Should You Choose ICEPURE WFS5300A-20 Under Sink Water Filter? Detailed Review

Description

Ease of Installation & Use

Having tested the ICEPURE WFS5300A-20 under sink water filtration system, I can confidently say its installation process is user-friendly, though not exactly as effortless as the three-minute claim suggests. While the instructions were clear and accompanied by a video, the size of the system itself posed some challenges. I had to rearrange my cabinet to fit its 21.1-inch height. If you’re not accustomed to plumbing tasks, it might take closer to 15–20 minutes to get everything set up, which was my experience.

Once installed, using the system was straightforward. The direct-connect design eliminated the need for a separate faucet, which was a big plus. All I had to do was attach it to the cold water line, flush it for a few minutes to clear out the carbon particles, and it was ready to go. Even my less-than-handy brother managed to help with no complaints—well, aside from bumping his head under the sink.

Features

The ICEPURE WFS5300A-20 offers notable features that enhance its practicality and performance. The NSF/ANSI certifications (42 and 372) ensure the system meets rigorous standards for removing chlorine, heavy metals, odors, and other impurities. I appreciated that it retains beneficial minerals, which means I wasn’t drinking water that tasted overly processed.

Its multi-stage filtration system stood out as it uses coconut shell carbon for filtration. This gave me confidence in the quality of water my family was consuming. I also loved the high flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute, which meant no waiting around for water to trickle out—perfect for impatient coffee drinkers in the house.

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

The filtration capabilities of this system were impressive during my testing. Living in an area with heavily chlorinated municipal water, the difference was night and day. Before installing this unit, I could distinctly taste chlorine in my tap water, but the filtered water was crisp and clean. The system also eliminated that odd metallic tang I’d grown used to, making it feel like I was drinking bottled water straight from my kitchen sink.

Interestingly, the outer carbon block layer is 0.5 microns, a feature I read about and was eager to test. This small detail ensured that even microscopic sediments were filtered out. My water even looked clearer, like it had undergone a spa treatment.

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

This is where the ICEPURE WFS5300A-20 really shines. Rated for 40,000 gallons or five years of use, the filter lifespan is exceptional. I haven’t had it long enough to test its longevity yet, but the idea of not needing to replace filters frequently is a huge selling point. With previous filtration systems, replacing the filters every three months turned into an annoying chore.

Swapping out the filter on this system is a breeze—literally a two-second twist-and-lock mechanism. If only everything in life were this simple. My only gripe is the lack of a reminder system, so I’ll probably have to rely on my phone calendar to track when it’s time for a new one.

Flow Rate & Performance

The flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute is impressive and lived up to its claims during my testing. I didn’t experience any noticeable drop in water pressure, even with the filtration system in place. Whether filling up a large pot for pasta or grabbing a glass of water, the performance was consistent.

If anything, the high flow rate almost made me forget I had a filtration system attached, which is exactly what you want. My wife, who’s particular about her tea, even pointed out how much better her beverages tasted. That’s a win in my book.

Certifications

The NSF/ANSI certifications (42 and 372) add a layer of trust to this product. Knowing it’s been tested to reduce heavy metals, chlorine, and other impurities gave me peace of mind. Additionally, the 372 certification assures it’s lead-free, which is a critical factor given the alarming reports of lead contamination in water supplies.

I also appreciated that ICEPURE emphasizes its use of BPA-free, food-grade materials. With young kids in the house who love drinking water directly from the tap, these certifications were particularly reassuring.

Capacity & Suitability

This filtration system is designed to handle the water needs of an average household with ease. We’re a family of four, and it’s been more than enough for our daily needs, including drinking, cooking, and even filling up the humidifier. I could see this working well in an office setting or even an RV, as long as you’ve got the space to accommodate its height.

It’s worth noting that it connects only to cold water lines, which isn’t a dealbreaker for me but might be for someone looking for hot water filtration as well.

Warranty

While the product itself is solid, the warranty is relatively standard. It’s nice to have some level of protection, but I didn’t find it to be a standout feature. Given the longevity of the filter and the robust build quality, I don’t anticipate needing to use the warranty anytime soon.

Strong Points

• Easy installation process, even for beginners.
• High flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute.
• Long-lasting filter lifespan of 40,000 gallons or five years.
• NSF/ANSI certifications for chlorine, heavy metal, and impurity removal.

Flaws

• Its height can be challenging for smaller under-sink spaces.
• Included template for installation wasn’t entirely accurate.
• Only works with cold water lines, limiting versatility.

Competing Products

Comparing the ICEPURE WFS5300A-20 to similar products like the APEC WFS-1000 and Frizzlife MK99, I noticed some distinct differences. The APEC WFS-1000 offers slightly better multi-stage filtration but lacks the five-year filter lifespan and high flow rate. On the other hand, the Frizzlife MK99 is more compact, making it suitable for tighter spaces, but it requires more frequent filter replacements, which can add up in cost over time.

What sets the ICEPURE system apart is its balance of performance, longevity, and ease of use. While it might not be the smallest or the most advanced in filtration, the combination of features and certifications makes it a worthy contender.

Bang for the Buck

This system delivers excellent value for the price, especially when considering its long filter lifespan and high flow rate. While the upfront cost might seem steep compared to some budget options, the long-term savings on replacement filters and bottled water more than justify the investment. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-capacity water filtration system that won’t break the bank over time, this is worth considering.

Additional information