Uncover the AO Smith AO-US-200 Water Filter Review: Is It Worth It?

Description

Ease of Installation & Use

I recently installed the AO Smith Under Sink Water Filter System AO-US-200 in my kitchen, and it was definitely an adventure. As someone who enjoys tackling DIY projects, I found the instructions to be well-written and straightforward. The process took me roughly two hours, partially because I had to clear out everything under the sink and maneuver in some tight spaces. If you’re not comfortable with tools or crawling into dark, cramped areas, you might want to hire a plumber for this one.

The included tubing and connectors worked fine, and I appreciated that no additional hardware was required. The dedicated faucet was easy to set up, though drilling a hole in my stainless steel sink was nerve-wracking. For those with existing holes, such as from a soap dispenser, this step might be easier. I had to use the provided wrench quite a bit, which felt flimsy at times but got the job done. My coworker joked that I looked like I was playing an intense game of Twister under the sink.

Features

This two-stage under-sink water filter is packed with useful features. It’s designed to reduce 99% of 78 harmful contaminants, including lead, PFAS, chlorine, mercury, and even pharmaceuticals. I liked that it keeps essential minerals intact, which is great if you’re picky about water taste like I am. The system also comes with a dedicated faucet, a nice touch that ensures filtered water isn’t mixed with unfiltered water.

Another highlight is that the filtration system doesn’t waste water during the process, unlike some reverse osmosis systems I’ve encountered. The WQA certification to NSF/ANSI standards 42, 43, and 401 gives me peace of mind about its performance. However, one thing worth noting is that this system doesn’t reduce Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). If you’re hoping for that, you’ll need a different filtration method. My wife, who is a stickler for water taste, immediately noticed the improved flavor in her tea, so that’s a win in my book.

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

The advanced Claryum filtration technology used in this system is impressive. It removes contaminants like lead, asbestos, and even PFAS (those forever chemicals you keep hearing about on the news). As someone who lives in an area where water quality isn’t the best, having this level of filtration feels like a small luxury. The water tastes clean and fresh, with no lingering chemical or metallic aftertaste. My kids, who are usually hesitant to drink tap water, have been filling up their water bottles more often, which I count as a parenting victory.

That said, the system does not reduce TDS levels, which might be a dealbreaker for some. If you’re like my neighbor who uses a TDS meter religiously, this might not meet your expectations. But for reducing harmful chemicals and improving taste, it works brilliantly.

Flow Rate & Performance

The advertised flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute is decent for a system of this type. I’ve had other under-sink filters in the past that slowed to a frustrating trickle, so I was relieved that this one delivers a steady stream. However, I did notice a slight slowdown after a couple of months, which I suspect is due to the filters nearing the end of their lifespan.

It’s worth mentioning that if you have a larger family or use a lot of filtered water for cooking, you might find the flow rate a bit limiting. For our household of four, it’s manageable, though I wouldn’t mind if it were faster.

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

The filters are rated to last for six months or 500 gallons, which seems reasonable given our usage. Replacement is supposed to be straightforward, but I can see it being a bit of a hassle if you don’t have much space under your sink. One thing I didn’t love was the price of replacement filters. They feel a little steep, and I’m tempted to see if third-party options are compatible.

My dad, who also installed this system in his home, had some trouble getting the canisters to seal properly after replacing the filters. He’s a retired plumber, so if he struggled, it’s probably worth noting. Still, the water quality and taste improvements make it worth the effort.

Capacity & Suitability

With a capacity of 500 gallons per filter set, this system works well for families of up to four people. If you’re a larger household or go through a lot of water, you might find yourself replacing filters more frequently. For our needs—mainly drinking, cooking, and filling the kettle—it’s a good fit.

I also appreciate that it doesn’t take up too much space under the sink. We have a garbage disposal and a lot of cleaning supplies crammed in there, but I was still able to install it without too much rearranging.

Certifications

One of the reasons I chose this system is its certification to NSF/ANSI standards 42, 43, and 401. These certifications cover things like chlorine taste and odor reduction, lead removal, and emerging contaminants. It’s reassuring to know that the entire system, not just the filter media, meets these standards. It’s a big step up from some of the no-name filters I’ve seen online.

Warranty

The product comes with a limited warranty, though I haven’t had to use it so far. From what I’ve read, AO Smith has a decent reputation for customer service, which is encouraging. My neighbor had a minor issue with a different AO Smith product and reported that the company resolved it quickly.

Winning Points

• High-quality filtration that removes harmful contaminants while preserving essential minerals.
• Easy installation process with well-written instructions.
• Compact design that fits neatly under the sink.
• Certified to meet rigorous NSF/ANSI standards.
• No water waste during filtration.

Flaws

• Replacement filters are on the pricey side.
• Does not reduce TDS levels, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
• Slight slowdown in flow rate after a few months of use.
• Changing filters can be tricky, especially in tight spaces.

Competing Products

I’ve tried other under-sink filters in the past, including models from Culligan and Brita. While those systems are cheaper upfront, I found their performance to be less reliable over time. For example, the Brita under-sink filter I used previously didn’t address PFAS or lead, which are major concerns for me. Culligan’s system was decent but required more frequent filter changes, which added to the overall cost.

Compared to reverse osmosis systems, the AO Smith AO-US-200 is less expensive and doesn’t waste water. However, reverse osmosis systems do a better job of reducing TDS levels, which could be important depending on your water quality. If you’re mainly concerned about taste and reducing harmful chemicals, this system is a strong contender.

Smart Spending

Considering the features and certifications, I believe this system offers good value for its price point. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the peace of mind it provides is worth the investment. If you’re looking for a reliable under-sink filtration system that improves water taste and safety, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared to budget for filter replacements, as they can add up over time.

Additional information