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June 2024
Expert Picks: 7 Best Water Filters to Remove Chlorine
Key Takeaways:
- Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect water, but its taste and odor can be undesirable, prompting many to seek alternatives for cleaner, better-tasting water.
- Home water filters offer a solution by removing chlorine and other impurities, enhancing the taste and smell of your water while contributing to its overall quality.
- When choosing a water filter, consider factors such as filtration efficiency, maintenance requirements, installation options, and filter lifespan to ensure it meets your standards for clean, safe drinking water.
Clean water is one of the foundations of good health. As a basic requirement, public water sources must disinfect piped water flowing through your tap. Chlorine is used to disinfect nearly 98% of municipal water supplies across the United States.
However, while chlorine is good at getting rid of harmful pathogens, it can leave behind an unpleasant taste and smell that's not desirable. Studies show that chlorine concentrations in tap water range from 0.5 to 2 parts per million (ppm), levels that many may consider less palatable. This discrepancy between safety and taste makes a lot of people look for other ways to get water that's cleaner and tastes better.
So, what's the solution?
Home water filters can help mitigate the unpleasant taste and odor left by chlorine in tap water, ensuring a more enjoyable drinking experience. By removing chlorine and other impurities, these filters not only enhance the taste and smell of water but also contribute to the overall quality of your drinking water.
In this guide, we'll explore the most effective water filtration methods that can get rid of chlorine. We’ll also discuss the best water filters to remove chlorine. From pitchers to whole-house systems, we'll break down the options so you can enjoy cleaner, fresher water without the chemical aftertaste. Let’s dive in.
What Are the Types of Water Filters for Chlorine Removal?
Several types of water filters can remove chlorine from drinking water. Here are the most common ones:
- Carbon filters: Carbon filters are highly effective at removing chlorine from water. They work by adsorption, where chlorine molecules adhere to the surface of activated carbon. This type of filter is often found in pitcher filters, faucet filters, and under-sink systems.
- Reverse osmosis (RO) systems: RO systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water, including chlorine. These systems are typically installed under the sink and can remove a wide range of impurities in addition to chlorine.
- KDF filters: KDF (kinetic degradation fluxion) filters use a high-purity copper-zinc alloy to remove chlorine and heavy metals from water. These filters can be found in shower filters and whole-house filtration systems.
- Activated alumina filters: These filters utilize activated alumina to remove chlorine and other impurities from water. They are particularly effective at removing chloramines, which are chlorine compounds commonly used in water treatment.
- Ultraviolet (UV) filters: UV filters are becoming a popular method of dechlorination. High-intensity, broad-spectrum UV systems can reduce both free chlorine and chloramines into easily removed byproducts. Operating between 180 and 400 nm, UV light triggers photochemical reactions that break down chlorine into hydrochloric acid, ensuring improved water quality and safety without altering its chemical composition.
Each type of filter has its advantages and limitations, so consider your specific preferences when choosing the right filter.
Top 7 Best Water Filters to Remove Chlorine
There are many water filters available in the market today. When selecting a water filter, it’s important to consider factors such as filtration efficiency, maintenance requirements, flow rate, water pressure, and installation options. Other important factors include filter lifespan and certifications to ensure the filter meets your standards for clean, safe drinking water.
With this in mind, here are the top 7 best water filters to remove chlorine from your tap water.
1. HomeWater Upstream 4-Stage Whole Home Water Filter
The HomeWater Upstream 4-Stage Whole Home Water Filter is known for its unmatched performance and convenience. The patented up-flow design ensures continuous automatic media backwash without the need for electricity, optimizing filtration efficiency.
With a unique blend of red flint, KDF55, and catalytic carbon, this system filters out many contaminants, including chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs, and microplastics, ensuring clean and safe water for your entire household.
Maintenance is easy with the filter’s top-loading housing, allowing for quick and easy replacement of the pre-filter in just seconds. The clear plastic housing provides visibility, allowing you to monitor the filtration process and ensure optimal performance.
The Upstream 4-Stage Whole Home Water Filter’s functionality extends beyond basic filtration. It can be connected to the HomeWater Salt-Free Water Conditioner to help reduce scale buildup, preserving the integrity of your plumbing and appliances. Its modular design and small footprint make it easy to install and customize.
2. Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher
The Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher is a BPA-free water filtration pitcher designed for convenience and efficiency. With its generous 10-cup capacity, space-efficient design, and easy-fill locking lid, it fits seamlessly into most refrigerators, providing chilled, great-tasting water whenever you need it.
Compatible with Brita Longlast+ filters, it effectively reduces lead, chlorine, and other contaminants while saving you money and reducing single-use plastic waste. With its user-friendly features and eco-conscious design, the pitcher offers a practical and sustainable solution for enjoying cleaner, better-tasting water at home.
3. Culligan Whole House Water Filtration System
Culligan's Whole House Water Filtration System is known for its durability and effective filtration. Housed in a sturdy casing, it removes chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants from your home's water supply, ensuring cleaner and better-tasting water from every tap. Its replaceable carbon filter cartridge targets common impurities, delivering reliable performance. It’s also easy to install, requiring minimal tools and expertise.
Maintenance of the system is hassle-free, with only some occasional cartridge replacements. Investing in this system offers a cost-effective solution, eliminating the need for individual filters and reducing the risk of plumbing issues.
4. Aquasana Premium Rhino Whole House Water Filter System
The Aquasana Premium Rhino Whole House Water Filter System provides all-around water filtration and removes up to 97% of chlorine from your tap water. It combines activated carbon and KDF media to effectively reduce contaminants while preserving healthy minerals.
Cost-efficient and long-lasting, it delivers clean water for a tiny cost per gallon, and is designed to last up to 10 years or 1 million gallons. The system is easy to maintain with no draining or backflushing needed and comes with a top-grade installation kit, ensuring hassle-free setup and reliable performance.
5. iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filtration System
The iSpring Drinking Water Filtration System provides comprehensive protection against over 1,000 contaminants, including chlorine, lead, fluoride, and more. Its transparent housing allows for easy inspection of the filtration process, while the Alkaline Remineralization filter ensures balanced alkalinity and improved taste.
With simple installation features like push-to-connect fittings and color-coordinated tubing, it's an effective, user-friendly solution for clean, great-tasting water at home.
6. APEC Water Systems ROES-50 Essence Series Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter
The APEC Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter is a premium-grade filtration system designed to provide high-quality drinking water right in your home. With double carbon blocks for thorough contaminant removal, high-quality fittings for leak-proof installation, and exceptional water quality, it ensures unlimited clean, refreshing water for cooking, beverages, and more.
Certified to remove up to 99% of impurities, including chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals, it offers reliable, long-lasting performance backed by 20 years of expertise from APEC Water Systems.
7. Pelican PC600 Whole House Water Filter System
The Pelican PC600 Whole House Water Filter System is a top-of-the-line solution for ensuring clean, great-tasting water throughout your entire home. With its certified performance, removing 97% chlorine up to 1.301 million gallons, it promises softer skin, and hair, and better-tasting beverages from every tap.
This low-maintenance system requires no electricity or drainage. It offers peace of mind with its 90-day satisfaction guarantee, 5-year performance guarantee, and a limited lifetime warranty on the tank and parts. Its easy installation, both indoors and outdoors, ensures hassle-free setup, while its high filtration capacity of 600,000 to 1,000,000 gallons over five years delivers exceptional value.
Carbon Filters vs. Other Methods: How Do They Compare?
Other water filtration methods are also effective in removing chlorine. Let’s look at a comparison between carbon filters and other methods.
1. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
While carbon filters effectively remove chlorine and various contaminants, RO systems offer a more comprehensive purification process, eliminating dissolved solids, heavy metals, and bacteria.
However, RO systems can be less efficient due to water wastage during the filtration process and may incur higher maintenance costs compared to carbon filters.
2. Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection
UV filters use high-intensity ultraviolet light to disinfect water by breaking down chlorine and chloramines, making them effective for removing pathogens without altering the water's chemical composition. However, they do not remove physical contaminants.
In contrast, carbon filters excel at removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other impurities through adsorption, improving taste and odor while also boosting the quality of purified water. Carbon filters require more frequent replacements compared to UV systems.
3. Distillation
Distillation provides a different approach to water purification by boiling water and condensing steam to remove impurities. Distillation effectively removes chlorine and various contaminants, but it can be slower and more energy-intensive compared to the straightforward filtration process of carbon filters.
4. Ion Exchange Systems
Ion exchange systems specialize in removing specific ions, including chlorine, heavy metals, and water hardness minerals. However, they may require periodic regeneration with salt or chemicals, adding complexity and cost to the filtration process compared to carbon filters.
Filter Lifespan and Maintenance
Water filter lifespan and maintenance are crucial aspects to take into account regardless of the filtration system you select. Here's a breakdown of the typical lifespan and maintenance requirements for water filters.
1. Activated Carbon Filters
- Lifespan: Activated carbon filters typically last between 2 to 6 months, depending on usage and water quality. Over time, the carbon media becomes saturated with contaminants, reducing its effectiveness.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance involves replacing the carbon filter cartridge according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Additionally, it's important to flush the filter periodically to prevent clogging and maintain water flow.
2. Reverse Osmosis Filters
- Lifespan: Reverse osmosis filters have a longer lifespan compared to activated carbon filters, lasting approximately 1 to 3 years under normal usage conditions. However, pre-filters and post-filters may require replacement more frequently, typically every 6 to 12 months.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance involves replacing pre-filters, post-filters, and the RO membrane according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Regular cleaning and sanitization of the system components are necessary to prevent bacterial growth and ensure efficient operation.
3. Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection Systems
- Lifespan: UV lamps may last between 9 to 12 months, after which they require replacement to maintain effective disinfection.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance involves replacing the UV lamp according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule. It’s also important to clean the quartz sleeve surrounding the lamp to remove any buildup that may interfere with UV transmission.
4. Distillation Units
- Lifespan: Distillation units have a long lifespan, with components such as heating elements and boiling chambers lasting several years with proper maintenance.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance involves descaling the boiling chamber periodically to remove mineral deposits. Cleaning and sanitizing the unit's components will help to prevent contamination and ensure safe operation.
5. Ion Exchange Systems
- Lifespan: Ion exchange resin cartridges typically last between 6 to 12 months, depending on water hardness and usage. Regeneration frequency may vary based on water quality and resin capacity.
- Maintenance: Maintenance involves monitoring resin exhaustion and regenerating the ion exchange resin cartridge as needed. In addition, regular cleaning and flushing of the system is necessary to ensure optimal performance.
To avoid unexpected downtime, ensure that you understand the specific maintenance requirements for your water filter. Following the manufacturer's guidelines and scheduling routine maintenance tasks will help ensure clean, safe drinking water for you and your family.
Enjoy Chlorine-Free Drinking Water With Home Water Filters
Clean and safe drinking water is one of the most important requirements for good health. But sometimes, the water from your tap can have chlorine in it, which doesn't taste great and might even be harmful to your health in certain cases. Home water filters help take out the chlorine as well as other disinfection byproducts, so every sip is refreshing and safe. With a good water filter, you can enjoy your drinking water without worrying about any unwanted impurities in it.
If you're in search of a home water filter that excels in superior performance and long-term reliability, look no further than the HomeWater UPSTREAM™ 4-Stage Whole Home Water Filter by HomeWater. Our advanced filtration technology effectively removes chlorine and other harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, PFOS/PFAS, cysts, and microplastics from your water supply, ensuring that every drop is not only clean but also tastes great.
With hassle-free installation and minimal maintenance requirements, the HomeWater UPSTREAM™ 4-Stage Whole Home Water Filter provides peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones' health and safety are protected against the dangers of water contamination.
