Accessing clean, tasty water is essential for any home, but selecting the right drinking water filter system for your kitchen sink can be a challenge. Two popular options are countertop or under sink water filters, each offering unique advantages to homeowners who opt for them.
Countertop water filters are easy to install, budget friendly and portable, making them ideal for tenants or those looking for a simple, yet effective solution. Alternatively, under sink filters offer superior filtration, a sleek design and better long term value.
This guide will explore both options, their advantages and drawbacks to ensure you are equipped with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision for your family.
Understanding The Different Types of Water Filter
There are a range of different types of water filter systems available, each designed to remove particulates at different levels from your home’s water supply.
- Countertop Water Filters: These systems attach to your faucet or come as standalone dispensers, filtering water before it reaches your glass. They are portable, affordable and require no plumbing modifications.
- Under Sink Water Filters: Providing more advanced levels of filtration, these systems are installed beneath your sink and connected to your cold water supply, usually with a dedicated water filter faucet plumbed into the sink or bench.
- Reverse Osmosis Water Filters: A highly effective filtration method removing approximately 98% of particulates and impurities. Research the space required for the storage tank and the filter system.
- Whole House Water Filters: Installed at the main water line, whole house water filtration systems filter all water in your house, ensuring every outlet in your home dispenses pleasant tasting, odour-free filtered water.
Understanding the different types of water filtration systems available allows you to evaluate the needs of your home and make an informed decision.
Countertop or Under Sink Filters: Key Differences
When comparing countertop or under sink water filters, several key factors should be evaluated:
- ease of installation,
- effectiveness of filtration,
- aesthetics
- and cost.
While both options have a positive impact on your water quality, they differ in convenience, space requirements and maintenance needs.
Installation & Set Up
Countertop water filters – ideal for tenants, or those living in temporary set ups:
- are a DIY plug-and-play option,
- require no modifications to your home’s plumbing
- attach directly to your kitchen tap or
- use gravity-fed filtration
Under sink filters – for home owners and landlords
- require installation beneath the sink, connecting directly to your under sink plumbing
- it results in a more permanent, less cluttered solution
- some systems require professional installation, whilst others are a simple DIY
Filtration Effectiveness
Countertop Water Filter:
- Single cannister limits you to either a carbon (removes dirt, rust, dust, chlorine) or carbon silver (removes dirt, dust, rust, large particles, chlorine, heavy metals, weedicides, pesticides, some microplastics).
- Dual cannister countertop has the added sediment cartridge that removes the dirt, dust rust, large particles, giving more life to the carbon or carbon silver cartridge.
- Cartridge change requires wrist strength to undo the cannister.
Under Sink Water Filter:
- Ranges from twin to triple cannister system – messy to change and requires wrist strength to undo the cannisters.
- Or twin quick change cartridge system – easy to change, even for those with arthritic hands.
- Most undersink systems come with a dedicated filter tap. Be aware of where this can be installed: in metal part of sink or the countertop near the sink.
- Some are installed in the cold water line under the sink: access to filtered water is via your cold water tap.
Downside: All cold water being used for washing and drinking is going through your filter cartridge. - Your plumber needs to install a shut-off valve if one isn’t already in place, before installing your water filter system.
- Many under sink models utilise multi-stage filtration, eliminating pesticides, chlorine-resistant cysts and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Reverse osmosis under sink filters
- Offer the highest levels of water purification, removing up to 98% of particulates, including 99% of fluoride.
- Ideal solution for those with increased water quality concerns.
- Can be countertop or under sink.
Space & Aesthetics Consideration
Countertop filters, as the name suggests, sit on your counter or attach directly to your tap, occupying visible space. While some models are more compact than others, they may clutter the area, making them less suitable for small kitchens or individuals aiming for an uncluttered look.
Conversely, under sink filters are hidden within your cabinetry, providing a sleek, space-saving solution. These systems preserve valuable counter space, integrating seamlessly into modern kitchens, making them ideal for homeowners looking for extra benchtop space.
Cost & Maintenance
Countertop filters are more affordable upfront, with lower initial costs and easy filter replacements. However, these systems generally require more frequent filter maintenance to keep them operating at an optimal level.
Under sink systems carry a higher investment upfront, but their longer-lasting filters and higher efficiency lead to improved savings over time.
No matter which system you choose, the savings on purchasing bottled water are phenomenal.
Which Water Filter Is Best For You?
Choosing between a countertop and an under sink system will ultimately depend on:
- your living situation,
- kitchen space,
- budget and
- water quality requirements.
While both offer effective methods of filtration, each has unique benefits that suit different individuals in varying situations.
Best For Tenants & Temporary Setups
For tenants or those in temporary living arrangements, a countertop water filter is the best option. These systems require no permanent installation, are easy to move around with and attach directly to your tap of choice. This makes them ideal for holiday homes, apartments and rentals where modifying plumbing isn’t a readily available option.
Under sink systems, however, are best suited to individuals who own their residence.
Best For Small Kitchens
If counter space is limited, an under sink filter is the superior choice. Unlike countertop models, which take up precious space near the sink, under sink systems are discreetly installed within the cabinet, preserving kitchen space. This makes them ideal for smaller kitchens, modern home designs or apartments, where maintaining clutter-free aesthetics and a functional kitchen space is a priority.
Best For Budget-Conscious Individuals
For a low cost entry into water filtration, a countertop filter is ideal. These systems carry low upfront costs, no installation and offer simple filter replacement. However, under sink filters provide better long term value with fewer filter replacements over time. For those prioritising long term savings, an under sink system may be a more suitable investment.
Best for the Environment
No matter which system you choose, countertop or under sink, you will reduce plastic bottle waste. This is a direct contribution to the wellbeing of our ocean life and many other aspects of our environmental health. Microplastics found in our food and water is a real concern today.
Addressing Common Questions About Countertop & Under Sink Filters
Selecting a water filtration system for your home raises several questions, particularly when deciding between countertop and under sink units. Below, we’ll explore some frequently asked questions to help clarify any concerns you may have.
Do Countertop & Under Sink Filters Remove The Same Particulates?
It all depends on the cartidges being used and how many. You can have a reverse osmosis (RO) benchtop and single cannister single benchtop. Obviously the RO will remove more particulates than the single cannister. However, generally speaking, a single cannister benchtop will remove less than a twin under sink system.
How Often Do Filters Need To Be Replaced?
For a family of four people, the countertop filters require replacement every 3-6 months depending on the quality of the filter and the usage level. Under sink filters typically last 6-12 months before needing a change.
Can I Install An Under Sink Filter System Myself?
A pre-requisite for installing an undersink filter is the presence of a shut-off valve. Then, if you are confident working with basic plumbing fittings, most under sink filters can be installed without the assistance of a professional. Drilling a hole in the metal sink or composite bench is often the trickiest ction required! Not confident? Find an experienced installer to ensure effective installation.
Is There A Noticeable Difference In Taste?
Yes there is! ALL countertop and under sink filters remove chlorine. That taste and odour disappears immediately! The more complex systems, like reverse osmosis, influence the texture of the water as well, giving it a smooth taste.
Why Choose WestOz Water Filters?
WestOz Water Filters is a trusted WA-based company specialising in high quality water filtration solutions tailored to Western Australian water conditions. Our countertop and under sink filters are designed for maximum efficiency and longevity, ensuring your household has access to clean, great tasting water.
We understand every home has unique water filtration requirements, which is why we offer expert tailored guidance to help you select the best system for your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a simple countertop solution or a high performance under sink system, our expert team ensures you get a reliable water filtration solution that retains its effectiveness long term.
With a focus on customer-centric service, competitive pricing and a passion for the benefits of water filtration, WestOz Water Filters is your go-to choice for safe, clean and great tasting water.
Final Verdict
Selecting between a countertop and under sink water filter depends on a few key factors including your household’s requirements, budget and available kitchen space.
A countertop system is affordable and easy to install, making it a great option for individuals who don’t own the property they are living in, or those looking for a temporary solution.
An under sink water filtration system provides superior water quality, long term cost savings and space efficiency. While the initial financial outlay is higher, the improved filtration, aesthetics and less frequent filter replacements make them a better long term solution for homeowners.
Still unsure which option suits your home and needs? Get in touch with the WestOz team today for expert guidance on the best water filtration system for your needs.