The bottled water industry is thriving. Their sales increase every year. In 2017, at least 13.7 billion gallons of bottled water were sold in the US. That’s enough water to fill 20,750 Olympic-sized swimming pools! Bottled water merchants capitalize on the poor quality or taste of tap water. Depending on where you live, your tap water could contain anything from lead to radioactive contaminants, and this information has driven millions of people to begin investing in bottled water.
Unfortunately, bottled water requires quite a lot of money and energy to produce. It also generates an abundance of plastic waste. The average cost for one gallon of bottled water is about 300 times more expensive than for one gallon of tap water.
In addition to the outrageous cost, more than 17 million barrels of oil are consumed to keep up with American’s annual bottled water demand. That’s millions of tons of carbon dioxide released into the air every year, simply for the sake of bottled water.
So, what can you do? If your tap water is contaminated or tastes unpleasant, you have many options. Perhaps the most efficient, economical, and effective solution is to install a faucet water filter.
Comparison Table
PRODUCT | IMAGE | FEATURES | EASE OF INSTALLATION | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
PUR Advanced Faucet Water Filtration System |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Charcoal and Ion Exchange | ||
DuPont WFFM350XCH |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
Culligan FM-100-C |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
Brita On Tap Water Filtration System |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
DuPont WFFM100XCH |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
Engdenton Faucet Water Filter |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
JETERY Faucet Water Filter |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
PUR FM-3333 |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
Waterdrop FC-02 |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon | ||
Culligan FM-25 |  Image Source: Amazon.com | Type of Filtration: Activated Carbon |
Faucet Water Filter FAQs
Image Source: Pixabay.com
Some of the most frequently asked questions regarding faucet water filters are:
1. What is a faucet water filter?
A faucet water filter is a mechanical and/or electrical device which installs onto your kitchen sink’s faucet. When attached properly, the device filters the water coming up from the tap through a microscopic sieve, usually composed of charcoal and fabric sleeves. These filters aid in removing contaminants and unpleasant tastes or odors in tap water. They produce clear, clean, drinkable water at home
2. How does water filtration work?
There are essentially three processes than can purify tap water at home.
Activated Carbon
These types of filtration systems are charcoal-based. Because of charcoal’s massive internal surface area, it can trap various pollutants and chemicals. It absorbs these impurities through a process called adsorption. Carbon filters must be changed regularly to be effective, and they usually do not protect from heavy metals and microbes.
Reverse Osmosis
In this filtration process, water is forced against a very fine membrane at high pressure, separating the water molecules from the contaminants and producing clean water. While reverse osmosis is highly effective in removing most impurities, it struggles to remove bacteria. It also is costly, as it requires an abundance of energy and a special pump to function.
Ion Exchange
This process works by splitting up the atoms of the contaminants, turning them into ions, and trapping them before releasing “good” ions to replace them. Ion exchange is effective in removing limescale from your tap water, but it increases the sodium content of your water and requires regular additions of salt to remain effective.
3. Where can you buy a faucet water filter?
Faucet water filters are available online from many major retailers. Amazon is a great place to begin your search for a quality faucet water filter, as they have hundreds of options to choose from and reviews to peruse.
The most popular brands for faucet water filters in the US are Brita, GE, Kenmore, PUR, and Whirlpool.
Many department stores, such as Walmart and Target, sell faucet water filters in-store. It is also worthwhile to check your local home improvement stores, as Home Depot or Lowes are likely to carry a range of filters for you to choose from.
Although you’re likely to find better deals online, going into the store and “trying out” multiple filters can help you gain a better understanding of which faucet water filter is right for you.
4. How much does it cost?
Faucet water filters tend to cost $34 on average. The least expensive models cost about $13, and the most expensive ones cost around $55.
Our Review Process
To pick the top ten best faucet water filter options, we studied the water filtration processes, researched both large and small companies that produce faucet water filters, read a multitude of consumer reviews, and we evaluated and compared product features and prices.
Overall Price Range of Faucet Water Filters
A faucet water filter can cost between $13 and $55. The average water filter costs approximately $34.
Top Ten Faucet Water Filters
PUR Advanced Faucet Water Filtration System
Image Source: Amazon.com
Available in sleek and stylish chrome, the PUR Advanced Faucet Water Filtration System is a quality system that is easy to install and use. The removable filters last for approximately 2-3 months or about 100 gallons. And when in use the PUR Advanced can filter out over 70 various contaminants.
Key Features
- LED indicator light lets you know when you need to change the filter.
- No tools required to install.
- Removes 99% of lead and 96% of mercury.
- Removes chlorine taste from tap water.
Type of Filtration
The PUR Advanced Faucet used activated carbon and ion exchange.
Where to Buy
Amazon, most major online retailers and department stores such as Walmart and Target. Also available from the manufacturer’s website, PUR.com.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 2-year limited warranty.
DuPont WFFM350XCH
Image Source: Amazon.com
The DuPont WFFM350XCH is guaranteed to last. With an activated carbon filtration system that is proven to last for at least 200 gallons and an easy-to-read electronic display that shows your water consumption, you’ll never second-guess changing your filter ever again. However, you do need pliers to install this filter, and it is not compatible with kitchen sinks that have a pull-down sprayer nozzle.
Key Features
- The electronic display lets you know how much water has been filtered.
- Water flow selector allows you to switch between filtered and unfiltered water.
- Beautiful chrome finishes.
- 4-year limited warranty.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available online at Amazon, and in-store at Home Depot.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 4-year limited warranty.
Culligan FM-100-C
Image Source: Amazon.com
Small and self-contained, this battery powered filter is easy to install and conveniently sized. Available in steel and chrome finishes, the tiny filter features an indicator and can be used to filter up to 200 gallons of water before changing the filter.
Key Features
- Small size.
- Self-contained battery.
- Indicator light for changing the filter.
- Low cost.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available on Amazon.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 2-year limited warranty.
Brita On Tap Water Filtration System
Image Source: Amazon.com
The Brita Faucet Water Filter stands tall as it filters your water. Available in white, it features a green indicator light which alerts you when you need to change your filter. This filter installs easily and quickly, requiring no tools. It filters out more than 60 contaminants and has three various spray options from which to choose.
Key Features
- Indicator light.
- Filters out contaminants like lead and mercury.
- Reduces chlorine taste and odor.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available on Amazon, on in-store in most major department stores such as Walmart, Target, and Home Depot.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 30-day money-back warranty.
DuPont WFFM100XCH
Image Source: Amazon.com
Another entry from the DuPont line, the WFFM100XCH is the little brother to the WFFM350XCH, being able to filter approximately 100 gallons of water per filter. Arriving in flawless chrome, the DuPont filters are as stylish as they are efficient, using an activated carbon filter to keep contaminants at bay.
Key Features
- Lovely chrome finish.
- Highly- rated by consumers.
- Easy to install.
- Filters out lead and chlorine in addition to many other contaminants.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
You can purchase this item on Amazon, and it is also available in-store at Walmart.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 3-year limited warranty.
Engdenton Faucet Water Filter
Image Source: Amazon.com
In glorious stainless steel, the Engdenton Faucet Water Filter offers an incredibly high filter life of 320 gallons. Also, it is incredibly simple to install and does not require any additional tools.
Key Features
- Long filter life.
- Stainless steel body.
- No tools needed.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
You can purchase this item on Amazon, and it is also available in-store at Walmart.
Warranty
No warranty available.
JETERY Faucet Water Filter
Image Source: Amazon.com
The JETERY Faucet Water Filter is a neat little filter that attached easily to your kitchen faucet with the use of the JETERY adapters. The filter lasts for up to 320 gallons, making it one of the most long-lasting faucet water filters on the market. For less than $20, it’s hard to do better. Unfortunately, the JETERY Faucet does not come with a guaranteed warranty.
Key Features
- Filters up to 320 gallons of water.
- BPA-free.
- Two-Stage Switch allows you to change between tap water and filtered water.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available on Amazon.
Warranty
No warranty is included.
PUR FM-3333
Image Source: Amazon.com
Another entry from the PUR line, the PUR FM-3333 is a simpler and less expensive incarnation of the PUR Advanced. It can filter up to 100 gallons before needing a filter change, and like the other PUR water filters, it is able to filter out more than 70 different contaminants, including 99% of all lead.
Key Features
- LED indicator for filter changing.
- Easy installation that does not require tools.
- Inexpensive.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available for purchase on Amazon and on the PUR website.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 2-year limited warranty.
Waterdrop FC-02
Image Source: Amazon.com
The compact and easy-to-install Waterdrop FC-02 is a long-lasting faucet water filter perfect for daily use at home. It helps water taste better while also removing 99% of chlorine.
Key Features
- Removes 99% of chlorine.
- 320-gallon filter life.
- Compact design.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available on Amazon.
Warranty
No warranty is included, but the company does guarantee your complete satisfaction.
Culligan FM-25
Image Source: Amazon.com
The Culligan FM-25 looks like an extension of your normal faucet. In shiny steel, it sits comfortably on the top of your faucet. Is capable of filtering 200 gallons of water before requiring a filter change and can be installed easily without any tools.
Key Features
- Reduces chlorine, atrazine, lindane, and lead.
- Filters up to 200 gallons.
- Makes water taste better.
Type of Filtration
Uses a carbon filter.
Where to Buy
Available on Amazon and in-store at Walmart.
Warranty
Purchase includes a 2-year limited warranty.
The Verdict
Here are the best faucet water filter options in terms of price, longevity, contaminant removal, and overall quality.
The Best for Your Wallet
If you’re looking to spend the least amount of money possible on a faucet water filter, and still maintain decent quality, your best option is the Culligan FM-100-C. At only $16.99, this filter can last for up to 200 gallons and features an indicator light. It is also incredibly easy to install, not requiring any excess tools or equipment.
The Best for Filter Longevity
Though many of these filters last for up to 320 gallons, it is important to consider how expensive filter replacements are for each of these products when determining which is the best in terms of longevity.
The winner is the Waterdrop FC-02, with replacement filters at only $10 a filter, and general filter life of 320 gallons, or about 18 months.
The Best Filter for Health
Without a doubt, the best faucet water filter in terms of contaminant removal and water purity is the PUR Advanced Faucet Water Filter. Though it may be $41.36, higher in price than the average water filter, it uses two filtration systems to clean your tap water and removes nearly all impurities down to the microscopic level.
The Best All-Around Faucet Water Filter
In terms of price, filter longevity, contaminant removal, and quality, the best choice among these ten fine candidates is the PUR FM-3333. It costs $19.49 on Amazon and filters out as many contaminants at the PUR Advanced, but without the long filter life. Though it only filters 100 gallons per filter, the filters only cost $8.86 per filter. If you’re looking for a convenient and inexpensive water filter that is capable of filtering out 99% of lead, 96% of mercury and installs without tools, the PUR FM-3333 may be the right choice for you.
And you can order it with Amazon Prime!
Featured Image Source: Pixabay.com
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