Water Filter Pitchers
A water filter pitcher is the cheapest way to filter drinking water with no installation. Most reduce chlorine taste and odor under NSF/ANSI 42, and some filters are also certified under NSF/ANSI 53 for lead or PFOA/PFOS. The filter, not the pitcher, determines what is reduced.
How to choose
- Certified contaminants: check the filter's performance data sheet.
- Filter life: standard filters often last about 40 gallons or 2 months, while long-life filters last up to about 120 gallons or 6 months.
- Cost per gallon: filter price divided by rated gallons.
- Speed: dense filters certified for more contaminants often filter more slowly.
- Size: 6 to 10 cups for most fridges. Dispensers hold 18 to 30 cups.
- Indicator: an electronic or sticker reminder for changes.
Compare Brita Water Filter Pitchers, ZeroWater Pitchers and Water Filter Dispensers. Replacement filters are in Pitcher Replacement Filters.
FAQs
Do water filter pitchers actually work?
Yes, for what they are certified to reduce. Most reduce chlorine taste and odor, and some filters are certified for lead, PFOA/PFOS, mercury or other contaminants. They do not treat bacteria in unsafe water. Check the filter's performance data sheet and change it on time.
Which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants?
Pitchers vary widely. ZeroWater's ion exchange filters reduce total dissolved solids, and several brands offer filters certified for lead and PFOA/PFOS. Compare performance data sheets for the contaminants in your water rather than marketing counts, which list many substances at different reduction levels.
How often should I change a pitcher filter?
Follow the rated capacity. Standard filters are often rated around 40 gallons, about 2 months for a typical household, and long-life filters up to about 120 gallons or 6 months. Change sooner if flow slows significantly or taste returns. Certified reduction only applies within the rated capacity.