The Best Water Filter for Lead Removal? 14 Reviews + Guide 2023
Written by: Alexandra Uta // Last Updated:
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The water crisis in Flint, Michigan showed us that depending on where we live there might be contaminants in our drinking water that pose a serious threat to our health.
From April 2014 to late 2015, Flint residents received water contaminated with poisonous lead, a neurotoxin long used as a building material for pipes.
Studies conducted in recent years linked lead to causing brain disorders and damage to kidneys and red blood cells. Lead is also particularly dangerous for unborn babies as well as infants and young children being responsible for:
- Delays in physical development
- Reduced IQs
- Attention disorders
- Behavioral problems
- Brain damage
Fortunately, there are water filters that reduce lead content by as much as 99.9%. Here are the best ones.
On This Page You Will…
- Find our lead filters best-of list
- Find our lead water filter reviews
- Buying guide – Learn what to consider when buying a lead filter
- Find more useful information on water filters for lead removal
No Time to Read? Check Our List of the Best Water Filters for Lead!
| Filters | Details | |
|---|---|---|
 Best for Whole House Lead Filtration: PIONEER | Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$$ Type: Whole House Filtration System Lead Reduction: 99.62% NSF: 53, P473 Read Review: Click |
 Best for Ease of Use: Clearly Filtered Pitcher | Get 15% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $ Type: Water Filter Pitcher Lead Reduction: 99.3% NSF: 42, 53, 244, 401, P473 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for Under Sinks: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage | Get 15% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$ Type: Under Sink Water Filtration System Lead Reduction: 98.9% NSF: 42, 53, 401 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for RO Water Purification: AquaTru | Get 15% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $$ Type: Reverse Osmosis Lead Reduction: 99.1% NSF: 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for Lead-Free Showers: Aquasana AQ-4100 | Get Up to 50% Off! Use Code: |
Price: $ Type: Shower Water Filter Lead Reduction: Yes NSF: 77 Read Review: Click Alexa’s Video Review: Click |
 Best for Countertop/Gravity Lead Filtration: Big Berkey |
Price: $$ Type: Gravity Water Filtration System Lead Reduction: 99.9% NSF: 42, 53 Read Review: Click | |
Please Note
The U.S. EPA has set the lead action level to 15 parts per billion (ppb). This is when water utilities are required to take action to lower the lead concentrations in their water supply. (Source)
However, the maximum contaminant goal for lead in drinking water is 0. That’s because lead is simply too harmful even at low levels, as it can bioaccumulate in the body over time causing irreversible damage. In a nutshell, lead should be eliminated from water entirely if possible.
This is something you should keep in mind when choosing a lead filter. One model might be more expensive than another but therefore certified to remove 99.9% rather than 95.0% lead (just an example) – a small difference which can have a huge impact on your health.
The Best Water Filter For Lead Removal
The following is a collection of the best water filters for lead removal:
Review Order
- PIONEER – Best for Whole House
- Home Master HMF2SmgCC55 – Whole House Runner-Up
- Clearly Filtered Pitcher – Best for Ease of Use
- Clearly Filtered 3-Stage – Best for Under the Sink
- Aquasana Claryum & Epic Smart Shield – Under Sink Runner-Up
- AquaTru – Best for RO Water Purification of Lead
- Aquasana OptimH2O and Home Master TMAFC – RO Runner-Up
- Aquasana AQ-4100 – Best for Showering
- Big Berkey – Best for Gravity Filtering of Lead
- Brita Filters
- PUR Water Filters
- Refrigerator Water Filters
1. Best for Whole House: PIONEER Lead Water Filter
In our opinion, the best water filter for lead removal in 2023 is the PIONEER by ENPRESS. It’s the only whole house water filter on the market with an NSF Standard 53 certification for guaranteed lead removal. All things considered, it’s the ideal system for people who want lead-free water at every outlet in their home. 5 stars!
|
SpringWell Whole House Lead & Cyst Removal System: PIONEER | |
| Price: | $$$ |
| Type of Filter: | Whole House |
| Ability to Remove Lead: | 99.62% |
| NSF Certifications: | 53, P473 |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
Our Rating
Get 5% Off! Use Code: | |
Gallery
Pros
- Only whole house water filter tested and certified for lead reduction against to NSF standards. Removes 99.62% particulate + soluble lead from 100,000 gallons of water.
- Traps particulate lead down to 0.5-micron nominal.
- PIONEER filter uses special binders to bind soluble lead.
- Also certified for PFOA/PFOS (97.9%, NSF P473) and cyst (>99.95%, NSF 53).
- Also helps with chlorine, chloramine, other heavy metals, bad taste and odor.
- 4.51 gallons per minute service flow rate and 8 gpm peak flow – sufficient for homes with 1-3 bathrooms depending on how much water you use simultaneously.
- Unit is metered and uses simple LED system to let you know when the remaining filter life is less than 10% and when to replace the filter cartridge.
- Filtration capacity is 100,000 gallons of water or 1 year, whichever comes first.
- Whole house water filter system is shipped preassembled and includes bypass ideal for DIYers who like to self-install and save money.
- Replacing filters is a simple process and doesn’t require tools.
- Seller provides 6-month satisfaction guarantee for peace of mind.
- System is warranted for 1 year, filters for 30 days.
Cons
- 8 gallons per minute peak flow might not suffice for large homes with 3 or more bathrooms without experiencing water pressure drops.
- Not for people on a budget.
Best for
The PIONEER is best for people who want a highly effective POE filter system for lead removal.
→ Read Our Full PIONEER Filter Review Here
2. Whole House Water Filter System Alternative: Home Master HMF2SmgCC55
Probably the best alternative to the PIONEER is the Home Master HMF2SmgCC55. It, too, is a cartridge-based system with
- One multi-gradient depth sediment filter stage removing sand, silt and other particles down to a size of 1 micron (nominal).
- And one cartridge with a mix of catalytic carbon and 12 pounds(!) of KDF-55 filter media for “challenging lead removal applications”. Apart from lead and other water-soluble metals, the filter media also reduces chloramine, chlorine, all kinds of chemicals, and bad taste & odor.
The Home Master HMF2SmgCC55 has 2 advantages over the PIONEER whole house water filter:
- It’s a lot more affordable upfront.
- Instead of 8, it allows for up to 10 gallons per minute flow rate which is better for large houses with multiple bathrooms.
On the downside, the Home Master HMF2SmgCC55 is NOT certified for removing lead. The manufacturer claims up to 95% reduction, but that’s not backed by actual lab testing.
Also, the HMF2SmgCC55 is more costly to maintain. The annual cost for 100,000 gallons of filtered water are around $500, opposed to $350-400 for the PIONEER.
And lastly, the Home Master system is for city water only.
3. Best for Ease of Use: Clearly Filtered Lead Removal Pitcher
In our opinion, the #1 lead removal pitcher in 2023 is the Clearly Filtered. It’s for people who put healthy and clean drinking water at the top of their priority list and don’t want to make any compromises when it comes to quality and taste. Being the only water filter pitcher tested against 5 NSF standards, it’s guaranteed to remove over 360 contaminants including 99.3% lead. 5 stars!
|
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher | |
| Price: | $ |
| Filter Type: | Pitcher |
| Ability to Remove Lead: | 99.3% |
| NSF Standards: | 42, 53, 244, 401, P473 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Our Rating
Get 15% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Pros
- Our go-to water filter pitcher.
- Removes more contaminants than any other model on the market. For example: Chlorine (99.5%), chloramine (99.7%), fluoride (99.5%), bacteria like E Coli (99.99%), cryptosporidium (99.99%), arsenic (98.3%), lead (99.3%), chromium-6 (97.8%), about two dozen pharmaceutical drugs (99.9%), herbicides (up to 99.9%), pesticides (up to 99.8%), chemicals like BPA, PFOA and nitrate (≥97%), 100+ volatile organic compounds/semi-volatile compounds (vast majority to >99.8%).
- NSF standards: 42, 53, 244, 401, P473.
- Uses Affinity Filtration Technology which combines granular activated carbon with several other proprietary filtration materials.
- Built in the USA.
- Made from medical-grade Tritan.
- BPA-free and doesn’t leach chemicals, odors, or tastes into your water.
- Holds 10 cups of water, enough for family use.
- Removable lid makes refilling very easy.
- Water dam allows pouring out drinking water without spilling unfiltered water.
- Most essential minerals are kept in the water and add to daily nutritional intake.
- Filters are long lasting for convenience: 100 gallons of water or 4 months on average.
- Way more than what you get with most other brands.
- Filter pitcher is backed by 30-day no-risk satisfaction guarantee + limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Although you can buy in bulk and/or subscribe to filters and save up to $9.50 per piece, the replacements are quite pricey.
- People complained about slow flow and clogged water filters.
- We haven’t experienced the latter ourselves.
- The Clearly Filtered pitcher was designed for longer contact time between water and filter media to allow for highest contaminant removal.
- Seller sends free replacement filters in case of defect.
Best for
The Clearly Filtered is best for people who want a lead water filter pitcher that’s easy to use, extremely effective, and affordable.
→ Read Our Full Clearly Filtered Pitcher Review Here
4. Best for Under the Sink: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage
In our opinion, the number one under sink lead water filtration system in 2023 is the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage. It provides highly clean, safe, and refreshing drinking water. How clean? According to independent lab testing against NSF standards, it removes 98.9% lead in addition to more than 230 other contaminants that might be lurking in your water supply. 5 stars!
|
Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Filtration System | |
| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Type: | Under Sink |
| Ability to Remove Lead: | 98.9% |
| NSF Standards: | 42, 53, 401 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Our Rating
Get 15% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Pros
- The Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under-the-Sink Filter System removes lead (98.9%), chlorine (98.6%), chloramines (95.3%), arsenic (94.3%), sodium fluoride (90.7%), chromium 6 (99.4%), PFOA (99.6%), herbicides and pesticides (up to 99.9%), 100+ VOCs and semi volatile compounds (up to 99.9%), and much more.
- Tested by independent lab against NSF standards 42, 53 and 401.
- Some of the best testing results we’ve ever seen!
- Stage 1 uses granular activated carbon filter (made from coconut shells).
- Filter stage 2 uses “special blend” to reduce heavy metals, VOCs, radiation, PFAS and other chemicals.
- Filter stage 3 uses proprietary filter media which targets fluoride and arsenic in drinking water.
- Free from activated alumina and bone char.
- Built in USA.
- Stainless steel hoses guarantee durability.
- Designed for a quick, non-permanent DIY installation (i.e. doesn’t require a hole for an extra faucet) – great for renters and to save money.
- System maintenance is low. Each of the 3 filters lasts about 2,000 gallons or 12 months. The average household has to replace once a year.
- Modular design + built-in shut-off valves allow for quick and tool-free filter changes with no need to close the feed water supply.
- Covered by lifetime warranty.
- 30 days satisfaction guarantee for peace of mind.
Cons
- Quality has its price. This under sink water filter for lead removal is more expensive than most of its competition.
- Reduces water pressure by 15-25% (thorough filtration takes time).
Best for
The Clearly Filtered 3-Stage is best for people who want an under sink lead filter that’s compact, easy to install and use, and very effective.
→ CF 3-Stage Under the Sink Filter Fully Reviewed
5. Under Sink Water Filter Alternatives: Aquasana Claryum & Epic Smart Shield Under Sink Water Filter Systems
2 budget-friendly alternatives to the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage under sink water filter are Aquasana’s Claryum systems (there are 3) and the Epic Smart Shield by Epic Water Filters.
Both are NSF-tested/certified for more than 99.3% average lead reduction which is even more than what the Clearly Filtered can do for you.
As for Aquasana’s Claryum water filtration systems, there’s
- The AQ-5200 with 2 filter stages and 500 gallons of water filtration capacity.
- The AQ-5300 with 3 filter stages. Filters 600 gallons.
- And the AQ-5300+ with 3 larger filter stages for higher water flow and 800 gallons filter life.
All 3 use activated carbon + catalytic carbon filter media to remove up to 99.9% of at least 77 different and potentially harmful contaminants including lead. NSF certifications: Standard 42, 53, 401 and Protocol P473.
Personally, we favor the AQ-5300+ because the other two tend to be too slow.
The Epic Smart Shield features a single activated coconut carbon block filter stage and is thus the most affordable option. Made in USA, it removes over 70 tap water contaminants like lead (NSF 42, 53, 401) and is available with or without a dedicated faucet.
Setup couldn’t be easier and the filter is small enough to fit in the tightest corner
Capacity: 650 gallons which is less than one-third of the Clearly Filtered’s life so that, over the long run, there’s not that much of a difference in terms of annual filter replacement cost.
Alexa’s Video Review
6. Best for RO Water Purification: AquaTru System
In our opinion, the #1 RO system for lead removal in 2023 is the AquaTru. It’s a countertop system that has been tested rigorously to earn 5 different NSF certifications. Lead reduction rate: 99.1%. And the best thing about the AquaTru, it doesn’t even require installation. It’s a plug & play unit ideal for renters and everyone who doesn’t want to bother with a tedious install. 4.5 stars!
|
AquaTru Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System | |
| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Type: | Reverse Osmosis |
| Ability to Remove Lead: | 99.1% |
| NSF Cert.: | NSF 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
Our Rating
Get 15% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Pros
- RO system is compact and easy to use.
- Tested and certified to remove up to 99.99% of 82 different contaminants
- 4 filter stages:
- Uses combination of sediment filter and activated carbon filter to trap sediments and other large particulates as well as adsorb chlorine, chemicals, bad and odor, and more.
- Reverse osmosis membrane rejects heavy metals, fluoride, nitrate, arsenic, total dissolved solids, etc.
- Activated coconut carbon block polishing filter takes care of organic compounds, PFOA, PFOS, pesticides, and residual taste among other stuff.
- 5 NSF/ANSI certifications (Standard 42, 53, 58, 401, Protocol P473) guarantee clean drinking water.
- Purifies 1 gallon of water in 10-15 minutes so no long waiting times.
- Built-in pressure pump increases recovery rate to 80%, meaning only one-fifth of the input water goes down the drain (compared to 3-5 gallons that other reverse osmosis water filtration systems waste for every gallon of filtered water produced).
- Permeate water collects in 3-quart front tank which allows for easy button dispensing.
- Tank is removable for portability and refrigerator cooling.
- Reject water is collected in second tank ready to be discarded.
- Material is Tritan plastic which is BPA + BPS-free.
- Takes less than 10 minutes to set up for maximum convenience. No drilling. No plumbing.
- Great for renters who aren’t allowed to drill into their sink/countertop and make changes to the plumbing system.
- System maintenance is low, straightforward, and affordable. Cost: Approximately $100-120 a year.
- Indicator light on front panel tells you when it’s time for a new filter cartridge.
- Replace the filter cartridges annually/biannually. RO membrane lasts up to 2 years.
- Tool-free replacement process takes 2 minutes max.
- One year warranty.
Cons
- Issues with leaks and units malfunctioning after several months use.
Best for
The AquaTru is best for people who want a reverse osmosis system for lead removal, one that is compact, installation-free, super effective, and fast.
→ Read Our Full Review of the AquaTru System
7. 2 Reverse Osmosis System Alternatives: Aquasana OptimH2O and Home Master TMAFC
2 alternatives to the AquaTru countertop RO system are the Aquasana OptimH2O and the Home Master TMAFC. Both are under sink units that require proper installation.
If you’re on a budget the Aquasana OptimH2O is probably the right choice for you. It’s certified to remove 99.3% lead and 87 other contaminants. Just know that the system is not without flaws. A few people had trouble with leaking and the flow rate can be pretty slow, too.
According to the manufacturer, the Home Master TMAFC removes 99.3% lead from water on average. However, this claim isn’t backed by an NSF certification.
Reasons why the filter is still one of our reverse osmosis system top picks is because of A+ customer feedback, a 5-year warranty, low maintenance requirements, and the built-in remineralization – adds calcium and magnesium back into the drinking water to balance mineral loss during the RO filtration process. →Check the Home Master TMAFC on Amazon.
8. Best for Shower Water Filtration Removing Lead: Aquasana AQ-4100
As far as we know, there’s no shower filter certified for lead removal currently available. This also goes for the Aquasana AQ-4100 shower filter. However, it uses the right types of filter media – granular activated carbon combined with KDF-55.
This is the best defense against lead you can get for your shower.
|
Aquasana AQ-4100 | |
| Price: | $ |
| Filter Type: | Shower |
| Ability to Remove Lead from Water: | Yes |
| NSF Cert.: | 177 |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
Our Rating
Get Up to 50% Off! Use Code: | |
Alexa’s Video Review
Pros
- Choose your favorite model:
- With massaging head.
- With handheld wand.
- No head.
- Uses 2-stage filtration process. The first filter layer is granular activated carbon followed by KDF media. Great for lead removal.
- Shower filter is NSF standard 77 certified for chlorine removal (87% for 10,000 gallons of water) – great for healthy skin. Other than that, Aquasana says the unit is also effective against chloramine, iron, hydrogen sulfide, mercury, and various chemicals.
- BPA-free materials only.
- Easy to install.
- Shower head remains at its old height so you can stand upright.
- Filter life is 10,000 gallons or 6 months so maintenance is kept at a bare minimum.
- The manufacturer provides a 90-day satisfaction guarantee and a 1-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- The filter nozzle is short and thus not compatible with large shower heads.
- Some people have had issues with clogged or broken filters.
Best for
Aquasana’s AQ-4100 is best for people looking for a lead shower filter that’s affordable, easy to install and service, and long-lasting.
→ Read Our Full Aquasana AQ-4100/4105 Review Here
9. Best for Gravity-Based Lead Filtration: Big Berkey
Berkey gravity filters achieve 99.9% lead reduction when used with long-lasting Black Berkey Purification Elements. They also get rid of dozens of other harmful contaminants as certified by lab testing to NSF standards (42 & 53). The result: Healthy and great-tasting water!
We usually like to recommend the Big Berkey, but you can also choose a Travel, Royal, Imperial, or Crown Berkey, or the Berkey Light.
|
Big Berkey Water Filter for Lead | |
| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Type: | Gravity |
| Ability to Remove Lead from Water: | 99.9% |
| NSF Cert.: | 42, 53 |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
Our Rating
| |
Pros
- Big Berkey is perfect for family of 4.
- Large tank volume and fast filtration eliminate waiting times. You also don’t need to refill too often.
- Black Berkey filters remove lead and other heavy metals including chromium 6, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium, bacteria and viruses, pharmaceutical drugs, chlorine taste and odor, chloramines, sediment…
- PF-2 filter elements as optional upgrades for even more effective fluoride reduction.
- 304 food-grade stainless steel provides for durability and preserves filtered water purity.
- A rubber gasket prevents surface scratching.
- Initial assembly is super easy. The same goes for system maintenance.
- Each element has a filtering life of as much as 3,000 gallons.
- You probably won’t need to change the filter elements more than once a year. Cost? Affordable!
- Filter system is warranted for lifetime.
Cons
- Re-priming of the filter elements may be required.
- The drinking water dispenser might leak.
Best for
The Big Berkey is best for people who want a gravity system capable of filtering lead that’s highly effective and ideal for regular use and prepping.
10. Brita Filters
Does Brita remove lead from water? Well, the Brita Standard filter cartridge which can be used with Brita pitchers and dispensers applies coconut-based activated carbon in combination with an ion-exchange resin. This reduces the level of lead only marginally and is not effective enough to provide safe drinking water.
However, the Brita Longlast filter is WQA certified to remove 99.5% of lead in addition to 10 other contaminants including pharmaceuticals that found their way into our water supply systems in recent years. Now, this is a good start but it also shows that Brita simply cannot compete with Clearly Filtered in terms of filtered water quality.
Also, people are having numerous problems with Brita Longlast filters including premature clogging, unpleasant drinking water taste, and overall low quality and filtration performance. Bottom line: We don’t recommend it.
That being said, apart from filter pitchers and dispensers, Brita offers the On Tap Complete, a solid faucet water filter certified against NSF standards 42, 53 and 401 for removing lead at a minimum rate of 99.3%.
With 100 gallons the filtering capacity is about average. The small unit connects to any standard kitchen tap within minutes. Cartridges can be changed with a simple click.
As an added benefit, you can easily switch between filtered and unfiltered water which is a simple yet effective way to extend the filter’s lifespan and save money by only using filtered water when really needed.
11. PUR Water Filters
Does a PUR water filter remove lead? Yes, it does. Though, PUR offers a wide range of filter pitchers and faucet-mount units…
If you want to go the pitcher route, make sure to use PUR’s Lead Reduction replacement filter cartridges instead of the PUR Basic.
While the Basic has a slightly higher gallon rating, it’s best used for removing mercury, microbiological cysts, chlorine, disinfection byproducts, and several pharmaceuticals. The lead reducing version is certified to eliminate 97.7-99.4% of the toxic heavy metal among other harmful stuff. Filters: 30 gallons.
If you check the performance data sheet you’ll find that the stats aren’t bad, but also nowhere near the Clearly Filtered pitcher reviewed above which is certified to remove way more contaminants and at higher reduction rates.
On a side note: With PUR pitcher filters clogging seems to be a common issue.
If you haven’t settled for a pitcher yet, the PUR Classic is our top choice. It’s easy to use, can store up to 11 cups, and is made from BPA-free materials.
You don’t like pitchers? The PUR Advanced faucet water filtration system is up to NSF standards taking on 70 different contaminants in water including more than 99.3% lead and 96.0% mercury. (This is the exact same model that was given to Flint residents so they could combat their drinking water crisis!)
Cons: People have had issues with leaks after about six months of using the PUR Advanced. What’s causing these problems are cheap materials that tend to develop hair line cracks making the product unusable.
12. Refrigerator Water Filters
Believe it or not, there are many, many high-quality refrigerator water filters that are great for removing lead. Examples are:
- The Samsung DA29-00020B – For side-by-side and French Door refrigerators. Lead removal >99.0%
- The GE RPWFE – Also for French Door refrigerators. Lead removal >98.0%
- The GE MWF – For side-by-side and bottom-freezer refrigerators. Lead removal 99.3%
- The Frigidaire WF2CB PureSource 2 – For refrigerators after 2004. Lead removal 99.3%
- The LG LT700P – For different LG refrigerators. Lead removal >99.3%
Which filter is best suited for you depends on your refrigerator model of course. That’s why we suggest you go ahead and check our 2023 Refrigerator Water Filter Special here.
More Reviews:
Best Lead Water Filter Comparison List
(Mobile Hint: Swipe to Scroll)
| Filtering System | Price | Type | Lead Reduction | NSF/ANSI | Warranty | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SpringWell Whole House Lead and Cyst Removal System: PIONEER | $$$ | POE | 99.62% | 53, P473 | 1 Year | Filtration System was Specifically Designed to Remove Lead from Water Source |
| Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher | $ | Pitcher | 99.3% | 42, 53, 244, 401, P473 | Life | Filtering System Removes 99.% Lead and Other Contaminants, Filters High Amount of Water (100 Gallons), Better than Bottled Water |
| Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Water Filter System | $$ | Under Sink | 98.9% | 42, 53, 401 | Life | Replacing the Filter Cartridges Couldn’t Be More Simple |
| AquaTru Filtration System | $$ | RO | 99.1% | 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 | 1 Year | One of the Best, Easy to Install |
| Aquasana AQ-4100 | $ | Shower Filter | ? | 77 | 1 Year | Filtering System is Easy to Install |
| Big Berkey Filtration System | $$ | Gravity Filter | 99.9% | 42, 53 | Lifetime | Designed to Remove Lead from Water Source |
Buying Guide – How We Picked the Best Water Filters to Remove Lead
The following are things worth considering before you go out and buy a water filter for lead. These are also the very same criteria we focused on when picking our top products for this guide.
Indispensable: NSF/ANSI International Standard 53 Certifications
When shopping for a water filter system definitely look out for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 testing and certifications for lead removal.
NSF International is a not-for-profit organization that develops industry standards. Independent third-party testing agencies such as the Water Quality Association (WQA) or CSA certify specific products on the market to these standards.
To get certified, a filtering solution must be able to reduce the amount of lead in water below the U.S. EPA action level of 15 ppb. That’s not perfect, but it’s a great start. You should also check and compare the specific lead reduction rate listed in a product’s performance data sheet.
By the way, some reverse osmosis systems are certified for lead removal against NSF standard 58. Both standards are fine.
Types of Lead Filtration Systems
Truth is, lead removal from water isn’t so much about the type of filter but rather the filtration process/method(s) used. Reverse osmosis, carbon filtration, KDF filtration, and distillation are all very effective.
They can be found in whole house filtration systems, under sink filters, water filter pitchers, countertop units, gravity-fed systems, faucet filters, distillers, and the different types of reverse osmosis systems.
Testing Your Water for Other Contaminants
Consider having your water tested for lead AND other contaminants. Many are no less harmful than lead, chromium-6 for example, and therefore just as important to remove.
In our opinion, it’s always best to go with professional labs. They can test one or more direct water samples for hundreds of different chemicals, organics, heavy metals, etc.
Another option is to check your latest water quality report. It’s free but not available for private well water.
You may also do your own water testing to get a basic idea of the quality of your water supply and which issues you’re facing. Simple test kits are widely available.
Lead Filter Installation
How challenging the installation of a lead water filter turns out to be depends on its type.
Whole house systems are certainly more difficult to install than under sink filters.
Pitchers, gravity filters, faucet mount systems, countertop filters, and distillers can usually be assembled in a matter of minutes and don’t require permanent installation.
Replacement Filters
Replacement filters are an important aspect with every type of water filter: They are the predominant cost factor in the long-term. That’s why long-lasting, affordable filters that are widely available are the preferred choice here.
More on Lead Filters
Further Reading:
How Does Lead Get into Our Water?
Lead enters our water systems via pipes and fixtures connected by corroding lead solder which was used until 1986, and via pipes directly containing lead which applies in particular to homes built before the 1930s. Thus, the AWWA estimated that 15-22 million Americans drank from a tap water supply with lead-based service lines in 2016.
Another adverse factor of lead contamination is acidic water with low mineral content that accelerates corrosion.
What’s Really Shocking
USA Today identified about 2,000 city water supply systems in all 50 U.S. states where tests showed severe lead contamination between the years 2013 and 2016.
The Detroit Free Press stated that hundreds of major U.S. cities still have 100% lead piping connecting tap water utilities to homes.
And according to The Guardian, at least 33 U.S. cities have been found to use cheats to conceal dangerous levels of lead in their tap water supply.
Health Risks – How Does Lead Affect the Human Body?
Lead is classified as a neurotoxin. It
- permanently impairs the intellectual development of children and fetuses, and their delays physical development.
- affects a child’s ability to concentrate and causes behavior problems (e.g. irritability).
- can be responsible for fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, and hearing loss in young children.
Symptoms in adults include high blood pressure, abdominal pain, constipation, joint and muscle pain, numbness or tingling of the extremities, headache, miscarriage or premature birth in pregnant women, fatigue, and memory loss. (Source)
What’s Considered a Safe Level of Lead in Drinking Water?
As mentioned above, although the Environmental Protection Agency has set the lead action level to 15 parts per billion, there are no safe levels of lead in drinking water.
How to Test Water for Lead
Lead is colorless and odorless, and if traces of it are dissolved in water they are invisible to the naked eye. So if there’s lead in your tap water how can you find out about it?
- First of all, you can request a free water quality report, called Consumer Confidence Report, from your municipality. Water quality reports have to be released each year by July 1st. And all public water suppliers have to provide them for free. The exception is private wells which the EPA does not regulate. Here it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain water safety. Alternatively, you can access the EWG Tap Water Database which provides a browsable collection of water quality reports from almost all suppliers in the country.
- If you can’t get access to a Consumer Confidence Report, you can contact your local health department and ask for information.
- Since 1. and 2. don’t take into account possible lead contamination caused by the plumbing system leading water to and through your home, the safest way of identifying a problem is by having a direct sample tested for lead by an independent lab. Costs range from $40 to $150. Your local water authority can help you find a suitable service provider.
Heads Up!
Lead does not distribute evenly in water. You could test your water supply right now and measure 2 ppb of lead. 5 minutes later you might find 10 ppb. And the next day you suddenly have 1,000 ppb. So even direct water testing cannot guarantee lead-free water.
How to Remove Lead from Water
How to remove lead from water? By far the easiest way is using a water filtration system. But first you should try to identify the contamination source and eliminate it if possible.
Your home’s outdated plumbing system may be the root of the problem. If you have the resources to completely renew it, you should definitely do so.
If you’re on private well water, have a licensed contractor check the well itself and the pump.
If removing the lead source turns out to be too expensive or is simply not an option for any other reason, the CDC recommends flushing your water system before using any water for drinking and cooking. The longer the water has been sitting in the pipes, the more lead it’s likely to contain. So, if a particular tap hasn’t been used for six hours or more, let it run for 1-2 minutes or until the water is as cold as it gets.
Obviously this wastes a lot of water so you might want to collect it for later use, for example in your garden. The CDC also advises against using hot water as it dissolves more lead than cold water.
Filtration Methods
You want to play it safe and have a water filtration system installed in your home? These common filtration methods are suited for lead removal:
- Reverse osmosis purification – Reverse osmosis (RO) is considered one of the best methods to remove lead from water.
- Activated carbon filters – Activated carbon uses adsorption to effectively remove lead and other heavy metals. However, not all activated carbon filters are effective enough. What’s more, some quickly lose their removal capabilities.
- KDF-55 filtration – When water filters through KDF-55, soluble lead is reduced to insoluble lead which is then electroplated onto the media surface.
- Distillation – Although having nothing to do with water filtration, distillation is a very effective method that can be used to remove lead from water.
The Different Types of Lead Water Filters and How They Work
Whole House Lead Water Filters
Whole house lead water filters operate at the point of entry and thus give you access to lead-free water in your entire home.
Under Sink Water Filters
Under sink water filters use multiple filter stages to remove many different types of impurities from water, lead among them, at the point of use.
RO Systems
Most reverse osmosis water filter systems are installed under the kitchen sink. But there are also countertop and even whole house setups. The lead removing RO purification process is highly effective.
Countertop & Gravity Water Filters
Countertop and gravity water filters are the pendant to under sink systems. They, too, often use more than one filtration stage to target a whole plethora of water contaminants – like lead!
Filter Pitchers
A water filter pitcher is great for filtering drinking water and water used for cooking. A unit that combines carbon filtration with ion exchange is the best choice for lead filtration.
Faucet Water Filters
Faucet-mounted filters don’t have a very long contact time with the water. Therefore, lead reduction can be inadequate, but it doesn’t have to be!
Shower Filters
We are still waiting for a shower filter certified for removing lead from water.
Refrigerator Filters
Which refrigerator water filter you should choose depends on your fridge model, obviously. The good news: OEM filters are often highly effective at removing lead.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Lead Filter
Advantages
- Drinking water without lead is much, much healthier.
- Usually, filtered water tastes much better.
- Most water filters not only filter lead, they are also effective against other harmful stuff.
- Unless you are interested in a whole house system, lead filter costs are manageable.
- Installing and servicing a lead filter is easy in most cases.
Disadvantages
- A lead filter may remove 95% of the heavy metal, but that still might be insufficient to provide safe drinking water.
- Not all water filters are NSF-certified to remove lead from water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What does lead in water taste like?
You cannot taste lead in water. - What does lead in water look like?
It’s invisible to the naked eye at concentrations found in tap water and well water. - What are the most trusted lead water filter brands?
We doubt these water filter brands even exist. But you can find the most effective lead removing filters listed above. - Does reverse osmosis remove lead from water?
Yes, RO systems are great for removing lead from drinking water – to more than 99 percent depending on the model. - Does boiling remove lead from water?
Unfortunately, boiling does not remove lead from water. While it kills waterborne pathogens and eliminates volatile chemicals, lead does not evaporate easily and the heating process may actually further increase lead levels.
Questions? Leave a comment below!
And don’t forget to come back to this page from time to time as we’re going to continue searching for the best lead water filters.
About the Author Alexandra Uta
