Rating of water filters for washing: rating of the best models and selection guide

The importance of water in human life is difficult to underestimate. It is needed daily in sufficient quantities.Not only the taste of dishes, but also, to a large extent, people’s health depends on its purity. To clean it, different filters are used. And to determine which water filters for washing are better, you should familiarize yourself with them.

Types of water filters

To make the purchase of a water purification device as effective as possible, you need to choose one of two possible filter designs:

• flow-through;
• reverse osmosis.

Flow filters are considered the easiest to use, small-sized and affordable. They consist of several containers that are connected in series by the manufacturer. There may be several such containers. Typically from two to five.

Each of them has a filter cartridge. The cleaning system is attached to the water supply using a rigid or flexible liner. The structure is installed under the sink, and water flows through the tap on the washbasin. This filter purifies only cold water.

Flow filter functions:

• purification of running water from large and small mechanical inclusions;
• sorption purification - elimination of harmful bacteria, taste and odors;
• ultraviolet cleaning, if provided by the manufacturer.

As a result, it turns out that such a device purifies running water to a state that is as safe as possible for use. It can be used both with a centralized water supply system and with an autonomous one (water from wells and wells).

Flow-type filters take up very little space under the sink. This system will fit perfectly in small kitchens, where there is very little space under the sink.

A flow-through filter under the sink consists of the following elements (there may be differences depending on the manufacturer):

• outlet for water connection;
• outlet for connecting a tap;
• filters - pre-cleaning, mechanical and sorption, fine and finishing;
• tap.

Reverse osmosis filters for water purification, which are installed under the sink, are larger and more expensive. This is due to the fact that the design provides two additional elements: a storage tank and a reverse osmosis membrane.

This membrane is designed to provide consumers with the most purified water possible. Thin polymer is rolled into a roll. The pores of this material are so small that only water molecules can pass through.

Naturally, the cleaning speed is much lower than that of flow filters, so it is advisable to use a tank to collect water.

Filters with storage capacity take up an order of magnitude more space than flow-through filters. This must be taken into account when purchasing and before installation.

There are pre-filters in front of the membrane, which remove all large impurities from the liquid. After the storage tank there is also a filter, the purpose of which is to eliminate odor and taste. The output is almost ideal water.

Due to the fact that the liquid is also purified from various beneficial salts and minerals, some manufacturers can equip the device with mechanisms for saturating the purified water with the necessary chemical elements. This makes the design somewhat more expensive, but the water becomes healthier.

It is advisable that the filter system tubes be neatly laid out and out of the way. Otherwise, they can be damaged and using cold water will be impossible.

Top 11 Best Filters on the Market

Both types of filters are not equivalent to each other and are intended for different categories of buyers, so we have selected the ten best models of flow-through and reverse osmosis systems, and arranged them in order of increasing popularity.

Place No. 11 - Geyser 3VK Lux

Before purchasing such a device, you should consider that its main purpose is to work with soft water. If the water is hard, then it is highly desirable that it has a minimum iron content. Therefore, you need to buy either a water softener or an iron-removing filter for the system.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 3;
• type of cleaning – sorption;
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 3 l/min;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

This is a pretty productive device. Able to work even in systems with low pressure (from 0.5 atm).

Among the advantages, we should highlight the low cost of the filter and replaceable cartridges. This model is one of the most popular in the Geyser product line.

Place No. 10 - Geyser Bio 322

This flow filter model can work with any water supply system. Copes well with loads and is able to provide stable output pressure.

Suitable for those customers whose water in their homes is hard and has odors.Filter elements will rid the liquid not only of mechanical impurities, but also of bacteria.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 3;
• type of cleaning – sorption, mechanical (deferrizes and softens water);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 3 l/min;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

Cartridges are durable. They rarely need to be changed. In systems that use cast iron pipes, the water is often saturated with excess iron, but this drawback is eliminated with the installation of Geyser Bio 322.

Disadvantages: significant cost of the filter itself and cartridges for it. There may also be difficulties during installation, since additional adapters will be needed for connection. One cannot help but pay attention to the weight of the device - more than 6 kg.

Place No. 9 - Geyser Allegro M

This reverse osmosis filter is popular among any category of consumers. There is a place for it in new modern houses and old “Khrushchev” buildings. A good option for purifying centralized cold water.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 5;
• type of purification – sorption (additionally softens water, mineralizes, deferrizes);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 0.14 l/min;
• storage capacity volume – 12 l;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

The first three stages serve for preliminary water purification. At the fourth stage, only water and oxygen are filtered through a membrane with a pore size of 0.0001 microns. Next, the water enters the tank.

To prevent bacteria from multiplying in the tank, replaceable membranes are installed there that retain the maximum number of microorganisms. Water in such a container deteriorates 1000 times slower than in a container without a membrane.

At the last stage, the water gets rid of odors and is saturated with minerals. In addition to this filter, you can buy a pump designed to increase the output water pressure. Advantages: long service life; the design includes a pressure relief valve in the tank; high productivity of the cleaning system.

Disadvantages: high cost of construction; difficulty of installation.

Place No. 8 - Novaya Voda Praktic Osmos OU380

The device attracts with its price, small dimensions and lightness. This is an excellent choice for small kitchens where there is not enough space for bulk reverse osmosis filters.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 5;
• type of cleaning – sorption (additionally softens water, removes iron);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 0.125 l/min;
• storage tank volume – 7.5 l;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

The tank is small - this is the main drawback. At the same time, it fills up quickly. The speed at which the container fills with water can be increased by purchasing a booster pump. Filling time will be reduced to 15 minutes. Thanks to a high-quality Japanese membrane, water purity is ensured at the level of expensive filters.

Among the shortcomings, the low quality of all components and assembly as a whole is noted. But the device confidently fulfills its warranty period.

Place No. 7 - Aquaphor Favorite B150

The model is ideal for autonomous water supply systems. If you plan to install it in a centralized water supply system, then it is necessary to use additional filters for mechanical cleaning. This is due to water contamination in the systems. You can do without this, although you will have to change the cartridges more often.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 2;
• type of cleaning – sorption;
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 2.5 l/min;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

The filter is equipped with an additional stainless steel housing. This allows you to complete the appearance of the device.

The cartridge resource is quite large - 12,000 liters. Even for a large family it will last a very long time. Changing the cartridge is easy - there is only one. Replacement must be carried out no more than twice a year. Advantages: clean water output, no chlorine smell; installation can be done independently; The pressure of purified water is sufficient for domestic needs.

Disadvantages include the high cost of replacement cartridges. It is also recommended to install additional pre-filters and water softeners. This will be more expensive, but will make it possible to maximize the life of the cartridge.

Place No. 6 – Novaya Voda Expert M310

Well suited for hard water systems. The liquid goes through four stages of purification, where it gets rid of odors and impurities. The manufacturer claims the filter’s ability to operate at a pressure of 45 atm, which is confirmed by tests carried out in a laboratory.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 4;
• type of purification – sorption (additionally softens the water);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 2.5 l/min;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

Among the advantages, the pleasant cost of the device and thoughtful appearance stand out. Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks: the low resource of cartridges and the high cost of purchasing them. Otherwise, this is an excellent budget option for apartments and houses.

Place No. 5 - Aquaphor Crystal Eco N

The filter combines such qualities as performance and a high degree of purification.The 0.1 micron membrane retains all water pollutants. At the same time, it allows the required amount of salts and minerals to pass through. The sorption component of the filter retains and eliminates bacteria.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 4;
• type of cleaning – sorption;
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 2.5 l/min;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

The cartridge resource is quite high - 8000 liters. A reliable faucet is included. The device weighs only three kilograms. This model is well suited for those who have little space under the sink. Aquaphor Crystal Eco - compact water filter, which will be an ideal solution for autonomous water supply systems.

Place number 4 - Aquaphor OSMO-Crystal 100

This is a worthy option for installation under the sink by residential property owners. Having a low cost, the filter purifies even very contaminated water. Removes not only rust, but also heavy metals, pesticides and chlorine.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 4;
• type of cleaning – sorption (additionally softens water, removes iron);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 0.26 l/min;
• storage tank volume – 10 l;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

Water from this filter can be used for bathing babies and preparing formulas. The tank capacity is enough for cooking. This model is suitable for all lovers of clean water. The filters will have to be changed every 6 months, so the device can be classified as economical.

Place No. 3 - Atoll A-550m STD

A popular reverse osmosis purification system that additionally mineralizes clean water at the 5th stage. The liquid purified in this way enters the container, where it remains until it is consumed.

The storage capacity is enough to store drinking water and cook food. As soon as water is withdrawn from the tank, the purification of new water automatically begins.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 5;
• type of purification – sorption (additionally softens water, mineralizes, deferrizes);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 0.08 l/min;
• storage capacity volume – 12 l;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

A mineralizer plays an important role, adding chemical elements that a person needs to the water. Depending on the pressure in the system and the purity of the water, the storage tank will fill in about 1-1.5 hours.

Among the disadvantages, the following points stand out: it is necessary to remember about timely replacement of filters - it is best to make a table with replacement dates and place it on the device body; the price of cartridges is quite high; difficulty during installation.

Atoll A-550m STD is a suitable option for both apartments and private houses. With this device, clean water rich in essential minerals will always be available.

Place No. 2 - Geyser Prestige PM

The products of this manufacturer are truly trusted, and numerous reviews on various sites speak about the quality and unpretentiousness of the device, which took the fifth step in our rating.

Characteristics:

• number of cleaning stages – 5;
• type of purification – sorption (additionally softens water, mineralizes, deferrizes);
• cleaning from chlorine - yes;
• productivity – 0.14 l/min;
• storage capacity volume – 12 l;
• The presence of a faucet is included.

This device is ideal if the water definitely requires purification. The 5-stage system can handle even heavily contaminated water.The model does not have any particular disadvantages. You can focus on the fact that the system is quite cumbersome. Inconveniences are caused by connecting tubes, the length of which the manufacturer has made with a “margin”.

It can work without a pump, but if the water supply system is weak pressure, then you should immediately purchase such an auxiliary device. This feature applies to all reverse osmosis filters. It is quite simple to install, as well as replacing filter elements.

Location No. 1 - ICAR water purification system

The best water filter for washing is the ICAR filter. The highest degree of water purification in combination with the ICAR module, which ionizes water, giving it a negative ORP (oxidation-reduction potential) and mineralizes it portionwise using the injection method.

This mineralization method is superior in quality to all other purified water mineralizers. That is, the output water is not only purified, but also alive. The characteristics of living water were studied back in the 70s of our century, and the most authoritative scientists around the world never cease to write about its beneficial properties.

Water after the ICAR filter becomes a powerful antioxidant - it fights free radicals, stimulates the immune system and cleanses the body. This water is good for everyone to drink without exception. The technologies of the Research Center "IKAR" have been awarded several prestigious international awards in Belgium and Switzerland. Water after the ICAR purification system is recognized as water of the highest category.

Typical connection diagram for the Ikar filtration system

Characteristics:

• water purification stages – 5;
• type of purification – premium reverse osmosis;
• cleaning from viruses and bacteria - yes;
• cleaning from chlorine and any other types of contaminants - yes;
• allows only a water molecule to pass through;
• resource – 1,000,000 l.;
• gives water a negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP);
• storage tank volume – 10 l;
• availability of a clean water tap – yes;
• comes with the mineral supplement “Severyanka +” No. 4 (contains Ca2+, Mg2+ and iodine);
• Possibility of connecting a pH reactor to adjust the pH of the water.

Filters need to be changed once every 6-12 months; they are sold at any filter store. The ICAR system is classified as economical - the cost of the highest quality water, taking into account the cost of purchasing a filter, is 2 rubles. per liter

How to choose the right filter?

Since choosing a modern water filter for washing is not easy, you have to listen to the proven recommendations of specialists and experienced users.

Before purchasing, you should pay attention to the following factors:

• the amount of clean water consumed by apartment/house residents;
• water quality;
• availability of the necessary space under the sink.

These factors are important because the choice of the right model will depend on them. On average, one person consumes up to 3 liters of water, in its pure form and as part of food and drinks. Accordingly, you need to calculate the filter performance to suit the needs of the family.

Since only reverse osmosis options can boast the best indicators of water purity, you should first consider them. If their productivity is not enough, then you need to stop at flow models. It is reasonable to equip them with softeners and iron removal cartridges.

Clean water at any time is what the installation of filters is for. Modern replacement of filter elements will allow you to get safe water in your home

You also need to pay attention to the condition of the water supplied from the tap. If it is excessively hard, then you need a filter with a water softening function.

If the water supply system includes lines made of old cast iron pipes, then the incoming water will contain inclusions of large mechanical particles. It is not enough to clean such water from contaminants; you also need to remove excess amounts of iron from its composition. Why should you choose filters with iron removal?

If the water supply system in the house is autonomous and it already has a filter at the entrance to the house, for example, a bottom filter or a pre-filter, then the simplest flow filters will do. You just have to focus on the productivity of the technology.

Subtleties of installation and operation

In order for the purchased filter to serve as long as possible, it must be installed correctly. Companies selling such devices often offer free delivery and installation by qualified specialists. This is an important argument in favor of purchasing equipment from such companies.

If you have plumbing skills and tools, you can do the installation yourself. An important stage in using a filter is preparing it for use. To ensure that there are no unnecessary odors or cloudiness when you first turn it on, you need to allow water to rinse the structural elements for the time specified in the instructions.

The filter installation process requires installation experience and certain plumbing tools. Therefore, it is better to entrust this to experienced specialists

Also, do not forget about replacing cartridges and membranes - these are the main elements that help to obtain the most potable water.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

This video will help you correctly determine the main differences and advantages of flow and reverse osmosis filters:

In the next video we will talk about reverse osmosis systems. Here are the specific results of measurements of the main water indicators:

In conclusion of the article, it should be noted that both categories of filters allow you to obtain water of the required purity. You can find suitable equipment for any water supply system, regardless of your budget.

The accuracy of the choice will be significantly influenced by a preliminary analysis of tap water. This will allow you to understand how hard the water is, which microelements are in excess, and which minerals are in short supply.

Would you like to talk about which filter was chosen and installed in the water supply system to prepare drinking water? Do you have useful information on the topic that may be useful to site visitors? Please write comments in the block below the text of the article, post photos and ask questions.