Explore the Aquasana AQ-5300+.55 Under Sink Water Filter Review: Is It Worth Buying?

Description

Ease of Installation & Use

Installing the Aquasana AQ-5300+.55, the 3-Stage Max Flow Under Sink Water Filter System, was far simpler than I anticipated. I’m no handyman, and yet, I managed to set it up without calling in reinforcements (aka my neighbor who always seems to have a tool for everything). The instructions were straightforward, and every necessary part arrived in the box, from the filters to the faucet. No need for a plumber, though I did spend a few minutes doubting my ability to drill into my sink area. The most satisfying part? Twisting the brushed nickel faucet into place and seeing how seamlessly it fit with my kitchen decor. Using the system is equally hassle-free; a quick flick of the faucet lever and filtered water flows steadily, no waiting or sputtering.

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

The filters in this system are said to last for 6 months or up to 800 gallons, whichever comes first. Realistically, I’ve been using it for a few months now, and the water quality hasn’t faltered. Replacing the filters appears to be a breeze—no tools needed, just a twist and swap. I haven’t hit the 6-month mark yet, but knowing I don’t have to deal with disconnecting hoses or other plumbing nightmares gives me peace of mind. The eco-friendly design, where you only replace the filter and not the entire housing, feels like a thoughtful touch. Who doesn’t want less waste?

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

The Claryum filtration technology in this unit is the star of the show. It filters out up to 99% of 78 contaminants, including lead, PFAS (hello, PFOA and PFOS), chlorine, and microplastics. At the same time, it retains beneficial minerals like calcium and potassium. I can’t scientifically measure the contaminants it’s removing, but I can tell you that the water tastes noticeably crisper and cleaner. Even the coffee and tea brewed with this water seem to have a more vibrant flavor. My skeptical friend, who insists her bottled water is the best, tried a glass and admitted it was pretty impressive.

Features

The 3-stage filtration process is thorough yet doesn’t overcomplicate things. The system includes a sediment pre-filter that enhances the performance and longevity of the other filters. The sleek brushed nickel faucet adds a touch of sophistication to the kitchen and is completely lead-free, which is reassuring. Another standout feature is the lack of water waste—every drop that goes in comes out filtered. That’s a big deal for anyone trying to be environmentally conscious. I also appreciate the system’s ability to maintain a decent flow rate despite its rigorous filtration.

Flow Rate & Performance

With a flow rate of 0.72 gallons per minute, the system ensures you’re not left waiting for your glass to fill. It might not be as fast as your unfiltered tap, but it’s certainly faster than many other under-sink filtration systems I’ve tried. Whether I’m filling a large pitcher or just a glass, it gets the job done without any noticeable lag. My kids, who are notoriously impatient, don’t even complain, which says a lot.

Certifications

The AQ-5300+.55 doesn’t just make claims—it backs them up with certifications. The system is WQA tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 401. These certifications attest to its ability to reduce specific contaminants effectively. Knowing it’s been independently tested gives me confidence in its performance, and honestly, it was one of the reasons I chose this model over others.

Capacity & Suitability

This system is designed for families, and it shows. The 800-gallon capacity is more than enough for our household of four. We use it for drinking, cooking, and even filling up the dog’s water bowl. My sister, who has a larger family, loved the idea and is considering installing one herself. If you’re someone who consumes a ton of water daily, the capacity might suit you just fine without frequent filter changes.

Warranty

Aquasana offers a one-year warranty on this system, which isn’t bad but could be better given the price point. I haven’t had to use the warranty (fingers crossed), but knowing it’s there adds a layer of security. Some reviews I read mentioned their customer service being helpful, though a bit slow in responding. Hopefully, I won’t need to test that out.

Strong Points

• Filters out up to 99% of 78 contaminants, ensuring clean and safe drinking water.
• No water waste during filtration, making it environmentally friendly.
• Sleek brushed nickel faucet complements modern kitchen designs.
• Easy installation and filter replacement with no specialized tools required.

Areas for Improvement

• The initial flush of the filters took longer than the recommended 10 minutes to remove the sulfur taste.
• The plastic housing needs to be replaced every five years, which adds a hidden cost.
• Some users report leaks if the filter isn’t tightened precisely, so installation requires extra care.

Other Options

Comparing this system to other under-sink filters like the iSpring RCC7 or APEC ROES-50, the Aquasana stands out for its zero-waste filtration. Reverse osmosis systems like the iSpring often waste water during the process, which is a dealbreaker for me. However, those systems do reduce total dissolved solids (TDS), which the Aquasana does not. If TDS reduction is a priority, you might need to look elsewhere. On the other hand, the Aquasana wins in ease of installation and its ability to retain beneficial minerals, unlike many reverse osmosis systems.

Cost Efficiency

Considering the filtration quality and the system’s durability, I’d call this a smart investment. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the value you get for the price makes it worthwhile. Spending less than 10 cents per gallon on filtered water is a significant saving compared to bottled water. Plus, the convenience of having filtered water directly from the tap is hard to beat.

Additional information