Reverse Osmosis Filter

What's the best kitchen faucet filter? Do you want a kitchen faucet with filter attached, a completely enclosed screw on design or a countertop model that uses your own tap? Here's how to choose.

Basically, the difference between a countertop system and an under the counter model that includes a kitchen faucet with filter has to do with the "flow rate". An under the counter model with it's own separate faucet filters the same contaminants, but can produce as much as 30 gallons per hour with a flow rate of pressure similar to what you normally have in your home.

A fully enclosed kitchen faucet filter that screws on does not have effective contaminant removal and contains only granular activated carbon. The systems are prone to leak. They have a short lifespan and replacement cartridges cost as much as the units themselves.

They only remove chemicals such as chlorine, but do not stop the flow of THMs, which are cancer causing chlorine byproducts. They are always present whenever chlorination is performed to kill bacteria. They reduce your flow rate and can "leak" carbon granules into your glass.

A kitchen faucet with filter system can be installed in several ways. The most convenient is to replace your sprayer with the separate faucet. Generally speaking, a plumbers help is needed. The "do-it-yourselfer" may be able to complete the installation, but it can be quite frustrating. Improper installation can void your warranty.

A countertop kitchen faucet filter, on the other hand, can be easily installed without the help of a plumber, but the flow rate is quite a bit slower than you would normally get from your tap. As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to each design.

The price you pay for a kitchen faucet with filter depends largely on the number of filtration steps that are included. The most expensive types include a reverse osmosis step and cost nearly $600, direct from the manufacturer.

A kitchen faucet filter that includes submicron filtration, instead of reverse osmosis, costs less than $200 for either below or above counter designs. Systems that include a reverse osmosis step must be installed under the counter and will require a plumber's assistance, primarily for drainage.

With submicron filtration, no wastewater is created, so a separate drain is unnecessary. Reverse osmosis discharges any waters that become too thick to pass through the semi-permeable membrane, so a tube for draining must be attached to your pipes. Often a plumber can tap into the drainage line for your dishwasher.

Most people do not need the reverse osmosis step, since cysts are removed through submicron filtration. Well owners may need the step, but if you have a well, testing should be conducted before you buy any kitchen faucet with filter attachments.

You may need a system that cannot be installed under the sink. You could even need a disinfection step, depending on the depth of your well.

The most economical and most effective kitchen faucet filter, as well as the easiest to install is an above counter design. The rest is a matter of personal need and choice.