Should you buy the Aquasana under-sink water filter? A detailed review.

Description

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

After setting up the Aquasana Under Sink Water Filter (Model Aquasana), I immediately noticed its filtration capabilities. This unit claims to remove 99% of 78 contaminants such as chlorine, lead, mercury, and even PFAS compounds. I tested it with my usual tap water, which often has a faint chemical odor, and the difference was night and day. The water tasted cleaner, and the chemical smell was completely gone. What stood out was the retention of beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which gave the water a more natural and refreshing flavor. Unlike other systems I’ve tried, this one doesn’t strip the water of everything, so it doesn’t leave it tasting flat.

One small hiccup I encountered was a noticeable drop in water pressure over time, which seems to be a recurring observation among other users. This could potentially be due to higher-than-normal water pressure in my area, but it’s something worth keeping in mind. Still, the improvement in water quality was undeniable.

Ease of Installation & Use

Installing the filter was surprisingly straightforward. I don’t consider myself particularly handy, yet the clear instructions and included parts made the process manageable. The filter attaches directly to the cold water line, so there’s no need for a dedicated faucet. This was a big plus since I didn’t want to drill holes in my countertop. However, I had to ensure I had the 3-inch clearance required for filter changes, which might be tricky for smaller under-sink spaces.

Initially, I faced some frustration with the plastic fittings provided. They felt a bit flimsy and didn’t inspire confidence. I ended up taking a trip to the hardware store to grab some metal fittings for a sturdier connection. Once upgraded, the setup felt more secure, and I haven’t had any issues since. My dad, who loves tinkering with plumbing, joked that it’s always these “tiny details” that make or break a product. He’s not wrong.

Flow Rate & Performance

Performance-wise, the flow rate started strong. The water flowed at a steady pace, making daily tasks like filling pots or rinsing vegetables convenient. However, I noticed a decline in flow after about two months of use. It didn’t completely stop, but it slowed to a trickle, which made washing dishes a bit of a chore. A quick call to customer service revealed that this could be due to the filter clogging faster because of the specific water quality in my area.

To address this, I added a pre-filter upstream, which helped extend the life of the main unit. After this tweak, the flow rate returned to a more acceptable level. If you’re in an area with particularly hard or sediment-heavy water, you might want to consider a similar setup.

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

The filter is marketed as having a six-month lifespan, but in my experience, it needed replacing closer to the two-month mark. This discrepancy might be due to the aforementioned water quality issues. Replacement filters aren’t the cheapest, and having to swap them out more frequently can add up over time.

On the bright side, replacing the filter is a quick and painless process. Just twist off the old one and pop in the new one. My teenager even managed to do it without breaking a sweat, which speaks volumes about its user-friendly design.

Features

One standout feature of this product is its ability to retain beneficial minerals while filtering out harmful contaminants. Many filters I’ve used in the past strip the water entirely, leaving it tasting bland, but this one strikes a perfect balance. It’s also eco-friendly, with each filter replacing over 6,250 plastic water bottles. As someone who tries to minimize waste, I appreciated this aspect.

The compact design is another plus. Measuring just 4 x 4 x 20.5 inches, it doesn’t take up too much under-sink space. However, you’ll still need to ensure you have enough clearance for filter changes. It’s worth noting that the system doesn’t reduce Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), which might be a drawback for those specifically looking to lower TDS levels.

Warranty

The product comes with a warranty, which provides some peace of mind. I haven’t had to use it yet, but knowing it’s there is reassuring. A friend of mine who also owns this filter mentioned that customer service was prompt and helpful when they reached out about a minor issue, so it’s good to know the company stands behind its product.

Capacity & Suitability

This filter is a great fit for small to medium-sized households. It can handle everyday kitchen needs with ease, from cooking to drinking water. However, if you’re looking for a solution for a larger household or high water demand, you might find yourself replacing the filters more frequently. My coworker, who has four kids, noted that they went through filters faster than expected.

Certifications

The unit is NSF certified, which speaks to its credibility. This certification ensures that it meets strict health and safety standards. It’s always comforting to see third-party validation, especially for something as essential as water filtration.

Strong Points

• Eliminates 99% of 78 contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and PFAS.
• Retains beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium.
• Compact design fits easily under most sinks.
• Straightforward installation with clear instructions.

Areas for Improvement

• Plastic fittings feel cheap and prone to cross-threading.
• Flow rate tends to drop over time, especially with sediment-heavy water.
• Filters may need replacing more frequently than advertised, increasing costs.

Competing Products

When compared to other under-sink filters like the 3M Aqua-Pure and iSpring RCC7, this filter stands out for its mineral retention and eco-friendly design. The Aqua-Pure, for instance, offers a higher flow rate and better longevity but doesn’t filter out as many specific contaminants. Meanwhile, the iSpring RCC7 provides comprehensive reverse osmosis filtration but requires a dedicated faucet and takes up more space.

If you prioritize ease of use and mineral retention, the Aquasana is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for something with a longer filter lifespan or higher water pressure compatibility, one of the alternatives might be a better fit.

Worth Every Penny

Given its features and performance, this product offers good value for its price. It strikes a balance between effective filtration and ease of use, making it a solid choice for most households. The cost of replacement filters can add up, but if you’re mindful of water quality and consider adding a pre-filter, it becomes a more cost-effective solution. Compared to spending money on bottled water or less effective filtration systems, it’s definitely worth considering.

Additional information