Complete Guide: Faucet Water Filter - How to Choose and Install

Published on: January 7, 2026 | Reading time: 12 minutes

Introduction: Why filter tap water?

Tap water in France is regulated and generally safe to drink. However, it may contain chlorine, minerals, pesticide residues, and other contaminants that affect taste and quality.

A faucet water filter can significantly improve the quality of your water by removing these impurities. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right filter?

In this comprehensive guide, we explain:

• The different types of faucet water filters
• How filters work
• How to choose the best filter for your needs
• How to install and maintain your filter
• Comparison of the best options
• Alternatives to faucet filters

Objective: To help you make an informed decision and improve the quality of the water you drink.

1. The different types of faucet water filters

There are several types of faucet water filters, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

1.1 Filter jug

How it works: Activated carbon is placed in the water and absorbs impurities, chlorine, and odors.

Advantages:

• ✅ Inexpensive (€20-50)
• ✅ Easy to install
• ✅ Reduces chlorine and odors
• ✅ Improves taste

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Short lifespan (2-3 months)
• ❌ Less effective on bacteria and viruses
• ❌ Requires frequent replacements

Ideal for: Limited budgets, small households, a first experience with filtration.

1.2 Reverse osmosis filter

How it works: Water passes through a semi-permeable membrane that removes 99% of contaminants.

Advantages:

• ✅ Very effective (99% reduction)
• ✅ Eliminates bacteria, viruses, minerals
• ✅ Very pure water

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Expensive (€300-800)
• ❌ Complex installation
• ❌ Consumes a lot of water
• ❌ Also removes beneficial minerals

Ideal for: Users with a high budget, areas with very contaminated water.

1.3 Gravity filter (Filtered fountain)

How it works: Water passes through different types of filters by gravity, without electricity.

Advantages:

• ✅ No electricity required
• ✅ Autonomous and eco-friendly
• ✅ Good quality/price ratio (From €60 to €250 for our models)
• ✅ Easy to use
• ✅ Certified in France (Stéfani)

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Slower filtration (1L of water per hour)
• ❌ Takes up space
• ❌ Requires regular maintenance

Ideal for: Families, those looking for a good price/performance balance, eco-friendly solutions.

1.4 Under-sink filter

How it works: Installed under the sink, it filters the water before it comes out of the faucet.

Advantages:

• ✅ Invisible (hidden under the sink)
• ✅ Filtered water directly from the tap
• ✅ Effective and durable

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Complex installation
• ❌ Expensive (€200-500)
• ❌ Requires a plumber

Ideal for: Modern kitchens, those who want a discreet solution.

2. How does a faucet water filter work?

All water filters work on the same principle: removing impurities by forcing water through a filtering medium.

The steps of filtration

Step 1: Pre-filtration
The water first passes through a coarse filter that removes visible particles (sand, rust, etc.).

Step 2: Carbon filtration
Activated carbon absorbs chlorine, odors, and certain chemical contaminants.

Step 3: Fine filtration
A fine filter removes bacteria and other microorganisms.

Step 4: Filtered water
The water comes out of the filter, purified and ready to drink.

What a faucet water filter removes

3. How to choose the best faucet water filter?

The best filter depends on your specific needs. Here’s how to choose:

3.1 Assess your budget

Limited budget (less than €100)
Opt for a filter carafe or a Stéfani plastic filter fountain without bisphenol. It is the cheapest solution, ideal for a first experience.

Medium budget (€100-300)
Choose a gravity filter fountain like the one we offer by clicking here! You will have a good price/performance balance with French certification while choosing the type of fountain that suits you.

High budget (more than €300)
Invest in a reverse osmosis system or an under-sink filter. These are the most effective solutions.

3.2 Consider your water consumption

Low consumption (1-2 liters/day)
A filter carafe is sufficient. You will change the filters less often.

Average consumption (3-5 liters/day)
A Stéfani filter fountain is ideal. It offers good capacity with durable filters.

High consumption (more than 5 liters/day)
A reverse osmosis system or an under-sink filter is recommended for maximum efficiency.

3.3 Check the quality of your water

The quality of your local water affects the choice of filter:

• Water with a lot of chlorine → Filter fountain and filter carafe.
• Hard water → Reverse osmosis
• Contaminated water → Reverse osmosis or certified gravity filter
• Good quality water → Filtered fountain and filtered carafe.

Tip: Contact your town hall to know the quality of your local water.

3.4 Consider practicality

Do you want a simple solution?
Tap charcoal filter or filtered fountain (no installation).

Do you have a small kitchen?
Tap filter or under-sink filter (less bulky).

Are you looking for an ecological solution?
Filtered fountain made of clay made in France (100% natural).

4. Comparison of the best tap water filters

5.1 When to replace your filter?

Signs that your filter needs to be replaced:

• ❌ Water flows more slowly
• ❌ The taste or smell changes
• ❌ The recommended lifespan has been exceeded
  

5.2 Lifespan of filters

5.3 How to maintain your filter

Regular cleaning:

• ✅ Rinse filters every month
• ✅ Clean the tank with water and white vinegar (Note: different cleaning for clay models)
• ✅ Check for mold
• ✅ Change filters according to the recommended duration

Storage:

• ✅ Keep replacement filters dry
• ✅ Store them at room temperature
• ✅ Check the expiration date

6. Alternatives to tap filters

6.1 Filtered fountain (Best alternative)

What is it?
A filtered fountain is a gravity filtration system that works without electricity.

Advantages:

• ✅ Very effective (certified in France)
• ✅ Good value for money
• ✅ No installation
• ✅ Eco-friendly (no electricity)
• ✅ Multiple models (Plastic, Terracotta, Stainless Steel)

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Slower filtration (1L/h per cartridge)
• ❌ Takes up space

We recommend Stéfani fountains for their French certification and good value for money.

→ Read our complete guide on filtered fountains

6.2 Filtered carafe

What is it?
A filtered carafe is a small reservoir with an integrated filter.

Advantages:

• ✅ Very inexpensive (€20-50)
• ✅ Compact and portable
• ✅ Easy to use

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Very slow filtration (2-4h)
• ❌ Small capacity
• ❌ Filters need to be changed often
• ❌ Less effective than fountains

Ideal for small households or occasional use.

6.3 Under-sink filter

What is it?
A filtration system installed under the sink, invisible and effective.

Advantages:

• ✅ Very effective
• ✅ Invisible (hidden)
• ✅ Filtered water directly from the tap

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Complex installation
• ❌ Expensive (€200-500)
• ❌ Requires a plumber

Ideal for modern kitchens and users looking for a discreet solution.

7. FAQ – Frequently asked questions about water filters

Q1: What is the best tap water filter?

The best filter depends on your needs:

• Limited budget → Charcoal filter or filtered carafe (€30-50)
• Good value for money → Terracotta or Stainless Steel filtered fountain (€150-250)
• Invisible solution → Under-sink filter (€200-500)
• Maximum efficiency → Reverse osmosis (€300-800)

We recommend Stéfani fountains for their French certification and good balance.

Q2: How to install a tap water filter?

It's very simple:

1. Unscrew the aerator from your tap
2. Screw the filter in place
3. Let the water run for 30 seconds
4. It's ready!

No tools required, installation in under 5 minutes.

Q3: How much does a tap water filter cost?

Prices vary by type:

• Charcoal filter: €30-50 (+ €10 - €15 for replacement)
• Stéfani fountain: €60-250 (+ €30 for replacement)
• Under-sink filter: €200-500 (+ €50-100 for replacement)
• Reverse osmosis: €300-800 (+ €100-150 for replacement)

Q4: What is the lifespan of a water filter?

Lifespan depends on the type:

• Carbon filter: 1 month
• Stéfani filter: 600L (and/or 6 months for a family)
• Under-sink filter: 6-12 months
• Reverse osmosis: 12-24 months

Q5: Is a faucet water filter really effective?

Yes, water filters are effective for:

• ✅ Reduce chlorine and odors
• ✅ Eliminate bacteria (depending on the type)
• ✅ Reduce heavy metals
• ✅ Improve taste

Effectiveness depends on the type of filter and the quality of your local water.

Q6: Should I boil filtered water?

No, if your filter is certified. Stéfani fountains are certified in France and eliminate bacteria and viruses.

Q7: Can filtered water be used for babies?

Yes, if the filter is certified and well maintained. We recommend certified Stéfani fountains in France for this use.

Q8: What is the total cost of a filter over 5 years?

Here is an estimate:

• Carbon filter: €50 + (€10 × 20 replacements) = €200
• Stéfani fountain: €200 + (€30 × 20 replacements) = €600
• Under-sink filter: €350 + (€75 × 5 replacements) = €725
• Reverse osmosis: €500 + (€125 × 5 replacements) = €1125

Q9: Where to buy a faucet water filter?

You can buy from:

• ✅ Fontaine Backes (certified Stéfani fountains)
• ✅ DIY stores (Leroy Merlin, Castorama)
• ✅ Supermarkets (Carrefour, Leclerc)
• ✅ Online stores (Amazon, etc.)

Q10: Stéfani or Berkey? Which is better?

Stéfani is better for the majority of French people:

• ✅ 50% cheaper than Berkey
• ✅ Certified in France
• ✅ Announced filtered water quantity 100% verified
• ✅ Available immediately

→ Read our complete comparison Stéfani vs Berkey

8. Related resources and articles

Our complete guides

• Berkey Reviews: Advantages and Disadvantages - Complete Analysis of Berkey
• Stéfani vs Berkey: Which system to choose? - Detailed comparison
• Comparison of filtration fountains - All systems compared
• How to choose your filtration fountain - Selection guide
• Gravity filtration: How does it work? - Technical explanations

Our products

• Stéfani filtration fountains - All our models
• Clay fountains made in France - Eco-friendly solution
• Stéfani stainless steel fountains - Modern design
• Compatible Stéfani filters - Accessories and replacements

Conclusion: Which tap water filter to choose?

A tap water filter is a wise investment to improve the quality of your water and your health.

Our recommendation:

• ✅ Limited budget → Filter jug (€30-50)
• ✅ Best value for money → Stéfani fountain (€60-250, certified France)
• ✅ Invisible solution → Under-sink filter (€200-500)
• ✅ Maximum efficiency → Reverse osmosis (€300-800)

Whatever your choice, the important thing is to start filtering your water now. Your health will thank you!