Choosing the best water filtration system for your home

Living on a homestead has taught me so much about self-reliance and paying attention to the resources we use daily. One of the biggest lessons I learned was about water. Water is life. When we moved to our homestead, I quickly realized that having a private well was awesome because we aren’t paying per gallon. Thank goodness too because those long summer days full of sunshine without water could be devastating without the water! We have it running for hours sometimes! Even though we love living on a well, it isn’t quite as simple as turning on the tap and trusting the water to be clean and safe. One of my friends Chelsea from the Red Barn Farm down the road (who also lives on a well) asked us a few years ago if we had ever “had the water tested?” Wait what? I didn’t know we had to do that? City water is tested before it leaves the treatment facilities and considered “safe” for human consumption. Who does that on a well? The short answer is you do!

Where do I start?

Where do you even start? There are laboratories out there that privately test your water and will give you a full report on what exactly is coming from your tap. I recommend visiting the department of ecology website in your state. They usually have a list of labs in your area that are accredited and accept water samples for testing. Depending on their process, you can buy a water sample kit from Amazon or you can request one from your preferred lab. Pay the fee, collect the water and send it in. A few weeks later you should have a full report! From there you are left with some decisions to make. Do I need an additional filter system or am I ok

The first time we sent in a water sample to get it tested, the process was straightforward, but the stakes felt enormous. What have we been drinking? Their website states, “The Department of Health recommends private well owners test their drinking water every year for coliform bacteria and nitrate. These two contaminants can rapidly affect a person’s health — possibly even with just one drink of water.” That sentence stuck with me. Just one drink could cause serious harm.

Thankfully, our water came back with safe levels across the board, but it got me thinking: How many people unknowingly drink contaminated water? Why do we trust what comes out of the faucet? What other issues might be lurking in our water supply, both in wells and city systems? That’s when I started researching water filtration systems. Gosh there are so many! What I discovered actually surprised me. There are so many options out there, and each one has its own pros and cons. If you’ve ever wondered whether a water filtration system might be right for your home, let me share what I’ve learned. Down the rabbit hole we go!!

Common Types of Water Filtration Systems

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to filtering your water. Each system serves a different purpose and comes with its own set of trade-offs. Let’s dive into the most common types, starting with the heavy hitters.

1. Commercial-Grade Water Filtration Systems

Commercial-grade water filtration systems are designed to provide comprehensive water treatment for your entire home. These systems are particularly beneficial for homeowners with specific water quality issues, such as high levels of heavy metals, sediment, or other contaminants that require advanced filtration. You can have one professionally installed or you can DIY if you are handy! Here are the main types of commercial-grade systems:

• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: Reverse osmosis is one of the most effective water filtration methods available. It works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, which removes contaminants like lead, arsenic, fluoride, and even bacteria and viruses. RO systems are often paired with pre-filters and post-filters to address sediment and improve water taste.
  • Lifespan: The RO membrane typically lasts 2-5 years, while pre-filters and post-filters need replacement every 6-12 months.
  • Maintenance: Regular filter changes are essential to keep the system functioning properly. The system may also require occasional sanitization to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Cost: RO systems for whole-house use can cost between $2,000 and $5,000, with annual maintenance costs of $100-$300.
• Activated Carbon Filters: These systems use activated carbon to remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemicals that affect water taste and odor. While not as thorough as RO systems, carbon filters are excellent for improving water aesthetics and removing certain contaminants.
  • Lifespan: Carbon filters last 6-12 months, depending on water usage and quality.
  • Maintenance: Filters need replacement on schedule to maintain effectiveness.
  • Cost: Whole-house systems range from $1,000 to $2,500, with lower ongoing costs compared to RO systems.
• UV Purification Systems: Ultraviolet (UV) light systems disinfect water by killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. They’re often used in conjunction with other filtration methods to ensure biological contaminants are addressed.
  • Lifespan: UV lamps typically last about 1 year before needing replacement.
  • Maintenance: Requires replacing the UV lamp annually and cleaning the quartz sleeve that houses the lamp.
  • Cost: UV systems cost around $500 to $1,500, with annual maintenance costs of $50-$100.
• Water Softeners: While not a filtration system per se, water softeners remove minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause hard water. They’re often paired with other filtration systems to improve water quality and protect plumbing.
  • Lifespan: Resin beads used in softeners can last 10-15 years with proper maintenance.
  • Maintenance: Periodic refilling of salt and occasional resin cleaning or replacement.
  • Cost: Systems range from $800 to $2,500, with minimal annual maintenance costs.

Pros of Commercial-Grade Systems:

• Comprehensive water treatment for the entire home.
• Addresses a wide range of contaminants.
• Improves water taste, smell, and safety.

Cons of Commercial-Grade Systems:

• High upfront costs and potential professional installation fees.
• Regular maintenance required to ensure long-term performance.
• Some systems, like RO, can produce wastewater during the filtration process.

My friend Sarah, who lives in an area with high arsenic levels in the groundwater, installed a reverse osmosis system paired with a UV purifier. She loves the peace of mind it provides, but she admits that staying on top of filter replacements can be a bit of a chore.s admit the initial cost was a big pill to swallow.

2. Under-Sink Water Filters

Under-sink systems are popular for their convenience and efficiency. These filters are installed directly under your kitchen sink and typically connect to a separate faucet for drinking water. They are a great choice for families who want high-quality filtered water without the need for a whole-house system.

Components of an Under-Sink System:

• Pre-Filters: Remove larger particles like sediment and rust, protecting the main filter and prolonging its lifespan.
• Main Filter Cartridge: This could be a carbon filter (for removing chlorine and VOCs) or a reverse osmosis membrane (for heavy-duty filtration).
• Post-Filter (Optional): Polishes the water to improve taste and remove any remaining impurities.
• Storage Tank (for RO Systems): Stores filtered water, ensuring a steady supply when you need it.
• Faucet: A dedicated faucet that delivers the filtered water directly to your sink.

Maintenance and Lifespan:

• Most under-sink filters require replacing the main filter cartridge every 6-12 months, depending on usage and water quality.
• Reverse osmosis membranes last 2-5 years with proper care.
• Regularly check for leaks around connections and ensure the storage tank remains sanitized (if applicable).

Typical DIY Fixes for Under-Sink Filters:

1. Replacing a Filter Cartridge:
   • Turn off the water supply and release pressure by opening the dedicated faucet.
   • Unscrew the filter housing using a filter wrench.
   • Remove the old cartridge, clean the housing with warm soapy water, and insert the new filter.
   • Reattach the housing and turn the water back on, checking for leaks.
2. Fixing a Leaky Connection:
   • Identify the source of the leak (usually around fittings or the faucet base).
   • Tighten loose connections or replace worn O-rings and washers.
   • Use plumber’s tape for additional sealing if needed.
3. Clearing a Clogged Filter:
   • If water flow slows significantly, the filter might be clogged.
   • Replace the filter cartridge or, for reusable filters, remove and rinse thoroughly under running water.
4. Sanitizing the System:
   • Every 6-12 months, disinfect the system by flushing it with a diluted bleach solution or a system-safe sanitizer (follow manufacturer guidelines).

Pros of Under-Sink Filters:

• Compact and out of sight.
• Highly effective at filtering out specific contaminants.
• More affordable than whole-house systems, typically costing $200 to $500.

Cons of Under-Sink Filters:

• Only filters water from one faucet.
• Installation can be tricky if you’re not handy.
• Filters need regular replacement, adding to long-term costs.

My neighbor Tom installed an under-sink filter to address high chlorine levels in his city water. He’s thrilled with the crisp taste of the filtered water but admits that replacing the filters on time takes discipline.o deal with high chlorine levels in his city water. He loves the convenience but grumbles about forgetting to replace the filter on time.

3. Countertop Water Filters

These are standalone units that sit on your counter and connect directly to your faucet or you fill them up. They’re a step up from basic pitcher filters but still relatively simple.

• Pros:
  • Easy to install and use.
  • Affordable, usually costing $50 to $200.
  • Portable, so you can take them with you if you move.
• Cons:
  • Takes up counter space.
  • Doesn’t filter as thoroughly as more advanced systems.
  • Limited flow rate can make them less convenient for larger households.

Like faucet-mounted models, countertop filters attach to your tap but divert your water through a small sink-side purifying device equipped with a spout. They typically cost more than faucet filters and filter pitchers because they offer more water filtering capacity and versatility in how they clean water. Keep in mind also that replacement filters for the countertop models in our tests are considerably more expensive than replacement filters for the faucet mounted filters or the pitcher filters.

Countertop filters are a good option for apartment dwellers or renters who might not have permission from their landlord to install a system that ties into the plumbing. Installation is easy: Just remove the faucet aerator and screw the filter onto the faucet. Once installed, most can switch between filtered and unfiltered water, which can help your filter last longer. For instance, if you’re washing dishes or watering plants, you may want to use unfiltered water.

Countertop water filters vary widely in what contaminants they remove. Some may kill bacteria and viruses, others might reduce PFAS, lead, and chlorine, and still other, more basic filters might only improve flavor and reduce bad odors. Don’t rely on marketing hype—the only way to know if a filter reduces specific contaminants is to confirm it’s certified to do so by a reputable laboratory such as the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), Water Quality Association (WQA), Canadian Standards Association (CSA), or International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). Products certified by these organizations are regularly monitored and subject to follow-up testing over a period of time.

4. Faucet-Mounted Filters

Faucet-mounted filters are a budget-friendly option that attaches directly to your kitchen faucet.

• Pros:
  • Very affordable, with prices ranging from $20 to $50.
  • Easy to install with no tools required.
  • Convenient for filtering water directly from the tap.
• Cons:
  • May not fit all faucet types.
  • Limited filtering capabilities compared to larger systems.
  • Filters need frequent replacement.

I have an affiliate partnership with Ideal Living and they have an awesome product in this category. The AquaTru Carafe is a compact water filtration system with a durable, easy-to-remove glass water carafe that fits in the refrigerator. This complete system filters through a 4-stage filtration, via Ultra Reverse Osmosis®, more than 99% of all contaminants from your tap water. AquaTru Carafe is easy to use: ‘Plug & Play’. In other words: put the plug in the socket, fill the water tank with tap water and within a few minutes your water is purified into fresh and pure drinking water. I personally love it and use it just about every day. One drawback is that you need to keep re-filling it. Otherwise, my family loves the taste and how easy it is. You literally plug it in and fill it up.

5. Pitcher Filters

Pitcher filters, like the classic Brita or PUR, are perhaps the most recognizable option. They’re simple, affordable, and widely available.

• Pros:
  • Extremely affordable, with pitchers starting at $20.
  • No installation required.
  • Great for small households or individuals.
• Cons:
  • Limited filtering capacity.
  • Requires frequent refilling.
  • Filters need regular replacement.

I used a Brita pitcher when I was in college. It was perfect for dorm life, but with a larger household, it would have been a hassle to keep refilling it.

Well Water vs. City Water: Pros and Cons

If you’re considering a water filtration system, it’s important to understand the differences between well water and city water. Both have their own sets of challenges and benefits.

Well Water

• Pros:
  • No monthly water bill.
  • Naturally sourced and often free of chlorine or other treatment chemicals.
  • Can be rich in minerals, which some people prefer.
• Cons:
  • Prone to contamination from bacteria, nitrates, and pesticides.
  • Requires regular testing and maintenance.
  • May have a strong taste or smell due to high mineral content.

I’ve always appreciated the independence of having a well, but it’s not without its headaches. One year, after heavy rains, our well water tested high for nitrates. It was a wake-up call that even natural water sources need vigilance.

City Water

• Pros:
  • Regularly treated and tested by municipal authorities.
  • Convenient and reliable.
  • Generally safe for most uses straight from the tap.
• Cons:
  • Often contains chlorine, which can affect taste and smell.
  • May still have trace contaminants like lead or PFAS (forever chemicals).
  • Comes with a monthly bill.

My friend Emma lives in the city and has always trusted her tap water, but when a local news story broke about lead contamination in older pipes, she decided to invest in an under-sink filter for peace of mind.

Conclusion

Water is essential to life, and the quality of the water you drink matters more than most of us realize. Whether you’re on a well like me or relying on city water, it’s crucial to do your homework and understand what’s coming out of your tap. Testing your water is the first step, and from there, you can decide if a filtration system is right for you.

If you do decide to invest in a water filtration system, consider your needs, budget, and lifestyle. A whole-house system might be worth the investment for families with specific health concerns, while a simple pitcher filter might suffice for someone living alone. Whatever you choose, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your water is clean and safe is priceless.