A water filtration system is essential for any family home. It ensures you have access to clean water for drinking, cooking, and other uses around the house.
Depending on the type of water you receive, requirements, and budget, several water filters are available on the market. For example, water pitcher filters are inexpensive and easy to use. But their water output is slow.
If your household water consumption is on the higher end, you need an efficient filter solution like under-sink filters.
These filters offer benefits like instant access to water from a single source, increased capacity, speed, and durability. These filters, though, can be pricey and will require installation services.
The article will explore everything there is to know about under-sink water filters and if they are a good investment.
What are Under-Sink Water Filters?
As the name suggests, it is a water filter that sits under your sink area. You can install the filter under your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor sink, wherever you need access to clean water.
These filters belong to the ‘point-of-use’ filtration system as it is the faucet through which you access the water for use.
For example, the filter can be connected to your water line. So, when you open the faucet, the water you receive has passed through the filter. Alternatively, the filter could have its dedicated faucet over the sink.
How Do Under-Sink Water Filters Work?
The under-sink filters differ in their filtration technique and water supply point. We will look at three types of filtration systems.
Conventional Under-Sink Filter
This filter type requires a special faucet. Water will enter the filter through a plastic tube connected to the standard cold water pipe that you may have.
Once the water is filtered, it will be sent out through another plastic tube connected to the special faucet.
As the filter is under constant pressure, the water flows easily through the cold water pipe, filter, and special faucet. This is ideal if you want a filter for only clean drinking water.
Simple Under-Sink Filter
The simple filter does not require a special faucet like the conventional filter. Instead, the entire cold water supply is sent to the filter.
Once the water is filtered, it can be accessed through the faucet you already have for cold water. Again, this is a more convenient option.
Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis Unit
This is one of the most effective under-sink filters, but its design is much more complex than the filters mentioned above.
The water gets filtered in multiple stages. The three primary treatment devices of the unit are – two carbon block filters and the reverse osmosis membrane.
The tap water is first pre-filtered with a carbon filter. This removes chlorine and minor chemicals. Next, the water is sent to the reverse osmosis unit, where contaminants like heavy metals, minerals, and dissolved solids are removed.
The concentrated contaminated water is removed through the drain pipe. The clean water goes through another post-carbon filter before it is delivered to the faucet.
An additional storage tank is needed as the reverse osmosis process can be time-consuming.
What are the Advantages of Under-Sink Water Filters?
If you are unsure about installing under-sink filters, let us look at the benefits that can help you decide.
- Depending on the filter type, it can remove several contaminants from the water supply, making clean drinking water a possibility for your family.
- Filtration can help improve the taste and remove any odors from the water.
- Under-sink filters have a higher capacity to filter water. You can use them for targeted filtering, for example, under your kitchen sink.
- The filters, on average, can last for six months, which means fewer maintenance costs.
- They can neatly be tucked under the sink, saving valuable counter space.
What are the Disadvantages of Under-Sink Water Filters?
These filters are efficient, but they can have a few drawbacks.
- It can be an expensive water filter up front.
- You may need help from an expert for installation.
- If you opt for a special faucet, you will require plumbing changes.
Are Under-Sink Water Filters a Good Investment?
So, should you get an under sink water filter for your family? The answer depends on your requirement.
These filters do take time to work, but their filtration mechanism get rids of the majority of contaminants.
They can be pricey upfront, but as the filters last longer, it is a low-maintenance product. The plumbing modifications and installation charges are a one-time investment.
Before buying the filter, do check the warranty, so you are covered in case of any issues.
Summary
Under-sink filters can be tucked under the sink of your choice. They offer benefits like targeted filtration, improved taste, better capacity, and durability.
These filters can be expensive, but they offer effective filtration. Look at the cost as an investment you will be making for your family’s health.
