Water Filters: Reviews

Experts recommend the Clear2O because it outperforms more well-known Brita and Pur pitchers at removing harmful lead and organic compounds, plus its carbon filter lasts about 25 percent longer. A favorite feature in… expandreviews is a filler hose that forces the water through the filter, rather than waiting five minutes or longer for gravity to pull the water through (a big complaint with filtering pitchers is that they take too long to filter water). Unlike other filter replacement indicators that merely tell you when two months have elapsed, this pitcher's indicator measures how much water has actually been filtered. Owners like the 9-cup capacity, slim profile and easy to use lid; however, some say the filler hose doesn't attach to all faucets. Replacement water filters cost about $9. collapse

If you need more filtered water than a pitcher can provide, a faucet-mounted water filter that lets users switch between filtered and unfiltered water may be a good alternative. One standout product in expert reviews is… expandthe Culligan Faucet Filter FM-15A -- a three-stage filter that lasts for 200 gallons (about two months). Owners say this faucet filter doesn't have the widespread leaking problems seen in other faucet-mounted filters, but a special adapter may need to be purchased separately. There's no filter-change light, which doesn't seem to be particularly accurate on many models anyway. Culligan offers an impressive two-year warranty on this water filter. collapse

Homes with private well water can face unusual water quality challenges from artificial and naturally occurring contaminants. If you need more filtering capability than what a carbon filter alone can achieve, experts say… expandthe Whirlpool Reverse Osmosis Filtration System WHER25 offers the best filtering capability for the price. It's two carbon filters plus a semipermeable membrane filter out arsenic, nitrates, chromium and other harmful contaminants. The filters last months longer than other types and cost $35 for the pair. The membrane lasts at least a year, and a replacement costs $65. Installation of the separate faucet and storage tank under the sink may require professional expertise. collapse