How to Select a Countertop Water Filtration System
A countertop water filtration system typically installs directly onto the water outlet, usually a kitchen faucet. This type of water filtration system generally has a small capacity because it is primarily intended to filter drinking water. The price, capacity and types of contaminants that it removes are important factors in selecting one.
- Note the specific type of faucet that you have to ensure the countertop water filtration system you buy is compatible with it. It may help to bring the aerator with you when you make your selection.
- Review the instructions for the countertop water filtration system. The instructions should be easy to understand and should instruct you to remove the aerator and connect the water filtration system directly to the faucet. The water will pass through the filters and into the reservoir.
- Examine the capacity of the countertop water filtration system to ensure that it meets your needs. The reservoir should have capacity of at least one quart.
- Determine the most significant contaminants in the water supply to ensure your countertop water filtration system will remove them. Your local water utility will have information about contaminants in your municipality's water supply in a consumer confidence report document. The Environmental Protection Agency requires a consumer confidence report from all water utilities in the United States.
- Compare the prices between the countertop water filtration systems, ensuring that you are not looking at systems that are installed under the sink. A significant difference in price typically means the more expensive model removes more contaminants from the water.