Does ZeroWater ZD-032-RR deliver the best water filtration? Honest review inside!

Description

A Deep Dive into Daily Use of the ZeroWater 32-Cup Ready-Read 5-Stage Water Filter Dispenser

Life with the ZeroWater 32-Cup Ready-Read 5-Stage Water Filter Dispenser has been a game-changer in my household. As someone who drinks water like it’s going out of style, having a reliable filtration system feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity. Before this dispenser, I was stuck with inconsistent water quality and constantly refilling smaller pitchers. That era is over. This dispenser offers a combination of simplicity, efficiency, and a peculiar sense of satisfaction every time I pour a glass.

Features and Functionality

This product comes with a 32-cup capacity, which is a blessing for anyone who consumes a lot of water daily or has a family that does. The built-in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) meter is a nifty addition. I’ve tested my water regularly with it, and I’m impressed by how accurate it is. The water starts with a TDS reading of zero, which is oddly thrilling if you’re a water geek like me. This meter also acts as a reminder to replace the filter when the reading climbs to 006, ensuring I’m always getting the best water possible.

The filtration system itself is where the magic happens. With its 5-stage ion exchange process, this dispenser removes dissolved solids, heavy metals like lead, and even those pesky forever chemicals like PFOA/PFOS. I’ve noticed a massive difference in taste compared to unfiltered tap water. It’s crisp, slightly sweet, and devoid of any metallic or chemical aftertaste. Trust me, my tea tastes significantly better, and the water is odorless, which is a huge plus.

Ease of Use and Comfort

Setting up the ZeroWater dispenser was straightforward. The ergonomic handle makes it easy to carry even when full, and the spigot design is a thoughtful touch. My kids love using the pull-lever to fill their cups, which means one less thing for me to do. The sliding lid for refilling the top reservoir is convenient, although I did catch some dust building up under it. A quick wipe fixes that, but it’s something to keep an eye on.

One minor gripe is the slow filtration speed. If you’re impatient, waiting for the water to filter can be mildly frustrating. However, I’ve learned to fill it up before bed so it’s ready and waiting when I wake up.

Pros

• Outstanding water quality: The 5-stage filtration process delivers clean, pure-tasting water every time.
• Large capacity: The 32-cup size means fewer refills and plenty of water for the whole family.
• Built-in TDS meter: Keeps me informed about water quality and filter status.
• Eco-friendly: Reduces reliance on plastic bottles, saving up to 660 bottles annually per filter.
• Durable and ergonomic design: Easy to handle and fits nicely on the countertop or in the fridge.

Cons

• Slow filtration speed: It can take a while to filter larger amounts of water, which requires planning ahead.
• Dust under the lid: The sliding mechanism gathers dust, necessitating regular cleaning.
• Spigot durability concerns: While mine hasn’t broken, it does feel a bit flimsy and might not withstand heavy-handed use.

Comparison to Competitors

Over the years, I’ve tried Brita and Pur pitchers, and while they’re decent, they don’t hold a candle to this dispenser. Brita filters leave a slight mineral taste, and their TDS reduction doesn’t reach zero. Pur does slightly better in taste but lacks the comprehensive filtration of the ZeroWater system.

The 5-stage filtration of this dispenser is what sets it apart. Competitors usually stop at 2 or 3 stages, which is fine for basic filtration but doesn’t remove dissolved solids or heavy metals as effectively. If you’re looking for pure-tasting water or have concerns about lead and other contaminants, the ZeroWater system is leagues ahead. However, competitors like Brita may have a slight edge in filtration speed and lower ongoing filter costs.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

The upfront cost of this dispenser is reasonable for its capacity and features. Filters are where the ongoing expense lies, but you get what you pay for: top-notch filtration. Each filter lasts me about 50 days, which, given my high water consumption, is impressive. While replacement filters may seem pricey compared to competitors, the superior filtration quality justifies the expense.

For me, the cost per gallon is a small price to pay for water that tastes this good and is free of harmful contaminants. It has also drastically reduced my family’s reliance on bottled water, which is not only eco-friendly but also a money-saver in the long run.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that good water is an investment worth making. The ZeroWater 32-Cup dispenser delivers on its promises, and while it’s not perfect, it’s as close as you’ll get in this price range.

Additional information