Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter Review

Aquasana 3-Stage water filters, or similar filters of these kind, are necessary for those who want to preserve their health. It seems like everything around us can be toxic and it has been proven that even the water we drink is sometimes harmful.

However, not everyone has a high-technology fridge with water filters, so some of us need to get one installed under our sink! It’s an easy solution to a complicated problem, so stay tuned to find out more about the features and see if this model, in particular, is worth your money! 

Aquasana 3-Stage Features

The working system

Many of these typical under-the-sink filters work by reverse osmosis, but Aquasana is an inline system. It uses 3 materials that take out the different macromolecular sizes of toxins and therefore you are getting clean and fresh water „rinsed“ through different types of carbon. 

What about the numbers?

We’re looking at half a gallon of water filtered each minute. Keep in mind that Aquasana 3-stage under counter water filter needs to work in large sections because of the running faucet. It’s not just a small glass that is filled in by pulling a handle on the fridge!

80PSI of force is just about enough to get a good flow, but don’t expect any extreme work from the faucet, since the process of filtering can’t be that quick.

What are the levels in the system?

To begin with, we have the 20 Micron pre-filter that gets rid of the big guys: rust, sediment and so on. Activated carbon then works with organic molecules and checks out if there are any pesticides, chemicals, herbicides or eventually small bacteria. 

The sub-micron (0.5) mechanical filtration removes cysts and the ion-exchange makes sure you won’t be drinking any heavy metals. Lastly, we’ve got catalytic carbon: it reduces the amount of chlorine and ammonia.

It is interesting to notice that these filters have different filtering styles and sizes and therefore molecules can’t go through, even if the size is very big or very small! NSF (Public Health and Safety Organization) and ANSI (American National Standards Unit) have both checked out these materials and they are safe to use.

So how do you use it?

There is a faucet you are getting that needs to get installed and connected to the filtration system so it literally works like a regular faucet you have in your kitchen already. For those wondering if you need a plumber for this job, you are getting a manual and you will be able to DIY this on your own!

Can you tell me a bit about the design?

The Aquasana set comes in various colors called Brushed Nickel, Chrome and Oil-Rubber Bronze. This means that you are getting a good level of personalization for your kitchen! Also, the faucet is 100% lead-free which means that you’re not spoiling the water after filtration in any way.

When do I need to replace the filter?

You don’t need to worry about this at all since Aquasana will let you know on its own. If the filter is running low on active ingredients, an alert lightweight will show, so you will be able to get a new filter. We’ll talk about the replacement a bit more in the next few paragraphs.

Replacement cartridge

The replacement filter is one of the best features of the system because it is very easy to set up. You can just attach and detach any pieces as you wish. No screws, tools and additional pain. You just need to twist the filter and take it off, twist the other on and make sure you secured it well.

If you don’t believe the system’s alert, the manufacturer says you should change the filter after 6 months of use, but it really depends on the amount of water that goes through the system daily.

In the replacement pack, you’re getting all three types of filters which will last about half a year for most people.

They are certified with NSF 42, NSF 53, NSF401 and P473 standards, which is something you are looking for in a filtering system. To be more precise, the P473 certificate actually hasn’t even been put as required yet, but this system already has it.

Pros:

• It keeps all the best natural minerals in your water. You won’t be lacking calcium or magnesium, which are both important for our body’s natural functions.
• This filter significantly improves the water’s taste. This is an important factor for those who struggle with their water intake.
• You’ll set it up easily without having to pay the plumber.
• It’s highly effective.
• Not pricey when compared to a year-long use of fridge filters. 
• It’s zero-waste, which means that no water is being thrown away. This is a very important factor because some filters may cause your water bills to go up. Not this one.

Cons:

• The Aquasana 3-stage water filter isn’t a good option for softening water since it does not remove natural minerals and metals that are not hazardous.
• Filters may need to be changed more often if you drink a lot of water and use it a lot for other things.
• Filling up a really large bottle may take time.
• Because of the eco-friendly material, the system may be more prone to breaking.
• It needs a battery as well because the alarm system lets you know when the filters are dying.

Summary

If you don’t mind fixing this system every once in a while, it’s a great starting point for those who are just getting into water filtering and need a bit of guidance. Changing the filters may be a pricey issue for some, while others feel like buying drinking water is a better choice.

However, the product itself is certified with many standards and will surely do an effective job. For how long, that’s the only question. If you’re looking for a water filter, but you don’t want to get a new fridge, this may be a good place to start. Upgrades can be made later.