Last Updated on February 9, 2022 by TODD FRANZEN
The world we live in is a dark and scary place. But if you’re reading this blog post, I’m guessing you’ve made the decision to be informed about under sink water filters, so I’ll keep it real quick with you. There are plenty of things that can go wrong in our lives, but when it comes to water safety, you may have some work cut out for yourself.
The most important thing is to know what’s coming into contact with your water before you drink or use it, because who knows what could be lurking there!
That’s why choosing the right filter matters more than anything else when it comes to removing contaminants from your drinking supply. Water filters vary in price, filter life, and efficiency. So you want to be sure you’re choosing the best option for your situation.
The Three things you will know by the end of this guide are:
1. Which Under Sink Water Filters to buy and features to consider.
2. Why I recommend these Under Sink Water Filters.
3. The ease of installation and maintenance.
The following is a list of all the different water filters that are available. Take some time to read through them and see which one best suits your family’s needs!
Under sink water filter Buying Guide
The goal of this Guide is to give you an idea about different brands of Filters. What’s not included in this guide is a system that uses Reverse Osmosis or electric power.
I want to show you Under Sink Water Filters.
The Under Sink Water Filter Systems I am showing all have 2 or 3 things in common. One they use a filter that is a pleated type that does not restrict the flow of your water supply and Second, the replacement filters for this Under Sink water filter system are easy to find online here at Myexcellentwaterfilter.com. These Under-sink filters all have a rating of 5 microns or smaller.
Click Here to get information about your local water.
Top 5 Best Under Sink Water Filter In 2021
ISpring CU-A4 Ultrafiltration Water System – Best

iSpring Water Systems is a water filtration company specializing in creating efficient, clean solutions for residential and commercial needs. The mission of this company is to make clean drinking water accessible and affordable for everyone. They also won’t reduce the environmental impact that plastic waste causes by doing so!
- 4-stage multipurpose water filtration system for water. The advanced 4-stage design, which includes both Ultrafiltration and KDF/GAC stages removes up to 99% of 700+ contaminants including LEAD, Chlorine while keeping healthy minerals. Note: This system does not reduce TDS as a Reverse Osmosis system does.
- The 0.01-micron Ultra Filtration (UF) stage removes up to 99% of most problematic pollutants such as chlorine and chlorine treatment by-products, lead, arsenic, and much more while retaining healthy minerals.
- The CU-A4 provides water filtration for unlimited free bottled water quality at your kitchen sink. And with the extra part ICEK, it can be connected to the refrigerator, coffee maker and etc.
- All filters, tubing, and other water-contacting parts are manufactured to comply strictly with FDA and NSF/ANSI standards for water quality. Simple to install and simple to maintain, CU-A4 Easy-Twist Cartridges simply twist on and off.
Aquasana Claryum® 3-Stage Max Flow

Aquasana Claryum® 3-Stage Max Flow has great filtering capabilities.
It boasts a 44% faster flow rate and includes an integrated pre-filter, which will extend the life of your system as well as increase performance.
The filtration technology is tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53 (includes P473), and 401 for the reduction of over 97% of chlorine and chloramines, 99% of lead, and 96% of PFOA/PFOS.
It’s also certified to reduce mercury, chlorine-resistant cysts, herbicides, pesticides, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, and more. In all, it tackles 15X more contaminants than the leading pitcher filter.
- High Flow Rate – This system powers through .72 gallons of water every minute. No need to wait for clean water compared to traditional drip filters.
- Cost-Efficient & Long Lasting – The most economical filter on the market at less than 10 cents per gallon filtered. This lasts for up to six months or 800 gallons before a replacement filter is needed.
- Easiest Filter Replacement – Replacements are engineered for ease. No need to disconnect hoses or water lines. Eco-friendly housing easily twists off for snappy replacement!
- Top-Grade Components – Includes first set of filters and all parts required for DIY Installation – No plumber required.
APEC WFS-1000 Under Sink Water Filter

The APEC WFS-1000 is an under-sink water filter designed to make your tap and well-drinking safe. It has a high capacity, which means that it can remove even more harmful substances from the municipal supply than other filters on the market do!
The WFS-1000 system is a long-lasting water filter that supports the WQA certification by California. This three-stage system installs easily and performs well, with an included chrome faucet you can add to your sink!
- 1st stage: high-grade 10-inch high-capacity polypropylene sediment filter -removes dust, particles, and rust. 100% pure polypropylene depth filter with exceptional dirt-holding capacity translates to longer life and fewer change-outs than existing string wound or resin-bonded filters.
- 2nd stage: premium extruded carbon block 10 inch -gets rid of unpleasant chlorine, tastes, odors, cloudiness, and colors. Also removes VOCs and other common chemicals from the water.
- 3rd stage: premium extruded carbon block 10 inches – further removes chlorine, tastes, odors, and other common chemicals from the water to provide great filtered water.
Frizzlife 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System SK99-NEW, Direct Connect (Editors Choice)

As the first Direct connects in the group, the Frizzlife SK99 has the highest flow rate at almost 2 gallons a minute. Featuring a 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System with NSF/ANSI Standard 42 and 53 certification steps up to clean water by removing contaminants such as chlorine, pesticides, herbicides, and more.
This Under Sink Water Filter features an environmentally friendly Green housing (made of 30% plant-based renewable resource) and has triple action filtration:
1st Stage- CTO (Chlorine Taste and Odor) Removal
2nd Stage- GAC (Particulate, Herbicides, Pesticides, VOC’s) Reduction
3rd Stage-A carbon block stage that filters chlorine and enhances the taste.
- FULLY CERTIFIED SYSTEM: rigorously tested and certified by IAMPO against NSF/AISI 42&53 for Material Safety, Structure Integrity, Flow rate, and Filtration Effectiveness.
- PREMIUM FILTRATION PERFORMANCE: Adopting 0.5 μm purification accuracy, the SK99 under counter water filter can effectively remove over 99% of contaminants such as dust, SEDIMENTS, LEAD, CHLORINE, CHLORAMINE, FLUORIDE, HEAVY METALS, and VOCs, etc. from tap water whilst leaving in all the beneficial minerals.
- FAST WATER FLOW & EASY INSTALLATION: Tested flow rate>2.0GPM @60 psi. The installation of the water filter takes less than 15 minutes following comprehensive video instruction. The SK99 under sink filter system can also hook up to the refrigerator by using our ice maker kit IMC-2.
- MONEY SAVER & ECO-FRIENDLY: When replacing the filters, You only need to change the core filters inside. Less plastic and cheaper! Search replacement filters: M3001, M3002, M3003.
- SUPERIOR DESIGN WITH 24/7 USA TECH SUPPORT: The complete system of NEW SK99 has been upgraded, featured with stronger cases, bottom caps, integrated water board, etc. The compact design of the system can perfectly fit your cabinet under the sink.
Waterdrop TST-UF 0.01μm Ultra-Filtration

The Waterdrop 3-stage filtration system is the second direct connect filter in the list. Designed to be durable and survive the complications of daily life. The use of lead-free 304 stainless steel provides extra protection against corrosion, while also being resistant enough for any compression or pressure that may occur in your home’s plumbing fixtures.
The Waterdrop 3-stage water filter system is perfect for those who want to be sure their tap water is clean and healthy. This three-part system has a 0.01 ultrafine UF membrane, an activated carbon block that removes chlorine as well as other chemicals from your drinking supply while improving the taste of it all at once!
The stainless steel water purifier lasts up to 2 years, which means you don’t need to replace it frequently. The PP filter lasts 6-8months and UF Filters last 12 months with an average lifespan of 24 months according to local quality standards for different types in your area.
The long-life filters are great because they can really help out during those busy days when cooking or running errands take over our schedule!
- The lead-free 304 stainless steel material makes the stainless steel 3 stage filtration system resistant to corrosion and compression. The thick sealing ring in the cap prevents leakage.
- 6-stage filtration layers filter out most harmful substances larger than 0.01 μm. The 0.01 μm precise ultrafiltration membrane reduces chlorine, heavy metals, chemicals, and more.
- Just replace the inner filter once the filter expires. The PP filter lasts 6-8 months, the UF filter lasts 12 months, and the CT filter offers an ultra-long life of up to 24 months, which reduces replacement frequency.
- The stable flow rate can get as high as 1.59 GPM. You can connect the system directly to your home faucet without drilling a hole on the countertop.
- The user-friendly innovative design allows the system to be hung on the cabinet wall or placed on the floor.
Things to consider before buying an under sink filter
Three main considerations you need to keep in mind for an under-sink water filter are quality, durability, and most importantly water quality. When it is time for your filter cartridge to change, make sure that you are getting the best product available.
Before buying an Under sink water filter system you should ask yourself what is your goal for this Under sink filter?
Is it to increase the water pressure in your home or do you want to reduce the amount of sediment in your water?
How does the Under Sink Water Filter System you are considering work to reduce harmful contaminants from your water supply? These questions will help you narrow down which Under-Sink system is best for you.
Advantages and disadvantages of an under-sink water system
It’s not always convenient to install a whole house water filtration system in a house already built. Re-plumbing may not be an option because of space, accessibility, and cost.
That’s why a point-of-use type of filter maybe your best option. Under sink water filters are a very popular choice in homes.
Under-sink systems have many advantages, including:
- Under the sink filters are a great option for small kitchens where space isn’t available. You can never have too much water around and that’s why under-sink filters often come with multiple taps.
- Under-sink water filters are often more inexpensive than whole house filters. They allow for an easy installation without replacing any plumbing in your home or office.
- Under-sink units are very easy to install with simple hookups for both cold and hot water lines, sometimes just requiring a small crescent wrench.
There are some drawbacks though, including:
- Under-sink filters must be replaced more frequently. Under-sink filters usually have a shorter service life, which means you must replace the unit more often. There is a small expense of replacing filters on a regular basis but are typically cheaper than whole-house systems.
- Typically, Under Sink Filter Systems operate at a water pressure of around 30-70 PSI. Anything under 30 PSI may need a booster pump and anything over 70 will need what’s called a PRV or Pressure Reducing Valve. Both of these will need professional installation and can be quite expensive.
- The upfront cost can be a turn-off. Although when you amortize your cost over time, this is a much cheaper way to enjoy clean, freshwater. Potentially down to $.05 per gallon or less.
How does an under-sink water filter work?
An under-counter filter works by attaching to your kitchen or bathroom sink existing water plumbing.
When you turn on the faucet, water streams out under pressure since there is no standing water in the filter. Under-sink filters are much faster than pitcher or faucet-mounted units because they receive cold water directly from your home’s plumbing system.
An Under Sink Water Filter under-sink filter system can be installed in minutes by anyone. Under sink water filters are very easy to install with simple hookups for cold water lines, sometimes just requiring a small crescent wrench.
Most filters don’t work with temperatures above 100°F.
Under-sink versus countertop water filters…
This comes down to two things.
1. Cost
2. Understanding what your water usage needs really are.
Do you plan on traveling? Do you have an RV? Are you a caretaker for a loved one? Does your family have kids? DO you entertain or host events?
Your water usage really depends on what you need.
Do you have the space for a countertop water filter like a Big Berkey Water Filter? Or is space a premium? Countertop water filters are a very good option if you have the counter space for them. Under sink water filters are more suited to people that have limited space.
There is no right or wrong answer. Only being realistic with yourself on what your water needs are and what your budget is!
Step-By-Step Installation
- Before you get started with installation, you need to stop the flow of water. Turn off the cold water supply before starting. Turn on your sink faucet to relieve pressure.
- Assemble your water filters. Your filter system should come already assembled. All you’ll need to do is clear out the space in your cupboard and put it there.
- Connect the filter system to the cold water pipe. Take off the cold water supply line then connect one of the flexible tubes to it using two-piece fittings provided. Connect the other side of the plastic tube to your pressure limiting valve, then feed into the inlet of your water filtering system and connect in place.
- Connect the tubing to the cold water pipe that is not used for another faucet. The filter will be marked which end sends clean water and which receives dirty water. Make sure they are on the correct side so you do not mix them up.
- Put your water filter on the wall so it won’t take up as much space and so it will look neater. Locate it so you can remove the filtering element easily from this holder when you need to change them out.
- Turn the water back on. Check for leaks. If you have a leak, turn the water off and tighten it with your hands or a wrench.
- You need to flush out your under-sink water system. Turn on the faucet and let water flow for 3-5 minutes. This will make the water purified by the filter ready to drink.
Check the manufactures instructions that come along with the filter. This will also give you more insight into how to install and service your filters.
When to change the Filters
Filter manufactures have different requirements. And the best way is to read what the manufacturer recommends. Now if you live in a place that has more contamination, you should probably change your filter more often. And if you live in a place with less contamination, you can probably get away with a longer period of time before changes.
Maintenance and Upkeep
As with any other system in our homes, water filters need attention as well. A good cleaning as well as keeping an eye out for leaks can save you a lot of hassle down the road. This is an investment in many different areas, not only financially, but health and family as well.
Why use an under-sink water filter system?
A lot of heavy metals and contaminants can be found in your water, such as lead and iron, VOCs, cysts, herbicides, and even bacteria and viruses. Under-sink water filter systems can help reduce these harmful substances from your water that may cause long-term and short-term health consequences.
These filters have become more cost-effective than a countertop system, but it all depends on what you need. And these systems come already assembled out of the box with simple hookups for cold water lines.
The USAID has also been able to have a greater impact as a result of ensuring an effective water infrastructure. Under-sink water filters have also been installed as a simple, inexpensive solution to help cut down on the number of people affected by waterborne diseases. In fact, it is estimated that more than 2 million children die every year from diarrhea caused by unsafe drinking water and poor sanitation.
Under-sink and countertop water filters are inexpensive solutions that can help solve this crisis in many developing countries around the world.
The next best thing to do after buying a filter system is doing some research, installation, and then maintenance. Here’s a good place to start: Under Sink Water Filter Reviews
The water filters we’ve discussed today are a great way to protect your family from the harmful contaminants that can be found in tap water.
Whether you choose one of these five or another options, there is no question that investing in high-quality under-sink water filtration is worth it for both your health and peace of mind.
Now is a perfect time to create another safety barrier for your family by installing an additional layer of protection against water contamination!
Just a reminder
myexcellentwaterfilter.com is an affiliate site. We may or may not make a commission on the products within the discussion above. The information here is solely to help inform you and provide access! Please leave any comments or questions you have below!