, water filter systems can help remove contaminants from your drinking supply.
There are many different types of water filters on the market, so it’s important to choose a system that fits your lifestyle and budget. Some factors to consider include the materials used, how long a filter lasts before needing replaced and its certifications.
Most countertop water filters are designed to connect directly to the faucet and work on demand, removing contaminants as soon as you turn on your kitchen tap. Some models also have a built-in reminder that lets you know when it’s time to change the filter.
While countertop water filtration systems are easy to use, they aren’t as comprehensive as under-sink or whole-home filtration systems. If you’re concerned about the quality of your home’s water, contact a local Culligan Water Expert to schedule a free in-home water test and consultation today.