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Home » Water Filtration Systems » 8 Best Faucet Water Filters for Sink & Tap Reviewed

8 Best Faucet Water Filters for Sink & Tap Reviewed

By: Craig Smith
Last Updated:
faucet water filter

Now that you have decided that it’s a faucet-attached water filter that you are interested in, next comes the task of sorting through the many different options you have when it comes to purchasing one.

This is where my many years of water filtration experience can help you. 

I have taken an extensive amount of time to accumulate data, test out filters, and research reviews on the best faucet water filters around.

From this wealth of information, I have put together this comprehensive review list of what I have determined to be the best faucet filters currently available on the market.

Find The Right Section…

Best Faucet Water Filters Compared

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES  
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#1 PUR FM-3700
  • Filter Lifespan: 100 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: Not Disclosed
  • Contaminants Removed: 99% Lead, 96% mercury, 92% Pesticides
CHECK PRICE
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#2 Dupont WFFM100XCH
  • Filter Lifespan: 200 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: Not Disclosed
  • Contaminants Removed: Reduces Asbestos, Lead, Mercury
CHECK PRICE
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#3 Waterdrop Faucet Filter
  • Filter Lifespan: 320 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: 0.5 GPM
  • Contaminants Removed: Reduces Lead, Chlorine
CHECK PRICE
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#4 iSpring DF2-CHR
  • Filter Lifespan: 500 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: 1.5 GPM
  • Contaminants Removed: Reduces Bacteria, Chlorine, Lead & Sulfates
CHECK PRICE
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#5 Culligan FM-15A
  • Filter Lifespan: 200 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: 0.5 GPM
  • Contaminants Removed: Reduces Lead, Chlorine, Turbidity
CHECK PRICE
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#6 Brita Faucet Filter
  • Filter Lifespan: 100 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: Not Disclosed
  • Contaminants Removed: Reduces 99% of Lead, Chlorine Taste & Odor
CHECK PRICE
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#7 Engdeton Faucet Filter
  • Filter Lifespan: 320 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: 0.5 GPM
  • Contaminants Removed: Sediment and Organics Reduction
CHECK PRICE
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#8 Instapure F2 Essentials
  • Filter Lifespan: 200 Gallons
  • Flow Rate: 0.75 GPM
  • Contaminants Removed: Reduces Lindane, Chlorine Taste & Odor
CHECK PRICE

Faucet Water Filter Evaluation Criteria

faucet-water-filter-evaluation-criteria

Before you start your search to find and purchase one of the best faucet filters for your needs, you first have to become familiar with the most important characteristics to look for in these filters. 

Price

Be aware of the cost of a faucet filter and also the cost of its replacement filters.

Filter Life and Filter Change Sensor

You should also know a unit’s water filter life and if there is an indicator feature to tell you when to change that filter. Having a filter change indicator takes the guesswork out of filter cartridge changes.

Filtration Media and Contaminants Removed

Most faucet filters use activated carbon filtration. There are different qualities of carbon, so you need to get specific information on what contaminants a particular faucet filter removes. 

Many including me state the filter quality as the most important evaluation criteria.

Flow Rate

This is how fast tap water comes out of a faucet attached filter after it has been activated. Some models substantially decrease the normal faucet flow rate and you should be aware of the impact one of these filters will have.

Ease of Installation and Use

You need to know how difficult a faucet filter is to install, how it operates, and whether or not the replacement cartridges can be changed out easily.

Third-Party Certifications

When shopping for a new faucet water filter, see if any independent testing organizations have certified certain aspects of what a manufacturer claims their product can do.

Aesthetics

If looks are important to you when purchasing a new faucet water filter, then consider how that new faucet-attached water filter goes with your kitchen setting.

Faucet Water Filter Reviews

Faucet Water filters

Review Order

Here is what my research and experience indicated are the best buys when it comes to the best faucet water filter:

1. PUR Advanced Faucet Filter (Best Overall)

PUR FM 3700

There is a reason that we selected this good-looking faucet-style water filter as our number one model.

That’s because it not only checks off several boxes as far as the characteristics that we like to see in a faucet-style water filter but it excels in many of those areas.

The activated carbon filtration capability of this filter reduces 99% of lead, 96% of mercury, 92% of pesticides as well as 70+ other contaminants. This faucet water filter system also looks great and is certified to guarantee quality.

It’s what you would expect from a water filter that’s made by a company with 30-years’ experience in the water filtration business. 

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: For all that you get with this faucet filter, you may be surprised that it’s right inline with the average cost of filters in its class.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: One of the black marks against this product is that it’s tied for the shortest filter life on our list at 100 gallons per filter. The fact that these filters are very good and that it has a filter change indicator light make up for that.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: This faucet filter not only has a standard activated carbon filter in it but also has a secondary core that provides remineralization. It reduces as much as 99% of lead, 96% of mercury, and 92% of pesticides among the 70 different contaminants that it lessens in tap water.

Flow Rate: This manufacturer is one that does not list a flow rate.

Ease of Installation: Everything needed for standard faucet attachment is in the kit including adapters.

Third-Party Certifications: This filter has been certified to meet both NSF and WQA testing standards.

Aesthetics: This is one of the better looking faucet filters on our list. It has a nice chrome looking finish and it’s not overly big.

Pros

  • Enhanced activated carbon filtration
  • Streamlined with a polished chrome looking finish
  • Filter change indicator light
  • Experienced manufacturer has 30 + years experience in water filtration
  • NSF and WQA certified
  • Good looking Unit

Cons

  • Small 100-gallon filter life
  • Plastic body
  • Manufacturer does not state the flow rate
  • Replacement filter cartridges are pricey

Overall Opinion: If this will fit on your particular kitchen water faucet, then you simply can’t go wrong purchasing it.

See our full PUR Faucet Filter Review here.

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2. Dupont WFFM100XCH Faucet Tap Filter

DuPont-WFFM100XCH

This is another very impressive faucet-style water filter that is not much of a drop-off from our most recommended model. 

It’s something that you would expect coming from a company with such a strong history in water filtration as DuPont.

It has more attached certifications than any other faucet water filter on our list and its sleek styling and nice polished chrome finish cannot be overlooked. 

The filtration capability is top-notch removing most tap water contaminants and it lasts for 200 gallons or 6 months before needing replacement.

There is even a built-in electronic meter that tells you exactly how many gallons are left before the filter needs to be replaced. 

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: This faucet filter is among the ones that cost the most on our list but that’s not unreasonable with all of the nice features it has.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: Users of this Dupont product will get 200 gallons of improved water from each filter up to a maximum of 6-months.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: This faucet-style water filter has an activated carbon filter that works better than many similar type filters on our review list. In addition to reducing or removing sediment, cysts, and chlorine, it can also help filter out benzene, lindane, asbestos, mercury, lead, and more.

Flow Rate: The flow rate for this faucet filter is not specified by the manufacturer.

Ease of Installation: It easily attaches to most Dupont and other standard type faucet brands. Some adapters are included.

Third-Party Certifications: There is much peace of mind that comes with this product’s NSF/ANSI Standard 42, 53, and 372 certifications and an additional WQA certification.

Aesthetics: This is one of the most decorative faucet-attached water filters that we reviewed here. That’s due to the fact that its body faces back instead of upward to help it blend in more and ite appealing brushed-nickel chrome finish.

Pros

  • Built-in electronic filter life meter
  • 200 gallons of purified water produced by its filter
  • Streamlined look with a decorative brushed-nickel chrome finish
  • Significantly reduces asbestos, lead, mercury, and many Class 1 particulates
  • NSF/ANSI Standard 42, 53, and 372 compliant
  • WQA certified

Cons

  • Only comes with two adapters
  • No listed flow rate
  • External shell is made of hard plastic
  • Bigger size activation knob

Overall Opinion: If you are looking for a faucet filter that looks good, takes the guesswork out of filter changes, and has above-average filtration for its class, then this one is certainly worth taking a longer look at.

See our full Dupont Faucet review here.

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3. Waterdrop Faucet Filter

Waterdrop Faucet Filter

To come in at #3 on our list of the top faucet filter models a product has to pass the eye test and do a good job of enhancing tap water. 

This faucet-style water filter has both of those aspects covered along with some added convenience.

Quite simply put, if this faucet filter had an indicator as to when the filter needs to be changed, we would rate it right up there with the first two faucet-style water filters on our list.

This model from Waterdrop lasts for 320 gallons before needing replacement and it reduces lead, chlorine, and most tap water contaminants.

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: This is one of the least expensive faucet filters on our review list. That’s definitely a nice bonus for all that this tap water filter does for those that have one installed on their kitchen sink.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: As you read through our list of faucet filters and compare them, you will notice that most only have a useful filter life that ranges from 100 to 200 gallons. The filters that are used in the Waterdrop Faucet Filter go well beyond that as they can each enhance up to 320 gallons of tap water (or a 3-month manufacturer recommended replacement).

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: This faucet-style water filter offers not one but two different types of filter media. That includes a sediment catching pre-filter and a regular activated carbon filter that will greatly enhance any incoming municipal water that has been previously treated with chlorine. It also does a nice job reducing lead in tap water.

Flow Rate: This unit sports a very nice 0.5 GPM flow rate. That means it will fill up to four 16-ounce bottles of water in under 1 minute. This means that it’s tied for the third highest flow rate on our countdown of quality faucet filters.

Ease of Installation: Installation of this product is straightforward so a user does not need a high mechanical aptitude to install it. Installation is tool-free in most cases and several adapters are included in the package.

Third-Party Certifications: It’s a water filtration product that comes with two 3rd party testing certifications. NSF/ANSI standard 42 concerns the reduction of chlorine and its associated taste and smell and NSF/ANSI 372 certifies there are no lead-containing parts used in its construction.

Aesthetics: The Waterdrop Faucet Filter comes with a white exterior finish that is pleasing to the eye and that is nicely complemented by some well-placed chrome-looking trim pieces. That enables it to blend in and even compliment many different style kitchen settings.

Pros

  • NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 certified
  • Large 320-gallon filter capacity
  • Generous 0.5 GPM flow rate
  • Activated carbon block filter w/pre-filtration
  • 30-day satisfaction guarantee

Cons

  • No filter change indicator
  • A bit bulky in size for some faucets
  • Hard plastic body
  • Replacement filters only available in 3-packs

Overall Opinion: If you are looking for the most bang for your buck as far as purchase price and filter life is concerned, then this is a solid faucet filter choice.

See our full Watedrop Faucet Filter review here.

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4. iSpring DF2-CHR Tap Filter

ispring df2

This model faucet-mounted water filter is all about convenience. That’s due to its long filter cartridge useful life and its exceptionally high flow rate.

Although it comes with no 3rd-party certifications other than on the parts it uses, the manufacturer claims it reduces several different contaminants in tap water.

It’s extremely plain looking but durable and it even comes with a 1-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

That means you get to take it for a test drive and you can get your money back if not satisfied with it. 

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: This faucet-attached filter is right in the ballpark of the average range for this type of water filtration device.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: If you do not want to go through the bother of changing the filter cartridges in your faucet water filter very often, you will like this model. It has a very generous 500-gallon filter cartridge. That means it can last as long as 8-months in between filter changes. Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not build in any type of indicator to tell you when it’s time to change the filter cartridge.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: The manufacturer claims that its activated carbon filter will reduce such contaminants in tap water as bacteria, chlorine, lead, and sulfates.

Flow Rate: Forget about waiting long when filling containers with improved tap water with this model faucet-attached water filter. It has a well-above-average 1.5 gallons per minute flow rate.

Ease of Installation: Installation with this faucet filter is usually a tool-free process that takes less than 10 minutes to complete.

Third-Party Certifications: The iSpring DF2-CHR has no official certifications.

Aesthetics: If the looks of your new faucet water filter are important to you, then this faucet-style water filter should not be your top choice. It’s very plain looking to say the least.

Pros

  • Industry best 500-gallon or 8-month filter life
  • Fast 1.5 GPM flow rate
  • Made of more durable food-grade BPA-free plastic
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Reduces bacteria, chlorine, lead, and sulfates
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Generic looks
  • Plastic housing
  • Activation lever could have easier access
  • No filter change indicator

Overall Opinion: If the most important aspect of having a faucet water filter to you is convenience, then you will want to take a closer look at this model.

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5. Culligan FM-15A Faucet Filter

Culligan-FM-15A

This is a faucet-style water filter that’s made by a company that has been involved with some form of water filtration since 1936. That’s a lot of experience that goes into their products.

It’s not the best looking faucet water filter but most of its other features hold up well against the other models that we reviewed here.

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: Both the unit cost and replacement filter cost are very reasonable for this model faucet filter.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: The filter cartridges that are used with the Culligan FM-15A need to be replaced after 200-gallons of use or every 2-months.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: It has a good activated carbon block filter inside of it. This helps it greatly reduce chlorine, lead, class I particulates, and more.

Flow Rate: It has a very decent 0.5 GPM water flow rate.

Ease of Installation: It’s very simple to install and comes with the necessary adapters to help it fit most sinks with standard size faucet nozzles.

Third-Party Certifications: NSF/ANSI 42 and 53 certifications add to the credibility of this faucet attached water filter to be able to do what it says.

Aesthetics: This is a very plain looking faucet filter that some will not like the looks of.

Pros

  • 200-gallon filter
  • Activated carbon filtration
  • Reasonably priced unit & replacement filters
  • Made by a reputable manufacturer
  • NSF/ANSI 42 and 53 certified
  • High 0.5 GPM water flow

Cons

  • The activation switch is small
  • Very plain looking
  • No filter change indicator
  • Cannot run straight hot water through it
  • Short 2-month filter change recommendation

Overall Opinion: This is a good economical option for those that are not overly concerned with the looks of their new faucet-attached water filter.

See our full Culligan Faucet Filter Review here.

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6. Brita Faucet Water Filter

brita faucet-filter

Brita is a name that when mentioned people automatically think of water filtration. That’s because they have earned a reputation for making quality water filtration products for many years now.

This is a pretty good faucet-style water filter from them. It does a better job filtering out contaminants than many water filters in its class and comes with several 3rd-party certifications too.

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: It’s the second lowest priced filter on our review list which represents good value for what it does. Replacement filters are also very reasonably priced.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: With this model faucet filter, there is no guessing when it’s time to replace the filter. It has an indicator light that will come on when a filter’s useful life has come to an end. Filter changes need to take place 4-months or after 100-gallons of use and they can be done in a snap.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: The activated carbon filtration in this faucet filter does a nice job of reducing or removing chlorine, lead, benzene, asbestos, BPA, and other contaminants that can be found in both municipal and well-sourced water.

Flow Rate: The manufacturer does not state the flow rate on this product.

Ease of Installation: You can find a demonstration video of how easily this model faucet filter installs on YouTube. Most anyone can do it themselves in less than 10 minutes.

Third-Party Certifications: Because of its above-average filtration this unit meets NSF/ANSI 42, 51, and 401 certification requirements.

Aesthetics: This sleek looking, low profile faucet filter won’t get in your way while using your sink. It’s chrome-looking finish will also complement many styles of kitchen settings.

Pros

  • Electronic filter change indicator
  • Good filtration for its class
  • Space efficient design
  • Meets NSF/ANSI 42, 51, and 401 certification requirements
  • Installs easily
  • Looks nice
  • Quick filter changes

Cons

  • Some users report small leaks after installation
  • Limited warranty is short in duration
  • Plastic body
  • Small 100-gallon filter capacity

Overall Opinion: This is another economical faucet filter that looks good once installed and will definitely enhance the taste, appearance, and smell of your drinking water.

See our full Brita Faucet Filter Review here.

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7. Engdeton Faucet Water Filter

Engdenton-Stainless-Faucet-Water-Filter

This is the only faucet-style water filter on our list that features a durable metal body. That also makes it the most durable faucet filter that we reviewed.

The Engdeton Faucet Filter will also swivel around 360°. 

That means you can point its nozzle down to fill up a glass or turn it further up to fill pitchers and other larger size containers. Good water flow and longer useful filter life are also highlight features of this faucet-style water filter.

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: This is one of the most expensive faucet filters that we have reviewed here. Much of that is due to its stainless-steel construction. The replacement filters for it are very reasonably priced.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: Its associated filter cartridges can produce some 320-gallons of improved tap water or be used for 6-months before they need to be replaced. No filter change indicator has been built into the device.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: It uses a Japanese made activated carbon filter but the manufacturer is a little vague about the contaminants that this faucet filter removes or reduces.

Flow Rate: At a flow rate of 0.5 GPM it’s equal to or above many faucet-style filters in its class.

Ease of Installation: Tool free installation is the norm with this product and it comes with a wide assortment of gaskets and adapters to do the job.

Third-Party Certifications: No 3rd party certifications were mentioned by the manufacturer.

Aesthetics: There are both good and bad qualities of this faucet filter as far as looks go. Its stainless steel body looks great but some will find it to be a little big and bulky for their taste.

Pros

  • Activated carbon filtration
  • High-quality food grade 304 stainless steel housing
  • Excellent 0.5 GPM flow rate
  • 320-gallon filter life
  • The unit can swivel 360°

Cons

  • A little big and bulky when in place
  • Only fits standard faucet types
  • No filter change indicator
  • Manufacturer does not give much detail on what it filters out
  • No listed water quality certifications

Overall Opinion: This is a good option for those that want a sturdier built and better-looking faucet water filter that offers just basic enhancement of their tap water.

See our full Engdenton Faucet Filter review here.

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8. Instapure F2 Essentials

Instapure-f2

This faucet attached water filter will stand up with the best of them on our list as far as water enhancement is concerned. That’s due to its advanced coconut carbon filtration that greatly reduces or eliminates the impact of chlorine in tap water.

This faucet-attached water filter is also WQA Gold Seal certified and meets NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 testing standards.

Main Features & Benefits

Unit Cost: Both this faucet filter and its replacement filter cartridges are average in cost.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator: It has an acceptable 200-gallon filter cartridge useful life. The lack of a filter change indicator on it is definitely a drawback.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed: It features very reliable coconut carbon filtration. This allows it to reduce such contaminants in your home’s tap water as Trihalomethanes, Lindane, Rust, Sand, and Sediment. You can also count on it to reduce chlorine taste and odor.

Flow Rate: This unit has the second-highest flow rate of any faucet filter on our review list. With its excellent 0.75 GPM flow rate, you will notice little difference in the stream of water coming out of your faucet whether it’s activated or not.

Ease of Installation: The manufacturer claims that it can be installed by just about anyone in less than 5-minutes. $ included adapters help with this process.

Third-Party Certifications: Tested to meet NSF/ANSI Standards 42 & 372 and is also certified by the WQA.

Aesthetics: It has a nice chrome-looking finish but some might find its 8” height to be a little big and bulky looking.

Pros

  • High-quality granular coconut carbon filter
  • WQA Gold Seal certified
  • Shiny chrome-looking finish
  • Tested to meet NSF/ANSI Standards 42 & 372
  • 200-gallon filter life
  • Very acceptable flow rate

Cons

  • Big & bulky rigid plastic body
  • Oversized activation switch
  • Cannot run straight hot tap water through it
  • Some complaints about small leaks after installation

Overall Opinion: While this in my opinion is one of the most bulky looking faucet filters on our review list, you shouldn’t overlook its ability to enhance your home’s tap water.

See our full Instapure F2 Essentials Review here.

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Top Faucet Filters Comparison Chart

ProductKey Contaminants Removed or ReducedFilter LifeFlow RateFilter Change IndicatorPrice
PUR Advanced99% Lead, 96% mercury, 92% Pesticides100 Gallons or 3 MonthsNot SpecifiedLight$$$
Dupont WFFM100 XCHReduces Asbestos, Lead, Mercury 200 Gallons or 6 Months Not SpecifiedDigitally Metered$$$
Waterdrop Faucet FilterReduces Lead, Chlorine320 Gallons or 3 Months 0.5 GPMNone$
iSpring DF2-CHRReduces Bacteria, Chlorine, Lead & Sulfates 500 Gallons or 8 Months1.5 GPMNone$$
Culligan FM-15AReduces Lead, Chlorine, Turbidity200 Gallons or 2 Months0.5 GPMNone$$
Brita Faucet FilterReduces 99% of Lead, Chlorine Taste & Odor100 Gallons or 4 MonthsNot SpecifiedLight$
Engdeton Faucet FilterSediment and Organics Reduction320 Gallons or 6 Months5 GPMNone$$$
Instapure F2 EssentialsReduces Lindane, Chlorine Taste & Odor200 Gallons or 4 Months0.75 GPMNone$$

Faucet Filter Buyers Guide

faucet-water-filter-buyers-guide

For those of you that are not familiar with faucet-style water filters, here is an introductory guide that should help you get better acquainted with what they are and how they work.

What is a Kitchen Faucet Water Filter?

When you have decided that you want to increase the quality of your incoming water supply, you first have to decide what level you want that to be.

Faucet water filtration systems are not designed to create large amounts of purified water like a whole house water filtration system. Instead, they are mostly used for drinking water and cooking purposes at one point of use in the kitchen.

They are also best for those who are just searching for a way to enhance the looks, taste, and eliminate any odors that are in their tap water. They will filter out larger solids and some other contaminants too.

If you are seeking a higher level of home water purification than this, then you should look for a more comprehensive water filtration option such as reverse osmosis system or a whole house water filter.

Faucet water filters also do not remove total dissolved solids from tap water (TDS).

How Do Tap Water Faucet Filters Work?

There is nothing fancy about how a faucet-attached water filter works. Once in place, a sink’s tap water flows through them continuously.

They do not, however, filter that water unless a switch has been activated. This switch usually comes in the form of an easy-to-turn lever or knob.

Once the faucet-mounted filter has been placed in working mode, the water will then pass through its internal filter and any pre-filters that are inside of it.

Most faucet-style water filters use an activated carbon filter cartridge. These absorb impurities as well as block larger size particles that try to squeeze through them.

Over time, the trapped impurities will build up to a point where the filter cartridge needs to be replaced.

Benefits of a Faucet Filter

Here are some of the advantages you get if you choose to install a faucet-mounted water filter.

Inexpensive

When you look at getting 100’s of gallons of enhanced water out of a filter cartridge that usually costs around $20, that’s an outstanding deal. This is especially true when you consider how many gallons that you get from them for a much smaller price than what you would pay for comparable bottled water amounts.

Convenient

Since they mount to your kitchen sink or another faucet in your home, faucet filters are always right there and ready to use. Unlike water filter pitchers that you have to search for and put together. They also require very little upkeep in addition to simple and occasional filter cartridge replacements.

Instantaneous

It takes no time for them to do the task that they were designed to do. That means no waiting around for tap water to be treated such as there is with other types of water filtration systems. All it takes is a turn of the activation lever or knob that’s on them to get a steady stream of improved tap water.

Efficient

The switch on them allows you to only run them when you require filtered water. So, if you are filling a bucket for mopping the floor or getting water for your plants from the kitchen sink, you do not have to waste useful faucet filter life to do these things.

Simple Installation Process

Some types of water filtration systems such as under-sink water filters usually need to be installed by professionals. That is not the case at all with faucet water filters. Most of them can easily be installed by you even if you only have minor mechanical ability. Many don’t require tools to install and several come with the necessary adapters to do the job too.

Things to Consider When Buying a Faucet-Style Water Filter

Be sure to compare these faucet filter characteristics when shopping for a new one:

Unit Cost

How much does a particular faucet water filter cost and what is the cost of the replacement filters that it uses?

Lower price faucet style water filters that get positive marks on most of the other characteristics on this list represent good value for those that buy them.

Filter Longevity and Filter Change Indicator

What is the useful life of its filter and is there an indicator on the device (usually a light or meter) that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter cartridge?

Filter change indicators are nice because they take the guesswork out of when it’s time to change the filter. Having this feature is weighted strongly in my review list.

Filtration Media and Types of Contaminants Removed

This includes looking at the type of filter media that a faucet filter uses and the contaminants that this helps reduce or remove. Some simply eliminate chlorine taste and odor while others will remove or reduce a variety of other larger size contaminants.

This should carry the most weight when evaluating any faucet-attached water filter and my review ranking greatly reflects that.

Flow Rate

What is the unit’s flow rate? This is usually displayed in gallons per minute (GPM). Flow rate determines how long it will take a faucet filter to do such tasks as fill up a glass or pitcher of water. The higher the flow rate the less waiting time for containers to fill and the higher the water pressure.

Keep in mind that many manufacturers do not list a flow rate for their faucet water filters. This usually means the flow rate of their units is not optimal. It must also be stated that tap water passing through filter media slower often removes more impurities.

Ease of Installation

Is the installation of a faucet water filter straightforward and does it require any special tools to do the job? Do the contents of the package include such necessary items as faucet tip adapters?

Be sure that a particular faucet-attached water filter will fit your style and brand of faucet before you even purchase it.

Third-Party Certifications

Does it come with any certifications from trusted testing authorities? These include reputable independent testing bodies such as WQA, NSF, and ANSI. Having these certifications means what a manufacturer says about their faucet water filter’s ability to eliminate or reduce certain contaminants is true.

Aesthetics

How does it look? Is it big and bulky and will be an eyesore once it’s in place or is it more streamlined or attached in a way that it’s not displayed so prominently? What color is it? Most are chrome or white, so choose one that best fits your kitchen setting.

Important Faucet-Attached Water Filter Certifications

3rd-party certifications can be very helpful when shopping for a tap water filter. That’s because they back up some of the filtration characteristics that faucet-attached water filter manufacturers claim that their products have.

One of the most relevant 3rd-party certifications for faucet water filters to come with is NSF/ANSI Standard 42. This has to do with the reduction of chlorine taste and odor. This is because so many municipal water systems use chlorine to treat the water that they distribute throughout their community.

Another important independent certification that’s relevant to faucet water filters is NSF/ANSI Standard 53. This is all about a faucet-style water filter’s ability to reduce such common household water contaminants as asbestos, cysts, lead, mercury, turbidity, and VOCs.

For older homes with lead pipes, faucet water filters that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 372 are highly recommended. Certification of a faucet-attached water filter by the WQA (Water Quality Association) also carries a lot of weight when looking to purchase one of these handy water filters.

Faucet  Water Filter Maintenance Basics

One of the best aspects of faucet water filters that has been mentioned several times in this article is that they are convenient to have and use. Part of that means they require very little maintenance.

That does not, however, mean that they are totally maintenance-free.

Every few months, you should take the unit apart and clean it. When you are changing the filter is a great time to do this. Just use a soapy dishwashing liquid mixture all over any exposed parts (except the cartridge filters).

You can even gently rub with a toothbrush any areas where there is evidence of mineral or other buildups. If you have an aerator screen on your device make sure that is kept clean too.

Do you have to do this maintenance on them? Some people would rather not and they treat these units as a disposable product. Since faucet filters last several months before they need their filter cartridge to be changed and they are a relatively inexpensive item, many users just simply throw them away and install a new one.

You will only end up spending a few dollars more in most instances. Just keep in mind that you certainly won’t be lowering your carbon footprint on the planet in the process.

Faucet Water Filter Installation Basics

Be sure to check with a manufacturer’s fit guide before purchasing any model faucet filter so you get one that matches up with the brand and style of the faucet that you have.

Then gather a dry cloth, a pair of pliers, and some Teflon tape to do the job. Most don’t even require the pliers to be used.

There are some instances where a special aerator removal tool is necessary. This should be stated in the installation instructions that come with your faucet-style water filter kit.

Here are the steps involved when installing a faucet filter:

  1. Remove the aerator end in your faucet. This should expose either internal or external threads at the end of your faucet’s spout. Gently use the pliers if you can’t get it off by just using your hand.
  2. Clean the exposed end up good before proceeding by simply wiping the end down with your dry cloth.
  3. Next install one of the included adapters if necessary. Be sure to properly attach any washers that are used with it.
  4. If your filter cartridge is not already installed in the device, unscrew the top and properly place it inside of the faucet filter. Again, consult the manufacturer’s instructions on how to do this. Make sure the device is put back together before proceeding.
  5. Once the adapter is in place, put a few wraps of Teflon tape on any exposed external threads. If there is none don’t worry about it. That means your faucet-attached filter just snaps into place.
  6. Now either thread on your new faucet water filter or snap it securely into place.
  7. Use and enjoy!

Keep in mind this is just a rough guide on how to put into place a faucet filter but many of them install similarly. Be sure to consult the directions that come with your new faucet filter as you are working.

These are such popular items that installation videos for many models of faucet water filters can be found by doing a quick search on YouTube.

Faucet Mount Filters FAQs

Are Faucet Water Filters Worth It?

Yes, most faucet water filters are entirely worth the cost. With a price range of around $20-$60 and the ability to filter your kitchen sink’s unfiltered water for 6-12 months that is a great deal.

How Long Do Faucet Filters Last?

Faucet water filtration system filters usually last between 6-12 months or 150-400 gallons of water before needing filter replacement.

Why is My Faucet Water Filters Flow Slow?

Your faucet filters flow could be slow for a couple of reasons. It could be that the filter you purchased has a slower than normal flow rate because it takes longer to filter contaminants or it could be the case that your filter needs replacement since it is clogged with residue.

Is it Easy to Install a Faucet Filter System?

Yes, most faucet mount filter systems are super easy to install and anyone can screw them on to the kitchen faucet. Usually, the product comes with a simple instructions manual.

Good Luck Finding the Right Faucet Filter

Installing a faucet water filter on your kitchen sink is a great idea and it can be done very inexpensively. That makes it something that can only benefit you.

So, once you have decided that a faucet-style water filter is the right choice for you, be sure to use the advice that you were given here to find a faucet filter that nicely meets your needs. Keep in mind that you also can’t go wrong by purchasing one of the faucet-style water filters that appears here on our list of the best ones.

Either way, you should end up with a new faucet-attached water filter that will nicely enhance your drinking water and do that in a simple and cost-effective way.

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AUTHOR
Craig Smith
Craig got his start in water working in the swimming pool and spa industry. Water treatment would grow into his main career but he ended up working in the pool industry for over 26 years where much of his time was spent balancing the water in customer's swimming pools and installing water filtration equipment. Craig offers an abundance of water treatment knowledge after helping homeowners get pure water for 26 years.

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