Many countertops and under sink water filters are so expensive that homeowners may pass on buying them.
Luckily though, you don’t have to break a bank to drink clean water. A water pitcher is a cost-effective solution to think of.
In this article, we are going to analyze the two main water pitcher brands, Zero Water vs. Brita.
We are going to show you the main differences between the two systems, what filters they use, and what contaminants they get rid of. We are also going to tell you which is our favorite and why. Let us dig into the matter.
Zero Water Overview
Zero Water is one of the leading brands in the world of countertop water filters. The company manufactures a range of water pitchers with a capacity between six and 40 cups. These products are ideal to use at home, at work, or even in an RV, thanks to their advanced filtration system.
What makes Zero Water different from any other pitcher filter is the list of features and certifications that set it apart. Not only are these filters premium quality, but they are also afforded a feature most user praise.
According to the manufacturer, Zero Water filters remove up to 99.6% of all dissolved solids in water, and they really stand up to their claim.
Alongside removing almost all contaminants, these pitchers also come with an NSF certification that Brita lacks. Surprisingly effective, these pitchers come equipped with a patented 5-stage filtration system with ion exchange capabilities.
How Effective Are Zero Water Filters?
Certified by the NSF, the Zero Water systems claim they can remove up to 99.6% of all solid contaminants in water. This includes most harmful chemicals, but also dirt and grime that could find its way into tap water.
The filter can replace with success a more expensive under sink filter thanks to the advanced 5-stage filtration system involved.
Editor Choice
ZeroWater ZP-010, 10 Cup Water Filter Pitcher
ZeroWater filters filter water in 5 stages, are NSF certified to reduce lead and other heavy metals. Zerowater removes 99.6% of total dissolved solids
The first layer of the filter consists of coarse filtration components developed to filter out fine particles and sediment. During the second stage, a foam distributor disperses the water evenly across the width of the filter, increases its efficiency as well as its lifespan.
Then, the water passes through an activated carbon filter that removes organic contaminants and chlorine.
During the last two stages, the water goes through a demineralization process, while the last layer removes even the ultra-fine particles in the water.
All these claims are proved by the TDS meter included in the package and that you can use to check the quality of the filtered water.
Does Zero Water Filter Remove Fluoride?
Zero Water pitchers can remove over 99% of all solid residues in water, which includes fluoride. According to the manufacturer, the pitcher can remove up to 99% of the fluoride in the water alongside a list of other chemicals, heavy metals, and organic contaminants.
Main Zero Water Filter Problems
Zero Water pitchers may be the best in the class, but they are not flawless. Their main problem is the slow filtration.
While the wait is well worth it considering the results you can get, if you would like to get clean water fast, then this is not the right filtration system for you.
Brita Overview
Brita is another one of those brands renowned for their quality products. The company stands in the market with a range of products, including pitchers, water bottles, and faucet filter systems developed to meet the needs of all users and households.
Just like Zero Water, Brita functions to a high standard and promises to remove most contaminants in the water. This includes chemicals, heavy metals, and dirt, as well as foul smells and tastes.
All this is possible thanks to the activated carbon filter enhanced by an ion exchange resin that also removes water-hardening minerals.
A big advantage Brita has over Zero Water is the fast filtration process that gets clean water into your glass in less than a minute.
How Effective Are Brita Filters?
Coming with an NFS certification, Brita filters can remove most water contaminants effectively. The manufacturer does not give you a percentage though. All we know is that Brita filters can successfully remove harmful chemicals, organic matter, and heavy metals including lead and mercury.
The BPA free Brita filter reduces chlorine taste and odor, copper, mercury, and cadmium impurities found in tap water. Substances reduced may not be in all users’ water.
Combined with the ultra-fast filtration rate, you will get clean water quickly and easily.
Does Brita Filter Remove Fluoride?
Just like Zero Water, Brita promises to remove most solid contaminants from water. However, the system only reduces a trace amount of fluoride. This is majorly due to the company’s belief that fluoride in water can help fight tooth decay.sodium-fluoride
While this claim is true, it is also true that excess fluoride can cause a series of diseases, including debilitating bone disease, kidney issues, cognitive impairment, hyperthyroidism, osteoporosis, cancer, and even depression.
Since it is hard to assume how much water with fluorine a person drinks per day and since fluoride is present in toothpaste and other oral hygiene products, scientists believe that drinking water without fluoride is the best way to prevent all associated health issues.
Brita Filter Problems
The filter’s main problem is undoubtedly the scarce capacity of removing fluoride from tap water. While this is not a flaw but rather a conscious design choice, most people might prefer a pitcher that can remove fluoride too.
Another slight drawback is the lifespan of the filter. Brita filters last for about 40 gallons of water, which roughly means two months. This could turn into a quite expensive countertop water filter system if you are drinking plenty of water, or if you also want to purify cooking water.
The filter indicators are also far from accurate. However, it should be quite easy to keep track of your filter’s life and when to change it, by noting down either the gallons of water you filtered or the date when you installed it.
Another slight design flaw is that the filters are prone to spilling. You should be careful when pouring water from the pitcher to your glass, or you could waste precious clean water.
Is Brita Healthy?
Just like Zero Water, Brita comes with all BPA-free components and is safe to use by all family members. If you have kids, there is nothing to worry about them drinking water from this pitcher. The same goes if you plan to use filtered water for cooking baby food.
The Winner Is?
Winning three out of five, the best water pitcher filter on the market is Zero Water. This doesn’t mean Brita is not good. They are both effective water filters that deserve your attention. If you’re looking for a cheaper and faster water filter, Brita could be your best bet.
If you care more about what contaminants are removed and don’t mind waiting for more for a glass of water, Zero Water is the best.
Both filters can remove most solid contaminants, are relatively easy to maintain, and safe to use as they contain no BPA. The NSF certifies both filters, and they both come at attractive price points.
Picking the right one for you will undoubtedly be based on subjective criteria, but we hope our Zero Water vs. Brita guide can help you make the right choice.
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