- Good water quality
- Large capacity
- Filter replacement indicator
- Convenient pour spout
- Takes up space in the refrigerator
- Filters need replacing about every two months
- Spigot can't completely drain dispenser
For storing greater quantities of filtered water in the refrigerator, the Brita UltraMax Dispenser is a favorite in many reviews. It uses the same filter as Brita's well-known line of pitchers, which earns high marks in one professional review. The electronic filter indicator reminds you to change the filter after two months, and a replacement runs about $10. Owners say they are pleased with the Brita UltraMax Dispenser but wish the spigot was a little lower, so all the water could drain out. Some owners complain about mold growing in the reservoir. If you need a more compact option, the 9-cup Clear2O Water Filtration Pitcher (*Est. $25)is a favorite pick by reviewers.
The Brita UltraMax Dispenser isn't included in the line-up of 27 water filters tested by editors of ConsumerReports.org, but the Brita Chrome Pitcher, which uses the same type of filter, is. ConsumerGuide.com published an older review of the Brita UltraMax Dispenser. We also read an older review at ConsumerGuide.com and found the owner reviews at Amazon.com and Drugstore.com.
Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.org
Editors of ConsumerReports.org compare 27 models of water filters that fall into five product categories. Although the Brita UltraMax Dispenser isn't included among the seven models of water filter pitchers, the Brita Chrome Pitcher uses the same type of filter and earns favorable reviews for water taste and removal of lead and chloroform (as an indicator of ability to remove organic compounds and disinfectant byproducts). Editors also give the Brita water filter top marks for not clogging and maintaining a good flow rate during the life of the filter.
Review: Water Filters, Editors of ConsumerReports.org
2. ConsumerGuide.com
This older review of the Brita UltraMax Dispenser earns it a Best Buy designation, although it receives only an average rating overall. It's not clear whether testers actually used the dispenser, because there's no mention of water quality.
Review: Brita UltraMax Smart Dispenser Water Filtration Device, Editors at ConsumerGuide.com, Aug. 2005
3. Amazon.com
The Brita UltraMax Dispenser has accumulated nearly 200 owner-written reviews at Amazon.com. Overall, owners say they like the taste and quality of the water but find the design lacking. Namely, the spigot is placed too high to completely drain the reservoir, and as a result, mold tends to grow.
Review: Brita 35530 Ultramax Dispenser, Contributors to Amazon.com
4. Drugstore.com
The Brita UltraMax Dispenser receives an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from more than 30 owners. Owners are happy with the capacity and water taste; some say they upgraded from another Brita pitcher.
Review: Brita Ultramax, Dispenser Water Filtration System, Contributors to Drugstore.com
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