As more people become concerned about health, water filters are becoming an essential component of the home. Delivering the convenience of instant pure water without having to buy it in the bottle, under counter water filters offer the greatest level of convenience. As opposed to some portable water filters that are attached directly to the faucet, under counter water filters are directly attached to the plumbing under the counter. It's out of sight, doesn't have to be turned on and off, and delivers a constant supply of clean water to your tap.

Under counter water filters require a bit more installation work than the type that attach to the tap, however. They don't require a separate drain line but do require a feed line that connects to the main water pipe and cold water tap. Most under counter water filters come with instructions and all the parts you need to install your system. Installing under counter water filters can usually be done in less than an hour, or by a plumber.

As with any type of water filtration system, under counter water filters have a cartridge that must be replaced periodically. Replacing the cartridge is easy. Once the unit has been installed under your sink, all you need to do is follow the directions. Usually, all that is required is to unscrew the cover of the under water filter and take out the cartridge, replace it, and then put back on the cover.

Many people prefer the under counter water filters because it saves on counter space, and once installed, is unobtrusive and its operation is transparent. Countertop filters may be equally effective however, depending on the level and method of filtration. There are several different types available, including reverse osmosis, and specialty filters that are designed to remove fluoride, lead, bacteria, or other undesireable elements.