Can Waterdrop AS13 Under Sink Water Filter Improve Tap Water Taste? Honest Review

Description

Ease of Installation & Use

Setting up the Waterdrop WD-AS13 stainless steel under-sink water filter was refreshingly simple. I’m not exactly a plumbing expert, but the included instructions made everything clear, and I had it installed in less than 20 minutes. The beauty of the no-drilling-required design is perfect for renters like me. All the necessary components, including hoses and a 3/8″-1/2″ converter set, were included in the package. I especially appreciated the plug-and-twist mechanism—it almost felt like assembling LEGO pieces, but for adults. My coworker, who’s a complete novice with tools, even managed to install hers without any hiccups.

The compact design fits snugly under my sink without taking up too much precious space. I did, however, use the provided Teflon tape as a precaution to minimize any risk of leaks, and it worked like a charm. One small gripe would be the plastic tools included for unscrewing the filter housing—they’re functional but could be sturdier.

Filter Lifespan & Replacement

The claim of a 12-month filter lifespan is a huge plus. I’ve been using the filter daily for about six months now, and the water quality hasn’t dipped one bit. The countdown timer, which I stuck inside the cabinet, is a nifty reminder for when it’s time to replace the filter. However, the first time I attempted to unscrew the housing to check the filter, it was a bit of a workout. A tip I picked up from a friend was to use food-grade anti-seize lubricant on the threads. It made the process smoother during a test run.

Filtration Technology & Effectiveness

This under-sink water filter uses a 5+1 stage advanced filtration system. It’s NSF/ANSI 42 and 372 certified, which reassures me that it effectively reduces chlorine, PFAS, PFOA, PFOS, and odors. The water tastes noticeably better—crisp and clean, without any metallic or chemical aftertaste. I live in an area where tap water has a slight chlorine smell, but this system completely eliminated it. My kids, who usually avoid drinking water, now happily refill their bottles. That said, it’s worth mentioning that this system does not lower TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) since it retains beneficial minerals, which some users might find misleading.

Features

The stainless steel construction is a standout feature. Not only does it look sleek, but it’s also rust-resistant, durable, and leak-proof. The braided hoses also feel premium, and there’s a sense of reliability when handling the components. Unlike some other systems, the WD-AS13 doesn’t require a separate faucet—it connects directly to your existing tap. This is a massive win for anyone who doesn’t want the hassle of drilling additional holes in their sink.

Another feature I liked was the fast flow rate. I timed it, and it managed to fill a gallon pitcher in less than a minute, which is impressive for an under-sink filtration system.

Capacity & Suitability

This system is perfect for small to medium households. Given its size and capacity, it’s ideal for a family of four or anyone who consumes a moderate amount of filtered water daily. My sister, who has a family of five, found the capacity sufficient for all their cooking and drinking needs. However, if you’re hosting a large gathering, you might find yourself waiting a bit longer to fill up larger pitchers.

Certifications

The fact that the Waterdrop WD-AS13 is NSF/ANSI 42 certified for chlorine reduction and NSF/ANSI 372 certified for using lead-free materials gave me peace of mind. I’m particularly cautious about what my family consumes, and these certifications add a layer of trust. It’s reassuring to know that the water coming out of our tap is safe for everyone, including my toddler.

Warranty

The product comes with a one-year warranty, which is pretty standard. I haven’t had any issues so far, but I did reach out to their customer service with a query about installation. They were responsive and helpful, which is always encouraging in case something does go wrong down the line.

Flow Rate & Performance

The performance of this under-sink water filter exceeded my expectations. I measured the flow rate, and it came out slightly better than advertised, even with hard water in my area. My previous water filter system had a noticeable drop in water pressure, but this one maintains a strong and steady flow. Washing vegetables, filling pots, or just grabbing a quick glass of water doesn’t feel like a chore anymore.

Advantages

• Stainless steel construction ensures durability and rust resistance.
• Installation is straightforward with no drilling required.
• Certified to reduce chlorine, PFAS, and PFOA/PFOS effectively.
• Compact design fits under the sink without taking up too much space.
• Long-lasting filter lifespan of up to one year.

Areas for Improvement

• The plastic tools provided for unscrewing the filter housing could be more robust.
• Does not reduce TDS levels, which might confuse users expecting reverse osmosis-like results.
• Initial unscrewing of the housing can be a bit challenging without lubricating the threads.

Peer Products

I compared the Waterdrop WD-AS13 to another popular under-sink system, the APEC WFS-1000. Both are excellent choices, but there are some key differences. The APEC system uses a three-stage filtration process and offers slightly better performance for reducing sediment and particulates. However, it’s bulkier and requires more space under the sink. Additionally, the APEC system demands a separate faucet installation, which might not suit renters.

On the other hand, the WD-AS13 shines with its stainless steel construction, direct connection to the main faucet, and no-drill installation. The APEC is more expensive overall, especially when factoring in replacement filters. If you prioritize convenience and design, the WD-AS13 is the better choice.

Bang for the Buck

In terms of value for money, this under-sink water filter hits the sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but considering the durability, filtration capabilities, and minimal maintenance required, it’s a worthwhile investment. You save on the hassle (and cost) of constantly replacing filters, and the stainless steel design ensures longevity. For anyone looking for a balance between quality and affordability, this is a smart buy.

Additional information