How to Choose an Under-Sink Water Filter in Australia

Choosing an under-sink water filter comes down to four questions: what do you want to remove, how much water do you use, do you want a dedicated tap, and what’s your budget? Here’s a practical guide.

See our full Under Sink Water Filters Guide or call us on 1800 789 781 for a recommendation.

Step 1: Decide What You Want to Remove

• Chlorine, taste, and odour: A standard multi-stage carbon filter handles this. Most affordable option.
• Heavy metals (lead, copper): A KDF or multi-stage filter with a KDF stage. Important for homes with older plumbing.
• Fluoride: Requires a reverse osmosis system. Standard carbon filters do not remove fluoride. See our RO Guide.
• Bacteria and protozoa: A ceramic filtration stage or UV stage. Important for bore or tank water.

Step 2: Consider Your Water Usage

Check the system’s rated flow rate (litres per minute) and daily capacity. A household of 4 drinking 2 litres per person per day needs a system that can comfortably produce 8+ litres/day. Most under-sink systems handle this easily — RO systems are slower and may need a storage tank for high-volume households.

Step 3: Dedicated Tap or Existing Tap?

Some under-sink systems use a diverter on your existing cold water tap. Others require a dedicated filtered water tap drilled through the sink or benchtop. A dedicated tap is cleaner and more convenient but adds to the installation complexity. Discuss with your plumber before purchasing.

Step 4: Cartridge Availability and Replacement Cost

Factor in the ongoing cartridge cost when comparing systems. A cheap system with expensive or hard-to-find cartridges is poor long-term value. Browse our replacement cartridge range — all our cartridges are stocked year-round.

Step 5: Australian Warranty and Support

Buy from an Australian supplier with real support. When something goes wrong with an under-sink system, you need someone who can help quickly. Call us on 1800 789 781.

Frequently Asked Questions