Best under sink water filter system for well water

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An under sink water filter for well water provides a continuous supply of filtered water that can be used for drinking, cooking and other purposes.

Thereby, a high-quality system will not only improve water aesthetics, it’ll also protect your family’s health from harmful contaminants.

Great design ensures easy DIY installation, usage and maintenance.

So, here is our collection of the 6 best under sink water filters for well water. Enjoy!

Contents

• 1 Best Under Sink Water Filters for Well Water – Top Picks
• 2 Best Under Sink Water Filter for Well Water Reviews
  • 2.1 1. Best Overall: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under the Sink Water Filter System
  • 2.2 2. Best for Lower Budgets + Limited Space: Epic Smart Shield Under Sink Water Filter
  • 2.3 3. Best for RO Purification: Crystal Quest Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filter
  • 2.4 4. Best RO for Limited Space: Waterdrop WD-G3-W Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
  • 2.5 5. Best for Lowest Maintenance: CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter
  • 2.6 6. Best for Lowest Budgets: Culligan US 1, US 3 and US 4 EZ-Change Under Sink Drinking Water Filtration Systems
• 3 Under Sink Well Water Filtration System Comparison Chart
• 4 Buyer’s Guide – How to Buy an Under Sink Water Filter for Well Water (+ How We Tested)
  • 4.1 Test Your Water Quality
  • 4.2 Pre-Treat Your Water
  • 4.3 Filter Certifications
  • 4.4 Filtration Technologies
  • 4.5 Filtration Stages
  • 4.6 Water Pressure and Flow Rate
  • 4.7 Installation
  • 4.8 Maintenance
  • 4.9 Price Meets Filter Capacity
  • 4.10 Space
  • 4.11 Affordability
• 5 What is an Under Sink Water Filter for Well Water?
• 6 Under Sink Well Water Filter Types and How They Work
  • 6.1 Dedicated Filtered Water Dispenser vs Inline
  • 6.2 Single-Stage Filters
  • 6.3 Multi-Stage Units
  • 6.4 Reverse Osmosis Systems
• 7 Benefits and Drawbacks of Under Sink Filter Systems for Well Water
  • 7.1 Advantages
  • 7.2 Disadvantages
• 8 Who Should Purchase an Under-the-Sink Water Filter?
• 9 Installing Under Sink Water Filters
• 10 How to Maintain an Under Sink Water Filter
• 11 Private Well Water: Under Sink or Countertop Filters?
  • 11.1 Which Type to Choose?
• 12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• 13 Conclusion

Best Under Sink Water Filters for Well Water – Top Picks

Products	Specs & Features	Where to Buy
Best Overall Clearly Filtered 3-Stage ★★★★★	Price: $$$ Filter Stages: 3 Water: 80-85% of Initial Flow NSF: 42, 53, 401 Best For: Most Comprehensive Drinking Water Filtration	Coupon Code (15% Off): WM15 Check Current Price Or read our review
Epic Smart Shield ★★★★ ☆	Price: $$ Filter Stages: 1 Water: 1.25 Gallons Per Minute NSF: 42, 53, 401 Best For: Lower Budgets	Coupon Code (15% Off): MASTERZ Check Current Price Or read our review
#1 RO for Well Water Crystal Quest 1000C ★★★★ ☆	Price: $$-$$$ Filter Stages: 12-13 Water: Varies NSF: – Best For: RO Purified Water	Check Current Price Or read our review

The order of the following under sink well water filter reviews is deliberate. Our favorite products are at the top.

1. Best Overall: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under the Sink Water Filter System

Coupon Code (15% Off): WM15

In our opinion, the best under sink water filter for well water in 2022 is the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage. Here’s why:

An independent lab has tested the system for the removal of well over 200 contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and commonly occurring chemicals in well water. The results: Contaminant reduction rates are excellent.

Additionally, the under sink well water filter is super easy to install and maintain.

Perhaps this explains why most customers recommend it to others. Top!

★★★★★

See More Product Images at clearlyfiltered.com

Main Specs

• Price: $$$
• Filter stages: 3
• Flow rate: Feed water pressure minus 15-20%
• Filtration capacity: 2,000 gallons
• Estimated annual filter replacement cost: $400
• NSF: 42, 53, 401
• Best for: The Clearly Filtered 3-stage system is best for overall under sink water filtration.

Pros

• Design and assembly is America-based.
• The Clear Filtered uses a 3-stage filtration process. The first stage – granular activated carbon media – eliminates organic compounds, chlorine (98.6%), and several other chemicals that may otherwise affect your water aesthetics like taste.
• The second stage reduces metals like 99.4% chromium 6 and different radiological elements through a unique blend of filter media.
• The third stage removes any remaining impurities and contaminants, mainly 94.3% fluoride and arsenic.
• The under sink filtration system does not remove healthy, vital minerals and nutrients contained in your drinking water that promote good health.
• NSF certifications guarantee the effectiveness of this water filter. It is NSF-tested for standards 401, 53, and 42 for over 230 contaminants found in tap/well water supplies.
• The inline design allows you to install it with your existing kitchen faucet.
• The installation is straightforward and requires only little maintenance. It is a suitable system for tenants as it takes no more than 15 minutes to install and can be removed when needed.
• The stainless steel structure and outlet hose quality make the CF 3-Stage durable and long-lasting.
• Filtration capacity is 2,000 gallons – enough water for a whole year!
• You do not need any special tools to change the filter cartridges.
• The system comes with a 30-day free trial. If you aren’t satisfied, you can return it and get a full refund.
• It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you are not required to pay for repairs.

Cons

• You may experience a 15% pressure drop, which is a no-big-deal whatsoever.
• If your well water is excessively contaminated, you’ll need an additional pre-filtration system like a sediment filter.
• The replacement filters are a bit expensive. Nonetheless, you can get your hands on a fantastic discount offer and free shipping by subscribing to the company’s VIP program.
• The Clearly Filtered is rather costly compared to other under sink filtration systems for well water. However, it’s because it’s designed using advanced manufacturing methods and filter media. Besides, it delivers excellent water quality, too.

Or read our complete review of the CF Under-the-Sink Filter

2. Best for Lower Budgets + Limited Space: Epic Smart Shield Under Sink Water Filter

Coupon Code (15% Off): MASTERZ

Anyone is rarely on budget, and if you’re in the same boat looking for a great treatment system for your well water, Epic Smart Shield can be your best bet.

It’s affordable and gives you clean, fresh drinking water.

What’s more, the unit is NSF-tested to successfully eliminate over 70 contaminants from your well water, including lead, E. Coli bacteria, cysts, and Glyphosate

See More Product Images at epicwaterfilters.com

Main Specs

• Price: $$
• Filter stages: 1
• Flow rate: 1.25 gpm
• Filtration capacity: 651 gallons or 1 year
• Estimated annual filter replacement cost: $140
• NSF: 42, 53, 401
• Best for: The Epic Smart Shield is ideal for those with limited budgets and space under sinks.

Pros

• This filter is your best option if you’re on a shoestring budget.
• It is manufactured in America.
• The Epic Smart Shield is not designed particularly for well water. Therefore, the company recommends using their 5-micron sediment filter to pre-treat private well water. This practice will ensure maximum filter efficiency and also increase filter life.
• The under sink water filter system is tested for NSF standards 42, 53, and 401. It effectively removes 86.6% of mercury, 95.5% of chlorine smell and taste, 99.9 cysts, 99.3% lead, and other contaminants like asbestos, PFOA, VOCs, and uranium[1]. Thus, the activated coconut shell-based carbon block removes a total of over 70 potential contaminants lurking in your well water.
• The inline design allows you to install quickly – you won’t need to hire a professional. Besides, the system comes with an installation kit, so you won’t require any special tools for the process.
• Filtration capacity is 651 gallons or 1 year. Also, the maintenance costs are pretty low.
  • The maintenance will cost you around $140 annually. However, you can subscribe to the Clean Water Club to avail 20% discount.
• You can also buy an extra faucet.
• The company prefers recycling products; return three old filters and get a new one for free!
• Excellent customer service makes the installation and maintenance process easier for you.
• You may return the under sink water filter for a full refund in case you’re not satisfied.

Cons

• A few users experienced a pressure drop because the average flow rate is 1.25 gpm. However, the drop is just minor and not a problem in most cases.

3. Best for RO Purification: Crystal Quest Reverse Osmosis Under Sink Water Filter

If you use well water for cooking and drinking, the reverse osmosis under sink water filters by Crystal Quest might intrigue you. We’re talking about the 1000C/1000CP in particular.

Both are geared towards well water. However, they are not NSF-certified, which is a downside.

The units are downright similar except that the 1000CP utilizes an electric pump to enhance water pressure. Above that, the pump decreases wastewater and increases the filtration speed.

What else is good? The units include 12 different filter stages to ensure maximum contaminant elimination from your well water supply.

Besides, if you want to go a step above and wish to remove 99.9% of microorganisms, you can go for a 13th filter stage and convert the Crystal Quest 1000C/1000CP to the 3000C/3000CP.

Want to know more? Read on!

See More Product Images at crystalquest.com

Main Specs

• Price: $$-$$$
• Filter stages: 12-13
• Flow rate: Varies
• Filtration capacity: Varies
• Estimated annual filter replacement cost: $120
• Best for: The Crystal Quest is best for contaminants that require RO purification.

Pros

• The 12-stage under sink filter system helps you get rid of sediments, herbicides, pesticides, PCBs, VOCs, microorganisms, industrial solvents, hardness, heavy metals, and other elements affecting your water’s taste and smell.
• A carbon block removes chlorine and other chemicals in the first stage. Additionally, it catches undissolved elements that otherwise make your water dirty.
• The 0.02-micron ultrafiltration membrane in the second stage depletes the percentage of microorganisms and large organics swimming in your water.
• In the fourth stage, granular activated carbon removes 99% of chlorine taste and smell, and other chemicals.
• The 5th stage uses ion exchange resin that eliminates metals and hardness from your well water.
• The 6th and 7th stages remove sulfur, mercury, chromium 6, metals (including iron) and inhibit bacteria growth through redox filter media.
• The 9th filter stage uses a reverse osmosis membrane that rejects contaminants larger than 0.0001 microns in size.
• The GAC filter in stage 11 removes residual taste.
• The 3rd, 8th, 10th, and 12th filter stage are pads that block free-moving particles.
• Filter stage 13 uses a UV filter to inactivate microbes[2]. Remember though that this stage is entirely optional.
• Systems produce enough safe water sufficient for a large family.
• Same easy installation like other standard units mentioned above.
• Maintenance cost is limited. What’s more, if you subscribe, you can avail 5% discount on total replacement filter costs.
• One-year warranty.

Cons

• The fact that the filters aren’t NSF-certified is disappointing.
• A customer reported that installation instructions are not comprehensive enough.
• If the iron levels in your well water are more than 2 ppm, the filter might get clogged. The same goes for hardness; your water hardness should not be above 15 grains per gallon. Otherwise, you’ll experience a pressure drop.

4. Best RO for Limited Space: Waterdrop WD-G3-W Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System

If you have less space under your kitchen sink but want a reverse osmosis system for treating your well water, the Waterdrop G3 filter is for you.

Though it’s an RO system, it doesn’t need a storage tank. Instead, it works on-demand with a powerful built-in water pressure pump. This plus all the factors below compel us to give it a 4-star rating.

★★★★☆

See More Product Images at waterdropfilter.com

Main Specs

• Price: $$$
• Filter stages: 3
• Flow rate: 0.3 gpm
• Filtration capacity: 550-2,200 gallons
• Estimated annual cost for new filters: $120
• NSF: 58
• Best for: The Waterdrop is ideal for those with limited space.

Pros

• If you’re living in a house with minimal space, you’ll benefit from the space-saving design of the Waterdrop G3 under sink water filter.
• It is certified by the National Sanitation Foundation against standard 53.
• The filter includes three filtration stages. The first stage features a combination of sediment filter media and activated carbon and effectively removes sediments and chlorine.
• The second stage eliminates impurities and contaminants using an RO membrane. It rejects salts, minerals, heavy metals, metalloids, and more.
• Stage 3 features an activated carbon block-post filter to remove any remaining chemicals and residual taste.
• Due to its built-in pump, you get high pressure and a flow rate of 0.3 gpm. You can fill a glass of water in less than 10 seconds.
• The filtration system produces 1 gallon of wastewater for every gallon filtered. This may feel like a lot, but it’s suitable for an RO system like this one.
• The company uses BPA-free materials for customer safety.
• The installation process is pretty straightforward.
• Average maintenance cost is $120 a year, which is quite affordable.
• The system’s built-in TDS meter calculates and displays the TDS concentration. If you notice them rising, it’s time to change the filter.
• Waterdrop offers a test run. If you aren’t satisfied, you can return the unit (within 30 days) and get a full refund.
• Includes one-year warranty.

Cons

• Includes only one NSF certification.
• It is slightly expensive compared to other under sink RO systems available on the market.
• A few customers reported the TDS meter was not displaying correct results.
• The company hasn’t specified the reduction rates of particular contaminants.

Or read our complete Waterdrop system review

5. Best for Lowest Maintenance: CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter

If your well water is relatively clean and you only have issues with foul smell and bad taste, the CuZn UC-200 might be just enough to fulfill your filtration needs.

★★★☆☆

See More Product Images at amazon.com

Main Specs

• Price: $$
• Filter stages: 3
• Flow rate: ?
• Filtration capacity: 50,000 gallons or 5 years
• Estimated annual cost for new filters: –
• NSF: 42
• Best for: The CuZn UC-200 is ideal for those looking for low maintenance.

Pros

• CuZn UC-200 under sink water filters are manufactured in America.
• The 3-stage filter systems use a combination of activated carbon and sub-micron sediment filter to eliminate organic and inorganic contaminants, including herbicides, pesticides, chlorine, sulfur, lead, rust, sand, and clay.
• We have an NSF 42 certification, which testifies the filters’ ability to eliminate aesthetic well water impurities.
• The filter is bacteriostatic; mold and microbes cannot grow inside of it.
• The installation is pretty easy, and the filter comes with all the fitting essentials required to make installation even more convenient.
  • You can reach out to customer service at any time if you require help during the process. And the installation tutorial video on the official website is helpful for step-by-step instructions.
• The filter doesn’t require any maintenance. 50,000 gallons capacity last for up to five years – effortless!
• If you don’t like the product, you can claim a full refund within 90-days of purchase.
• Comes with a 2-year warranty.

Cons

• A few users report black grains in their water. It’s perhaps the carbon media breaking down and making its way into the filtered water.
• Some customers also report leaking units. This part can be frustrating because repairs are complicated due to the unique design.

6. Best for Lowest Budgets: Culligan US 1, US 3 and US 4 EZ-Change Under Sink Drinking Water Filtration Systems

The Culligan EZ series includes three interchangeable under sink water filters that can be switched depending on your well water quality.

The US 1 effectively removes chlorine but doesn’t target any other pollutants in your water. In other words, this is only for well owners practicing shock chlorination.

Alternatively, US 3 and US 4 are more efficient filters and eliminate several toxic contaminants from your water.

See More Product Images at amazon.com

Main Specs

• Price: $
• Filter stages: 1
• Flow rate: 0.5 gpm
• Filtration capacity and NSF certifications depend on which filter model you choose:
  • US 1: 3,000 gallons, NSF 42
  • US 3: 500 gallons, NSF 42 & 53
  • US 4: 500 gallons, NSF 42, 53, 401
• Estimated annual cost for new filters: $20-120
• Best for: Culligan US 1, US 3 and US 4 are best for those looking for filtration on a low budget.

Pros

• You have the option to choose from 3 different under sink water filter cartridges, but it’s best to test your well water instead of guessing the suitable one. If you want more thorough filtration, we recommend the US 4.
  • US 1 filter removes chlorine and few substances causing unpleasant taste and odor.
  • US 3 removes finer particles, chlorine, lindane, lead, cysts, and turbidity.
  • US 4 filters the most water contaminants, including cysts, lead, disinfectants, particulates, volatile organic compounds, and MTBEs.
• US 1, 3 and 4 cartridges are NSF-certified against different standards.
• The package also includes a dedicated, lead-free faucet.
• The installation is pretty simple. You do not need to hire a professional. Just gather the required fittings and ask a friend or a family member to help as you set it up.
• Maintenance is effortless and costs around $100 annually – sounds affordable. Just twist the old cartridge and fit in a new one.
• Each under sink filter model comes with a 2-year warranty.

Cons

• A few users reported leakages in the undersink water filter.
• The faucet in the package is not very durable; it’s likely to break easily.
• The water pressure isn’t that high – a half-gallon flow rate at 60 psi. A few users consider it a rather poor flow rate.

Under Sink Well Water Filtration System Comparison Chart

How do the best under sink water filters for well water perform when directly compared to each other?

System	$$$	Stages	Water Flow	Filter Capacity	Annual Cost	NSF/ANSI	Best For	Details
Clearly Filtered 3-Stage	$$$	3	80-85% of Initial	2,000 gal	$400	42, 53, 401	Best Under Sink Well Water Filter System Overall
Epic Smart Shield	$$	1	1.25 gpm	651 gal	$140	42, 53, 401	Best for Limited Under Sink Space and Small Budgets
Crystal Quest RO	$$-$$$	12-13	Varies	Varies	$120	–	Best for Contamination Requiring RO Water Purification
Waterdrop WD-G3-W	$$$	3	0.3 gpm	550-2,200 gal	$120	58	Best for Limited Space
CuZn UC-200 Undersink Filter	$$	3	?	50,000 gal	–	42	Best for Lowest Maintenance Requirements
Culligan US 1, 3, 4 EZ-Change	$	1	0.5 gpm	500-3,000 gal	$20-120	42, 53	Best Budget Solution

Buyer’s Guide – How to Buy an Under Sink Water Filter for Well Water (+ How We Tested)

Here’s our buying guide with everything you need to know about how to buy the best under sink water filter for well water.

Test Your Water Quality

Well water is free and pretty much endless, which is excellent. However, if you’re getting water supplied via a private well on your property, you need to test it for contaminants.

Just a bit more effort and you’ll make your water suitable for drinking.

It’s best to test your well water yearly since the concentration and properties of chemicals in your water change over time.

A well water test will inform you about potential problems with microorganisms and other bacteria or impurities/contaminants like iron, mercury, and pesticides. After knowing about your water quality, you can choose an appropriate treatment method.

Pre-Treat Your Water

You’re installing an under sink water filter to remove contaminants; what’s the point of pre-treatment anyway? We’ll explain.

Your well water may contain disease-causing pathogens like harmful bacteria that no regular under counter water filter can eliminate. Also, the water may be filled with hardness minerals, sediment, iron, and other contaminants that’ll clog any regular point-of-use water filter in no time.

So, before your new under sink well water filter becomes useless and the money spent to purchase it goes to waste, it’s often best to pre-treat your water.

• You can shock-chlorinate your well once in 6 months to kill any microbes.
• Install a sediment pre-filter if there’s lots of dirt in your well water. Most private well owners go for whole house sediment filters to prevent sand and rust etc. from building up in their home appliances and plumbing system. Otherwise, you can look for an under sink filter system with a powerful sediment filter stage – preferably pleated surface – to get rid of most sediment before getting subsequent filters clogged.

Filter Certifications

NSF certifications are hands down the best way to know about the authenticity of an under sink water filter for well water and its ability to eliminate contaminants.

This explains why most consumers look for NSF-certified filters. So, when comparing several styles, brands, and models, make sure you go for a water filter certified or tested by NSF. Why?

NSF is a non-profit organization that analyzes and certifies items for health safety purposes using stringent criteria.

You must look into the following certifications when purchasing an under sink well water filter for your home.

• NSF standard 401 (emerging compounds). Filters verified against this standard can remove pesticides, herbicides, prescription drugs, pharmaceutical run-offs, or other chemical substances like BPA.
• NSF standard P231 (microbiological filtration). Filters that can deplete the number of certain viruses, bacteria, and cysts in water receive this certification.
• Standard 58 (reverse osmosis). NSF/ANSI standard 58 targets contaminants with serious health effects like lead, VOCs, giardia, and cryptosporidium. However, the standard is for reverse osmosis systems only.
• NSF 53 (health effects). Same as NSF standard 58 but not limited to RO systems.
• NSF standard 42 (aesthetics). For chlorine taste and odor as well as turbidity.

Filtration Technologies

Your water test report is something that’ll help you determine an appropriate filtration method for your well water. You can go for any of these technologies:

1. Reverse osmosis. RO systems target thousands of water impurities by pushing them through a semi-permeable membrane. These systems are ideal for treating well water because they make it safe for drinking.
2. Activated carbon. Activated carbon removes all types of chemicals. Besides, it helps improve water aesthetics.
3. UV light. If you’re dealing with microbiological contamination like bacteria, a UV light stage targets it.
4. Iron filtration. Just like the name suggests, an iron filter targets iron in your water.
5. Several other under sink water filters and filtering technologies can be used to remove other impurities from well water.

Filtration Stages

In general, the more filter stages, the cleaner your well water will become.

Simply put, if you want maximum water purification, you should go for a filter that offers multiple levels of filtration.

But, when your water passes through several stages of filtration, its flow rate gets affected, too. So that’s something to keep in mind.

Water Pressure and Flow Rate

Water pressure refers to the force with which water flows out of a faucet, whereas flow rate is the amount of water flowing out in a given time frame.

Most private wells include a pressure tank that controls the water pressure of your well water supply. Because under sink water filters depend on the water pressure to work, make sure your home water has a pressure of around 60 psi.

Poor flow rate reduces pressure and flow from your faucet and may result in poor filtration.

Additionally, faucets without filters can supply water at a 1.5-2.0 gpm flow rate[3]. But no water filter system can match this.

Generally, under sink water filtration systems include a faucet with 0.5-1.5 gpm flow.

Installation

Luckily, most under sink water filters are easy to install, and you can set them up all by yourself. Only for a few exceptions you might need to hire a professional.

If you’re going for the latter option, expect to pay around $200 in installation fees. Besides, we recommend you take opinions from two or more plumbers. Otherwise, you might end up paying a hefty amount for work that’s easy and takes no more than an hour.

Also, note that under sink filter systems with a dedicated faucet cost more for installation. However, we recommend you go for one to utilize unfiltered water for washing vegetables or doing the dishes. This practice will ensure your filter lasts longer and requires less maintenance.

Maintenance

Because you’ll be replacing filters every six months, make sure you go for an under counter system that has easy-to-change cartridges. Otherwise, you might end up spending hours just to remove a filter cartridge.

So besides saving time, an easy-to-maintain filter will also save you money by eliminating service charges.

Price Meets Filter Capacity

When purchasing an under sink water filtration system for your home, make sure you estimate the total average annual replacement cost.

Because if you’re buying an inexpensive filter that needs frequent replacements, you may actually end up paying more in the long run.

That said, most of the under sink well water filters available on the market require replacement every 6 to 12 months.

Space

Under sink filters typically fit well inside any kitchen cabinet. However, if you’re out of space, make sure you purchase one that takes little room.

For instance, inline filters take less space than RO systems using multiple filtering stages.

Affordability

Lastly, don’t forget to consider your budget when purchasing an under sink filter for your well.

It’s time to debunk the myth that more expensive filters indicate a quality product. Although this can be the case, an affordable filter with fewer features might be just enough for your water conditions and needs.

Thankfully, you’ll find plenty of cost-effective options on the market. A simple under-the-sink filter can cost you as low as $80, whereas some heavy-duty systems come in at around $400-500.

What is an Under Sink Water Filter for Well Water?

Under sink water filters provide filtered water on demand.

You won’t find many filtration systems designed specifically for well water, though. Ideally, it’s best to go for a regular under sink filter system alongside pre-filtration.

In many cases, private well water is high in iron, sediment, scale, or other contaminants. If your water is, too, it could block any under sink water filter system quickly. Therefore, it’s best to pre-treat your well water.

Under Sink Well Water Filter Types and How They Work

Below, we’ll discuss a few under sink water filter types that you can use for your well water.

Dedicated Filtered Water Dispenser vs Inline

An inline under sink filter will connect the filter cartridge directly to your existing tap. While the idea of a single tap sounds enticing, you do not require filtered water all the think, i.e. for doing the dishes or washing vegetables.

This is why some under sink water filters come with a separate faucet. You can set up a dedicated dispenser to minimize wasting filtered water. What’s more, this practice will prolong your filter’s life.

Single-Stage Filters

The simplest under sink well water filtration systems features a single filter cartridge/stage. However, you shouldn’t underestimate their usage.

I mean, if your well water has no microbes and you’re already on a whole house sediment water filter, a simple carbon filter may suit you best.

Multi-Stage Units

Most conventional filtration systems use multiple stages to filter water. A few have two stages, while more advanced filters have three or even more.

Multi-stage water filters ensure maximum filtration, but they may lower pressure and flow rate.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

An RO system is perhaps the best option for people on private wells. It treats your water to a molecular level.

Conversely, reverse osmosis systems remove healthy minerals alongside the bad stuff.

Besides, RO systems are not that eco-friendly, which is another bummer. On average, 3 to 4 gallons of water flushes down for every filtered gallon – without a pump.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Under Sink Filter Systems for Well Water

Below, we’ll discuss what we love about under sink well water filters and things we do not idealize.

Advantages

• You’ll experience a visible change in well water aesthetics after installing an under sink water filter system.
• These systems are cost-effective compared to whole house water filters.
• A filter removes harmful contaminants[4] from your drinking water, ensuring maximum health for you and your family.
• You get filtered water on demand. Just hold a glass under the tap to get instant pure drinking water.
• The installation is pretty straightforward.
• Once installed, you can say goodbye to expensive bottled water. Bottled water is not only non-eco-friendly but may also be contaminated with toxics.
• Usually, maintenance is easy. Cartridges need replacement once or twice a year.

Disadvantages

• An under sink filter only treats well water at a single faucet.
• This filter alone might not be enough to eliminate all contaminants from your well water supply. You’ll likely require pre-treatment – maybe install a whole house water filter.
• You might experience a drop in water pressure depending on the type of filter you’re using.

Who Should Purchase an Under-the-Sink Water Filter?

If you suspect your water is contaminated, you should consider installing an under sink filter system regardless of whether you’re on a private well or city water.

Installing Under Sink Water Filters

If you’re a semi-technical sort of person, installing an under sink water filter should be easy as pie for you. Nonetheless, if your filter comes with a dedicated faucet, you’ll need to drill the sink top, of course.

However, if your filter is DIY-installation friendly, you can save up costs by doing the job all by yourself. Here’s how.

1. Close the cold water supply under your sink.
2. Turn on the kitchen tap and flush out all the remaining water.
3. Attach the water valve to the hose of the filtration system.
4. Connect the outlet hose to the tap.
5. Turn on the water supply.

How to Maintain an Under Sink Water Filter

Under sink filters can last for 6-12 months, depending on the filter cartridge you use. Make sure you keep track of your daily water usage.

Your water quality also determines the lifespan of the filter. If your well water is highly polluted, it’ll clog the filter much faster.

Private Well Water: Under Sink or Countertop Filters?

There’s not that much of a difference between under sink and countertop water filters. Obviously, one goes under your kitchen counter while the other is placed above it. Prices are almost the same which also goes for the available filter methods.

Which Type to Choose?

Simply put, if you don’t have the necessary space under your kitchen sink to install a water filter system, go countertop. Vice versa, if your kitchen counter is already cluttered with a microwave, blender, coffee maker and other appliances, do yourself a favor and install an under sink filter system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you get a filtration system for well water?

You most certainly can. There are many filter types available for home use. For well water, most popular are whole house and under sink water filters.

What kind of water filter do you need for well water?

If your well is laden with sediment and other dirt like rust we recommend installing a whole house water filter as a first defense. It’ll protect your home’s entire plumbing system including the water heater, dishwasher and other appliances. For drinking water purposes, you can add a point-of-use filter like an under sink water filter to your kitchen.

Do I need a filter for well water?

This depends on the quality of your well water. If it’s contaminant-free and tastes good there is no need for a water filter. However, if you’re dealing with taste issues and/or bad smell you should consider installing an under sink water filter system. The same applies if a water test has shown harmful contaminants to be present in your water supply.

How do you clean an under sink water filter?

You can’t clean the filter cartridges. All you can do is wash the filter housings from the inside using a mild dishwashing detergent.

Does an under sink water filter for well water limit the flow rate?

If it’s a simple sediment filter then you’ll see almost no difference in flow rate. But the more thorough the filtration is, the more it will limit output water pressure and flow.

Conclusion

An under sink water filter system for well water can make a great addition to your home. But, make sure to choose one suited for your water conditions and quality. Our favorite unit is the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage. If you are on a budget check the Epic Smart Shield. If you like reverse osmosis consider Crystal Quest.

If you have questions about these or any other under sink well water filters please leave a comment below!

Further Reading

• Best Under Sink Water Filter? Click Here!
• The Best Under Sink Alkaline Water Filters
• How to Make a DIY Under Sink Water Filter
• Under Sink Water Filter System is Causing Low Pressure? Find Solution Here.

Resources

• [1] https://www.mass.gov/info-details/arsenic-uranium-bedrock-well-study-arsenic-uranium-faqs
• [2] https://www.mygov.scot/treat-private-water-supply/uv-disinfection
• [3] https://inspectapedia.com/water/Water_Flow_Rate_Measurement.php
• [4] https://www.epa.gov/privatewells/potential-well-water-contaminants-and-their-impacts

Jason is the founder of Water Masterz and head of content creation. After six years in the industry, he has tremendous knowledge and first-hand experience on all things related to water treatment.

His credo: Not a single American should have to drink unhealthy water at home.