Welcome home to a rejuvenating power bath by our very own NSF-Certified Shower Filters. The National Sanitation Foundation is a US-based standard-gauging system for determining the products that meet the strict public health standards.
Quality models vary with various NSF ratings and certifications. NSF 177 – For shower filters that attach directly to the pipe and are certified to decrease only chlorine and no other elements; NSF 43 – Lower bad odor and bad taste; NSF 53 – provides the health effect to mention but a few.
Therefore, for the products to become NSF-Certified, they must have undergone independent testing and adequately satisfied all the requirements in the NSF chart. For easy identification, NSF-Certified products bear the NSF-Mark.
Be informed there is a difference between products that are NSF-Certified and those that Meet the NSF Standards. If you have had flaky skin or dry hair over a certain duration of time, you might want to check your water status. Raw water contains so many contaminants that have proven to be irritable without question.
Unfiltered water could contain calcium, magnesium, chlorine, lead, and arsenic-all substances that are detrimental to our bodies’ health. So could you find an all-in-one solution to hard, chlorinated water?
Welcome to our informative review. In the review below, we expound on the best pick for shower filters. Most shower filters are outdated hence preventing efficient water filtration. In lieu of that, we use unique standards to gauge each filter’s performance.
These standards are contaminant removal, improved water pressure, odor removal, and durability. We will be concise, intensive, and extensive in our coverage. So if you wish to find out more, read on.
8 Best NSF Certified Shower Filters in 2022
1. Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter – Recommended for hair loss
Aquasana AQ – 4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter is budget-friendly. This white model comes with a multi-massage showerhead. As you step into the shower, you always look for a refreshing experience.
So what happens when this comes at the cost of your hair and skin? Aquasana AQ – 4100 eliminates both Chlorine and dissolved solids from water to restore the sheen and health in your hair and skin.
It offers unique up-flow double-filtration for efficient separation of sediments from water.
Equipped with the advanced combination of coconut shell carbon and KDF copper/zinc media, it is empowered to get rid of chlorine, sediments, and other toxic substances found in your water.
What’s more, this combination has been certified by the NSF Certification and meets standards 42 and 61. The model has been independently tested thus you are guaranteed the safety and effectiveness of this product.
It is simple to set up since no tools are needed. It may appear to be bulky, but let that not deter you. After installation, it is automatically easy to maintain, it takes about 6 months of shower use (10000 gallons) before you can replace it.
Its bulk is structural and functional. Structural in the sense that it is designed to give room for the thick layers of coconut shell carbon and KDF – 55.
Functional in the sense that this advanced combination mechanism allows for a longer time of contact with water compared to other brand designs for more efficiency.
Truth be told, this model is an ‘old dog’ in the market. Its design may look slightly outdated but trust me it ages like wine. This is in addition to the fact that Aquasana is a reputable brand with the maximum level of appreciated quality.
Another feather to the cap is that the company offers a program – Water for life auto-ship – for replacement of filter cartridges, a 90 – day full-refund guarantee, and a 1-year limited warranty.
Product Information
- Manufacturer – Aquasana
- Item Weight – 2.3 pounds
- Dimensions of the Product – 8.5 x 7.25 x 3.2 inches
- Color – White
- Style – Shower Filter
- Material – Iron, Copper
- Flow Rate – 2.5GPM
- Warranty Description – 1 Year Limited Warranty
Pros
- Maintains strong water pressure
- Balances water Ph
- Features multiple spray settings
- 10000 gallons or 6 months of shower use
- Easy installation, no tools required
- 1 year limited warranty
Cons
- Delicate housing
- Possible leakages
- Outdated model
2. Sprite High Output Shower Filter with Additional Shower Head
This model comes in white and chrome finishes. It uses redox reaction to chemically convert contaminants into less toxic substances. It is equipped with the advanced KDF-55 formulation which contains granular copper and zinc that has two main advantages.
First, is the effective elimination of bacteria, and second is that the copper-zinc works towards ionic exchange with chlorine to change it to its less toxic form, chloride.
For assurance of quality, Sprite High Output Shower Filter is NSF Certified in a high-strength brass housing. Its filter cartridge is housed inside the brass construction and is only replaceable after 12 months!
Do the math, you will have to be using 20000 Gallons of water before the filter can be viable for replacement. This is all thanks to the model HOC, which is an exclusive blend of filtration media.
The end result is a chlorine-free shower that gives you countless health benefits.
Universal shower filter. We refer to shower filters that can be placed in existing standard showerheads without hassle as universal. They have a universal fit and can be installed in any standard 1/2” NPT shower arms with no extra equipment.
Product Information
- Manufacturer – Sprite Showers
- Part Number – HO2-WH
- Item Weight – 1.35 pounds
- Dimensions of the Product – 6 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches
- Color – White
- Warranty Description – 1 Year Limited Warranty
Pros
- Topnotch Chlorine removal
Cons
- Low-quality housing could lead to the filter exploding and pouring its content everywhere
- Leakages of filter particles that could clog the showerhead
3. Waterchef SF-7C Premium Shower Filtration System
Breathe relief into your home by introducing the premium shower filter by the Waterchef Company. Waterchef SF-7C Premium Shower Filter is oriented towards removing the disinfectant chlorine.
You may have faced bacterial or virus-infected water problems in the past and chlorine was recommended. What you do not know is that once chlorine has done its job, it is no longer useful. As a matter of fact, it becomes a toxin that you should eradicate.
That is why we introduce you to Waterchef. A polished chrome, white, or brushed nickel model that utilizes the ThermalGuard catalytic carbon technology to significantly reduce chlorine levels in the water.
Thermalguard delivers superior performance as compared to conventional KDF Filters. Once you use this product, you instantly get satisfaction. Breathing becomes easier as your cells are oxygenated and your natural hair-skin moisture is restored.
Cut your budget. While delivering maximum performance, Waterchef keeps its cost low. In fact, at $80, it costs less than half the price of most competitive brands.
You get to use the filter for 6 months before you can replace it. That is estimated at 10000 Gallons-the WQA Certified capacity for a single cartridge.
Manufactured from high-quality and durable materials. The stainless steel hose is flexible. What’s more, it is odor-free as it is not associated with any plastic materials during its manufacture.
Furthermore, its inner hose liner is constructed from odorless silicone material.
Most importantly, it has undergone independent NSF/ANSI testing and has been certified by the Water Quality Association (WQA). It is NSF/ANSI Standard 177 Certified (WQA Gold Seal) for chlorine reduction and backed by a 3-Year Limited Warranty.
On top of that is a 60-day guarantee of a full refund in case the product does not meet your satisfaction.
Product Information
- Manufacturer – Water Safety Corporation
- Item Weight – 2.35 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 3.5 x 12 x 12 inches
- Color – Chrome, White or Brushed Nickel
- Installation Method – Wall-Mounted
- Flow Rate – 2.5 GPM
- Hose Length – 60 inches
Pros
- Hand-held and stationary positions convenient for your family as well as your pets
- Deluxe Shower Wand with 5 Spray Patterns
- Dual-Stage System with ThermalGuard Catalytic Carbon for Maximum Chlorine Reduction
- Premium 60” Flexible Stainless Steel Hose with Odorless Silicone In-liner
- Anti-Clog Rubber Spray Nozzles
- Full 3-year limited warranty
- Quick and easy installation
4. Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Showerhead
The Culligan WSH-C filter unit is a showerhead itself. So contrary to other shower filters that need to be attached to showerheads for them to work, Culligan WSH-125 has the work cut out for you. It is a chrome-designed model that has a life span of 10000 Gallons.
Converted to time, that basically means you get to replace its cartridge after 6 months of usage.
It has WHR-140 filter cartridge. This patented filter media is bacteriostatic for limiting the growth of bacteria. It is also ideal for the removal of scale caused by calcium and magnesium as well as reduction of sulfur and chlorine odor.
It features 5 spray settings, inclusive of the full-body spray and pulsating massage.
Installation is quick and easy, as all you need is included in the showerhead package. For starters, you are provided with installation instructions that are simple to follow. During installation, Teflon tape is necessary for rounding on the shower arm.
After installation, run water through the filter for 10 – 15 minutes to soak the filter cartridge. You are also provided with a handy cartridge filter that reminds you when it is right to replace your cartridge.
It is a standard unit as it can fit in all shower arms with the ½” thread without the need for an adaptor.
It can be used with water within the temperature range of 40 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a trusted product as it has been independently tested and certified.
It meets the ANSI standard 177 and the EPA WaterSense standard of a minimum of 1.8 gallons or less. It is backed by a one-year warranty.
Product Information
- Manufacturer – Culligan
- Item Weight – 1.56 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 4.75 x 8.5 x 12.25 inches
- Size – 10000 Gallons
- Flow Rate – 1.8 Gallons per Minute
Pros
- 5 spray settings
- Quick and easy installation
- Filter life: lasts up to 6 months or 10000 gallons
Cons
- Comes in one color
- Removes only chlorine cannot remove chloramine
- Slightly affects water pressure
5. Moolmang Vitamax Deluxe Dual Shower Filter
Moolmang Vitamax Deluxe is the first filtration filter. That technically means it deals firsthand with the raw water contaminants. It is well-equipped to provide you with superior filtration with both outer and inner PP layers as well as a natural coconut shell.
The outer PP layer is 10 microns wide and filters rust and fine pollutants. The coconut shell is suited to filter out chlorine as the inner PP layer (5 microns) collects fine pollutants at the third filtration stage.
The fourth filtration stage is that of the removal of bacteria by the Dolki Antibacterial Ceramic Ball.
Quick and easy to install on your shower head. The process could elementarily be defined as building a Lego house. Simply detach your initial shower head and attach a connector to the shower pipe.
Check the shower filter with the inlet sign of the showerhead. Run water through the filter for approximately 2 minutes to eliminate fine dust, then align the filter as you need it to be.
Quality Assurance is checked. The manufacturers respect that most of their customers highly regard the importance of quality assurance.
They are pleased to inform you that the reduction performance of Moolmang Vitamax Deluxe Dual Shower Filter, has been proven by the NSF International as well as the Korean Shower Filter system.
It is the first shower filter system to be certified against NSF/ANSI 177 in Korea.
Moolmang filtered shower water can only be compared to spring water. It is fresh and works towards restoring moisture in your body. Furthermore, it works pretty well with most 2.0GPM showerheads.
Product information
- Item – Moolmang Vitamax Deluxe Dual Shower Filter
- Model No. – UMV-DS10CR
- Product Size – 110 x 85 x 205 mm
- Net Weight – 1.27 pounds
- Rated flow – 2.0 GPM
- Operating Pressure – 28 -150 PSI
- Operating Temperature – 34 – 120 degrees Fahrenheit
- Filter Capacity – 3500 Gallons for 3-4 months
- Material – ABS, PP, Activated Carbon, Ceramic
- Color – Chrome-coated head
- Thread size – ½” (G1/2 X 14, International Standard)
- Usage – for shower only
Pros
- Quick and easy installation
- A durable material used in construction
- Standard flow rate; can be used with most standard showerheads
- Attractive design
Cons
- Has a low filtering capacity hence replacement is done after a short duration of time
6. Berkey Shower Filter
White KDSF – HEAD model whose work principle is similar to that of a catalytic converter to an automobile. It has a 10000 Gallon filter life which converted to a time duration is 6 months. It applies filtration by use of KDF media.
Kinetic Degradation Flux is an advanced copper-zinc alloy that reduces chlorine to its less toxic form, chloride through redox reaction. Together with the elimination of chlorine is the elimination of mold, lime, scale, and fungi.
If you have been experiencing clogging filters in the past, then take this as your period of relief. Berkey Shower Filter has a back-flush system that decreases the speed of filter-clogging.
It is an independent unit. It is not attached to a showerhead which means it could come attached or not to a showerhead. With that said, it is quick and easy to install.
Product Information
- Manufacturer – Berkey
- Item Weight – 1.17 pounds
- Dimensions of the Product – 7 x 4 x 4 inches
- Color – White
Pros
- Longer filter life
- Compatible with your showerhead
- Quick and easy to install
Cons
- Does not reduce the disinfectant chloramine
- Made of plastic that is prone to breaking
7. Barclay’s Buys Filtered Shower Filter
Barclay’s Buys light blue model is a high-pressure showerhead as well as a great chlorine remover. Barclay’s Buys’ metal construction is strong and sturdy to withstand high water temperatures and pressure.
Improves your water status to a refreshing natural scent shower. After de-chlorination, Barclay’s Buys has maifan stones that are special minerals that add elements to naturally enhance water.
Conversely, chlorinated water does more harm than good to your skin. Barclay’s Buys is designed to reduce 80 – 90% chlorine and remove TDS. After using this filter you have a guarantee of no more dandruff, skin irritation, and dry hair.
Each model comes with a replacement filter in the package, each that lasts 6 – 8 months. Contrary to Berkey, this shower filter is attached to the showerhead.
In other words, Barclays Shower Filter can be used interchangeably with Barclays Shower Head, I bet you get the point.
Its design is such as keeping water consumption below the standard 2.5GPM flow rate hence it is a water saver. You get three spray modes to choose from.
It is quick and easy to install. The package is inclusive of a pre-installed filter. Beware, that before you buy the Barclay’s Buys shower head, you ought to check that your shower arm is the standard ½” threaded as its showerhead is the universally compatible type.
In the event that your shower head does not meet these terms, you may be required to look for an adaptor.
Production Information
- Manufacturer – Barclay’s Buys
- Item Weight – 5.9 ounces
- Product Dimensions – 3 x 3 x 4 inches
- Color – light blue
- Material – Plastic
- Flow Rate – 2 GPM
- Installation Method – Wall Mounted
Pros
- Efficient water consumption
- Budget-friendly replacement filters
- First replacement filters are provided for you in the first purchase
Cons
- Makes some noise
- Does not remove TDS contrary to how advertised
- A universal shower filter is non-compatible with non-standard shower arms
- Plastic construction is prone to breaking
8. Captain Eco Universal Shower Filter
It is the model that filters in 5-stages. It is equipped with activated carbon media and Calcium sulfite for chlorine removal. If KDF formulation is good at removing chlorine, know that calcium sulfite is 50% better.
Calcium sulfite can de-chlorinate both hot and cold water. The combined effort of all filter media inside the shower filter is just amazing. After the water is completely filtered, comes the maifan balls to enhance the natural feel of water.
It has a guarantee of a 120% cost refund if the customers are not satisfied with the products. Nothing beats the assurance of confident manufacturers who are willing to pay you to resend it back to them.
Quick and easy to install. It is an independent shower filter. Provided your shower arm or showerhead has standard US fittings, then the Captain ECO shower filter is compatible with it; hence described as universal.
Conversely, this model is no match for non-standard US appliances. The unit is delivered to you pre-assembled so all you are required to do is attach it to your shower arm and showerhead. Flush it before usage.
The purchased package contains a shower curtain, a pre-installed filter as well as a first replacement bonus. Rubber washers, as well as installation instructions, are provided.
Product Information
- Manufacturer – Captain ECO
- Item Weight – 1.35 pounds
- Package Dimensions – 7.8 x 3.8 x 3.7 inches
- Material – Chrome ABS
Pros
- 5 filtration stages
- Quick and easy installation
- Compatible with standard showerheads
Cons
- Slightly impacts water pressure
- Does not entirely soften water
Conclusion
That being said, we hope that our buying guide has assisted you in both recognizing the characteristics and features of a high-quality shower filter and in making an informed choice.
While there are a number of high-quality shower filters on the market, the best NSF-certified shower filters are our recommendation.
For the average family that spends a great deal of time in their home, having an NSF-certified shower filter will improve the quality of your filtered water and improve skin health.
Our team of experts has looked at the features as well as other users’ feedback about the products. Hence, we are certain about the fact that products recommended by us are worth your hard-earned money.
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What Is an NSF Certified Shower Filter?
An NSF Certified Shower Filter is a filtration system for your shower that has undergone rigorous testing and evaluation by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) to ensure it meets specific standards for water quality and safety.
Why Is NSF Certification Important for Shower Filters?
NSF certification provides assurance that the shower filter effectively removes impurities, contaminants, and harmful substances from your shower water, improving its quality and safety.
What Contaminants Do NSF Certified Shower Filters Typically Remove?
NSF Certified Shower Filters are designed to remove common contaminants such as chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and other impurities that can negatively impact your skin and hair.
Do NSF Certified Shower Filters Soften Water as Well?
Some NSF Certified Shower Filters may include water softening features, but not all of them do. It’s important to check the product specifications to see if water softening is included.
Are There Different Types of NSF Certification for Shower Filters?
Yes, there are different NSF certifications depending on the specific contaminants a shower filter is designed to remove. For example, NSF/ANSI Standard 177 covers shower filters that reduce chlorine, while NSF/ANSI Standard 42 covers filters for taste and odor.
How Often Do I Need to Replace the Filter In an NSF Certified Shower Filter?
The replacement frequency can vary depending on the specific filter and the quality of your water. Typically, shower filters should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, but always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can I Install an NSF Certified Shower Filter Myself, Or Do I Need A Professional Plumber?
Most NSF Certified Shower Filters are designed for easy installation and can be done without professional help. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, you can hire a plumber to assist you.
Do NSF Certified Shower Filters Affect Water Pressure in The Shower?
While some shower filters may slightly reduce water pressure, many high-quality NSF Certified Shower Filters are designed to maintain good water pressure while effectively filtering the water.
Are There NSF Certified Shower Filters That Fit All Shower Types and Sizes?
Yes, many NSF Certified Shower Filters come with adjustable fittings to fit various shower types and sizes, including handheld, fixed, and rain shower heads.
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