Which water filter to choose for washing: choose a flow-through filter according to the criteria

Rating of the best manufacturers and models

Thanks to numerous customer reviews of filters from different manufacturers, we have compiled our rating of the best running water purifiers for washing.

The most famous and proven among buyers are the following manufacturers.

1. Geyser.
2. Aquaphor.
3. Barrier.
4. New water.

It might also be interesting: Rating of the best dishwashers.

Having compared the characteristics, prices and reviews, we have identified several of the most worthy and high-quality models in the opinion of buyers.

The first table contains a rating of flow models (without osmosis), the second table contains the top best models with a reverse osmosis system.

The best among the flow-through filters were the models produced by the Geyser manufacturer. And the first place in the rating of the best models with reverse osmosis systems was taken by filters of the companies "Aquaphor" and "New Water".

Price

• its initial cost;
• the price of consumables;
• the cost of one liter of purified water.

The latter is determined by a simple arithmetic operation: the cost of a set of filter cartridges must be divided by their resource, if, of course, it is indicated in liters (sometimes the time interval is indicated).

The cost of conventional cartridge filters for washing (without reverse osmosis) starts at 3 thousand rubles. For this amount, for example, you can buy the "Barrier Expert Standard" system. The Aquaphor Favorit filter will cost a little more - about 4 thousand rubles. Filters of the Geyser Bio series with Aragon cost from 3 to 5 thousand rubles. Thus, the Geyser Bio 321 model will cost 3.4 thousand rubles. At the same time, 2 thousand rubles will have to be paid annually for a new set of cartridges.

Of the high-quality reverse osmosis filters, the most affordable can be considered the "Aquaphor Osmo 100" system, which costs 6.5 thousand rubles. The membrane for it will cost 1.7 thousand rubles. Pre-filters - from 70 to 310 rubles.

The price of other membrane filters can vary greatly. For example, the Atoll A550 STD system (designed for a family of 5 - 6 people) will cost 14.3 thousand rubles.

Top manufacturers

It is difficult to say unequivocally which company is better. But it is better to take domestic systems, they win in terms of price-quality criterion and are better adapted to our conditions.

The best manufacturers to pay attention to:

• Research Center "IKAR"... The Russian company tops the rating with its 5-stage water purifiers with the highest degree of purification. 98% of all impurities are removed. However, installation is expensive and requires a mineralization module.
• Aquaphor... Domestic brand that everyone knows. Produces all types of filters. The most famous are flowing, floor models, jugs. Differs in filtration quality. The prices are reasonable, and the replacement parts are readily available. The most popular models: Favorite, Trio, Crystal.
• Barrier... Filter jugs of this brand are known to everyone. But the company produces different types. The quality is not inferior to Aquaphor.The most popular models: Grand, Smart, Extra. Flow-through filters are widely presented. Reverse osmosis products are available.
• Aqualine... The products of this Taiwanese company are flow filters and reverse osmosis systems. The products are of high quality and reasonable prices. The first flask is made transparent, which helps to understand when it is time to change cartridges.
• Raifil... South Korean brand. Some of the best reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration systems. The products have increased productivity.

Types of filters for washing

Want to figure out which water filter to choose for your sink? It is important to understand in detail the classification of such devices. Water filters can be divided into categories depending on the configuration (number and type of installed cartridges)

Classic models

Three-stage filters are considered to be classic - they are simple, reliable and until recently the most common. Their capabilities are quite enough for domestic use.

Sequentially, the water in such filters goes through the following stages:

• Stage 1 - mechanical filtration, which retains insoluble particles of rust, sand, clay, silt, etc. Non-woven polypropylene is most often used as a filter in the first stage cartridges.
• Stage 2 - demineralization. Salts dissolved in water are effectively removed by ion exchange, demineralizing cartridges are filled with a special ion exchange resin.
• Stage 3 - charcoal filter. Activated carbon absorbs pesticides, oil particles and partially disinfects water.

Classic water filter with three stages of cleaning

Reverse osmosis filters

When discussing reverse osmosis water filters for washing, reviews can be found contradictory. Some consider the ability to maximize the removal of impurities as an advantage of such models, while others consider water completely devoid of minerals and trace elements to be harmful to the body. In fact, it is not the use of "too pure" water in itself that is harmful, but the lack of necessary salts in the diet, so the situation can be corrected in two ways:

• consume additional vitamin and mineral complexes or bottled table mineral water,
• choose a reverse osmosis filter with an additional mineralizing stage.

In-line water filters for washing with reverse osmosis have at least four stages. In this case, a cartridge with a filter (reverse osmosis membrane) with such small cell sizes (comparable to the linear dimensions of water molecules) is added to the three stages of classical models that water purification is performed at the molecular level. With such cleaning, the presence of residual impurities in the water that has passed all the stages of the filter is excluded.

The reverse osmosis filter is always equipped with a storage tank

Most often, there are more practical five-stage reverse osmosis models, which are a serial connection of cartridges:

• Stage 1 - a coarse mechanical filter that retains large insoluble particles,
• Stage 2 - a carbon filter that removes chlorine from water,
• Stage 3 - fine mechanical filter,
• Stage 4 - a filter with a reverse osmosis membrane,
• Stage 5 - carbon post-filter.

Advanced filters

If the classical design is complemented by specialized stages (iron-removing cartridges, disinfecting irradiators with UV light, etc.), the extended filter is capable of performing additional functions. The feasibility of using such models is determined by the composition of the water (by laboratory analysis).

If the water supply system "suffers" from interruptions or pressure drops, the problem can be solved by using a water filter, supplemented by a storage device.

The best flow filters for washing according to user reviews

To simplify the process of choosing a water purification system, you should look at the rating of filters from leading domestic and foreign manufacturers. This will narrow your search and allow you to make the right decision.

EXPERT Ferrum Barrier Effective Iron Removal

The model is an effective home water filter for the kitchen, which has the following advantages:

1. High degree of water purification from impurities of iron, chlorine and other substances.
2. Ease of installation and affordable cost.
3. Lack of influence on the overall head.
4. Ease of replacement of cartridges, due to the special technology of their installation.
5. No leaks.
6. Compact dimensions and ergonomic design.
7. Compared to jugs, cartridges are changed much less frequently.

The disadvantages include the low efficiency of working with scale from increased rigidity. Replaceable elements are quite expensive and cannot be found in any store. To do this, you need to visit the manufacturer's website or contact the official supplier by phone.

EXPERT Hard Barrier - Best Price

Choosing the best water filters for washing, you should pay attention to the EXPERT Hard model. It is characterized by the following advantages:

1. Effective cleaning. The processed liquid becomes clear and tasty. Any scale or impurities are completely excluded.
2. Small size and the presence of thin flasks, which give the unit ergonomics and allow it to be installed under any sink.
3. Effective water softening.
4. The service life of the filter cartridge is quite long, and any person can replace it independently. Installation of filtering equipment is also easy.
5. Affordable cost.
6. High speed of work. The device cleans more than 1 liter of water per minute.

The list of cons is as follows:

1. After completing the cleaning process, the appliance becomes heavy.
2. The basic kit contains an inconvenient ball valve. For its manufacture, an alloy of silumin was used. There are no nuts for screwing in and out in the package.
3. After the first starts, the water may be cloudy. Therefore, experts recommend pouring the first 10 liters down the drain.
4. If the water is very hard, the life of the cartridge will be shortened.

Aquaphor Crystal N - effective water softening

The model is made of high quality materials and has a comfortable design. Filtered water tastes good and does not differ from store water. The declared service life is 1.5 years. The equipment softens water qualitatively, and the cartridge is subject to regeneration.

The disadvantages include the limited working life of the cartridge - it varies from 200 to 250 liters. However, the exact run time is determined by the properties of the fluid. Users may also not like the need to regularly flush the water softener cartridge. Buying a new device will require additional costs.

New Water Expert M410 - compact size and high-quality cleaning

This tap water sink filter is compact. Its width does not exceed 10 cm, while various household appliances can be freely placed under the sink. Impact-resistant plastic is used as the material of manufacture, the joints are treated with a sealant and are reliable.

Externally, the filter is beautiful, it goes well with any kitchen interior. The cost of the model is relatively low, and the basic kit contains all the necessary elements and parts.

Experts also note that the model normally copes with the cleaning of liquid from chlorine and gives a clear liquid that tastes like a spring one. The filtration rate remains satisfactory. The system also supports the ultrafiltration function with enhanced cleaning.

From the negative points, the inability to cope with very hard water and the high cost of replaceable elements are distinguished.

Aquaphor Crystal Quadro - for home cleaning experts

Built-in household filters for drinking water from the Aquaphor Crystal Quadro series are characterized by the following advantages:

1. Possibility to purchase any modules, including fine filters.
2. Easy to replace removable cartridges (they are removed with the body by slightly turning).
3. Ergonomic dimensions and stylish design.

However, the model also has important disadvantages:

• the presence of a fourth filter does not always justify itself, but affects the cost of equipment;
• replaceable units are quite expensive, since the cartridge comes with a flask;
• the places of fastenings are not of high quality, therefore, in the event of leaks, there is a possibility of flooding of neighbors.

Budget filter jug ​​BARRIER Prime 2 l

• simple construction;
• easy use;
• 350 l cartridge;
• 2 liters per cycle;
• costs 700-800 rubles.

Filter jug ​​BARRIER Prime 2 l is a regular jug ​​made of transparent plastic, divided into 2 parts: upper and lower. The upper part is filled with water from a tap or other source. From there, it flows by gravity into a replaceable carbon cartridge, where it is cleaned of chlorine, then flows down to the bottom of the device. The module is enough for 350 l of liquid. The capacity of the storage part is 2 liters, the total volume is 4.2 liters. The dimensions of the device are 28 × 26 × 14 cm, and the weight is 1.04 kg. It costs 700-800 rubles.

The jug type device is not intended to be connected to the water supply. Water is poured into it manually when the top cover is removed. An electronic resource indicator shows when the coal module needs to be replaced. It is made in the form of an LED with a battery power supply.

A simple household purifier designed to produce potable water. A convenient option for giving, at home.

Owners praise for the quality of cleaning, easy module change, convenient refilling, nice appearance. They complain that it is possible to drain the liquid from the lower tank only after the upper tank is completely empty.

Pros:

• easy to use;
• easy cartridge change;
• the module is enough to clean 350 liters of water;
• cleans 2 liters of liquid per cycle;
• the model costs 700-800 rubles;
• Beautiful design;
• electronic resource indicator.

Which water filter to choose for a sink

What are the best water filters? To choose the most suitable filter model, you need to know exactly what kind of pollution it will have to deal with.

Data on the composition of impurities - quantitative and qualitative - in tap water can be obtained free of charge from the local branch of Rospotrebnadzor.

To find out exactly what the water is “rich in”, you need to send the sample for laboratory research.

In a shortened version (according to 14 parameters), it costs about 1,500 rubles, in an expanded version - about 3 thousand rubles. Today some filter companies can provide this service as well.

You can also do an approximate water analysis yourself using special test strips. However, they make it possible to determine only the presence of a particular impurity, but not its concentration. Therefore, in this way, the quality of the outlet water is usually monitored during testing of the installed filter.

Based on the analysis results, a filter model is selected. A powerful 8-stage system is not always the best, as many of its modules may not be needed.

For example, for the purification of water extracted from an artesian well, as a rule, a mechanical purification module and an iron removal cartridge are required. Water in some areas of St. Petersburg, which does not have deviations in bacteriological and calcium-magnesium composition, can be cleaned of chlorine residues using a charcoal filter.

Complete set of the "Aquaphor" filter

In addition to using test strips, there are other ways to check the filter's performance. To, for example, determine how well the organochlorine is removed, methylene blue can be added to the water. If this type of impurity is absent, the water will remain transparent.If it has a color, then the filter is working ineffectively, and the thicker the color, the greater the concentration of organochlorine.

How do you choose a water filter?

Before going to the store, you need to answer a few questions.

1. For what purpose is a filter needed - to achieve transparency or to remove harmful microelements from the water? Choice: pre-filter mesh or real filter.
2. What is the water in the house? Chemical analysis is possible in order to select the filter exactly according to the purpose.
3. What is the optimal cleaning level? What additives should be removed from the water? The choice of both the type of filter and the number of cleaning layers.
4. How to choose a water filter model? Specific details - from the data sheet and from consultants.
5. What to find out in the data sheet? Confirmation of a high level of cleaning. There should be links to the certification of the filter by an independent laboratory indicating the permissible cleaning standards: standard-42 (99% removal of chlorine), standard-53 (removal of volatile organic compounds, chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides), standard-58 (99.9% removal harmful substances).
6. Which is better - imported or Russian? Not yielding to world brands in quality, Russian counterparts are cheaper and more convenient to operate and maintain, because they are made taking into account the characteristics of our water.
7. Objective information for selection - filter rating, company reputation and Roskontrol RF website with the results of expert examination of the best household appliances.

Popular models

You can find different types on the market. Some are bought more often, as evidenced by the quality of their work.

"Aquaphor OSMO 50" version 5

The product removes the smallest particles, quickly cleansing the liquid. The housing contains a multi-stage cleaning system. Works with cold water.

Geyser Prestige PM

The original design has a high pressure pump. Osmosis is divided into 3 stages of liquid purification. The storage tank is designed for 12 liters.

Atoll A-550 STD

The product is equipped with a thick plastic body and stiffening ribs. Thanks to them, the reliability of the design increases. The liquid is usable immediately after the filter is installed.

EXPERT Standard barrier

The model is developed using osmosis technology, it is one of the best for domestic use. Installed above and below the sink. The package is complete, so you don't have to buy anything.

"Geyser Nanotech"

Due to the 20 liter tank, it takes up a little more space than other filters. The product has a five-stage cleaning system. Cleans 1.5 liters of water per minute.

"Aquaphor Crystal Eco"

The developed design is easy to install. If desired, it is possible to connect a softening component. Filtration cartridges are changed every year.

"Aquaphor Morion M"

Manufacturers have tried not only to assemble filters from reliable and efficient components, but also focused on appearance.

Barrier EXPERT Hard

Thanks to Smart Lock technology, the filtration system stays in place at maximum water pressure. The model is specially designed for houses with central water supply.

New Water Expert Osmos MO530

When creating a model, high-quality elements are used. The water filtration parts last 2-3 years. Because of this feature, the cost is high.

"Geyser ECO"

After purification, the water is enriched with ions. During operation, replacement of filter elements is rarely required.

"IKAR"

Water purification cartridges are sold in the store. The model is equipped with electronic control over the parameters of liquid purification.

"Aquaphor Crystal Quadro"

Easy replacement of filter elements, since the cartridges are changed with the flask. The device stands out for its compact size.

"Barrier PROFI Osmo" 100

Model with 5 stages of liquid purification. Moreover, the cost is acceptable for every person who wants to install this type of filter.

"Aquaphor DWM-101S Morio"

The product has a device responsible for water mineralization. Thanks to the tank, a person has a supply of water.Works even at low inlet pressure.

Effective four-stage Aquaphor Crystal Eco H under the sink

• gives out 2.5 l / min;
• designed for 8000 liters;
• softens water;
• removes chlorine.

Four-stage under-sink cleaner. The liquid passes through the carbon cartridges, being cleaned of impurities, free chlorine, which softens it, so the purifier is suitable for hard water. The porosity of the sorption element is 0.1 microns. The device is designed for cold water with temperatures ranging from 5 to 45 degrees. The filter resource is 8000 l, however, if the quality of the passed liquid is poor, it will decrease. It costs 5,100-10,400 rubles.

The water purifier has dimensions of 260 × 305 × 90 mm, works as a flow filter. The appliance connects directly to a cold water pipe using a 1/2 ”threaded flange. Purified water is discharged separately - when the tap is turned on, the filter starts to work. The productivity is 2.5 l / min.

The device meets the needs of a small family in clean water for washing dishes, fruits and vegetables, and cooking.

Excellent value for money. Praised for easy installation, ease of cartridge change, high-quality filtration. The company provides a good level of service and support via phone and internet.

In the reviews, there are complaints about the incompleteness of the goods. Parts for assembly may be missing. The problem is solved by repeated contact to the store.

Pros:

• the set of modules is designed for 8000 liters;
• purifier productivity - 2.5 l / min;
• softens water;
• removes free chlorine;
• easy to assemble;
• easy replacement of cartridges;
• good support.

Varieties of filters

The choice of filter primarily depends on the composition of the water

To understand which filter you need to install, first you need to understand the quality indicators of water, find out what you will have to deal with. Among them:

• turbidity due to the presence of dissolved and undissolved organic matter, iron, aluminum compounds, the presence of plankton or microorganisms, as well as clay or sand;
• color - this indicator depends on the season, the presence of fulvic acids and humates in the soil, ferric iron - in other words, rust; surface waters have a richer color and smell, which indicates the unfavorable state of the source;

• taste is determined depending on what substances are dissolved in the liquid;

• smell - distinguish between natural and artificial, in the first case, the source is organic matter, in the second - chemical impurities;
• acid-base balance - one of the main parameters that determine the suitability of water for consumption, characterized by the ratio of alkaline and acidic elements in the liquid;
• hardness - the presence of calcium and magnesium salts;
• ORP - the redox potential of water - the most important parameter for human health, should have a value below 0 so that the body does not spend energy on correcting the fluid coming from outside.

For each indicator there is a device that measures the quality of the liquid. You can take the samples to the laboratory, and then begin to study the filters that can correct the situation. Reviews of consumers who have already installed any home cleaning devices will help you choose a water filter.

Sorption filters

Well water purification system

The most popular method is activated carbon or aluminosilicates. These substances attach to themselves various chemical impurities, disinfect the liquid, and also partially soften it by removing calcium and magnesium. Aluminosilicates are also capable of removing heavy metals - lead, mercury, cadmium.

Advantages:

• can be pressurized and non-pressurized, which makes it possible to use them in everyday life and at enterprises;
• eliminate a large number of organic and inorganic compounds, mechanical particles;
• replacement of the cartridge is carried out independently at home;
• soften the liquid, which allows less frequent prevention of scale in washing machines and dishwashers.

Cons of sorption cleaning:

• cleaning is more expensive due to constant replacement of cartridges;
• low speed of the filtration procedure;
• in most models it is impossible to create a water supply.

Of these products, consumers prefer fiber filters, which need to be changed less frequently, while maintaining a high degree of purification.

Reverse osmosis

A large number of reviews about the best filter for water purification were received by models operating on the principle of reverse osmosis. The method is based on the use of a membrane made of polymeric materials through which the liquid passes. The degree of purification reaches 98% in household appliances and up to 100% in factories.

The membrane passes water molecules and gases dissolved in water - oxygen, carbon dioxide and even partially chlorine, therefore, together with the osmotic filter, a final purifier is installed that removes odors and gases. The liquid tastes like spring water, although it is essentially distilled. Doctors recommend using mineralizers to restore the balance of trace elements - magnesium, calcium, iodine, fluorine, potassium, because these substances remain on the membrane.

Electrocoagulation

The electrocoagulation method is the most difficult because of the oxidation and reduction processes that take place in the liquid. Its principle is based on the use of steel or aluminum anodes. As a result, organic matter settles, separates or dissolves under the influence of an electric field. In order to optimally adjust the operation of the electrocoagulation filter, it is necessary to correctly calculate the flow rate, as well as the current strength, its uniform distribution.

The method is rarely used in home cleaning systems. Its scope extends to wastewater treatment plants, where the level of pollution by organic and chemical substances is much higher than in a water pipe. This method makes it possible to obtain the most useful water for the human body, based on the recovery functions.

Popular cartridge filter models

Filters installed under the sink are most often three-flask (three-stage), less often there are models with four cases. In any case, the mechanical filter is put first, then the ion-exchange filter and the last carbon filter. If there are four elements, two coal ones are placed, but with different types of backfill. Sometimes bioprotection is put on the fourth stage, a new generation of filters with silver for disinfection.

The most popular brands Aquaphor, Geyser, Barrier, products under the Atoll brand have shown themselves well. Choose a system primarily according to the hardness of the water, it is divided into normal, hard, very hard. If there are other problems, such as the need for bacterial cleaning, look for models that can give you such cleaning. Then look at performance and dimensions.

To say that one of these manufacturers cannot be better, all of them have an approximately equal number of positive and negative reviews. The Barrier filter manufacturers have a very poor customer service, although the products themselves are not bad. This is not to say that Geyser is ideal in this regard, but things are a little better. In general, Russian manufacturers cannot yet please with a high-quality service department, so all the problems will have to be dealt with on their own.

Water filters under the flow type sink

Another tip that can come in handy when choosing a filter, look not only at the cost of the kit. Much more important is the cost of consumables (cartridges) and their standard sizes, connection methods

Ease of maintenance is also important, filters will have to be changed, so easy replacement is a plus

Types of water filters

The advantages of flow-through filters will become more evident when you compare them with other types. These are the types of water filters:

Pitchers: the most affordable option with very modest characteristics. The filtration rate is only about 0.1 - 0.3 l / min. Quality - depends on the configuration. In the cheapest models, cleaning is carried out by means of a mesh and activated carbon (chlorine, unpleasant odor, mechanical impurities are eliminated), in expensive ones there is still an ion-exchange resin and a fine-pored mesh (retains salts of hardness, iron and heavy metals). The volume of the filter material in the cartridge is small, therefore, it must be replaced every 300 liters of purified water.

An important advantage of the jug is complete autonomy, that is, no water supply is needed to use it.

Filter attachments: the same filter material is used, but in a larger quantity, so the resource is about 700 liters. The productivity is also higher - due to the pressure (the cleaner is fixed on the mixer outlet or connected to it with a hose)

In a minute, you can get from 0.5 to 1.5 liters of water.

Flow-through: these installations use a much more efficient filter material, and in addition to a very large volume. Thanks to this, the resource can reach 12 thousand liters, and 1 liter of purified water costs mere pennies.

The number of stages for different models ranges from 3 to 8. The most effective of the flowing water purifiers are reverse osmosis, which filter out up to 99% of impurities.

Conclusion

The level of purification of tap water is approximately the same for the products of both companies, provided that the filter is selected correctly. Barrier filters are slightly behind in the quality of cleaning, especially if the water is hard or saturated with iron.

The main difference between the products lies in the range of models, the cost of systems and replaceable units, technical characteristics.

Users rate "Aquaphor" and "Barrier" at the same level, mostly positive reviews. Negative ratings can be associated with an incorrectly selected system or untimely replacement of cartridges.