The water that you drink every day is filtered to ensure that harmful contaminants are eliminated and it only makes sense if you filter your shower water as well. At the end of the day, it’s your own skin that you’re protecting. Besides that, a good shower water filter will aid in keeping your skin and hair healthy.
Getting a whole-house water filter can be very costly and the next best alternative would be a shower head water filter. Finding the best shower filter helps to enhance the quality of the water you’re using by reducing dangerous elements like chlorine that can cause skin and hair problems.
In order to find the best shower head filter, there is some information that you should know first which can help you decide which is the best shower head filter for you. After that, you can choose from the list of best shower filters that we’ve compiled for you with the information that you gained. Without further ado, let’s dive deep into the guide on shower head filters.
What is a Shower Head Filter?
As the name suggests a shower head filter is designed to remove contaminants from your shower water through a filter process. The filter can also be used to avoid clogging your showerhead with those impurities.
Shower head filters are also designed to reduce a build-up caused by calcium and magnesium minerals in hard water known as soap scum. After using a filter to reduce this build-up, it can benefit your hair and skin and also make it easy to clean your showerhead. To achieve the most out of your system, make sure to replace the shower head filter on a regular basis.
In general, shower head filters can last for 6 to 8 months on average, depending on the frequency of use. After that, it cannot effectively soften your water and remove contaminants because it would be clogged with sediment. For those that have hard water in their household, you might need to change the filter more frequently for the best filter effectiveness.
Disadvantages of Showering in Without a Shower Head Filter
After knowing what a shower head filter is, you may still wonder if getting one is worth it or not and we think it might be of great help for you to understand the negative effects are of showering in unfiltered water.
Unhealthy skin and hair
Firstly, using unfiltered water to shower will cause an alteration in the quality of our skin and hair. The change in quality is not in a good way either because unfiltered shower water has contaminants in it.
The number of contaminants in the water is different from one city to another and if you want to test the quality of your water, you can get a water testing kit or request a water quality report from the local water treatment center.
Dirty bathroom
Calcium and magnesium minerals are found in hard water and these minerals are responsible for the production of limescale. It leaves a layer on your bathtub and shower unit that is difficult to clean. Besides that, the same scummy residue could be left on your hair or skin.
Potential disease due to chlorine
Chlorine is an effective chemical for disinfecting drinking water and removing harmful things like bacteria and viruses to make the water safe. However, it is not recommended to drink water with the presence of chlorine and it’s even more damaging if chlorine is airborne. If you inhale chlorine vapor from the shower water, it can cause irritation and breathing complications.
Contain pesticides and herbicides
Even though chlorine is able to remove most of the pathogens from the water, chemicals like pesticides and herbicides can still enter the water. Taking a shower that contains these contaminants is not only bad for your skin and hair, but also for your health too.
The disadvantages listed above are some of the disadvantages of taking a shower with unfiltered water. However, not all of them are applicable to every household because different sources of water have different contents in it.
What are The Benefits of Using a Shower Filter?
We all know that filtering drinking water results in safer and healthier water. Now, let’s look at the benefits that a shower filter can bring.
No more hard water
The first and most important benefit of using a shower head water filter is its capability to soften hard water. It can also remove minerals like calcium and magnesium to improve the water quality. With the use of a shower head water filter, it can also avoid the build-up of limescale in your bathroom. Most importantly, soft water helps to promote healthier skin and hair.
Reduces chlorine
Shower head water filters are designed to remove chlorine from the water and as a result, you can expect top-quality water for healthier showering. Chlorine is not a healthy element for our hair, nails and skin because it strips the natural oil from them. Research has also shown that it is easier for chlorine to be absorbed when we breathe it in than drinking it.
Removing bacteria and viruses
An additional filter media for removing harmful contaminants like bacteria and viruses in water is found in the best shower head water filters. The showerhead is the ideal spot for bacteria to grow because it is warm and damp. With a shower head water filter, these bacteria will not even have the chance of forming.
Safer for the young ones
If you have children in your house, this would be one of the most important benefits of having a shower head water filter. Toddlers and children are more prone to the dangerous effects of chlorine and other unhealthy chemicals in the water. Giving your children soft water in the shower will significantly reduce the risk of catching a disease.
Reduces pesticides and herbicides
Pesticides and herbicides can get into your shower water especially if the water source is near farmland. This is extremely bad for your health if you are showering with this unsanitary water contaminated with pesticides. However, with the best shower head water filter, you can enjoy clean shower water because a shower head filter can effectively remove the chemicals.
Operation of The Best Shower Water Filters
As the name suggests, shower head water filters are filters attached to your shower and the water goes through different filter media to remove impurities and contaminants from the water. The surface area at which this process takes place is very small but also complex at the same time. Generally, there are various filters you will find in a shower head filtration system and they are:
Carbon filters
Contaminants and chemicals are effectively removed from the water thanks to the activated carbon filters in shower head water filters. The activated carbon filter also makes up more than 10 filter media.
The mediums are made with various materials, like cotton to remove particles larger than a size of 0.3 microns, chemicals to soften water, and the activated carbon to remove volatile chemicals like chlorine and chloramines.
This stage of filtration is also designed to remove contaminants like rust, bacteria, debris, sediment, chlorine and other substances in the water.
KDF filters
The following stage of shower water filter system let the water go through the KDF filters. Copper and zinc are typically used to make these filters, creating a small electrical chemical charge that changes the elements in your shower water.
The electrons of chemicals and metals will change when they go through this process and they will be more soluble which is easier to remove from the water.
KDF filters can remove contaminants like fungi, viruses, bacteria, arsenic, lead, aluminum, iron, mercury and chlorine from the water. As a result, they can be used on their own and would still be effective.
Vitamin C filters
Vitamin C filters are effective filters to remove chlorine so if you’re looking for shower head water filters that are good at removing chlorine, they would be the best. Vitamin C filters are good at removing chlorine because vitamin C can neutralize the chlorine in the water and the best vitamin C filter is also used to remove contaminants like chloramines and some smaller sediment.
What are the Types of Shower Water Filters?
Generally, there are three types of shower head water filters, each designed differently. The three types of filters are the standard ones, in-line shower filters and in-line with shower head water filters.
Standard shower head water filters/Water softener shower head
The standard water softener shower head water filter doesn’t have much difference from a typical shower head. However, it is slightly heavier and bigger than the standard ones we’re using. The standard water softener shower head water filters can blend in with the bathroom easily while giving us the benefits of filtering and softening the water.
In-line shower filters
This type of shower filter doesn’t come with a shower head and is designed to be installed between the water line and the standard shower head. With an in-line shower filter, you will still get to enjoy the benefits like filtered and soft water while having the freedom of choice to select your favourite design.
Due to the fact that you can choose your preferred design, this type of shower filter is actually a better option for those that enjoy having a choice. In-line shower filters are not the type to stand out obviously and are less obvious than other types of filters.
In-line and shower head water filters
This type of shower filter is a combination of both filters that was mentioned. In-line and shower head water filters are a combination of both the shower head and an attachment filter for you to install at your water line.
An in-line and shower head water filter is the biggest in terms of size out of the three types of filters and they take up quite a lot of space at where you shower. The shower head is designed to handle water pressure while the filter is placed within the in-line body.
Considerations when Buying The Best Shower Head Water Filter
The supply of shower head water filters is becoming higher with new designs and features entering the market. As a result of that, some people might not know how to start looking for the best shower filters. But don’t worry, this is why we’ve come up with this guide to help you and why knowing more about shower head water filters will help.
Looking for a shower head water filter in your local home improvement store gives you a small range of selections only. For the most options, we would highly recommend you to look online. Shopping for a shower head water filter online allows you to see the available choices and you can also filter your choices based on different criteria like size, model and price.
When you’re shopping online, make sure to read through the reviews of other buyers thoroughly because these reviews are designed to provide more information on the products and the experience of the customers. It can be of great help in concluding whether the product is as good as the manufacturer claims to be.
It is good knowing what to expect from shower head water filters when you’re shopping because it allows you to contact the manufacturer regarding any missing information. To help you with that, we’ve also come up with some aspects that you should consider when you buy a shower head filter. By considering these things, it can aid you in the process of choosing the best shower head water filter.
Price
Shower head water filters come with a variety of performance, quality, marketing, and the reputation of a manufacturer. As a result, they will be priced differently. Some shower head water filters have no obvious reason as to why they are being priced at the higher or lower end, so the cost cannot be the only key factor when you make a purchase.
Typically, a shower head water filter is priced between $40 to $90 for the best shower filters, so you should set a budget according to that range too. From that budget, you can start looking for products that fit your pricing criteria. There will be an abundance of choices on the market so you don’t have to worry that there won’t be any filters within your budget.
Material of shower head
The preferred material of a shower head will usually depend on the look of your bathroom and shower. However, matching the shower head with your bathroom shouldn’t be too hard because a shower head is usually made from plastic or metal material and they are designed to fit in easily.
A plastic shower head is usually cheaper, but they are also vulnerable to issues like wear-and-tear and leaks. They are also not as durable as metal shower heads. There are some great-quality metal shower head water filters that prevent rust but for something with such quality, you’ll have to pay more for it.
Product weight
Checking the weight of a shower head water filter isn’t something that people would do when shopping online, but it is something that you should do if convenience and safety is important to you. Ideally, you should be able to hold your shower head easily and you don’t want it to be so heavy that the shower arm can’t support it.
Most of the shower head water filters are quite heavy due to the filtration components within the shower head, but there are some that are exceptionally heavy. There isn’t one specific weight that will satisfy every buyer so make sure you compare the products and look for a weight that you’re satisfied with.
Size
A shower head water filter is usually bigger than a standard shower unit because of the extra components in it. Whenever you choose a filter, make sure that it is compatible with the specifications of your shower arm.
To know the measurements of a shower head water filter, simply look into the description of the product. After that, you just need to make sure that the measurements of the shower head water filter and your shower unit are compatible with each other.
You should note that some shower head water filters are designed differently and are required to be assembled and mounted differently, which might not be compatible with your shower arm. If you are going for in-line filters, be sure that it connects with your current shower head, otherwise, you won’t get to use it.
Water pressure
The problem with the modern shower head water filters is that they don’t have enough water pressure. As a result, you will not enjoy your showering experience because the flow of the water coming out of the shower head is like a light trickle rather than a strong and steady flow.
To deal with this issue, you should read the reviews by customers before buying the product so you can get more information about the shower head water filter that the manufacturer doesn’t share with you.
Not all shower head water filters have this problem and there are some that don’t affect the flow rate of the water. Just be certain that the shower head water filter you’re looking into has a good track record of consistent water pressure.
Filter cartridge lifespan
Just like any water filter unit on the market, the more you use the shower head water filter, it will soon get clogged up and become ineffective and you will need to change the filter. However, not every filter is designed the same and some filters might require a change more often than others.
Ideally, you should look for filters with a service life that matches the use of water in your home. If there are more people in your family, you will benefit from higher quality filters that are designed to be used for a longer period.
You should also note that if your house’s water has an above-average amount of hard-causing minerals, then your filter becomes clogged quicker because it will need to function harder to get rid of those minerals. Generally, a shower head water filter cartridge can last from 6 months up to a year.
For anyone that is new to changing filters, you should know that you only need to change the filter cartridge within the shower head and you won’t have to swap out the shower head.
Additional Features to Look Out for in Shower Water Filters
Other than the essential things that you need to consider, there are some extra features that you can look into when you’re buying shower head water filters.
Quantity of filters included
Firstly, you can have a look at the number of filters that are included with the unit because there are some manufacturers that give you an extra filter so you won’t need to buy it when you want to replace the filter.
There are also some manufacturers that offer cheaper replacement filters when you purchase their products, so be sure to contact those manufacturers when you need to change your filter.
Effectiveness of filter
The design of a filter is meant to remove certain contaminants from the water such as hard water minerals, heavy metals and chlorine. However, there are some that can filter better than the others and that’s what you want from the best shower filters.
To determine the effectiveness of a shower filter, we will have to examine the cartridge capacity because the effectiveness depends on it and also the product itself. If the contamination level of your water is high, it also affects the ability of the shower head unit to filter out the unwanted contaminants.
Some filters can provide additional filtration perks such as removing bacteria and viruses from the water. Since this is a more specialist feature, you might find it difficult to search for it.
Simple installation and maintenance process
In order for a shower filter to be considered as the greatest, it should be designed for home installation. Installing a shower head water filter can be possibly done on your own even if you don’t have much DIY skills. However, a factor that can either be of great help or troublesome is the quality of instructions by manufacturers.
Despite how a shower head water filter is designed, with good installation guidelines, anyone can install it on their own. A good installation guideline shouldn’t be too wordy and should provide labelled images to help with the installation. There are some with online video instructions that show the installation process, which is great for visual learners.
Besides guidance for installation, the instructions for maintenance are equally essential. The best shower head water filter unit should consist of a thorough user manual that provides you with all the necessary information about filter change and general maintenance.
Support from manufacturer
This additional perk wouldn’t really matter if the manual is detailed enough. However, it is still good to have 24/7 live support from the manufacturer of your shower head water filter in case of any issues with the installation and maintenance.
Warranty of product
Whenever we buy something new, we expect it to last for a long time, but realistically, it can still be broken or damaged within a few months of use. In that case, having a warranty for your shower head unit for a year or few months can give you the peace of mind because if anything happens, you will get a replacement for the part or the entire unit.
Products with a warranty show the confidence that manufacturers have in their items. If they are making a faulty shower head unit, they would be losing money very quickly by offering free exchanges or replacement components.
Best Shower Head Filters in 2021
Now that you have a better understanding of how a shower head water filter works and what to pay attention to, let’s proceed with the list of the 8 best shower head water filters.
1. AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter
Specifications
- 2.0 GPM
- Weight: 0.701 lb
- Filter type: In-line
- Dimensions: 7.7” x 3.8” x 3.7”
- 12-stage filtration
Features
The first unit is the AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter. AquaBliss is a small company that focuses on introducing European design into an American toilet. Their production is based on the feedback of customers so you can be assured that you will get what you want with this unit.
The AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter has 12 stages of filtration to aid in the rejuvenation of your hair and skin. At the same time, this shower filter removes chlorine, heavy metals, bacteria and pesticides while regulating the bad odor and scale buildup that are typically associated with hard water.
Other than being an incredible filter that gets rid of contaminants and makes softer water, the AquaBliss shower head water filter also infuses the water with vitamin C. This gives an enhancement in oxygen levels, ensuring that your dry skin feels better and your hair rejuvenated.
You will like this product if:
You want long lasting filters. This filter is designed to last for 10,000 to 12,000 gallons or 6 months, which makes it extremely efficient too.
You prefer a shower head water filter offered at a reasonable price. For the amount of perks this filter is offering, the cost of acquiring it is more than reasonable and perfect for anyone that is looking for something cheap.
You have dry skin that needs rejuvenation. This shower head water filter has the ability to rejuvenate your hair and skin with the use of the filtration and remineralization process.
You will not like this if:
You want filters that can remove chloramine. Although this filter can remove a handful of contaminants, there is one that it doesn’t remove and it’s chloramine.
2. Culligan WSH-C125 Wall Mounted Filtered Shower Head
Specifications
- 2.0 GPM
- Weight: 1.6 lb
- Filter type: Shower head
- Dimensions: 8.5” x 12” x 5”
- Anti-clog rubber spray nozzle
Features
Culligan is a business that specializes in producing top-quality water filters through their continuous innovation and one of their proudest shower head water filters is this Culligan WSH-C125 Wall Mounted Filtered Shower Head.
The Culligan WSH-C125 Filtered Shower Head comes with 5 individual spray settings for you to maximize your shower experience. The filter inside the Culligan WSH-C125 shower head is able to remove the bad smell caused by sulfur and chlorine. In addition, it can also turn hard water soft and decrease the scale build up commonly caused by calcium and magnesium.
For anyone that prefers to buy items with certification, then you’ll definitely find the Culligan WSH-C125 Filtered Shower Head to be perfect. This filter is NSF certified for the removal of chlorine and is compliant with the EPA’s WaterSense standard. You will also find this shower head filter to fit a standard half-inch shower arm and an easy installation is assured with all the information included when you acquire this unit.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for a shower head with an easy installation. This unit comes with all the necessary information you will need for installation, so it will likely be a walk in the park.
You prefer getting certified water filters. The Culligan shower head water filter has NSF certification for chlorine removal and if that’s what you are looking for, then this would be a great choice.
You want a durable water filter. The filter has a lifespan of 10,000 gallons or approximately 6 months, depending on frequency of use.
You will not like this if:
You want something that removes chloramine. If you are looking for a shower head unit that removes this element, then you might not like this because this filter is not designed to do that.
3. Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe
Specifications
- 2.5 GPM
- Weight: 2.3 lb
- Filter type: In-line and shower head
- Dimensions: 8.5” x 7.2” x 3.2”
- 30-80 PSI operating pressure range
Features
Next up is the Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter. They are a that aims to help each customer achieve healthy living and overall well-being through their high-quality water filtration systems and the Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter is one of their best items.
The Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter is a standard 2-stage shower filter that comes with a shower head. This filter removes chlorine effectively and is NSF certified to prove that it can get the job done. This shower head water filter has an AquaSorb HX which is an activated carbon coconut shell filter which makes this an impressive unit.
In addition, this shower water filter can also reduce other harmful elements like lead and VOCs while enhancing the pH of the water for a better shower experience. Similarly to other filters, the lifespan of the filter is 10,000 gallons. You can also install this unit easily just by removing your old showerhead and replacing it with this unit.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for shower water filters with certification. This filter has NSF certification to prove that it removes unpleasant components in the water effectively.
You fancy the adjustability it offers. Since this unit is an in-line and shower head unit, an adjustable showerhead with various massage settings is included for the ultimate shower experience.
You will not like this if:
You don’t fancy expensive replacement cartridges. Although the filter lifespan is decent, one thing that you, as a customer, would not like is their pricey replacement filters.
You rather have more choices for its style. Unfortunately, this filter only has one design/color so there aren’t any other designs for you to choose from.
4. Luxsego Ionic Pure Filter
Specifications
- 2.5 GPM
- Weight: 0.7 lb
- Filter type: Hand held
- Dimensions: 9.45” x 3” x 3”
- 200% water pressure
Features
Luxsego is a reputable online brand that specializes in the production of showerhead. They aim to produce the highest-quality shower items for you to have a good time when you’re showering and you can do so with their Luxsego Ionic Pure Filter Showerhead.
Luxsego promises every customer to respond as quickly as possible so you don’t need to worry about not having any support from them. This Luxsego Showerhead has a special design that allows you to view the mineral beads within the handheld filter.
With the use of a double filter system, the Luxsego Showerhead is incredible in the removal of chlorine and at the same time, produces soft water and adds healthy minerals to the water. This is especially helpful for anyone with a dry texture of skin.
The Luxsego Showerhead also has 3 spray functions and with the help of a micro nozzle technology, the water pressure is increased by an exceptional 200%. As a result, you can expect an extremely high water flow rate.
You will like this product if:
You are a fan of the see-through design. The feature that the Luxsego Showerhead has is something unique and not commonly seen in other shower head water filters.
You are planning to use this in low water pressure situations. Thanks to the micro nozzle technology, the Luxsego Showerhead is able to increase the water pressure by 200%, making it perfect to use in low water pressure conditions.
You will not like this if:
You are looking for certified filters. Unfortunately, unlike the other choices available, this model doesn’t have NSF certification.
You expect it to fit every pre-installed handheld shower holder. You might find that this unit might not fit certain shower holders.
5. Kohler Aquifer Shower Water Filtration System
Specifications
- 4.0 GPM
- Weight: 1.42 lb
- Filter type: Hand held
- Dimensions: 2.3” x 2.3” x 6.9”
- Solid metal and acrylic construction
Features
Kohler is an extremely well-known company for making exceptional toilet equipment and the Kohler Aquifer Shower Water Filtration System is a great example to prove that point. This Aquifer shower filter is made to work with hand showers to reduce odor and chlorine in your water, while controlling scale build up and restricts the growth of bacteria and algae.
If your skin is dry, then you will enjoy using this shower head filter because it can effectively reduce skin dryness and is soft for your hair. The Aquifer has an impressively high output of 4.0 gallons per minute, but the filter lasts for 8,000 gallons or 6 months only.
One of the services that Kohler is offering to each customer is the optional subscription for filter cartridges. You can choose to subscribe and Kohler will automatically deliver a new filter cartridge to you every 3, 6, 9 or 12 months. This is something that other companies don’t offer and is definitely worth mentioning if you are forgetful or enjoy convenience.
You will like this product if:
You fancy a shower head water filter with an impressive water flow rate. The flow rate of 4.0 GPM from this Kohler Aquifer makes it one of the highest compared to its rivals.
You are a fan of the subscription service they are providing. The subscription plan is optional and is something that other companies don’t have that offers incredible convenience.
You will not like this if:
You rather have a shower head filter that’s on the cheaper end. Due to the fact that Kohler is a top-end manufacturer for shower head water filters, this unit is offered on the pricier side.
6. Captain Eco Multi-Stage Filter
Specifications
- 2.0 GPM
- Weight: 1.35 lb
- Filter type: In-line
- Dimensions: 7.8” x 3.8” 3.7”
- Able to remove 99% residual chlorine
Features
Captain Eco is a company that specifically makes shower water filters that are affordable and accessible to everyone. Their universal shower filter is also easy to install and can quickly prove clean and pure water that is free from unpleasant sediment.
This multi-stage filter has one of the best shower filter systems that utilizes a calcium sulfite component to reduce chlorine, heavy metals, algae and bacteria from your water. As a result, you can expect smooth hair, soft skin and you’ll feel fresh after every shower with less itchiness.
Most manufacturers provide a 1-year warranty for their water filters to show their confidence in the filter and to assure every customer. However, that’s not the case with Captain Eco because they are actually paying you if you are not satisfied with their filter. Yes, you heard it right. Captain Eco offers a 120% refund if you are not enjoying their shower water filter. This shows the confidence Captain Eco has for their shower water filter.
They also offer other free items like a shower curtain and the initial replacement filter cartridge.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for a shower water filter that you can install easily. This filter is a universal shower water filter that is easy and quick to install on your showerhead.
You are planning to reduce dry skin. With the use of a multi-stage shower water filter system, soft water is assured to help rejuvenate your hair and skin.
You will not like this if:
You fancy a shower water filter with NSF certification. Unfortunately, this water filter is not certified against NSF and you might find it to be a deal breaker.
7. Culligan ISH-100 Inline
Specifications
- 2.0 GPM
- Weight: 0.93 lb
- Filter type: In-line
- Dimensions: 10” x 7.5” x 3.5”
- Tested to NSF/ANSI Standard 177
Features
As mentioned earlier, Culligan is a specialized company that focuses on making top-standard shower head water filters. Besides the unit that was mentioned, the Culligan ISH-100 is another great option that is offered at a decently cheap price.
The Culligan ISH-100 is designed to reduce the odors of chlorine and other elements to make sure that you shower with fresh water. In addition, this shower head water filter has certification from industry standard, ensuring that you are getting a legitimate shower head water filter. With how the filter is designed, you can use it with any type of shower head and not use too much space.
The filter life of Culligan ISH-100 is at an average range of 10,000 gallons or 6 months, depending on the water quality and frequency of use. As for the initial replacement, Culligan has included a WHR-140 filter cartridge so you don’t need to purchase the cartridge until the next filter change.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for a cheap shower head water filter. The cost of this filter is relatively low compared to the others.
You fancy something with a simple installation. You can install this shower head water filter with ease as long as you have a standard size shower arm.
You will not like this if:
You are a fan of a shower head with various settings. Unlike some other options, this shower head only has one setting and can’t be adjusted.
8. Berkey Shower Filter
Specifications
- 2.5 GPM
- Weight: 1.46 lb
- Filter type: In-line
- Dimensions: 5” x 4” x 4”
- Proprietary filter media
Features
Berkey is a decently new company but has gained its popularity with the impressive items produced by them and this Berkey shower filter is no exception. With an incredible filter lifespan of 20,000 gallons or one year, the Berkey filter is definitely one of the most durable choices available.
Their proprietary filter is made from a KDF media that effectively reduces up to 95% of chlorine. As a result, you can expect better health for your hair and skin, while reducing the chances of catching diseases caused by the inhalation of unpleasant elements.
This filter is offered with two choices, one with a shower head and the other without. Having this option is perfect for anyone that is just looking for a filter or wishes to use their own shower head. The installation process is also quite easy and can be done within minutes.
You will like this product if:
You desire a filter that can last for a great duration. Berkey’s filter cartridge lasts for a longer duration than most of the available choices.
You fancy using your own shower head. This water filter is offered with or without a shower head, so you are given the choice to use your own shower head.
You will not like this if:
You expect this filter to reduce both chlorine and chloramine. Unfortunately, the Berkey water filter can only reduce the former and not the latter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the procedure of installing a shower head water filter?
The installation of a shower head water filter is a decently fast and simple operation. It is unlikely that you need help from a plumber or handyman because most of the filters come with a manual to make the job easier. There’s a difference in installation for each filter and for simplicity sake, we will be going through the steps for installing a standard in-line filter.
- Removing the shower head. The initial step is to use tools and detach your shower head from the shower arm.
- Sealing the shower pipe. After detaching, wrap the plumber’s tape along the edge of the shower pipe and make sure that there are no leaks when installing your in-line filter.
- Installing the filter. Place the filter unit onto the shower pipe and turn it until it’s decently tight. Then, with the nuts that you’re supplied with, utilize tools to tighten them.
- Flush the filter. Before finishing up the installation, flush your filter for the removal of carbon deposits and other sediment. Perform this step by turning on the cold water and let it flow from the filter head.
- Flush the filter with hot water. Once the cold water runs clear, you can turn on the hot water and flush the filter until the water is clear.
- Attach the shower head. After the cold and hot water runs clear, turn off the water and attach your shower head in place. The filter should be a perfect fit with your shower head if you’ve checked the specifications.
- Check for leaks. Finally, check to see if it’s leaking while you still have the plumber’s tape.
How do I change my shower head filter?
If you’ve managed to assemble the filter, replacing it wouldn’t be much of a problem because the steps are similar and extremely simple as well. Here are the steps for the replacement of filter cartridges.
- Unattach your shower head. Step one is to unattach your shower head from the shower arm.
- Take out the old filter cartridge. After that, take out the used filter so you can replace it with a new one.
- Replace with new filter cartridges. Once the old filter is removed, be sure to dispose of it properly and insert the new filter into the shower head or the in-line unit.
- Attach back your shower head unit. Lastly, you can run water through it for the in-line unit and screw the shower head back. If not, you can reattach your shower head to the shower arm and let the water flow through the filter.
Why is my water running cloudy?
There are two possibilities as to why your water is running cloudy. Firstly, after the replacement of a new filter, the water will run slightly cloudy due to the carbon sediment, but after running the water for a while, it should clear up.
The second reason might be because it’s time to replace your filter. Cartridges last for a period of time only and it eventually becomes clogged up with sediment and your water might run cloudy. After you replace it with a new filter, and flushed it, it should be running clear.
Is my water pressure affected by a shower head water filter?
No. Provided if you’re buying something good, the pressure of your water will have little to no difference. However, there are some poorer ones that could potentially affect the flow of your water. Usually, the flow rate of the water is affected when the filter is filled with sediment and the problem can be solved once you replace it with a new filter.
Is a water softener the same as a shower head water filter?
Not really. Water softeners remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from the water, replacing them with minerals such as sodium. On the other hand, a shower head filter is equipped with a filter media, reducing heavy metals and chlorine.
How quickly will I realize the effects of a showerhead filter?
Almost instantly. After the filter is installed, you will immediately feel that your hair and skin is not as rough and you will feel fresher too. This is due to the filtration system reducing elements like heavy metals and minerals like calcium and magnesium from the hard water. The filter doesn’t let your hair or body to feel the de-chlorinated water but your lungs will be positively affected.
Do shower head water filters come with a filter cartridge?
More often, the head of your shower filters usually come with filter cartridges so you can use it immediately. Sometimes, certain manufacturers of the shower filters will include an additional cartridge to allow you to replace next time when required.
