How Does the Best Faucet Mount Water Filter Brita SAFF-100 Perform? Reviews Inside!

Description

Testing the Brita Faucet Mount Water Filter: Real-Life Insights

I’ve been using the Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System for several months now, and it’s been quite the journey. With its Elite Advanced Filtration System, this little gadget claims to remove 99% of lead and over 60 other contaminants. The promise of cleaner, tastier water straight from the tap was what initially drew me to it. Living in an area where tap water often smells like the inside of a swimming pool, I figured, why not give it a shot?

Installation and Setup

Hooking this up to my faucet was surprisingly straightforward. I don’t consider myself particularly handy, but the process didn’t require any tools, just a bit of patience. The product comes with adapters for different faucet sizes, though if you have a pull-out or spray-style faucet, it won’t work. I learned this the hard way at my mom’s house. Once connected, I ran the water through the filter for five minutes, as recommended. A family member joked that it looked like I was conducting a science experiment in the kitchen.

The filter system includes a handy indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter. This feature is a lifesaver for someone like me who tends to forget these things. It’s a red, yellow, green system: green means good to go, yellow is your gentle reminder, and red is your “change this now” alert.

Performance and Water Quality

The difference in water taste was noticeable right away. Before installing this, drinking tap water felt like a chore. It always had a metallic aftertaste, and the chlorine smell was off-putting. Post-installation, the water tasted clean and fresh, almost like bottled water. I even had a friend over who commented that my water tasted “fancy” now.

The multiple spray options are a nice touch. You can switch between filtered water, unfiltered water, and unfiltered spray with just a lever. I use the filtered water for drinking and cooking, while the unfiltered spray is great for rinsing dishes.

Daily Use and Observations

The compact design fits snugly on my standard faucet without taking up too much space. However, I did notice a slight reduction in water flow when using the filtered setting. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re in a rush.

One hiccup I encountered was with the filter cartridge button. The button used to release the filter is a bit sensitive. There was an unfortunate incident where I accidentally pressed it while the water was running, leading to a mini fountain in my kitchen. Lesson learned: be cautious around that button.

Pros

• Easy installation: No tools required, making it accessible for everyone.
• Noticeable improvement in water taste: Removes chlorine odor and metallic aftertaste effectively.
• Filter indicator: A convenient reminder to replace the filter.
• Multiple spray options: Versatile for different kitchen tasks.
• Compact design: Doesn’t overcrowd the sink area.

Cons

• Sensitive filter eject button: Can lead to accidental water splashes.
• Slight water flow reduction: Filtered water comes out slower.
• Doesn’t fit all faucets: Not compatible with pull-out or spray-style faucets.
• Initial charcoal dust: Requires flushing out before first use.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to other faucet-mounted filters like the PUR Faucet Filtration System, the Brita model holds its own. PUR also offers excellent filtration, but some users report a more cumbersome installation process. On the other hand, the Brita system feels more user-friendly and intuitive.

The ZeroWater faucet filter, while effective, leans towards being bulkier and pricier. It does have an edge in removing total dissolved solids (TDS), but for everyday use, the Brita strikes a better balance between performance and convenience.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Although the initial cost may seem higher than pitchers or standard filters, the long-term savings from replacing up to 1,800 single-use water bottles per year justify the expense. Replacement filters are reasonably priced and last approximately 100 gallons or four months, depending on usage. Considering the quality of water and ease of use, I’d say it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to reduce plastic waste and improve their tap water quality.

Additional information