The Best Faucet Water Filters for 2022
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Best Faucet Water Filter
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These versatile accessories offer a quick and easy installation process to provide filtration for any faucet. They are typically mounted to a kitchen faucet but they can be fitted to almost any standard tap as long as it has the correct clearances, threads, and size configurations.
UPDATED: July 13, 2022.
To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best faucet water filters currently available.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Brita Basic Faucet Filter because it removes 60 contaminants including 99% of lead, offers an easy installation, and features three dispensing options: filtered, unfiltered, and unfiltered spray.
What is a faucet filter?
Faucet filters are known as “point-of-use filters” that help to remove contaminants such as lead and chlorine from your water at the location it is dispensed. The removal is achieved by using a combination of filter technologies such as Activated Carbon Fiber (ACF). Point-of-use filters are typically more affordable and easier to install when compared to a more comprehensive solution such as a “whole house” filter system.
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Here of some features and components to be aware of when selecting a specific model:
Filter Life
The life of a filter is measured in both time and gallons of water passed through it. The maximum time a filter can be used is usually around three to four months. The volume of water it can provide varies but is in the range of 100 to 300 gallons before it needs to be replaced. Check the recommended replacement schedule on the model you decide to go with.
Filter Replacement
When the filter has reached the end of its life you do not have to replace the entire unit, just the internal filter needs to be replaced. The top of the filter housing simply snaps or screws off. Then the older filter is removed and a new one put in its place. This is done without having to remove it from the tap. The replacement filters are purchased separately.
Each company has its own proprietary filter design so if you are using more than one filter in your house it makes sense to use the same brand so they can share filter replacements.
Flow Rate
The flow rate of a filter is measured in Gallons Per Minute (GPM). This is the maximum rate that the water is moving through the filter and being dispensed. The standard is around 0.5 GPM. Obviously the higher the rate, the faster it will fill your glass or cookware.
The filtering process will slow down the volume of water coming out from your tap. However, you can still easily access the unfiltered flow if it is equipped with a filter lever.
Filter Lever
Most models are equipped with a lever that allows you to quickly switch between filtered and unfiltered water. Since filtering slows down the water, this lever allows you to access the full flow rate of the tap without having to remove the filter. This is ideal when you need water but don’t need it to be filtered, such as for doing dishes in the sink.
Indicator Light
Most filters come with an indicator light that lets you know when the filter needs to be replaced. This is a helpful feature since it saves you from having to remember or note when it was last replaced. Also, if you exceed the maximum recommended volume it will let you know when it is time to replace.
Materials
Since they are constantly in the presence of water, these filters need to be constructed from materials that resist rust and corrosion. Therefore, the most common materials are plastic and stainless steel. Both of these materials offer corrosion resistance. Stainless steel tends to come at a cost premium however, it does offer additional durability. Plastic is often more affordable but can crack in the unlikely event it is subjected to an impact.
Installation
The installation of these filters will vary slightly by the manufacturer however, it is usually very straightforward.
Start by unscrewing the tip at the end of the faucet and remove the aeration screen and washer.
Then screw the included adapter into the end of the faucet. Check the manufacturer’s requirements when it comes to what it will and won’t fit, as this may differ depending on the model. For example, note the diameter of the internal or external threads on the receiving faucet. Note that these are designed for standard faucets, so they will NOT work with uniquely shaped spouts, hand-held, and pull-out faucets.
Finally, snap the filter body in place over the adapter.
You will want to run the tap for several minutes before the first use to clear the filter of any potential contaminants.
The installation typically does not require tools, however, you may need a wrench to get the screw tip off if it is on tight or corroded.
Check out this overview video for an example installation:
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the top models available from well-known manufacturers including Brita, Culligan, and PUR. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Faucet Water Filters for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Brita Basic Faucet Water Filter
The Brita Basic faucet filter removes 99% of lead and reduces chlorine if it is present in the water.
Equipped with three dispensing options: filtered, unfiltered, and unfiltered spray.
Includes a built-in indicator to signal the need for filter replacement.
Filter lasts for up to 100 gallons or 4 months.
Features a tool-free installation.
Not suitable for hand-held and pull-out faucets.
Available in either a chrome or white finish.
Runner-up: PUR FM2500V Faucet Water Filter
The PUR FM2500V features MAXION Filter Technology that is certified to reduce over 70 contaminants.
Includes a built-in electronic indicator to let you know when the filter needs to be replaced.
Features a design that is compatible with most standard faucets.
Provides up to 100 gallons or three months of filter life.
Includes one faucet filter and comes with a two-year warranty.
Features an easy, tool-free installation.
Best Value: Waterdrop Faucet Water Filter
The Waterdrop filter features an Activated Carbon Fiber (ACF) layer that removes chlorine, lead, and other potential contaminants.
Features Multi-Stage system with pre and post-filtration layers.
Stainless steel mesh removes any large particles.
Pre-filter layer removes sediments such as sand and rust.
Filter consists of 0.5 micron Activated Carbon Fiber (ACF).
Post-filtration layer removes additional particulate matter.
Features a 0.5 GPM high flow rate for fast filling of glasses or pots.
Features a 320-gallon filter life to reduce the number of replacements.
Check out the compatibility and installation video for the Waterdrop filter:
Best Budget Option: Culligan FM-15A Faucet Water Filter
The Culligan FM-15A features a diverter valve stem to quickly switch from unfiltered to filtered water.
Filter lasts for up to 200 gallons.
Includes a faucet mount kit for an easy, tool-free installation.
Includes a cartridge-change reminder sticker.
Attaches with either a left or right-hand orientation.
Comes with a two-year warranty.
Best Modern Design: PUR FM-3700 Faucet Water Filter
The PUR FM-3700 is certified to remove 99% of lead and reduce over 70 other contaminants.
Includes the CleanSensor Monitor to display the filter status.
Lasts up to 100 gallons to three months.
Offers an easy, tool-free installation that simply screws on.
Compatible with most standard faucets.
Not for pull-out or hand-held faucets.
Check out this brief video for an overview of the features:
Best Premium Option: PUR PFM400H Faucet Water Filter
The PUR PFM400H water filter features a MineralClear core to improve the taste of the water.
Equipped with an activated carbon and ion exchange system to remove any potential contaminants.
Designed to attach to most standard faucets with no tools required.
Features a lever to quickly switch between filtered and unfiltered water.
Includes a light that turns on to indicate when the filter needs to be changed.
Offered in a range of finish colors including black, white, and chrome.
Best Adapter Options: SJ WAVE Faucet Water Filter
The SJ WAVE filter features a side-mounted lever to quickly switch between filtered and unfiltered water.
Filter lasts for 3 to 6 months or up to 320 gallons.
Features a 0.5 GPM flow rate.
Offers a tool-free installation that simply screws onto the faucet.
Includes several adapters to fit the majority of faucets with external or internal threads.
Best Compact Design: WINGSOL Faucet Water Filter
The WINGSOL filter features a 360-degree swivel design to easily maneuver the water stream.
Features a durable stainless steel filter housing.
Offers a water flow rate of up to 0.7 GPM (3 LPM).
Removes chlorine and sediments like rust and sand.
Features easy installation, with no tools required.
Filter lasts for up to 320 gallons or 6 months.
Best Indicator: PUR FM-3333 Water Filter
The PUR FM-3333 filter features a simple tool-free one-click installation.
Includes a built-in filter Life Indicator that shows when the filter needs to be changed.
Conveniently provides up to 100 gallons (two to three months).
Offers the ability to conveniently switch between filtered and non-filtered modes.
Provides up to 100 gallons or three months of filter life.
Note it is not compatible with pull-out or hand-held faucets.
Best Stainless Steel Option: Waterdrop WD-FC-06 Faucet Water Filter
The Waterdrop WD-FC-06 filter features a stainless steel design for long-lasting durability.
Includes a side-mounted lever to quickly switch between filtered and unfiltered water.
Comes with several adapters to fit the majority of faucets with external or internal threads.
Filter lasts for 3 to 6 months or up to 320 gallons.
Features a 0.5 GPM flow rate.
Offers a tool-free installation.
I hope this list of the best faucet water filters was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
