Affordable Water Filters for Renters

If you’re renting, you know just how frustrating it can be when it comes to upgrading your living space. You can’t make major changes, and that includes making adjustments to the plumbing or installing fancy filtration systems that require a lot of effort and tools. But just because you can’t make permanent changes doesn’t mean you need to compromise on something as important as clean, great-tasting water.

The good news is that there are plenty of affordable, renter-friendly water filtration options that work well without requiring you to alter anything permanently in your apartment or rental house. In this guide, you’ll learn all about your different options, whether you’re on a tight budget or just want the most convenient setup possible.

Why Do You Need a Water Filter?

Before diving into the different types of water filters you can use, it’s worth talking a little about why you might want a filter in the first place. You may have noticed that the tap water in your rental doesn’t taste as crisp as bottled water, or perhaps you’re worried about potential contaminants like chlorine, lead, or other impurities that can often be found in municipal water supplies.

While most tap water is considered safe to drink, water quality varies significantly by location. Even if your local water treatment facility does its job well, old pipes in your rental unit could still be affecting the taste and quality of your drinking water.

If you want better-tasting, cleaner water, a filtration system can help—and the best part is that there are plenty of affordable solutions for renters.

Types of Water Filters for Renters

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most renter-friendly water filter options. Each option is affordable, easy to use, and won’t require major changes to your rental.

Pitcher Water Filters

Pitcher water filters are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something inexpensive and simple. They don’t require any installation at all—just fill up the pitcher with tap water, let it filter through, and pour yourself a glass.

These filters use carbon cartridges to reduce contaminants such as chlorine, mercury, copper, and some other impurities that can affect taste and quality.

Recommended Product:

• Brita Large 10 Cup Everyday Water Filter Pitcher – This Brita water filter pitcher is a popular choice, with over 60,000 ratings on Amazon and a strong 4.7-star average. It’s budget-friendly and fits in most refrigerators. The filter effectively removes chlorine, providing you with clean, great-tasting water without much hassle.
• PUR Classic Water Filter Pitcher – Another great option is the PUR Classic pitcher, which has a similar price point and features an easy-to-change filter. The PUR pitcher also removes lead and other heavy metals, making it ideal for anyone concerned about older pipes.

Faucet-Mounted Filters

If you’re tired of constantly refilling a pitcher and want something more convenient, a faucet-mounted filter might be the answer.

These filters are easy to install—they simply attach to the end of your faucet, often without the need for any tools. With the flick of a switch, you can choose between filtered and unfiltered water, making it an efficient option for both drinking and cooking.

Recommended Product:

• PUR FM-3700 Advanced Faucet Water Filter – This faucet filter is highly rated, boasting over 15,000 reviews on Amazon and an average of 4.5 stars. It easily attaches to most standard faucets, and it filters out lead, chlorine, and other impurities for crisp, fresh water. The filter replacement is also simple and quick.
• Brita Basic Faucet Water Filter System – Brita’s faucet filter is another affordable option that’s renter-friendly. It’s easy to install and features an indicator light to let you know when it’s time for a filter replacement, so you’re always getting optimal filtration.

Countertop Water Filters

Countertop water filters are another solid choice if you’re looking for something with a bit more capacity.

Unlike faucet-mounted filters, these attach to your faucet but sit on the counter next to your sink. They can filter larger quantities of water at once, making them ideal for families or anyone who drinks a lot of water throughout the day.

Recommended Product:

• AQUA TRU Countertop Water Filtration System – This is a pricier option compared to pitchers or faucet mounts, but it’s still relatively affordable and easy to use for renters since it doesn’t require any permanent installation. The AQUA TRU uses a four-stage filtration process to remove up to 99% of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and other impurities. It’s perfect for anyone who wants top-quality filtration without installing an under-sink system.

Under-Sink Water Filters (No Drilling Required)

While under-sink filters might sound like they require installation, there are versions available that don’t require drilling or any permanent changes—making them perfect for renters.

These systems often connect directly to your faucet or use an adapter, allowing you to enjoy filtered water without complicated installation.

Recommended Product:

• Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter System – This under-sink water filter is ideal for renters because it doesn’t require drilling. It attaches directly to your existing cold water line, providing purified water straight from the tap. With over 3,000 reviews on Amazon and an impressive 4.8-star rating, this filter removes chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants for a cleaner drinking experience.

Water Filter Bottles

If you’re constantly on the go or you live in a rental where kitchen space is very limited, a water filter bottle might be just the solution you need.

These bottles have built-in filters, allowing you to fill them up from virtually any tap and still enjoy clean, great-tasting water.

Recommended Product:

• Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle – This Brita bottle comes with a built-in filter that reduces chlorine and other impurities, ensuring that you have access to clean water no matter where you are. It’s perfect for renters who need portability, and it’s especially handy for taking to work or the gym.
• LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle – The LifeStraw Go bottle offers advanced filtration, including a membrane microfilter that removes bacteria and parasites in addition to common contaminants. It’s ideal if you’re an adventurer who wants a reliable bottle for both everyday use and outdoor excursions.

Shower Filters

If the quality of your tap water leaves your skin and hair feeling dry or irritated, you might want to consider a shower filter as well. Hard water and chlorine can take a toll on your skin and hair, but a simple shower filter can help improve the quality of the water you use for bathing.

Recommended Product:

• AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter – This affordable shower filter reduces chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities commonly found in tap water. It’s easy to install without any tools and can make a big difference in the health of your skin and hair.

Portable Water Filter Systems

If you like the idea of being able to move your water filter from one place to another—say, from your kitchen to your bedroom—a portable water filter system may be the right choice. These systems are easy to set up and can hold a large volume of water, providing you with filtered water on demand.

Recommended Product:

• Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter – The Berkey system is well-loved for its ability to filter out bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and other contaminants. It’s portable, making it great for renters who want flexibility in where they use their filter. While it’s a bit pricier, it’s highly effective and can hold a lot of water, making it suitable for larger households.

How to Choose the Right Filter for You

With so many options available, you might be wondering which type of water filter is the best fit for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

• Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, a pitcher filter or faucet-mounted filter is your best bet. These are generally the least expensive options and still provide effective filtration for everyday use.
• Convenience: If you don’t want the hassle of constantly refilling a pitcher, a faucet-mounted filter or an under-sink system might be more convenient. These allow you to have filtered water on demand without the extra step.
• Space: If you have limited kitchen counter space, you’ll want to choose a more compact option, such as a pitcher or an under-sink filter. On the other hand, if you have plenty of counter space, a countertop filter might be a good fit.
• Water Quality Concerns: Consider what contaminants you’re most concerned about. Different filters remove different impurities, so you’ll want to choose one that addresses your specific needs—whether that’s chlorine, lead, bacteria, or something else.
• Lifestyle: If you’re always on the go, a filtering water bottle might be the perfect solution for you. If you like the idea of a more substantial system, an under-sink or countertop filter could work well.

Maintaining Your Water Filter

No matter which type of water filter you choose, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure it continues to work effectively. Here are a few maintenance tips:

• Replace Filters as Recommended: Each filter type has a different lifespan, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for replacement. For instance, pitcher and faucet-mounted filters usually need to be replaced every 2-3 months, while under-sink and countertop filters may last longer.
• Keep Your Pitcher or System Clean: If you use a pitcher, be sure to clean it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. Faucet and countertop systems should also be cleaned periodically according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Monitor Performance: If you notice a change in the taste, smell, or flow rate of your water, it might be time to replace the filter. Keeping an eye on these factors will help you ensure your water remains fresh and clean.

Final Thoughts

Getting access to clean, great-tasting water doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, even if you’re renting. With so many affordable and easy-to-use water filtration options available, you can enjoy filtered water without making any permanent changes to your rental. Whether you choose a pitcher, a faucet-mounted filter, an under-sink system, or even a filtered water bottle, you’re making a positive choice for your health and well-being.

Take some time to consider your needs and choose the solution that works best for you. After all, everyone deserves clean water—and with these renter-friendly options, you can easily make that a reality for yourself. Cheers to better water!