Had a leak the first time I did an under sink install—turns out hand-tight wasn’t enough, but wrench-tight was too much. Found the sweet spot after a couple of tries. Didn’t have to drill, just used the T-valve, which was a relief. I do get what you mean about countertop filters being bulky. Honestly, I’d rather crawl under the sink once than have something in the way every day. Taste-wise, I can’t always tell, but my partner swears it’s better. Maybe it’s psychological?
Honestly, I think under sink is the way to go if you’re willing to deal with a little hassle up front. Countertop filters just get in the way and look clunky. Once you dial in those fittings under the sink, you’re set for ages. Taste difference? Hard to say—sometimes I wonder if it’s just the idea of “filtered” water making it seem better.
I get where you’re coming from with under sink being the “set it and forget it” option. I did mine last month—took some patience with the fittings, but after that, it’s invisible and out of the way. Countertop units just never looked right to me, and honestly, the hoses always got in the way.
On taste, I’m with you:
Taste difference? Hard to say—sometimes I wonder if it’s just the idea of “filtered” water making it seem better.
I did a blind test with my partner and neither of us could tell a huge difference, but there was a slight improvement with the under sink filter. Maybe it’s just peace of mind, knowing what’s filtered. Either way, once it’s installed, you barely think about it.
Title: Countertop Install Was Way Easier for Me
I get the appeal of under sink filters being tucked away, but I actually found the countertop version way less hassle to install. Didn’t need any tools, just screwed it onto the faucet and I was set in five minutes. No crawling under cabinets or messing with plumbing—honestly, that part stressed me out more than I expected.
About this bit:
Countertop units just never looked right to me, and honestly, the hoses always got in the way.
I hear you on the look, but maybe it depends on your kitchen setup? My kitchen's pretty basic, so the hose isn’t really in the way. And since I rent, I like that I can just unscrew it if I move or need to swap it out. Under sink would be more of a commitment for me.
On taste, I’m not convinced there’s a huge difference either. Did a side-by-side with bottled water and tap (filtered and unfiltered) and honestly couldn’t tell much apart except maybe a hint less chlorine smell with the filter. Could be placebo, could be real... hard to say.
For me, countertop wins just because I didn’t want to risk leaks or deal with shutoff valves. But if you’re handy, under sink might make sense long-term. Just depends how much you want to mess with plumbing under there, I guess.
Can’t blame you for avoiding the plumbing hassle—honestly, leaks under the sink are a nightmare and can get expensive fast. I’m all for the countertop option too, especially if you’re renting or just want to play it safe. The “just screw it on” approach is way less stressful than messing with pipes or risking water damage. I get that some folks don’t like the look, but I’d rather have a hose on the counter than a surprise repair bill.
