Best Water Filters: A Practical Guide for 2025
Choose confidently with real measurements and clear use‑cases.
TL;DR Picks
- Broad reduction: Under‑sink RO — see our Water tab and product picks.
- Lead/heavy metals: Certified carbon + ion exchange pitcher/under‑sink (lead reduction).
- PFAS: High‑quality activated carbon; some RO systems also reduce PFAS.
- Whole‑house: Sediment + carbon for taste/odor and pre‑filtration of appliances.
Use Local Measurements
Open the Water tab, click “Use my location,” and review the Local Water Measurements table for:
- Lead: Prioritize certified lead reduction (NSF/ANSI 53).
- TTHM & HAA5: Opt for high‑performance carbon block.
- Nitrate: RO is effective for ionic contaminants.
- PFOS/PFOA: Activated carbon and some RO systems can help.
Selecting a System
Match your filter to the dominant contaminants. If your local data is sparse, use utility reports in the SDWIS widget and consider a broad solution (RO under‑sink + dedicated faucet) paired with a carbon block pitcher for taste.
Maintenance Matters
- Replace cartridges on schedule to maintain performance.
- Check manufacturer flow rates and capacity for your usage.
- For RO, monitor TDS periodically to assess membrane performance.