Best Under Sink Water Filters in 2022

The best under-sink water filter is ideal for people who want to keep their filtration systems out of sight. These filters work faster than faucet mount filters and can be installed easily with the help of a professional or even as a DIY project. The filter cartridges of under-sink water filters last longer than standard filter cartridges. Their installation procedure is quite simple and we have included the steps later on in this guide.

The best under sink water filters remove lead, chlorine, bacteria, volatile organic compounds or VOCs, and other contaminants from water and result in great tasting water. They also reduce odors and the cloudiness of drinking water. This makes them a must-have kitchen appliance for people with health issues and even for those who are sensitive about their water taste.

Today, there are many best-rated under-sink water filter products available in the market. To make your selection easier, we are presenting the best under-sink water filter reviews below so that you can make an informed choice.

Comparison of 12 Best Under Sink Water Filters in 2022

Top 12 Best Under Sink Water Filter Reviews in 2022

1. Filtrete Advanced Undersink Water Filtration

Filtrete 3M water filtration system results in the purest and safest water fresh from the tap. This best-rated under-sink water filter is also rather easy to install and it reduces chlorine, microbe cysts, and sediments from water. The result is pure and clean water that is safe, healthy, and also tastes great.

The filter-life of the Filtrete Advanced under sink water filter system is about 6 months. Its installation is also easy and does not take more than 30 minutes. Filtrete Advanced Undersink water filter does not impact the flow of your water rate and you can continue enjoying the same flow as you did before installing it.

The best part about this high-quality filter is that it can reduce up to 99% lead content from your water. It also easily connects to any faucet. The filters used in Filtrete Advanced, Maximum, and Standard Under Sink Filters are also interchangeable.

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2. Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter

Frizzlife top-rated under sink filtration system can remove nearly 99.9% of lead. You can easily connect it to the under the sink faucet and can fit ½ and 3/8^th inch cold water lines. Filter replacement for the Frizzlife best under sink water filter is also easy-it does not need any tools and won’t lead to any leaks or messes.

Moreover, you don’t have to shut off the water supply during filter cartridge replacement thanks to its built-in water auto-shut-off system. This water filter does not mess with the water flow rate, so you will keep getting water at a greater rate than 2 GPM. For most users, the Frizzlife water filter resulted in great tasting water that is ideal for drinking, cooking, and washing fruits and vegetables without leaving salty streaks on them.

The 2-stage advanced 0.5-micron water filter effectively removes lead, heavy metals, mercury, chromium, sediments, salts, sand, odors, rust, and bad taste resulting in fresh, pure, and healthy water that is tasty and contaminant-free.

3. Waterdrop Under Sink Water Filter

In a lot of areas, there is an alarming amount of TDS in tap water. If you live in one of these areas, you need a filter with a reverse osmosis mechanism. However, this Waterdrop filter does not come equipped with it. So only pick this if the amount of TDS in your tap water is minimal.

That said, this under-sink water filter does everything it claims to. It has an ultrafiltration membrane, which filters out impurities larger than 0.01 μm, including bacteria. Water goes through NSF certified 4 stages of filtration in this filter. Doesn’t that seem very assuring?

Moreover, this whole filter is made out of BPA-free material, so your water isn’t getting contaminated with toxic chemicals. Users praised this filter’s ability to improve the scent and taste of the water. They claimed the water out of this filter almost tastes like spring water.

4. Woder WD-S-8K-DC Water Filtration

Woder WD-S-8K DC high flow under sink water filter can be used with municipal water only or water that has been disinfected prior to use. It has a higher capacity than most under sink filters and can be used for nearly 3 years for up to 8480 gallons of water. The USA-manufactured under sink water filter does not need any special plumbing and can be easily installed by an experienced DIY-er.

Woder under sink filter has been certified tested for several chemicals and can effectively remove chlorine, lead, chromium, mercury, and other heavy metals from the water. No more turbidity, odor, and chlorine-taste! Your family will enjoy great-tasting, healthy water that contains all essential minerals. Woder WD S-8K-DC water filter retains all the vital minerals while removing sediments, harmful chemicals, turbidity, and odor.

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5. APEC WFS-1000 Under-Sink Water Filter

APEC is known for its high-quality water filter systems for the past 2 decades. The APEC-WFS 1000 is a high-quality, top-rated under-sink water filter that has been manufactured in the US. The 3-stage premium filter works on kitchen and bath water taps and removes chlorine, bad taste, cloudiness, color, and odor. The super-capacity sediment filter removes dust, rust, and other harmful particles and contaminants.

The carbon block filter works on chemicals, taste, and odor. With the APEC WFS, you get a 1-year warranty with lifetime support by WQA water system specialists. This affordable under-sink water filter also lasts longer and needs fewer filter replacements and changes.

6. Express Water Under Sink Water Filter

If TDS in your tap water is giving you a headache, take a look at this under-sink water filter. Aside from using reverse osmosis to get rid of TDS, this filter also has a handful of extra features that make your drinking water a lot healthier.

Aside from reverse osmosis, this filter also employs a UV water purification system that eliminates harmful microorganisms. Then there’s the alkaline filter, which adds back beneficial minerals such as Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium back into the water.

This easy to install filter works automatically. Moreover, it has a leak detector that shuts off water flow at the sign of unwanted moisture. If I had to pick a downside for this filter, I’d say it’s the consistency. The water quality does not stay the same throughout its lifetime. You also need to change some filters at 6 months and some at 12-24 months, which seems like a hassle.

7. 3M Aqua-Pure Under Sink Water Filter System

Get clean water without particulates and chlorine with the best compact under sink water filter. The 3M Aqua-Pure AP-DWS1000 removes parasitic cysts, VOC or volatile organic compounds, and methyl tert-butyl ether to give you great-tasting, pure, and clean drinking water.

3M Aqua-Pure AP-DWS1000 also comes with an easy-to-replace Sanitary-Quick-Change cartridge which does not need too much effort to change and replace the filter cartridge. The built-in auto-shut-off mechanism shuts off the supply when it is time to replace the filter. This happens after 625 gallons. The 3M Aqua-Pure AP-DWS1000 connects to a chrome faucet and all of the tools and hardware for installation are provided.

8. Aquasana Under Sink Water Filter System

Aquasana under sink water filter removes nearly 99% of 77 contaminants like volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, sediments, sand, and other dirt that imparts cloudy appearance and salty taste to water. At the same time, Claryum filtration technology keeps all of the healthy minerals intact.

The filter comes with an oil-rubbed, bronze faucet that will enhance any kitchen décor and give it a vintage appearance. (You can also choose from different faucet finishes to match your existing décor). It is very easy to install the Aquasana: all parts, tools, and instructions are provided and you won’t need a plumber. Compared to pitcher filters, this superior filter removes 10 times more contaminants.

Aquasana filter not only meets NSF and ANSI standards; it is also the only filter that is PFOA and PFOS certified. It also promises to be an eco-friendly filter as it reduces water wastage and needs fewer cartridge replacements per year. The economical Aquasana filter takes about 10 cents per gallon so you will definitely be saving a lot on bottled water.

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9. Culligan US-600A Under-Sink Water Filtration

With the best under sink water filter from Culligan US-600, you can get great-tasting water for cooking, drinking, and washing produces. This filter uses a D-20A filter cartridge that removes chlorine, bad taste, and odors from tap water. It also maintains the flow rate at 60 psi and comes with all the tools needed for an easy installation.

Moreover, this filter is compatible with several filter cartridges of other Culligan systems. The long-lasting filter can provide you with water for nearly 12 months (up to 1000 gallons) so you don’t need to keep replacing it. Culligan US-600A under sink water filter has been tested and certified by IAMPO standards of testing.

10. SimPure V5 Under Sink Water Filter

SimPure V5 is a ‘big’ filter in a small package. Do not let its compact size fool you: it is capable of filtering nearly 3000 gallons of water. At the same time; this 3-in-1 composite filter can easily fit in cramped spaces under kitchen sinks.

SimPure V5 installs easily without any plumbing or hardware changes. The filter replacement procedure is also quite simple. It utilizes 3-stage filtration including activated charcoal, kinetic degradation fluxion, and a 0.5-micron polyester membrane which work together to remove nearly 99.99% of 70 contaminants found in water.

The V5 is made with premium food-grade plastic, can withstand high pressure, and is also leak-proof. It retains water-flow in most cases and all these features have made it a trusted household filter.

11. Epic Under Sink Water Filter

Simple installation sets the Epic Smart Shield Under Sink Filter apart from other top-rated under sink filtration systems. You won’t need to drill any holes or buy new faucets as it easily connects to existing plumbing. The filter uses adsorption filtration to remove chemicals, pesticides, microbial cysts, and herbicides thanks to its 2” thick coconut carbon block.

Epic water filters also give the Epic Performance Promise to users regarding the removal of 99% of nearly 70 contaminants found in tap water. This filter also reduces bad odors as well as chlorine taste which many people dislike. Epic Smart Shield has also been certified for various NSF and ANSI (42/53/401) certifications. This faucet water filter for the sink also works as an inline water filter for the refrigerator.

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12. AO Smith Under Sink Clean Water Faucet Filter

Want clean, fresh-tasting, and healthy water straight from the faucet? Then you will love the AO Smith-2 Stage best under sink water filter. This easily connects to a 3/8 water line and includes tubing needed for installation. The filter removes 99.9% of harmful contaminants including lead, herbicides, and pesticides, and also results in odorless and great-tasting water.

AO Smith filter has been independently tested and certified for NSF and ANSI standards. Its Claryum filtration technology reduces pharmaceuticals, chlorine, heavy metals, and even asbestos from the water. The filter easily lasts for 6 months or up to 500 gallons.

Why do You Need High-Quality Water Filters

According to the EPA, there are more than 2100 toxic chemicals in American water supplies including arsenic, sodium, chloride, copper, lead, cadmium, and other volatile organic compounds like herbicides, pesticides, etc. It is a good idea to get your water tested to find out how many of these chemicals you and your family are being exposed to.

People with HIV/AIDS, those undergoing chemotherapy, children and infants, elderly patients, pregnant women, and transplant patients are very susceptible to these chemicals and toxins in the water. Municipal water systems must send annual reports of water testing to residents.

Customers who feel their water is contaminated can also request additional testing. Private testing can cost somewhere in the range of $50 to $75 depending on the chemicals you are testing for. But this information can help you select the right under sink water filter. Water filters help remove most of these impurities and also provide you with the following benefits:

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Types of Water Filters for Homes

There are many home water filtration systems that vary based on their features, the type of contaminants they remove, price, the complexity of installation, and also their efficiency. Based on these factors, the following water filter types are available today:

Carafes/Pitchers

These are inexpensive but slow to refill. They are also unreliable and do not remove all toxins found in water. Many are ineffective against microbial cysts. Carafes or pitcher filters are also not a good choice for people who want to use filtered water for cooking.

Faucet Mounted Filters

These are inexpensive and do not need a plumber for installation. However, they can be unsightly and may not fit all kinds of faucets.

Reverse Osmosis Filters

These use household water pressure to pass water through a semi-permeable membrane which removes even tough-to-remove chemicals like arsenic. However, these filters waste a lot of water: you need at least 3-5 gallons of unfiltered water to create 1 gallon of filtered water.

Whole-House Filters

As the name indicates, these are connected to mainline before the hot water tank. They are an expensive system and they filter the water to the whole house including the toilets. Such filters are recommended for homes having sediment issues.

Type of Under Sink Water Filter System

Multitudes of American homeowners, whether they use well water or receive municipal water, are getting water filters installed in their homes. This is because of growing concerns about unseen chemicals and industrial wastes leaching into aquifers and drinking water including asbestos, petroleum by-products, and other harmful chemicals.

So, if you have decided to go in for a purifier, you have indeed made a wise decision and won’t be disappointed as long as you select the right system, install it properly, and also maintain it as recommended. Here are some common types of under sink filters:

If you buy in-line cylinders without bypass, install the valve on the supply side. This way, you won’t have to trudge to the cellar each time to turn off the main water supply each time you replace the filter. A valve on the delivery side will prevent water in the line from draining back during change. Prices for under-sink filters can range from $75 to $500 based on the materials used:

Before you select the best-rated under sink water filter with an in-line mounting canister, you must ensure that the line can withstand the weight of the canister. If the supply pipe isn’t strong enough, then you may have to install a bracket for the canister.

How to Install an Under Sink Water Filter

To ensure that you and your family get fresh and healthy water for drinking and cooking, a water filter system is a must. Some people attach the filter to the water softener system so that you get contaminant-free water that is also soft for washing hair and body.

In this simple guide, we will discuss the steps needed to help you install a basic under-sink water filter. An under sink water filter includes a saddle valve, filtration unit, T-coupling, drinking water faucet, as well as refrigerator line for making ice.

What You Need

Steps

1. Shut off the main water supply.
2. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and mount the under-sink filter unit.
3. Install saddle valve on the cold water line. Make sure the valve is closed.
4. Connect vinyl mesh tubing from the intake side of the filtration unit to the saddle valve.
5. Attach a vinyl mesh tube to the outtake side of the filtration unit to the saddle valve.
6. If you are installing an ice-maker, attach T-coupling to the free end of the tube.
7. Install the drinking water faucet on the countertop. Use manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Connect a vinyl mesh tube between the faucet tailpiece and the top of the T-coupling or directly to the water filter if no ice-maker is being installed.
9. Attach the ice-maker filter to the outlet on the T-coupling then run flexible tubing to the ice maker.
10. Turn on the water and open the saddle valve. Inspect connections for leaks.

How to Select an Under Sink Water Filter System

Here are the factors to consider when selecting a high-quality under the sink water filtration system:

Kind of Water in Your Area

It is a good idea to know what type of water and contaminants you are dealing with. Some areas have very hard water. This means that the water contains chemicals like calcium etc. which make the water hard on skin and hair and also lead to streaks on utensils. Hard water may need a water softener prior to filtration. Some filters can only be used with municipally treated drinking water.

This means that the water must be disinfected before being passed through the filter. Such filters do not remove microbial cysts from water and that is why it is very important to ensure installing them only to the municipal water supply. For the longer life of your underwater filter system, you must only connect the system to the cold water as hot water can damage the filter and render it ineffective.

The Capacity of the Filter

The filter you select should have a high capacity. This means that it should last several years or have the capacity to filter several thousand gallons of water before needing replacement. Installing a filter and replacing its cartridge often can be a tedious process.

Many people simply forget to change the filter or replace its cartridge which can lead them to consume contaminated water. Therefore, you want a system that can go for years before needing a replacement. High-quality under sink filter systems can easily filter out 4000 gallons of water or last for at least 3 years.

Ease of Installation

Most under-sink filter systems are manufactured outside the USA. These systems may be difficult to connect inline to existing 3/8 or 1/4 water lines. In such a case, you might need the services of an experienced plumber. This can lead to additional costs.

Selecting USA-made, ‘no-plumbing-needed’ under-sink water filters can eliminate the hassle of seeking professional help. You can easily install such a system like a little DIY project. Many filters come with direct connect hoses that easily fit existing 3/8 or 1/4 lines. These need to be installed on the cold water line and come with clear instructions about the process.

Rate of flow

Many under-sink filter systems end up reducing the flow rate of the water. Many filters promise to keep the flow rate intact but as time goes by, the contaminants in the filter, especially heavy sediments, reduce the flow rate. So, select the under sink filter carefully. Speak to friends or neighbors who might have recently installed a similar system to get their reviews and opinions.

If needed, call the company in question to ask about the results you can expect. Naturally, there are many factors at play here. If the water pressure in your area is already very low, you may want to consider a system that won’t further impact the flow rate. In many cases, it does end up being a gamble.

But if you have done your homework well, read the best under sink water filter reviews, and followed the installation procedure well, then there is no reason why you won’t get a satisfactory system.

Certifications the Filter Has Undergone

Select a system that has undergone several independently assessed testing and certifications. These help ensure that the system indeed removes the contaminants it is claiming to remove. The main standards of testing in the case of water filters are done by the WQA Gold Seal. WQA stands for Water Quality Assessment.

It is the most recognized drinking water treatment certification in the world. Next, the filter system can also undergo NSF standards of testing. NSF stands for National Sanitation Foundation. This is a third-party certification. NSF /ANSI 42, 53, and 401 testings are the most common for water filters.

42 is for aesthetics which results in clearer water, 53 is for Health Effects and 401 is for Emerging Contaminants and NSF/ANSI 372 is for lead-free compliance. Together these work in reducing a wide range of contaminants including VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds, lead, arsenic, mercury, endocrine disruptors, and more.

Retain Healthy Minerals

A high-quality under-sink water filter utilizes a unique technology that can easily remove up to 99.99% of contaminants found in water. At the same time, they leave vital minerals in the water such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, etc which are necessary for a healthy body.

Some filters such as the reverse osmosis-based filters filter out everything including the good stuff like minerals. High-quality under-sink filters retain these minerals while removing bacteria, lead, pesticides, herbicides, etc.

Selectively Filter Out Harmful Water Contaminants

If you have decided to drink a lot of water for overall health, and well-being, then it is important that you choose healthy, contaminant-free water. And instead of spending on bottled water, it is best to install a high-quality and reliable water filter. This way; you can have reliable, contaminant-free water 24/7.

Select a filter that can eliminate lead, mercury, arsenic, volatile organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, herbicides, pesticides, and insecticides. It should also remove chlorine, chromium, mercury, carcinogens, and even odors and taste. In many cities, the municipal water is known to have a strong chlorine taste as well as a cloudy appearance. With a high-quality filter, you can easily avoid these harmful contaminants and keep your family healthy.

With/Without Separate Faucet

Many under-sink water filtration systems come with a separate faucet which you need to connect to the system. This is usually very easy to install. The water coming out of this faucet is pure, clean, great-tasting, and healthy as well. You can use this water for drinking as well as for washing fruits and vegetables. Many of these faucets come in a wide variety of finishes so you can choose one to suit your kitchen’s décor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What Is the Best Under Sink Water Filter?

A: There are many high-quality under-sink water filters available out there. You must select one based on your budget, the kind of plumbing changes it entails, the contaminants it removes, as well as the flow rate after installation. The best under sink water filter is the one that suits your needs, results in great tasting water, and is easy on your pocket.

You can also select a filter based on the resultant taste, the flow rate of water, and the retention of minerals. The area you live in can also decide the right filter for you: If your area has hard water or the water pressure is already rather low, then you’d want a system that does not further impact the flow rate and also makes the water softer.

In some cases, you may need a softener and a filter as well. All these factors can help you choose the best under-sink water filter. Brands like Wonder, A.O. Smith, Aquasana, etc. all make very good water filters that are reliable, top-rated, and have had thousands of positive reviews.

Q: Are Under Sink Water Filters Worth It?

A: Yes, because under-sink water filters often offer multiple stages of filtration. The way they work is by forcing the water under pressure to pass through the filtrate systems which removes a wide range of contaminants. Many good-quality under-sink filters have undergone NSF/ANSI certifications and are capable of removing lead, chlorine, mercury, carcinogens, heavy metals, VOCs, etc. So, they lead to an overall improvement in taste, appearance, as well as deodorize the drinking water.

The resulting water is also healthy as it has 99.99% less contamination. Compared to RO or reverse osmosis systems, these filters also retain healthy minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, etc. RO systems often eliminate everything and that includes healthy minerals as well. If you have recently made the commitment to drink more water, then it will pay to choose healthy water.

Instead of buying bottled water, having a filter at home always ends up being economical in the longer run. Filtered water at home will hardly cost a few cents per gallon. The same cost would be higher when you go for bottled drinking water. Having an under-sink water filter is also healthier for our planet as it means fewer plastic bottles in our landfills. So, in the long run, under-sink water filters are definitely worth it.

Q: How Long Do Under Sink Water Filters Last?

A: Top-rated under-sink water filters can last anywhere between 6 months to 3 years. This is assuming normal usage. Some filters also give the total number of gallons. Thus, some filters can provide up to 4000 gallons of filtered water before needing a replacement.

Q: How Do I Choose an Under Sink Water Filter?

A: Before you select an under sink water filter, get your water tested or ask your local town office to provide you with a water analysis report. This way; you will know for sure which contaminants are present in the water. You can also select the filter based on your existing plumbing. Some filters can only work with 3/8 lines while others work with 1/4line.

Ask yourself if you are experienced enough to install the system yourself or whether you would need a professional. You must also choose the filter on the duration it will last for, as well as the flow rate. The latter is especially necessary if you already live in an area having a reduced flow rate.

You can also choose a filter based on the kind of filtration method it uses: activated charcoal, reverse osmosis, etc. This will decide which contaminants it is capable of removing. Also, ask yourself how often you are willing to change the filter cartridge. The complexity of cartridge replacement can also help you choose the right filter for your needs.

Q: How Often Should You Change Your Under Sink Water Filter?

A: It is recommended to change the filter cartridge every 6 to 9 months depending on the brand and its capacity. Some filters come with a reminder when it is time to change the filter. They either make a beeping sound or there is a light indicator for the same.

Q: Are Under-Sink Water Filters Eliminate Chemicals From Water?

A: Yes, an under-sink water filter can remove chemicals from water. Different types of filtering systems are capable of removing a diverse range of impurities from the water. Hence, it would help if you were sure your under-sink water filter works fine with your water supply. If you are not sure of the right one to buy, you can reach out to your professional for help.

Conclusion

We hope this guide helps you select the best under-sink water filter. The right filter system for you, as stated above, depends on the ease of installation, your existing plumbing, the rate of flow of water after installation, the taste and odor of resulting water, as well as the contaminants the filter can remove.

Based on these factors, we recommend the Filtrete 3M Advanced Under-Sink filtration system as it has been certified for NSF/ANSI standards, is easy to install, removes 99.99% of most contaminants, and results in great tasting water. Also, check out our other recommendations in the list above.