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Beth says
April 21, 2022
How can you determine how much chlorine the Brita longlast filter removes but are unable to determine how much the standard Brita filter removes
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Best Water Filter for Chlorine: 7 Reviews + Buyer’s Guide 2023
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated:
Please note: This page may contain affiliate links. If you buy a product or service through such a link we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more about our product review process or check our FTC affiliate disclosure.
Those who know the facts do not question the key role chlorine has played as a water disinfectant for the last 100 years. However, questions and concerns regarding the consequences of long-term exposure to chlorine and its byproducts have been raised – and rightly so!
That’s why many households are now looking for water filters capable of removing the chemical from their tap water. Here is our selection of the best ones.
On This Page You Will…
- Find our list of best chlorine water filter systems
- Find our chlorine water filter reviews
- Buying guide – Learn what to consider when buying a chlorine water filter
- Find more useful information on chlorine water filters
No Time to Read? Check Our List of the Best Chlorine Filters!
| Chlorine Filters | Details | |
|---|---|---|
 Best for Whole House: SpringWell CF Chlorine Water Filter | Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$$ Type: Whole House Chlorine Reduction: Up to 99.6% NSF: – Read Review: Click |
 Budget Pick for Whole House: Evo Water Systems E-1000 | Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$$ Type: Whole House Chlorine Reduction: Extremely High NSF: – Read Review: Click |
 Best for Ease of Use: Clearly Filtered Pitcher | Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. Get 15% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $ Type: Water Filter Pitcher Chlorine Reduction: 99.5% NSF: 42, 53, 244, 401, P473 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for Under the Sink: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage | Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. Get 15% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$ Type: Under Sink Chlorine Reduction: 98.6% NSF: 42, 53, 401 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for RO Water Treatment: AquaTru | Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. Get 15% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$ Type: Reverse Osmosis Chlorine Reduction: 96.6% NSF: 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for Countertop/Gravity Filtration: Big Berkey | Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. |
Price: $$ Type: Gravity System Chlorine Reduction: 99.9% NSF: 42, 53 Read Review: Click |
 Best for Chlorine-Free Shower Water: Aquasana AQ-4100 | Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors. Get Up to 50% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $ Type: Shower Filter Chlorine Reduction: 91.61% NSF: 177 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
Best Chlorine Water Filter Reviews
Review Order
- SpringWell CF – Best for Whole House
- Evo Water Systems E-1000 – Best Budget Pick for Whole House
- Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher – Best for Ease of Use
- Clearly Filtered 3-Stage – Best for Under Sink
- AquaTru – Best for RO Water Purification
- Big Berkey – Best for Gravity Filtration
- Aquasana AQ-4100 & 4105 – Best for Showering
1. Best for Whole House: SpringWell CF Chlorine Water Filter
In our opinion, the best water filter for chlorine in 2023 is the SpringWell CF. That’s because it uses a mixture of catalytic carbon and KDF to remove a broad range of contaminants including 99.6% chlorine taste and odor from your water at the point of entry (whole house water filter).
Thus, it makes even the nastiest waters taste good. 5 stars!
|
SpringWell CF Whole House Chlorine Water Filter | |
| Price: | $$$ |
| Type: | Whole House |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | Up to 99.6% |
| NSF Certifications: | – |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: | |
Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: CF1, CF4, CF+
- Last Price: $1,016.44-$1,737.21
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$40
- Primary Filter Media: Catalytic Carbon + KDF
- Filter Stages: 2
- Flow Rate: 9-20 gpm
- Filtering Capacity: 1,000,000 gal
- WxHxD: 9-13″x52-58″x9-13″
- Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
- Water Pressure: 25-80 psi
- Fitting: 1″-1.5″
Key Features & Pros
- Our top pick for tap water with chlorine and/or chloramine.
- The SpringWell CF whole house water filter removes sediment, chemicals and other organic contaminants, and heavy metals for odor-free, great tasting water that’s also much healthier.
- 5-micron pre-filter traps sand, dirt, rust, etc. to protect the carbon and KDF filter media bed from clogging.
- KDF removes chlorine and heavy metals, and stops harmful algae, bacteria, and fungi from accumulating.
- Long-lasting catalytic carbon filters volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, chloramine, pesticides, herbicides, TTHMs, …
- SpringWell guarantees chlorine + chloramine reduction below the minimum detection level for 1 million gallons of water or 6 years.
- 3 system sizes to choose from:
- CF1 provides 9 gallons of water per minute (1-3 bathrooms).
- CF 4 is rated at 12 gpm (4-6 bathrooms).
- CF+ reaches up to 20 gpm (6+ bathrooms).
- Filter installation is easy if you’re handy with tools.
- Bypass valve and illustrated instructions are provided.
- All you need to do for system maintenance is replace the pre-filter once or twice a year – convenient! Annual cost: ~$40 per year.
- The seller offers you a full refund within the first 6 months after purchase if you’re unhappy.
- Product is covered by limited lifetime warranty.
- SpringWell’s customer support is A+.
Cons
- We would have preferred metal over plastic fittings.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
The SpringWell CF is best for people who want a whole house water filter that effectively removes chlorine and other chemicals, and that’s easy to install and maintain.
→ Full Review: SpringWell Water CF1, CF4 & CF+
2. Budget Whole House Water Filter Alternative: Evo E-1000
In case you find the SpringWell CF too expensive, here is a more affordable whole house filter option: The Evo Water Systems E-1000. Instead of a large tank, it uses replaceable filter cartridges. One is filled with catalytic activated carbon – ideal for removing chlorine and chloramine tap water.
|
Evo Water Systems E-1000 | |
| Price: | $$$ |
| Type: | Whole House |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | Extremely High |
| NSF Certifications: | – |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: | |
Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: E-1000
- Last Price: $776.12
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$145
- Primary Filter Media: Catalytic Carbon
- Filter Stages: 2
- Flow Rate: 15 gpm
- Filter Life: 1 Year
- WxHxD: 15½”x29″x8″
- Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
- Water Pressure: 25-120 psi
- Fitting: 1″ FNPT
Key Features & Pros
- Made in the US.
- A 5-micron pleated sediment pre-filter removes sand, rust, dust, and other dirt and debris.
- Protects the carbon filter stage from clogging as well as your home appliances.
- A highly effective catalytic carbon filter block eliminates chlorine, chloramine, herbicides, pesticides, VOCs, THMs, PFAS, and other chemicals from your water supply.
- 15 gpm is ideal for small to large homes.
- Comes preassembled – read to DIY-install.
- Mounting bracket is part of the package.
- You only need to replace filters every 12 months. Plus, new filters are affordable.
- Join the AutoShip program to save an extra 15%.
- Fast delivery.
- 120-day money-back guarantee (if you are unhappy).
- Limited lifetime warranty.
- Great customer support.
Cons
- No built-in bypass valve.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 4.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 4.5/5.0
Best for
The E-1000 by Evo Water Systems is best for people who want an affordable yet effective whole house chlorine water filter.
3. Best for Chlorine Filtration Using a Pitcher: Clearly Filtered
In our opinion, by far the best water filter to remove chlorine in the pitcher category in 2023 is the Clearly Filtered.
The unit is NSF-tested against Standard 42 for 99.5% chlorine reduction. Plus, it’s tested to remove more than 360 other water contaminants including 99.3% lead, 99.7% chloramine, and 97.8% chromium 6.
|
Clearly Filtered Pitcher | |
| Price: | $ |
| Type: | Water Filter Pitcher |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | 99.5% |
| NSF Testing: | 42, 53, 244, 401, P473 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
Get 15% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Other Specs
- Model: Water Pitcher with Affinity Filtration Technology
- Last Price: $90
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$150
- Filter Media: Carbon + Composite Shell
- Storage Capacity: 80 oz (10 Cups)
- Filter Life: 100 gal
- WxHxD: 11.25″x10.25″x5″
- Weight (Empty): 2.3 lb
Key Features & Pros
- The ideal water filter pitcher if you have clean and great tasting drinking water at the top of your priority list.
- Removes more contaminants than any other water filter pitcher on the market: Chlorine, chloramine, fluoride (99.5%), E Coli (99.99%), cryptosporidium (99.99%), arsenic (98.3%), lead, chromium-6, different pharmaceuticals (up to 99.9%), about a dozen herbicides (up to 99.9%), pesticides (up to 99.9%), PFOA (>99.0%), more than a hundred volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (vast majority to 99.9%), and more.
- NSF testing standards: 42, 53, 244, 401, P473.
- The pitcher applies Clearly Filtered’s own Affinity Filtration Technology which combines with several proprietary filter materials.
- Built in the USA.
- Made from medical-grade Tritan which is BPA-free and doesn’t leach chemicals.
- 10 cups water holding capacity is enough for families
- Removable lid for easy refilling.
- You can pour drinking water while there’s still unfiltered water in the upper reservoir.
- Filters with long service life add convenience (about 100 gallons per cartridge).
- More than you get with most competitor filter pitchers.
- Unit is backed by 30-day money-back guarantee and limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Although you can buy in bulk and subscribe to save, new filter cartridges aren’t cheap.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
The Clearly Filtered is best for people who want a chlorine filter pitcher that’s easy to use, highly effective, and affordable.
→ Full Review: Clearly Filtered Pitcher
4. Best for Under Your Sink: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage
If you’re looking for an under sink water filter to solve your chlorine problem, look no further. The Clearly Filtered 3-stage is the best one on the market.
It provides refreshing and clean drinking water free from 230+ potential contaminants that may be lurking in your water. Average chlorine removal according to standardized NSF testing: 98.6%.
|
Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter | |
| Price: | $$ |
| Type: | Under Sink |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | 98.6% |
| NSF Testing: | 42, 53, 401 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
Get 15% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Other Specs
- Model: 3-Stage Under the Sink Water Filter System
- Last Price: $550
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$440
- Filter Media: Carbon + Proprietary Blend
- Filter Stages: 3
- Filter Life: 2,000 Gallons
- WxHxD: 15″x15.4″x3.1″
- Fitting: ⅜”
Key Features & Pros
- Apart from chlorine, the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage removes heavy metals like lead (98.9%), chloramine (95.3%), arsenic (94.3%), herbicides and pesticides (up to 99.9%), fluoride (90.7%), chromium 6 (99.4%), PFOA (99.6%), more than 100 VOCs and semi volatile compounds (up to 99.9%), and much more.
- According to lab testing against NSF standards 42, 53, and 401.
- Filter stage 1 uses granular activated carbon media made from coconut shells.
- At stage 2, a “special blend” of filter media is used.
- The final filter stage combines different proprietary filter media.
- System is built in USA.
- Stainless steel hoses instead of plastic guarantee durability.
- Installation is non-permanent which is great for renters. And the whole process barely takes 10 minutes.
- Each filter stage lasts about 2,000 gallons or 12 months for easy maintenance.
- Shut-off valves and the modular filters are designed for tool-free replacement without shutting off the local water supply.
- Clearly Filtered provides a lifetime warranty on the product.
- 30 days satisfaction guarantee for peace of mind.
Cons
- Quality has its price.
- You should expect a reduction in water pressure of 15 to 25 percent.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
The Clearly Filtered 3-Stage is best for people who want an under sink water filter for chlorine removal, one that’s compact, easy to install and use, and very effective.
→ Read Full Review: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage
5. Best for Reverse Osmosis Water Purification: AquaTru
If you like reverse osmosis systems, you’ll love the AquaTru. The countertop system is our top choice – rigorously tested and NSF certified (96.6% chlorine reduction), installation-free, compact, and easy to use. 4.5 stars!
|
AquaTru Countertop Reverse Osmosis System | |
| Price: | $$ |
| Type: | Reverse Osmosis |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | 96.6% |
| NSF Certifications: | 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
Get 15% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Other Specs
- Model: AquaTru
- Last Price: $449.00
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$100-120
- Primary Filter Media: Carbon, RO
- Filter Stages: 4
- Water: 1 Gallon in 10-15 min
- Recovery Rate: 80%
- Filter Life: 600-1200 Gallons
- WxHxD: 12″x14″x14″
- Water Temperature: 39-100 °F
- Operating Pressure: 40-85 psi
Key Features & Pros
- 4-stage filtration process is tested to remove 82 different contaminants from drinking water. NSF standard 42, 53, 58, 401, Protocol P473 certifications guarantee filtration effectiveness.
- Sediment and activated carbon filter combo trap large particulates and remove chlorine, chemicals, unpleasant taste and odor, and more.
- Reverse osmosis membrane blocks heavy metals, salts like fluoride and nitrate, and arsenic.
- Activated carbon filter block targets organic compounds, PFAS, and pesticides among other stuff.
- Fast filtration of 1 gallon within 10-15 minutes.
- Water pressure pump boosts recovery rate, greatly reducing the amount of wastewater produced.
- Only 20% of the input water goes down the drain.
- Permeate water collects in front tank for easy one-button dispensing.
- Tank is removable and can be stored in refrigerator.
- Reject water collects in back tank ready for dumping.
- Tritan plastic material is BPA and BPS-free.
- Plug and play unit can be set up in a few minutes without tools.
- Filter change indicator and other features make system maintenance a breeze. Yearly cost is acceptable (~$100-120 USD).
- Backed by 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Cons
- We’re read about issues with leaks and other malfunctions.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 4.5/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 4.5/5.0
Best for
The AquaTru system is best for people looking for an RO filter that’s compact, installation-free, really effective, and ideal for removing chlorine.
6. Best for Gravity Filtration: Big Berkey
When you use a Berkey gravity system, like the Big Berkey, with Black Berkey Purification Elements, you get a water filter that really excels at removing the different forms of chlorine in drinking water. Free chlorine is removed to more than 99.9%, according to testing. And residual chlorine, chloride, and even chloramine are removed to below the lab detectable limits.
In addition to that, the Big Berkey gravity water filter system removes
- Viruses (>99.999%)
- Bacteria (>99.9999%)
- Aluminum (>99%)
- Cadmium (>99.7%)
- Chromium 6 (>99.85%)
- Lead (>99.9%)
- Mercury (>99.9%)
- Pharmaceutical drugs (up to >99.9%)
- Arsenic (>99.9%)
- Nitrites (>95%)
- Rust, silt, sediment
- Turbidity
- Foul tastes and odors
- …
|
Big Berkey Gravity Water Filter | |
| Price: | $$ |
| Type: | Gravity Water Filter |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | 99.9% |
| NSF Certifications: | 42, 53 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
| |
Other Specs
- Model: Big Berkey
- Last Price: $367
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$55
- Primary Filter Media: Carbon
- Flow Rate: Up to 7 gph
- Storage Capacity: ~2.25 Gallons
- Filter Life: 3,000 gal
- WxHxD: 8.5″x21″x8.5″
Key Features & Pros
- Big Berkey is perfect for families of 4.
- NSF-tested filtration performance.
- Fast filtration eliminates long waiting times.
- Large tank volume means you don’t need to refill too often.
- PF-2 filter elements can be added optionally for more effective fluoride removal.
- 304 food-grade stainless steel is durable and preserves water quality while stored.
- Rubber gasket on the bottom prevents scratches on your countertop.
- Assembly is quick and easy.
- Simple maintenance, also thanks to long-lasting filter elements.
- Each provides 3,000 gallons of filtered water.
- Affordable!
- Lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- Filter elements need period re-priming.
- Possible leaking at the dispenser.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 4.5/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 4.5/5.0
Best for
The Big Berkey is best for people who want a gravity filter capable of eliminating chlorine ideal for home use and prepping.
→ Read: Full Big Berkey System Review
7. Best for Showers: Aquasana AQ-4100 & 4105
If you want to enjoy chlorine-free showers, a shower filter is a budget-friendly alternative to a whole house water filter. And the best for this purpose is the Aquasana AQ-4100/4105.
It’s NSF standard 177 certified for 87% chlorine removal for 10,000 gallons. Of course, it also reduces other contaminants including lead, hydrogen sulfide, iron, and mercury, for much better air and water quality inside the shower.
|
Aquasana Shower Filter | |
| Price: | $ |
| Type: | Shower Filter |
| Ability to Remove Chlorine: | 91.61% |
| NSF Certifications: | 177 |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on chlorine removal %, price, maintenance cost, filter life, NSF standards, product warranty, support, user ratings, own testing, and other factors.
Get Up to 50% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Other Specs
- Model: AQ-4100, AQ-4105
- Last Price: $69.99-$104.99
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$100
- Filter Media: Carbon + KDF
- Flow Rate: 2.5 gpm
- Filter Capacity: 10,000 gal
- WxHxD: 7.25″x8.5″x3.2″
- Water Temperature: Up to 115 °F
- Water Pressure: 30-80 psi
- Fitting: ½” NPT
Key Features & Pros
- Using this shower water filter, Aquasana promises healthier, more moisturized skin and hair.
- Granular activated carbon + KDF-55 (copper-zinc blend) eliminate a wide range of impurities.
- 4 different filter versions available:
- Filter only (use own shower head).
- With massaging head.
- With massaging handheld wand in white.
- With massaging handheld wand in chrome.
- 2.5 gpm water flow rate prevents a drop in water pressure.
- Upflow filter doesn’t lower the height of your shower head for comfortable standing.
- Easy to install.
- 10,000-gallon filtration capacity for low maintenance at minimum cost (~$100 USD per year).
- Filter replacement is easy and doesn’t require tools.
- Aquasana offers 1-year limited warranty and 90-day money-back guarantee in case anything goes wrong.
Cons
- Vinyl hose of white handheld wand is a little stiff.
- A few people reported about leaking.
- Filter nozzle may be too short to accommodate large shower heads.
Our Rating
- Filtration Performance: 4.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 3.5/5.0
- Annual Cost: 4.5/5.0
- Overall: 4.5/5.0
Best for
Aquasana’s AQ-4100 and AQ-4105 is best for people looking for a chlorine shower filter that’s easy to install and maintain, long-lasting, and affordable.
Chlorine Filter Comparison List
(Mobile Hint: Swipe to Scroll)
| Chlorine Water Filters | Price | Yearly Cost | Type | Chlorine Removal | NSF/ANSI | Filter Life | Media | Warranty | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SpringWell CF Water Filtration System | $$$ | ~$40 | POE | Up to 99.6% | – | 1,000,000 gal | Catalytic Carbon + KDF | Lifetime | Best Chlorine Filter for Whole House, Catalytic Carbon Filters Many Impurities |
| Evo Water Systems E-1000 | $$$ | ~$145 | POE | Extremely High | – | 1 Year | Catalytic Carbon | Lifetime | |
| Clearly Filtered Pitcher | $ | ~$150 | Filter Pitcher | 99.5% | 42, 53, 244, 401, P473 | 100 gal | Carbon + Composite Shell | Life | Best Chlorine Filter for Drinking Water |
| Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Water Filter System | $$ | ~$440 | Under Sink Filter | 98.6% | 42, 53, 401 | 2,000 Gallons | Carbon + Proprietary Blend | Lifetime | Carbon Filters Chlorine, Filtration System Provides 12 Months of Filtered Water |
| AquaTru RO System | $$ | ~$100-120 | RO | 96.6% | 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 | 600-1200 Gallons | Carbon, RO | 1 Year | RO System Produces Pure Reverse Osmosis Water, Uses Carbon Filter |
| Big Berkey Water Filter System | $$ | ~$55 | Gravity Filter | 99.9% | 42, 53 | 3,000 gal | Carbon | Life | Gravity Water Filter System Provides Drinking Water When SHTF |
| Aquasana AQ-4100 & 4105 Water Filters | $ | ~$100 | Shower Filter | 91.61% | 177 | 10,000 gal | Carbon + KDF | 1 Year | Shower Water Filters Provide 10,000 Gallons of Filtered Water |
Buying Guide – How We Picked the Best Water Filters to Remove Chlorine + What You Need to Consider
The following are things worth considering before you go out and hunt for the best water filter to remove chlorine. These are also the very same criteria we focused on when picking our top products for this guide.
Get Your Water Tested!
Before you even think about buying a chlorine filter, you should have your water tested to determine the level of chlorine as well as other contaminants in your tap water supply.
Only with this information at hand can you choose the most appropriate filter system.
NSF Certifications
NSF testing and certifications are your only guarantee that a water filter performs as advertised by the company behind it.
NSF International is an independent institution that establishes public health and safety standards which products like water filters can be verified against.
For chlorine water filters, look for NSF Standard 42. Shower filters that remove chlorine are tested according to NSF Standard 177.
Water Filter Type
As a tap water contaminant, chlorine is one of the easiest to remove. Thus, you have a large selection of water filter types and models. Above, you’ll find a selection of the best products from each category.
Filtration Capacity & Flow Rate
All water filters, but whole house water filters in particular, need to be capable of providing enough water within a given time period. This is determined by a filter’s flow rate.
A water filter that’s too slow processing the water may lead to extended waiting times or a drop in water pressure.
As far as filtration capacity is concerned, filter cartridges with a long service life save you from frequent replacements which is more convenient and often also more affordable.
Installation and Maintenance
How much time and effort goes into installing and maintaining a water filter primarily depends on its type. For example, whole house water filtration systems are certainly more difficult to get up and running than a simple water filter pitcher.
Methodology: Why Trust Us?
It can take a while to find a good water filter that can remove chlorine effectively, even if you have a flexible budget. In fact, that can make your search a bit more complicated, because it would often prompt you to judge products based on their price alone. But as our experience has shown, that’s not a good idea for a variety of reasons.
Instead, we use a special list of comparison criteria to ensure that each filter we’re reviewing is worth your money and brings something useful to the table. We also collected as much information as we could about each of those products, going to different sources in the process (manuals, user ratings, etc.).
Those sources included the manufacturers themselves occasionally. We learned early on that talking to companies can provide us with a lot of valuable additional information about their products and services.
And in the end, nothing beats personally reviewing a product when you want to be as objective as possible about it. That’s exactly what we did, and it’s allowed us to make our reviews more factual than many others.
More on Chlorine Water Filters
Further Reading:
Why is Chlorine Added to Our Tap Water?
Simply put, chlorine is added to U.S. tap water supplies for disinfection. In other words: To kill parasites, bacteria, and viruses that could otherwise cause diseases.
Thus, water chlorination makes water safe to drink. Introduced in 1908, it has helped to eliminate waterborne diseases like typhoid fever saving tens of thousands of lives.
Furthermore, it is estimated that municipal water chlorination “played a major role in increasing Americans’ life expectancy by 50 percent during the 20th century”. The CDC calls it “one of the most significant public health advances in U.S. history”.
And lastly, chlorine also helps to reduce unpleasant tastes and odors.
Is Chlorine in Drinking Water Safe or Dangerous?
Chlorine levels up to 4 ppm are considered safe in drinking water.
Also, the benefits of water chlorination far outweigh any health risks from possible disinfection byproducts, which form as an unintended consequence of adding chemically-reactive chlorine to water containing small amounts of organic matter.
Still, there are risks associated with these byproducts. Among the most critical are trihalomethanes, or short THMs. Studies showed that lab animals exposed to very high levels of trihalomethanes had an increased risk of cancer. Studies on humans found a link between long-term exposure to high levels of chlorination byproducts and a higher risk of cancer.
THMs may also have an effect on pregnancy. A study found that pregnant women who drank large amounts of tap water with high THMs had an increased risk of miscarriage.
That being said, we want to stress that the aforementioned studies neither prove a link between chlorination byproducts and cancer nor between CBDs and miscarriage. They simple show a need for further research.
Effects of Chlorine on Skin and Hair
Chlorine can affect the outer layer of your skin stripping it from its natural oils causing dryness, itchiness, and even rashes. This may even lead to premature aging.
The same applies to your hair. Without its natural oil, you hair may become brittle. Plus, chlorine can change your hair’s natural color.
How to Remove Chlorine from Water?
Carbon Filtration
Filtration is the most straightforward approach to removing chlorine from water. There are two ways you can approach this:
- Point-of-use (POU) water filtration – a POU system filters water at the point of use, usually the kitchen faucet. Example: A reverse osmosis water filter that gets installed under the kitchen sink.
- Point-of-entry (POE) water filtration – a POE system filters the entire water supply, meaning you get chlorine-free water everywhere in your home. Example: Whole house water filter based on activated carbon filtration.
When you consider that a large proportion of our daily exposure to chlorine and its disinfection byproducts does not come from the water we drink, but from what our skin absorbs and our lungs inhale in the shower, going the POE route makes a lot of sense.
Second, no matter what type of chlorine water filter you choose, what’s important is that it utilizes at least 1 activated carbon filter block or granular activated carbon filter stage (catalytic carbon filters work as well).
As a filter medium, carbon adsorbs up to 99.9% of free chlorine and many other natural and synthetic contaminants from water and traps them in the tiny pores on its surface.
Thereby, chlorine removal is a function of contact time with the filter medium. In other words: When it comes to carbon filters, appropriate sizing is critical. The more water that needs to be processed within a given period of time, the larger the filtration system needs to be.
UV Light
A viable but less common alternative to carbon filtration is UV light water treatment. Broad-spectrum ultraviolet systems reduce chlorine and chloramines into easily removed byproducts.
How? Wavelengths between 180 nm and 400 nm trigger a photochemical reaction that dissociates free chlorine forming chloride ions/hydrochloric acid.
Distillation
Simply put, distillation provides water of the highest purity. Chlorine stands no chance of surviving the water treatment process, provided that there is a way for the gas to escape.
Does Reverse Osmosis Remove Chlorine?
The reverse osmosis membrane itself is not suited for filtering chlorine. In fact, chlorine causes damage to an RO membrane.
Fortunately, every single reverse osmosis system we reviewed applies at least 1 carbon pre-filter to eliminate most of the chlorine before it gets the chance to even touch the reverse osmosis membrane.
Do Brita Filters Remove Chlorine?
Yes, they do.
- The Brita Longlast for filter pitchers reduces 97.4% of chlorine according to independent lab reports.
- The Brita Standard (also for filter pitchers) reduces 95% chlorine.
- Brita’s Complete faucet mount water filter removes 97.5% chlorine taste and odor.
Comparing the three, the Brita Standard is the least effective and lasts for a mere 40 gallons. Brita Longlast and Brita Complete are similar in terms of contaminant reduction rates and filtration capacity. One Longlast cartridge can treat up to 120 gallons of drinking water. Complete replacement filter elements are good for 100 gallons.
How About PUR and ZeroWater?
PUR’s Basic and Lead Reduction pitcher filters remove at least 96.9% of chlorine. The PUR faucet mounted filter removes about 96% chlorine plus 99.7% THMs, a group of harmful disinfection byproducts.
As far as ZeroWater is concerned, the filter pitcher reduces 97.4% of chlorine, according to a test conducted by NSF International. It’s also known for removing more than 99% of TDS (Total Dissolved Solids). However, the handling is rather difficult. And it’s one of the slowest pitchers you can buy with a low filtration capacity so that replacement cost will add up quickly.
Does Boiling Water Remove Chlorine?
Does boiling water remove chlorine? Yes, you can boil chlorine out of water, although the term boiling might be misleading. It’s enough to heat up the water, no need to actually boil it.
How long does it take for the chlorine to dissipate? Simply heat for 10 to 20 minutes and voila, all chlorine will be gone. (The exact time required could be much lower depending on the amount of water and chlorine concentrations.)
Does Chlorine Evaporate? How Long Does It Take?
Yes, chlorine as a gas at room temperature is a volatile solute that evaporates from water over time, escaping into the surrounding air.
How long does water need to sit to dechlorinate?
This depends on water temperature and surface area, air temperature, and the level of dissolved chlorine. For example: If you put a large but very flat bowl of chlorinated tap water out in the sun, the dechlorination process will be much faster than if you were to put a glass of the same amount of tap water in your refrigerator.
By the way, apart from UV light, aeration and circulation can speed up the process.
Generally speaking, you should let the water sit for about 24 hours, although chlorine taste and odor might have vanished after a couple of minutes. For more control over the process use chlorine test strips to determine how much of the water disinfectant is left.
Chemical Adjustment Using a Dechlorinator
Your last option is to use a dechlorination agent, short dechlorinator, a.k.a. chlorine neutralizer or chlorine remover.
There are different chemicals available including potassium metabisulfite, sodium thiosulfate, sodium sulfite, and vitamin C.
The main benefit of using a dechlorinator is that it works relatively fast. Required contact time: A mere seconds up to 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Does vitamin C help to dechlorinate water?
Indeed! Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, can neutralize both chlorine and chloramine in tap water. It comes in form of powder or dechlorination tablets and can be used to treat large volumes. Compared to other chlorine neutralizers, the benefits of using vitamin C are that it’s an environmentally safe method and that it can be obtained for little money from many different places. - Does a water softener remove chlorine?
Unfortunately, a conventional water softener does not remove chlorine from water. The exception is water systems that have granular activated carbon media added to their resin bed. - Do refrigerator filters remove chlorine?
Like all other water filters that rely on carbon filter media, most refrigerator water filters remove chlorine. - How can you get rid of chlorine naturally (without chemicals)?
Yes, you can. Boiling (heating), aging, and aeration are the go-to methods.
I hope this list of the best chlorine filters was helpful. Questions? Ask away!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
