To choose a water filter, start by testing or checking your water to learn what you want removed, then match the filter type to your needs and volume: a pitcher for simple taste improvement, a faucet or under-sink filter for more volume, or reverse osmosis for the most thorough filtration. Always check the filter’s certifications for the contaminants you care about. This guide explains how to choose a water filter that fits your water and household.
Find out what is in your water, then match the filter to your needs and volume: pitcher for simple taste, faucet or under-sink for volume, reverse osmosis for the most thorough filtration. Always check certifications for your target contaminants.
Steps to Choose a Water Filter
- Know your water: check your local water report or test (essential for well water).
- Decide what to remove: chlorine taste, lead, fluoride, sediment, bacteria.
- Pick a type for your volume: pitcher, faucet, under-sink or reverse osmosis.
- Check certifications: NSF/ANSI for your target contaminants.
- Consider cost: upfront plus filter replacements.
Key Takeaway: Start with the water, not the filter. Knowing what is actually in your water tells you what to remove, which points to the right filter type and certification, instead of guessing and buying a filter that does not target your real issue.
Know Your Water
Check your local water quality report, or test your water (especially well water, which is unregulated). This tells you what to filter. See best for well water.
Match the Type to Your Needs
- Pitcher: simple, cheap taste improvement. See best pitchers.
- Faucet/under-sink: more volume, easy to plumbed-in. See best under-sink.
- Reverse osmosis: the most thorough. See best RO.
- Whole-house: all water, including showers. See best whole-house.
Check Certifications
Look for NSF/ANSI certifications for the specific contaminants you care about, rather than general claims. See what water filters remove.
Consider Ongoing Cost
Factor in filter replacement cost and frequency, not just the upfront price. See how often to change a filter.
FAQ
How do you choose a water filter?
Find out what is in your water, decide what to remove, match the filter type to your volume, and check certifications for your target contaminants. Consider ongoing filter cost.
What water filter do I need?
It depends on your water and volume: a pitcher for simple taste, a faucet or under-sink filter for volume, reverse osmosis for the most thorough filtration.
How do I know what is in my water?
Check your local water quality report for public water, or test your water, which is essential for unregulated well water.
Bottom Line
Choose a water filter by learning what is in your water, deciding what to remove, matching the type to your volume, and checking certifications. Factor in filter cost. See our best water filters and what water filters remove guides.
