How does the best faucet water filter Brita SAFF-100 improve your drinking water?

Description

Installation Experience

I installed this faucet-mounted water filter last week, and let me tell you, it was surprisingly straightforward. I’m no DIY expert, but attaching the system to my kitchen faucet didn’t require any tools or special skills. It clicked into place easily and felt secure. One thing I quickly noticed, though, is that it only fits standard faucets. If you have a pull-out or spray-style faucet, this product won’t work for you, so double-check your setup before buying.

The filter also comes with a status indicator that lights up green, orange, or red to show the filter’s lifespan. While the idea is great, I found the indicator a bit misleading. It turned red way before I hit the advertised 100-gallon mark, which felt a little like the system was nudging me to buy replacement filters sooner than necessary.

Features and Performance

The two spray options—filtered and unfiltered water—are a blessing. I use the filtered water for drinking and cooking, while the unfiltered option is great for washing dishes or filling up pots. Switching between the two is smooth, thanks to the lever, although I did worry about the durability of the plastic over time.

The filtration system claims to reduce over 60 contaminants, including 99% of lead and chlorine. While I can’t personally measure these specifics, I noticed an immediate improvement in the taste and clarity of my water. I even tested it during cooking—my pasta water no longer had that odd chlorine hint. My kids, who usually complain about “weird water,” didn’t even notice we switched, which I consider a win.

One minor gripe is that the water flow slows down considerably when using the filtered option. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can be a bit annoying if you’re filling up a large bottle or kettle.

Pros

• Easy Installation: No tools required, and it attaches securely to standard faucets.
• Improved Water Quality: Noticeable difference in taste and clarity, with reduced chlorine and contaminants.
• Eco-Friendly: Replacing up to 1,800 single-use plastic bottles per year is a huge plus.
• Two Spray Options: Convenient for switching between filtered and unfiltered water.
• Compact Design: Doesn’t take up counter space and looks sleek in chrome.

Cons

• Limited Faucet Compatibility: Won’t fit pull-out or spray-style faucets.
• Inaccurate Filter Indicator: Turns red well before reaching the advertised 100-gallon mark.
• Durability Concerns: Lever and swivel arm seem prone to wear over time.
• Reduced Water Flow: Filtered water comes out slower than unfiltered water.
• Initial Black Water: During setup, some grey-black water flushed out initially, which can be off-putting.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to other faucet-mounted filtration systems, this product stands out for its compact design and ease of use. The Culligan FM-25, for example, offers similar filtration capabilities but doesn’t include a filter indicator, which some might prefer to avoid the inaccuracies of Brita’s light system. However, Culligan’s build feels sturdier and might last longer.

On the flip side, the PUR FM-3700 faucet filter provides stronger water flow but is bulkier and less visually appealing. While PUR boasts similar contaminant reduction, Brita’s design wins on aesthetics and space-saving. That said, if speed is a priority, PUR might be the better choice.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

This faucet-mounted filter falls into a mid-range price bracket compared to its competitors. Given its ability to reduce over 60 contaminants and its eco-friendly promise of replacing 1,800 plastic water bottles annually, it’s a solid investment for most households. However, the cost of replacement filters can add up, especially if you rely on the indicator light and replace them more frequently than necessary. If you’re someone who prioritizes clean, great-tasting water and doesn’t mind a slightly slower flow, this product delivers good value for the money.

Additional information