Under Counter Water Filter

Aquasana AQ-4500 Under Counter Water FilterIf you like a neat, trim kitchen with perhaps a dedicated tap serving up filtered water, then an under counter water filter may well be for you.

Also known as under sink water filters, these service a single faucet in your home, generally in the kitchen. They’re screwed onto the water valve under your sink and treat your drinking water before it reaches the tap. This is often a dedicated faucet which leaves your regular ones free for everyday washing use.

Under counter filters are generally larger than faucet mount types and so tend to last longer before needing to replace the cartridge. With normal use, you probably won’t have to change them more than once every six months.

It also means that the filter systems can be more elaborate and efficient. For example you can choose multiple filter cartridges that are effective in removing a whole range of contaminants.

Under Counter Water Filter Benefits

One great thing about these types of filters is that they’re out of sight and don’t clutter up your kitchen.

A good reason to look into getting a under sink faucet is if you live in an old home. Your pipes may be rusty and instead of replacing the whole system, you can just install a filter to remove the rust.

Another good reason is if you have your own water storage system such as a well. In this case the under sink option is a cheaper alternative to a whole house filtration system.

On the downside, you may need to have some plumbing knowledge if you want to install under counter water filters yourself. Otherwise you’ll have to pay for a professional.

This is especially true if you have the type with a dedicated faucet. In this case, you’ll need to split a pipe off from the main water pipe and attach the filter and dedicated faucet to that.

However, you can get an under counter water filter designed for ease of installation. These are usually the single-tap systems.

Under Counter Water Filter – Is It For You?

You have to consider your circumstances before deciding on this type of water filter. For example if you rent your home, you may not be allowed to install undersink filters as they are considered structural changes to the property. You’ll need to check with your landlord. If you’re only renting short term, it probably won’t be worth your while installing them.

Other than that, you’ll have to decide if your home routine and situation make installing a under counter water filter worthwhile. You’ll have to consider how many people will be using it and for what.

If you don’t do much cooking, and just need a filter to treat drinking water, then faucet water filters or even a pitcher water filter should be enough for you.

If on the other hand you have a crowded household and love cooking, you’ll need to take into account such factors as the capacity of the filter. It’s also a good idea to check how long the cartridges last before needing replacement.

All in all, an under counter water filter is a great solution for getting pure drinking water and keeping your kitchen tidy at the same time.