Whole House Water Filter vs. Under Sink Filter: Which Is Best?

Filters play a vital role in providing your home with clean, safe water. But with so many different filters available, it can be tough to decide which type of system is right for you. Two popular filter options are whole house water filters and under sink water filters. Whether you’re concerned about reducing contaminants throughout your entire home or simply want clean drinking water from one tap, it’s essential to understand what distinguishes these filtration systems from one another and how to make the right purchase. 

What Is a Whole House Filter?

A whole house water filter is a point-of-entry system installed on your main plumbing line. This filters all of the water flowing into your home, including water to taps, showers, and other fixtures or appliances. These systems often include multiple stages of filtration, such as a sediment filter to remove dirt, silt, and rust along with a carbon filter to address chemicals like chlorine and chloramine. Chemicals like chlorine in particular can leave skin itchy and hair brittle. Because the chemical vaporizes at a lower temperature than water, showing in water with chlorine also leads to breathing in chlorine vapors. Removing this chemical with whole house filters leaves skin and hair feeling softer and your air cleaner. By installing a whole house filter, you can easily enjoy safer, cleaner water throughout your home with a single, comprehensive system. 

 

Do I Need a Whole House Water Filter?

 

What Is an Under Sink Filter?

An under sink filter is a type of point-of-use system that filters water at a specific tap or faucet. These are often installed under kitchen or bathroom sinks. One of the most common under sink systems is a reverse osmosis (RO) filter. RO systems are very effective at reducing a wide range of contaminants, including arsenic, lead, fluoride, and total dissolved solids (TDS). RO systems usually feature multiple stages of filtration to provide high-quality, targeted purification. They also eliminate the need to buy bottled water, which helps limit plastic consumption and saves money. While under sink systems don’t filter water for the entire house, they do an excellent job of filtering water at the point of use, making them ideal for homeowners primarily concerned about drinking water quality.

 

Learn More About Kind Water’s 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System

 

Comparing Reverse Osmosis vs. Whole House Filters

Coverage 

Both filters are ideal for homes that use city water. A whole house filter provides clean water to every faucet and appliance, while an under sink filter only treats water flowing from the tap it is installed at. 

Contaminants 

Under sink filters like RO systems tend to address more contaminants and reduce them more effectively than whole house filters. RO filters also remineralize water to ensure good taste, which can be a bonus if you prioritize drinking water quality. 

Cost 

A single whole house system is typically more expensive than one under sink filter. However, if you decide to purchase several RO systems for multiple spots in your home, these systems could cost more overall. 

Installation 

Both types of system are generally easy to install, though a professional can assist with installation if needed. 

Maintenance 

Both types of system are very easy to maintain, only requiring annual filter replacements that take just a few minutes. 

Which Type of Filter Is Right For You?

The type of filter you buy ultimately depends on your household’s water quality and your specific needs. Start by contacting your local municipality to review contaminants found in your city water supply. This information can help you narrow down options. 

Take a Closer Look:

 

Whole House Water Filter

 

6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System