7 Best Water Filter Pitchers for Well Water (*Update 2023)
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Expert Fact-Checking: Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS // Last Updated: Sep 14, 2023
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Top Pick: What’s the Best Water Filter Pitcher for Well Water?
The best water filter pitcher for well water in 2023 is the Clearly Filtered, which is NSF-tested to remove 360+ contaminants, easy to set up and use, affordable to maintain, backed by a lifetime warranty and 30-day satisfaction guarantee, and it has a long filter life of 100 gallons.
No interest in navigating the complex world of water filter pitchers for well water? Rest assured, we’ve done the research and handpicked the best options for you. Whether you require a pitcher that excels at removing harmful well water contaminants or simply want to improve water aesthetics, we’ve got your hydration needs covered.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve thoroughly analyzed over 51 pitchers under our expert microscope and found those best suited for well water treatment. Time to quench your thirst!
Contents
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No Time to Read? Check Our List of the Best Water Filter Pitchers for Well Water!
| Water Filters | Details | |
|---|---|---|
 Best Overall: Clearly Filtered Pitcher |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
Get 10% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$$ Size (Cups): 10 Filter Lifespan: 100 gal Annual Cost: ~$150 Warranty: Limited Lifetime Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 The Runner-Up: Epic Nano |
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on overall contaminant reduction, filter life, purchase and maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user opinions, customer support, warranties, and other factors.
Get 20% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$$ Size (Cups): 8.5 Filter Lifespan: 150 gal Annual Cost: ~$90-135 Warranty: Lifetime Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
Well Water Filter Pitcher Reviews
Our Top Picks
- Clearly Filtered – Best Overall
- Epic Nano – Runner-Up
- Aquagear – Best for PFOA/PFOS
- ZeroWater ZP-010RP – Best for 0 TDS
- Brita Everyday and Brita Metro – Best Budget Option
- PUR PLUS 11-Cup – Best NSF-Certified
- Nakii – Most Stylish
1. Best Overall Well Water Filter Pitcher: Clearly Filtered
In our opinion, the best water filter pitcher for well water in 2023 is the Clearly Filtered. It’s also the best water filter pitcher for hard well water.
The Clearly Filtered is lab-tested to remove more than 365 water contaminants, more than any other filter pitcher currently available. Tested contaminants include heavy metals like arsenic (98.3%), antimony (>98.0%), cadmium (97.0%), hexavalent chromium (97.8%), and lead (>99.3%), organic chemicals such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals (most >99.8%), nitrate and nitrite (>99.7%), fluoride (>99.5%), and radiological elements.
All of the above are commonly found in well water. By the way, Clearly Filtered recommends using their pitcher with disinfected well water only. (No, the Clearly Filtered is not tested to remove bacteria, cysts, or viruses – if you need to remove these, check the Epic Nano below.)
Filtered water taste? As crisp as it gets. 5 stars!
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Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Size: | 10-Cup |
| Filter Lifespan: | 100 Gallons |
| Annually: | ~$150 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime (Limited) |
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Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
Get 10% Off! Use Code: |
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Alexa’s Video Review
Alexa, our inhouse video content producer, has ordered and tested the Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher with her own hands. In other words, she has assembled and used the pitcher at home for several weeks to gain invaluable first-hand experience and insights. Alexa has documented the entire process and shares her opinion in the video below:
Other Specs
- Model: CF-PRF
- Last Price: $90
- Filter Media: Carbon + Composite Shell
- WxHxD: 11.25″x10.25″x5″
- Weight (Empty): 2.3 lb
- NSF Standard Testing: 42, 53, 401, P473
Key Features & Pros
- Made in America!
- The unit features Affinity Filtration Technology which combines GAC (granular activated carbon) with other proprietary filter media in order to achieve such great filtration results as listed above.
- Independent and third-party testing in a certified laboratory has shown that the Clearly Filtered water filter pitcher reduces contaminants in accordance with NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401, and protocol P473.
- This guarantees filtration effectiveness providing you with clean and healthy drinking water.
- Essential minerals remain in the water.
- The 10-cup jug is large enough for family use.
- Lid can be removed for convenient filling.
- Tritan plastic makes the Clearly Filtered 100 percent BPA-free.
- Initial assembly is quick and easy.
- Each pitcher filter cartridge has a life of approx. 100 gallons or up to 4 months.
- Double than average. Reduces maintenance efforts.
- Annual cost is ~$150 which is acceptable. And you can get discounts by subscribing and ordering in bulk.
- You can use the 30-day satisfaction guarantee if you are unhappy with your purchase (get all your money back, risk-free).
- Seller provides limited lifetime product warranty.
Cons
- There are cheaper water filter pitchers out there.
- A few people complained about slow and clogging filters.
- We never had any issues ourselves!
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Life: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 4.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
The Clearly Filtered pitcher is ideal for people whose biggest concern it is to remove as many harmful contaminants as possible from their well water supply.
→ Detailed Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher Review
2. The Runner-Up: Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher
As an alternative to the Clearly Filtered, we recommend the Epic Nano water filter pitcher.
It removes more than 200 different water contaminants that can occur in well water and particularly focuses on eliminating viruses, bacteria, and cysts.
Besides, most users are highly satisfied with the pitcher’s filtration performance. They love their filtered water taste.
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Epic Nano Water Filtration Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Size: | 8.5 Cups |
| Filter Lifespan: | 150 Gallons |
| Annually: | $90-135 |
| Warranty: | Life |
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Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
Get 20% Off! Use Code: |
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Alexa’s Video Review
Being an integral member of the BOS team, Alexa took the initiative to order and thoroughly test the Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher. She personally assembled and primed the pitcher before putting it to use for a period of several weeks. Alexa has documented her experience in the video below:
Other Specs
- Model: Epic Nano
- Last Price: $90-135
- Filter Media: Carbon Block, Ion Exchange, Sub-Micron Filtration
- WxHxD: 10″x10″x6″
- Weight (Empty): 2.0 lb
- Water Temperature: 38-85 °F
- NSF Standard Testing: 42, 53, 401, P231, P473
Key Features & Pros
- Available colors: Navy blue and black.
- The Epic Nano well water filter pitcher has been tested by several EPA-accredited laboratories against NSF standards 42, 53, 401, and P473. Contaminants the filter can reduce include chlorine, chloramine, disinfection byproducts, volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds, trace pharmaceuticals, pesticides/herbicides, PFAS, heavy metals, salts, and a lot more.
- Filtration process uses an activated carbon block made from coconut shell combined with ion exchange resin.
- Sub-micron filtration further traps up to 99.999% bacteria (E. coli, legionella pneumophila, hepatitis A, salmonella), viruses, and cysts (giardia & cryptosporidium.
- Verified against NSF protocol P231 for safe drinking water.
- The Nano has increased resistance against clogging due to scale found in hard well water.
- Magnesium, calcium, and other healthy minerals are not affected.
- We find the 8.5-cup clean water storage to be sufficient. Plus, you can pour water even when not all has been purified yet.
- Fits most refrigerators for cooling.
- Only BPA-free Tritan plastic used.
- 150-gallon filter life (2-6 months) even trumps the Clearly Filtered pitcher.
- Filters are Made in USA and 100 percent recyclable.
- If you collect 4 cartridges and send them in you receive one replacement filter for free.
- Filter replacements are easy also thanks to built-in reminder.
- Save an extra 20% when joining the Clean Water Club.
- Discounts available for military personnel, first responders, medical staff, teachers, students, seniors, and owners and employees of non-profit organizations.
- Epic Water Filters provides simple return policy and lifetime warranty.
Cons
- We read complaints about slow filtration once a pitcher filter cartridge has been in use for 1-2 weeks.
- Flip lid is prone to getting stuck and top may fall off when pouring water.
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 4.5/5.0
- Filter Life: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 4.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 4.5/5.0
Best for
The Epic Nano water filter pitcher is our second best choice for highly effective well water filtration.
→ Detailed Review of the Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher
3. Best for PFOA/PFOS: Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
In our third review we check out the Aquagear water filter pitcher. It’s typically used for tap water filtration, but can also serve for filtering properly disinfected well water.
One thing is for sure: It produces great-tasting drinking water!
Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Size: | 10 Cups |
| Filter Lifespan: | 120 Gallons |
| Annually: | ~$150 |
| Warranty: | Life |
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Overall Rating: 4.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
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Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: Aquagear
- Last Price: $69.95
- Filter Media: Activated Carbon + Ion Exchange Resin
- WxHxD: 11″x11″x6″
- Weight (Empty): 2.34 lb
- NSF Standard Testing: 42, 53, 401, P473
Key Features & Pros
- Filter media is made in USA.
- The water filter pitcher combines activated carbon filter media with ion exchange resin to target about 70 common water impurities and pollutants.
- 99.35-99.41% lead, 93.33-95.00% mercury, 99.99% pesticides, 99.96% chlorine, 99.9% PFOA and PFOS, disinfection byproducts, and 99.97% volatile organic compounds reduction among other stuff.
- Tested against 4 NSF/ANSI standards: 42, 53, 401, and 473.
- Filtered well water still contains beneficial minerals.
- We consider 10-cup filtered water storage capacity enough.
- Each filter cartridge lasts 120 gallons or 5-6 months, whichever comes first. Not much time or work required to keep everything up and running.
- You can return recyclable filters for free.
- Only BPA and BPS-free materials used.
- Aquagear offers a lifetime guarantee for peace of mind.
Cons
- Costs as much as the Clearly Filtered and even more than the Epic Nano water filter pitcher but lacks behind in overall contaminant removal.
- Filtering well water with the Aquagear can take a considerable amount of time.
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 4.0/5.0
- Filter Life: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 4.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 4.0/5.0
Best for
The Aquagear is ideal for people who have perfluorinated chemicals in their wells.
→ Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher Fully Reviewed
4. Best for 0 TDS: ZeroWater ZP-010RP 10-Cup 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher
The ZeroWater ZP-010RP uses 5 filter stages in one cartridge. What’s special about the water filter pitcher is that it aims at reducing your water’s TDS level to zero (more on this below) – thus its name.
What’s more, it’s NSF-certified against standard 42 for elimination of chlorine taste and smell (97.5%) providing refreshing drinking water. And it’s certified against standard 53 for reduction of dangerous chromium 6 (99.6%), mercury (96.0-96.7%), lead (95.9-99.7%), and PFOS/PFOA (94.9%).
Other harmful substances that will be removed from your well water include arsenic, fluoride, nitrate, and nitrite.
ZeroWater ZP-010RP Water Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $ |
| Size: | 10 Cups |
| Filter Lifespan: | 20 Gallons |
| Annually: | ~$190-225 |
| Warranty: | 90 Days |
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Overall Rating: 4.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
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Other Specs
- Model: ZP-010RP
- Primary Filter Media: Carbon + KDF + Ion Exchange
- WxHxD: 5.5”x11”x10.25”
- Weight (Empty): 3.1 lb
- NSF Standard Testing: 42, 53
Key Features & Pros
- 5 filter stages are at work:
- At stage 1, a fine screen blocks sediments and other solid particles present in all well water supplies.
- Next, activated carbon filter media and oxidation alloy target organic water contaminants, chlorine, and few heavy metals.
- Filter stage 3 is a foam pad which disperses water evenly across the entire filter diameter. This is to prevent channeling for extended filtration capabilities.
- Ion exchange resin traps even more heavy metals among other stuff.
- A second screen filter plus an even finer membrane layer reject microscopic suspended solids.
- 10-cup (80 ounces) water-holding capacity is okay. If you are living in a large household, you might want to consider purchasing another unit.
- A TDS meter is included in the package. It allows you to measure filtered water quality. If the meter reads “006” or higher, it’s time for a filter replacement.
- The push-button dispenser allows you to draw water even while the filtering process is still happening – convenient!
Cons
- The ZeroWater filter pitcher certainly works better with tap water. And even then filtration may be slow.
- There have been issues with filters failing ahead of time. Some couldn’t provide more than 10 gallons which really adds to the cost. But even the rated 20 gallons isn’t much.
- What’s positive is that replacements are cheap (about $10-15 apiece).
- We don’t consider TDS a.k.a. Total Dissolved Solids a good measure to determine the quality of drinking water. Even at zero TDS, well water can still contain dangerous contaminants. In fact, a healthy TDS level is associated with good aesthetic water characteristics – think pristine taste and odor.
- Manufacturer provides a 90-day warranty only.
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 4.0/5.0
- Filter Life: 2.0/5.0
- Price: 5.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 3.5/5.0
- Overall: 4.0/5.0
Best for
The ZeroWater ZP-010RP is ideal for people who want their drinking water to be TDS-free.
5. Best Budget Picks: Brita Everyday and Metro Pitchers
Brita probably offers the largest selection of water filter pitchers among its competitors.
The Brita Metro and the Brita Everyday are the most popular models by far. But regardless of which Brita jug you choose, each uses one of two available filter cartridges: The Brita Standard or the Elite. In other words, you can expect similar filtration results.
Brita Water Filter Pitcher – Everyday |
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| Price: | $ |
| Size: | 10-Cup |
| Filter Capacity: | 40/120 Gallons |
| Annually: | ~$50 |
| Warranty: | 90 Days |
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Overall Rating: 3.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
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Other Specs
- Model: Everyday
- Filter Media: Proprietary Blend
- WxHxD: 10.94″x10.47″x5.59″
- Weight (Empty): 2.29 lb
- NSF Certifications: 42, 53
Key Features & Pros
- Affordability is Brita’s main selling point.
- Brita Standard pitcher filter cartridge removes chlorine taste and odor as well as some mercury, copper, cadmium, and zinc.
- Brita’s Elite filter is more powerful and targets few heavy metals (lead 99%), chemicals such as chlorine (98%) and benzene (93%), and elements like asbestos (99%).
- Certified against NSF/ANSI standard 42 + 53.
- We recommend the Brita Elite over the Standard. The price tag is almost the same when you take into account filtration capacities.
- A mere 40 gallons for the Standard versus 120 gallons for the Elite.
- The Everyday jug can store 10 cups of water ideal for families, the Metro 5 cups for single households.
- The compact filter pitchers will easily fit in your refrigerator.
- Lift-off lid of Everyday pitcher provides easy access to upper reservoir for fast filling.
- Brita Metro pitcher comes with electronic filter indicator that notifies you when it’s time to replace filters. Child’s play!
- All materials of this water filter pitcher are BPA-free.
Cons
- For basic water filtration Brita might serve the purpose, but if you want truly clean well water you should look somewhere else.
- You won’t get more than 40 gallons out of a Brita Standard filter cartridge.
- On the upside, replacements are pretty cheap.
- It can be difficult to install filters tightly.
- We would have liked a warranty that lasts longer than 90 days.
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 3.0/5.0
- Filter Life: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 5.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 3.5/5.0
Best for
Brita pitchers are ideal for people on a very small budget.
6. Best NSF-Certified: PUR PLUS 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher
The PUR PLUS 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher is an affordable and sleek model that simplifies filling and pouring. It features three filtration stages that effectively remove and reduce over 20 contaminants, providing cleaner and better-tasting water. The pitcher comes with WQA and NSF certifications, indicating its reliability and effectiveness. It has a slim design that can fit in your fridge or on a cluttered countertop, and it can be washed in the dishwasher (without the filter cartridge). The pitcher has a 2-month filter life and a light indicator to alert you when it’s time to replace the cartridge. Want more details?
PUR PLUS 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Size: | 11 Cups |
| Filter Capacity: | 40 Gallons |
| Annually: | ~$65-75 |
| Warranty: | 90 Days |
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Overall Rating: 3.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
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Other Specs
- Model: PPT110W, PPT110B, PPT110M
- Filter Media: Carbon + Ion Exchange
- WxHxD: 4.9”x10.4”x11.4”
- Weight (Empty): 2.68 lb
- NSF Certifications: 42, 53, 401
Key Features & Pros
- Three filtration stages: Granular activated carbon, ion exchange resin, and pleated paper.
- Removes and reduces over 20 contaminants, including chlorine, particulates, zinc, benzene, cadmium, carbon tetrachloride, copper, mercury, simazine, BPA, estrone, linuron, microplastics, and nonyl phenol.
- WQA and NSF certifications 42, 53, and 401 back this pitcher up.
- Slim design that can fit in your fridge or on a cluttered countertop.
- Dishwasher-safe (without the filter cartridge).
- 2-month filter life is not exceptionally long, but replacements are cheap.
- Light indicator to alert you when it’s time to replace the cartridge.
Cons
- Lid may fall off when pouring water.
- We heard about new filter elements clogging immediately.
- Contaminant reduction rates don’t cover the really nasty stuff like lead, chromium-6, or PFAS.
- Beware of knockoff filter cartridges.
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 3.5/5.0
- Filter Life: 3.5/5.0
- Price: 5.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 3.5/5.0
Best for
The PUR PLUS 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher is ideal for people who insist on NSF-certified contaminant reduction.
→ Detailed PUR Water Filter Pitcher Review
7. Most Stylish Design: Nakii Water Filter Pitcher
The Nakii is another long-lasting well water filter pitcher with 150 gallons filtration capacity. It’s also one of the most stylish models on the market. But does it perform?
Nakii Water Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $ |
| Size: | 10 Cups |
| Filter Capacity: | 150 Gallons |
| Annually: | ~$20 |
| Warranty: | 120 Days |
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Overall Rating: 3.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on contaminant removal, filter life, price tag, maintenance cost, NSF standards, our testing, user ratings, support, warranty, and other factors.
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Other Specs
- Model: NFP-100
- Filter Media: Ion Exchange Resin + Activated Carbon
- WxHxD: 3.75”x10.75”x8.25”
- NSF Standard Testing: 42, 372
Key Features & Pros
- 4 layers of filter media take care of the contaminant removal.
- A sediment pre-filter traps large particulates.
- Ion exchange resin is used to reduce heavy metals and scale.
- Then comes activated carbon which eliminates chlorine and other chemicals.
- There also is a post-filter removing leaking particles.
- The Nakii pitcher is certified by the Water Quality Association (NSF 42 for 86.5% chlorine reduction).
- 10 cups total water volume is pretty average and sufficient for family use.
- Thanks to the pour through spout you don’t need to open the filter when refilling.
- Compact filtration system fits most refrigerator doors.
- Material is BPA-free Tritan avoiding recontamination.
Cons
- We understand that fast filtration seems appealing. However, thorough water filtration takes time. There is no way that the Nakii removes a lot of contaminants filtering 44 ounces per minute.
- In fact, reviewers said their filtered water even still had its chlorine (bleach) characteristics.
- When you pour water, unfiltered water may pour with it.
- We saw pictures of mold growing inside the filter.
- 120-day warranty is relatively short.
Our Rating
- Filter Performance: 2.5/5.0
- Filter Life: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 5.0/5.0
- Maintenance Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 3.0/5.0
Best for
The Nakii is ideal for people who want a stylish-looking pitcher and care less about actual contaminant removal.
→ Full Nakii Water Filter Pitcher Review
More Reviews:
- Best Water Filter Pitcher Reviews
- Stainless Steel Water Filter Pitcher Reviews
- What’s the Best Glass Water Filter Pitcher?
- Under Sink Alkaline Water Filter Reviews 2023
- What’s the Best Alkaline Water Pitcher?
- The Best Rated Water Filter Dispensers
- Reviews of the Best Carbon Filters for Well Water
- List with All Water Filter Pitchers Featured on BOS
Comparison List
(Mobile Hint: Swipe to Scroll)
| Water Filters | Price | Cups | Filter Media | Gallon Capacity | WxHxD | Weight | NSF | Annual Cost | Warranty | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher for Well Water | $$$ | 10 | Activated Carbon, Composite Shell | 100 | 11.25″x10.25″x5″ | 2.3 lb | 42, 53, 401, P473 | ~$150 | Life (Limited) | |
| Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher for Well Water | $$$ | 8.5 | Carbon Block, Proprietary Media, Sub-Micron Filtration | 150 | 10″x10″x6″ | 2.0 lb | 42, 53, 401, P231, P473 | ~$90-135 | Life | |
| Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher | $$$ | 10 | Activated Carbon + Ion Exchange Resin | 120 | 11″x11″x6″ | 2.34 lb | 42, 53, 401, P473 | ~$150 | Lifetime | |
| ZeroWater ZP-010RP Water Filter Pitcher | $ | 10 | Carbon, KDF, Ion Exchange | 20 | 5.5”x11”x10.25” | 3.1 lb | 42, 53 | ~$190-225 | 90 Days | |
| Brita Everyday & Metro Water Filter Pitchers | $ | 5-10 | Proprietary Blend | 40/120 | 10.94″x10.47″x5.59″ | 2.29 lb | 42, 53 | ~$50 | 90 Days | |
| PUR PLUS 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher | $$ | 11 | Carbon + Ion Exchange | 40 | 11.4″x10.4″x4.9″ | 2.68 lb | 42, 53, 401 | ~$65-75 | 90 Days | |
| Nakii Water Filter Pitcher | $ | 10 | Ion Exchange Resin + Activated Carbon | 150 | 3.75”x10.75”x8.25” | 42, 372 | ~$20 | 120 Days |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Well Water Filter Pitcher That’s Best for You
The following are key features worth considering when shopping for a filter pitcher for well water. They will help you choose the right on for your needs and budget.
Contaminant Reduction: Well Water Quality and Filtering Method Must Match
Most importantly, the filtering method(s) a water pitcher uses must match the chemistry of your well water. Meaning, the filter needs to be capable of removing exactly those contaminants that can be found in your water supply.
Thus, testing your well water quality first – in case you haven’t already – makes a lot of sense.
You can use one of the many do-it-yourself testing kits for this. Just note that results may not be as accurate and reliable. Personally, we prefer to hire a certified and professional laboratory. Usually, you can choose from different contaminant presets or test for individual analytes if that’s what you prefer.
Based on the report you can choose your ideal well water filter pitcher accordingly.
For broad contaminant removal, make sure to buy one which combines different types of filter media, such as the Clearly Filtered water pitcher using activated carbon, ion exchange resin, and more. By using several media types, the Clearly Filtered can remove more contaminants than any other water filter pitchers for sale right now; from chlorine and other chemicals to chromium 6 and lead.
Third-Party NSF/ANSI Testing & Certifications
You cannot solely rely on the advertising of sellers and manufacturers when it comes to filtration performance. Thus, you must look for independent NSF testing and certifications. It’s the only way to make sure a certain model really does what is being claimed as far as contaminant reduction is concerned.
- NSF Standard 42 tests for the reduction of chlorine taste and odor plus certain particulates.
- NSF Standard 53 covers most drinking water contaminants with potential health effects. Both organic and inorganic pollutants are included. Examples are lead, asbestos, aluminum, chromium 6, mercury, VOCs, fluoride, and water disinfectants and their byproducts.
- NSF 244 sets the benchmark for the removal of waterborne microorganisms.
- Standard 401 addresses what are called “emerging contaminants” – think pesticides, herbicides, over-the-counter medicines, and prescription drugs.
- Protocol P473 was specifically established for PFOA and PFOS chemicals.
Storage Capacity (Jug Size)
Here, we need to differentiate between total jug size and filtered water storage, both matters.
- Total jug size saves you from frequent refills for added convenience. As you pour filtered water, more gets added from the upper reservoir.
- Large filtered water storage saves you from long waiting times. Basically, you always have clean water at hand when you get thirsty.
Also note that some well water filter pitchers are designed for families while others are ideal for 1 to 2-person households.
Filtration Rate
Filtration rate or filtration speed describes how fast a pitcher can process a certain amount of water.
Intuitively, one might think that faster filtration is better. However, that’s only true in very few cases – when your raw well water already meets a certain quality.
Why? Well, proper water filtration takes time. The filter media has to have enough contact with the water in order to adsorb, absorb, reduce, oxidize, reject, or trap all the contaminants. If water simply rushes through the filter cartridge, its quality won’t improve much.
On the other hand, there is no point in waiting 2 days for a single glass of filtered water.
Filter Life
Our next criterion is filter life also known as filtration capacity.
A long-lasting filter adds to the convenience. You can keep the filter element inside your pitcher for months without worrying about replacements. Examples for long-lasting filters are the Clearly Filtered water pitcher and the Epic Nano.
In contrast, some pitcher filters only last for a few dozen gallons of water. This means there is much more work required for keeping everything up and running. The ZeroWater, for example, lasts for no more than 20 gallons.
Material
Filter material is another aspect you should pay attention to. Most water filter pitchers are plastic. This is not ideal so at least make sure it’s BPA-free plastic.
If you were to use a pitcher made from plastic containing BPA, the chemical would recontaminate your water after filtration.
Cleaning
Most filter water pitchers are similar in design, but some have nooks and edges that are hard to reach and keep clean. This spots are prone to mold and mildew growth. You should try to avoid them.
Warranty & Costs
Last but not least, let’s talk about money. The initial price tag of a water filter pitcher for well water is only half the equation.
At least as equally as important are replacement filter cost. These are determined by the price of new filter cartridges and their filter life. Simply put, a filter that costs $50 but lasts 4 months is more cost-effective than one that costs $20 lasting 4 weeks.
As far as product warranty is concerned, we like to get at least 1 year, ideally lifetime warranty. Besides, some companies offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee promising a full refund upon return of the product.
More on Water Filter Pitchers for Well Water
Further Reading:
What Is a Water Filter Pitcher for (Hard) Well Water?
Generally speaking, water filter pitchers are used to filter water at home or work, or on the go.
Water filter pitchers for well water are used to treat water from private wells.
What all filter pitchers have in common is their simple design making them easy to use and maintain.
Some only improve water aesthetics, so taste and odor, while more sophisticated models can remove a wide range of harmful contaminants.
The filtration process is powered by gravity force. It pulls the feed water from the upper reservoir through the filtering element and into the bottom storage.
This procedure can take anywhere from less than a minute up to several hours, primarily depending on the filter media used. Most common are
- Granular activated carbon
- Carbon blocks
- Ion exchange resin
- KDF
Why Use a Water Filter Pitcher for Well Water in the First Place?
Does Well Water Need Filtration?
Why should you be using a water filter pitcher for well water in the first place? Does well water even need filtration?
This entirely depends on the quality of your well water supply. Some wells are much cleaner than others. For instance, if you live close to an industrial mining plant you are likely to have heavy metals in your water. Living in a farming area often results in elevated pesticide concentrations.
But not all water impurities and contaminants need to be man-made. Your well water may show excess levels of naturally occurring fluoride originating from underground rock formations.
These and other contaminants end up in your well as it feeds on groundwater which trickles into the soil and moves through the ground picking up all kinds of things, both good and bad.
Potential Well Water Contaminants
Artificial well water contamination can be caused by agricultural, commercial, industrial, residential and other activities (e.g. landfills, storm water runoff, illegal dumping).
The following is a list of commonly found well water contaminants as well as their sources and possible health effects.
- Lead, copper, cadmium, chromium, arsenic, antimony – the list goes on. These and other heavy metals can leach into your well from nearby cements plants, petroleum refineries, mining operations, and other sources. Even your own plumbing system can be the culprit. And natural deposits also play a role. People exposed to said heavy metals may experience symptoms of acute or chronic toxicity like high blood pressure. Organ damage, anemia, and even cancer are the worst case scenarios.
- Nowadays, organic chemicals are everywhere around us. They have made their way into our soil, rivers, lakes, oceans, and also our groundwater and wells. The chemicals once intended for use in dyes, paints, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals are now impacting our health in several ways. They damage our kidneys and liver, lead to nervous system damage, and can even impair the reproductive system.
- Municipal water in the US receives treatment which is why microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and cysts should not be a problem. However, they are also found in well water. Released into the environment from animal waste (i.e. septic fields) and human sewage, they can cause diarrhea and other illnesses and infections.
- Examples for radioactive elements are radium and uranium. They come from mining operations and nuclear power plants etc. Or they are present in groundwater for natural reasons. Drinking well water containing radionuclides is associated with cancer and the risk of kidney damage.
- Second to last, nitrate and nitrite. Both enter our waters behind contained in chemical fertilizers and animal waste. Infants below the age of six months bear the highest health risks. Too high consumption of nitrate or nitrite can result in blue baby syndrome, a condition where the blood’s ability to deliver oxygen throughout the infant’s body is disturbed. As the name suggests, one of the symptoms of blue baby syndrome is blueness of the skin. There have even been fatal cases.
- Naturally occurring fluoride can be found in many private wells. In healthy amounts, it helps to prevent cavities, but excessive consumption can result in dental and skeletal fluorosis.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Using Well Water Filter Pitchers
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using well water filter pitchers?
Benefits
Clean Drinking Water
Access to clean drinking water is a basic human right. But it shouldn’t be taken for granted as it’s not guaranteed, almost regardless of where you live in the world.
Using a water filter pitcher you are much closer to safe and healthy drinking water than without one.
Powerful models can remove or reduce heavy metals, chemicals, pathogens, volatile organic compounds, and all the other types of contaminant that might be lurking in your well water supply.
Great Tasting Water
Raw well water rarely tastes good. And even if you carry out shock chlorination on a regular basis it won’t help improve taste by a whole lot.
Using a well filter pitcher, you get access to great-tasting water free from unpleasant odors.
Because of that, you and your entire family are likely to drink more aiding proper hydration.
Convenience
If there is one type of home water filter considered convenient to use, it would be filter pitchers. There is no initial installation and all you need to do is fill water into the top reservoir and wait.
Also, maintenance is a piece of cake.
Portability
Installation-free and compact size means portability. You can take your pitcher with you when you move to a different place or visit a friend.
Above that, filter pitchers can easily be stored in most fridges in case you like to enjoy a cool glass of water on a hot summer day.
Affordability
Not everyone has the budget to invest in a whole house water filtration system providing purified water to an entire home. For drinking and cooking purposes, pitchers provide an affordable alternative.
Even the cost for replacement filters is manageable.
Helping the Environment
When you filter your own well water and skip water bottles you help save the environment.
Not only do you produce less plastic waste (most plastic bottles still end up in landfills or worse the ocean), you also reduce your carbon footprint (bottled water production requires a lot of energy).
Drawbacks
Lackluster Results with Some Pitcher Models
The main drawback of water filter pitchers to be used on well water is filtration that leaves a lot to be desired in terms of overall contaminant removal.
Fortunately, this is only the case if you buy a low-quality product. That’s why we always advice our readers to check any type of water filter for NSF testing and certifications.
More specifically, you should check the product manual for each listed contaminant and its reduction rate. This allows you to compare the different pitcher models on your list.
Small Storage Space for Filtered Water
Even the most effective water filter pitcher for well water has its cons. One is the relatively small storage space for filtered water. If you run out, you need to wait for more water to be filtered before you can quench your thirst.
Planning ahead or using two jugs in parallel are simple solutions.
Possibly Slow Filtration Speed
As mentioned before, if you want to filter your well water thoroughly, you have to give it time. Water simply doesn’t just stream through a high-quality pitcher. So sometimes you will need to be patient and allow your jug to do its thing.
How Often You Need to Change Filters
How often you need to change the filter in your water pitcher depends on how long it lasts.
Usually, there is a gallon rating provided. Note, however, that filter life also depends on your drinking water quality and usage. The more you use your pitcher and the dirtier the water, the more frequent you will need to make filter changes.
Signs indicating that a filter replacement is due include slow water flow and a change in water taste or smell.
| Filters | Rating | Time Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher Filters | 100 gal | 6 mos |
| Epic Pure + Epic Nano Water Pitcher Filters | 150 gal | 6 mos |
| Aquagear Pitcher Filters | 120 gal | 5-6 mos |
| Invigorated Living PH001 | 96 gal | 4-5 mos |
| Invigorated Living PH002 | 264 gal | 12 mos |
| ZeroWater Filters | 20 gal | 1 mos |
| Brita Filter – Standard | 40 gal | 2 mos |
| Brita Pitcher Filter – Elite | 120 gal | 5-6 mos |
| Santevia Classic | 80 gal | 2 mos |
| Santevia MINA | 80 gal | 2 mos |
| PUR Water Pitcher Filters | 40 gal | 2 mos |
| PUR PLUS Water Pitcher Filter | 40 gal | 2 mos |
| Nakii Filter | 150 gal | 4 mos |
| Seychelle Water Pitcher Filters | 100 gal | 4-5 mos |
Replacement Instructions
Don’t worry, replacing a pitcher water filter cartridge isn’t difficult at all. Here are some instructions:
- Start by removing the feed water tank in order to access the filter element.
- Take out the old filter cartridge. Some need turning or twisting while others need to be pulled.
- Before installing the new filter, make sure to prime it as described in the product manual. Your specific cartridge may need to soak for half an hour or flushed using a faucet.
- Add in the filter cartridge.
- Put the water reservoir on top.
- Some manufacturers recommend discarding the first pitcher or two before using the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can you use a water filter pitcher on well water?
You certainly can use a water filter pitcher on well water. However, you should make sure that the water is properly disinfected. Otherwise, you are putting your health at risk. - Do Brita water filter pitchers make well water taste better?
If you use the Brita Elite, chances are that it will make your well water taste much better. But it also depends on the contamination. Tip: Check Brita’s website to find out what their filters can remove. - Do PUR pitcher filters work on well water?
Generally, yes. That said, there are better well water filter pitchers out there. Also, PUR pitcher filters are prone to clogging and well water will make this even worse. - Is it OK to drink well water?
You should stay away from drinking untreated well water, mainly due to microbial contamination. Disinfected and filtered well water can definitely be safe to drink.
How We Chose and Tested the Best Water Filter Pitchers for Well Water (Why Trust Us)
When it comes to choosing the best water filter pitchers for well water, we understand the importance of reliable information. That’s why we’ve meticulously developed our methodology to ensure that you can trust our recommendations:
- Drawing on our extensive experience and research, we curated a list of 21 essential qualities to evaluate each pitcher against. Some of these qualities specifically address the unique challenges of well water filtration.
- We browsed the internet to compile a comprehensive list of 51+ potential candidates. We also reached out to several brands, such as Aquagear, Clearly Filtered, and Epic, to gather additional insights.
- To separate the best from the rest, we then thoroughly examined product manuals, descriptions, third-party lab reports, and user feedback from various platforms. This narrowed down our selection to 7 top contenders.
- Taking it a step further, we tested most of the remaining 7 pitchers using a legitimate water source. We began with precisely following the manufacturers’ instructions for pitcher cleaning, assembly, and priming. Then, we assessed factors like ease of use and other ergonomics, filtered water taste & odor, and filtration speed, to provide you with an in-depth analysis.
- As part of our commitment to accuracy, we conducted our own lab testing using Tap Score, a reputable testing method. This has allowed us to assess how well each pitcher performs under real-life conditions.
- Finally, we organized all the information we gathered into a clear and user-friendly pros versus cons format, ensuring that you can easily compare and make an informed decision.
Rest assured, our ratings and information are completely independent and unbiased. We have professionals who fact-check everything to ensure accuracy (Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS assessed claims of reducing contamination). So, you can trust us to provide you with reliable and trustworthy recommendations.
About Our Ratings
Our well water filter pitcher rating process is mostly based on 5 crucial factors: Contaminant reduction rates as per NSF standards (30%), initial and long-term filter replacement cost (25%), our direct testing as well as third-party feedback (20%), cartridge life (15%), product support (10%).
We’ve rated each pitcher on a score of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest rating.
Questions? Ask away!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
Information provided on BOS is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.
We adhere to strict editorial guidelines. Rest assured, the opinions expressed have not been provided, reviewed, or otherwise endorsed by our partners – they are unbiased, independent, and the author’s alone. Our licensed experts fact-check all content for accuracy. It is accurate as of the date posted and to the best of our knowledge.