- Under-sink filters are like a box of plumbing chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get.
- Countertop filters? Plug, twist, done. No crawling, no cursing at 40-year-old valves that haven’t moved since disco was cool.
- That said, if you’re handy and don’t mind a little water on the floor (or a lot, if you’re me last Tuesday), under-sink can look cleaner.
- But yeah, for most folks, countertop’s the “keep your sanity” option.
- Unless you enjoy the thrill of mystery leaks and surprise hardware store runs... then by all means, go under the sink.
Last time I tried to swap out an under-sink filter at my aunt’s place, I ended up lying on my back with a flashlight in my mouth, wrestling with a shutoff valve that hadn’t budged since the Reagan years. By the time I got it loose, I’d managed to soak half the cabinet and had to run out for a new compression fitting because the old one crumbled in my hand. Not exactly what I’d call a relaxing afternoon.
Countertop filters, on the other hand, are kind of a breeze. Plug it in, twist it on, and you’re sipping filtered water before you know it. Sure, they’re not as sleek-looking as having everything tucked away, but honestly? Unless you’re really into DIY or don’t mind getting your hands dirty (and wet), countertop is just way less hassle.
That said, if you’ve got newer plumbing and don’t mind crawling around a bit, under-sink can be satisfying once it’s done right. But yeah... most folks probably don’t want to risk turning a simple filter swap into an impromptu plumbing project.
