Uncover the secrets to safeguarding your family’s health with our in-depth guide on Water Pitcher Filter Lead Removal. Learn how to select the perfect filter to eliminate lead and provide the cleanest, safest drinking water for your loved ones.
Top brands of Water pitcher Filters, such as Brita, PUR, and ZeroWater, effectively remove up to 99% of lead. To maintain lead removal efficiency, confirm your filter is designed for lead removal and replace it as needed. Not all pitcher filters can remove lead so check for NSF 53 certification to guarantee your water is free of lead contamination.
In this article, we will explore the best water pitcher filters to protect your family from lead contamination and ensure safe, clean drinking water in your home. We also discuss how pitcher filters remove lead, importance maintenance, third party certification, and a lot more.
Read my comprehensive review of lead filters for drinking water.
Table of Contents
How Do Water Pitcher Filters Remove Lead?
Water pitcher filters are designed to remove contaminants, including lead, by using a combination of filtration techniques. These often include activated carbon and ion exchange resins that work together to reduce lead levels in drinking water effectively. Let’s take a closer look at how these filters work to remove lead.
| Filter Material | Description |
| Activated Carbon | Made from carbon-rich substances like wood, coconut shells, or peat, this porous material attracts and traps contaminants, including lead, through a process called adsorption. |
| Ion Exchange Resins | Consisting of tiny beads containing charged particles, these specialized resins work by swapping harmful ions, such as lead, with less harmful ions like sodium or potassium, effectively reducing lead levels in the water. |
Top 5 Water Pitcher Filters for Lead Removal
Discover the top water pitcher filters designed specifically for lead removal. We’ve analyzed popular brands and their effectiveness in removing lead, and selected these five as the best value for removing lead from your home drinking water.
1. Do Brita filters remove lead
Brita is a well-known brand that offers a range of water pitchers designed to remove contaminants, including lead.
Brita offers a variety of drinking water filters, categorized into five main types:
- Standard pitcher filter
- Longlast+ pitcher filter
- Stream pitcher filter
- Bottle filters
- Faucet filters
For those concerned about lead removal, Brita provides two specific filters designed to tackle this issue: the Longlast+ filter and their faucet filters.
Read my comprehensive article about removing lead from drinking water with Brita filters.
Brita Longlast+ Filter: Effective Lead Removal for Pitchers and Dispensers
Brita’s Longlast+ filters are designed to remove 99% of lead from drinking water. These filters are compatible with all Brita pitchers and fit every Brita dispenser, except for the Stream series. To ensure lead removal with your Brita pitcher filter, it’s essential to use the Longlast+ filter, as their standard filter does not eliminate lead.
According to Brita, the Longlast+ filter should be replaced after treating 120 gallons of water, which typically equates to twice a year for an average household. If your water consumption is higher, you may need to replace the filter more frequently, with a minimum recommendation of every 12 months.
Some benefits of the Longlast+ filter compared to Brita’s standard filter include:
- 3 times longer lifespan
- Average filter life of 6 months
- Removal of a greater number of contaminants
- BPA-free design
- Recyclable through TerraCycle
Brita Faucet Filters: Lead Removal at the Tap
Brita offers lead-removing faucet filters in two models: the Basic Water Filter Faucet System and the Complete Water Filter Faucet System. Both units effectively remove 99% of lead from drinking water. The Basic filter can treat 100 gallons of water, while the Complete filter can treat up to 200 gallons.
Benefits of Brita faucet filters include:
- Compatibility with most standard U.S. plumbing fixtures
- A filter life indicator to alert when replacement is needed
- Enhanced protection for homes with older piping
Brita Filters That Are Not Designed for Lead Removal
While the Longlast+ and faucet filters are effective in removing 99% of lead from drinking water, it’s important to note that other Brita filters do not provide this capability:
- Brita Standard pitcher filters do not remove lead
- Brita Stream pitcher filters do not remove lead
- Brita Bottle filters do not remove lead
To learn more about Brita filters and the contaminants they can remove, explore our article on which water filters effectively eliminate lead from drinking water.
2. Do PUR filters remove lead
PUR offers a variety of water filters designed to purify tap water and target lead contamination. Their product line includes three main filters:
- PUR PLUS Mineral Core Filter
- PUR Pitcher Filter
- PUR PLUS Lead Reduction Filter
These filters provide different levels of lead removal and additional benefits, making it easier for you to choose the most suitable option for your needs.
Read my comprehensive article about using PUR filters to remove lead from water.
PUR PLUS Mineral Core Filter: Enhanced Filtration with Added Minerals
The PUR PLUS Mineral Core Filter is designed to reduce not only lead but also other contaminants in your drinking water. Moreover, this filter enriches water with essential minerals for improved taste and quality. Compatible with both pitchers and dispensers, it is a convenient solution for families looking for healthier and better-tasting water.
Key features of the PUR PLUS Mineral Core Filter include:
- Certified lead reduction
- Natural mineral-enhanced filtration for improved taste
- Filter life of up to 100 gallons or 3 months
- Fits all PUR Faucet Filtration Systems
PUR Pitcher Filter: Budget-Friendly Lead Removal Option
For families on a budget, the PUR Pitcher Filter offers an affordable yet effective solution for water filtration. Capable of removing up to 99% of lead and other contaminants, this filter also enhances water taste and reduces odor. It is compatible with a range of PUR pitcher and dispenser models, ensuring you can find the right fit for your needs.
Key features of the PUR Pitcher Filter include:
- WQA-certified lead filtration
- Filter life of up to 40 gallons or 2 months
- Suitable for all PUR Pitcher and Dispenser Filtration Systems
- Chlorine reduction for better taste
PUR PLUS Lead Reduction Filter: Specialized Filter for Maximum Lead Removal
The PUR PLUS Lead Reduction Filter specifically targets lead in drinking water, removing up to 99% of lead particles. In addition to lead removal, this filter also reduces other contaminants and impurities, while enhancing the water taste and quality with essential minerals. Compatible with select PUR pitchers and dispensers, this filter provides a comprehensive solution for lead removal.
Key features of the PUR PLUS Lead Reduction Filter include:
- WQA-certified lead filtration
- Filter life of up to 40 gallons or 2 months
- Compatible with all PUR Pitcher and Dispenser Filtration Systems
- Chlorine reduction for improved taste
3. Do ZeroWater filters remove lead
ZeroWater’s water pitcher filters use a unique 5-stage filtration process that removes lead and other contaminants from water.
- Lead reduction: ZeroWater’s filters are certified to remove 99% of lead.
- Filter life: ZeroWater filters have a lifespan of up to 40 gallons or approximately two months of regular use.
About ZeroWater lead filters
ZeroWater filters adhere to FDA rules and regulations to ensure the utmost safety and effectiveness in removing lead and other contaminants from tap water. According to the FDA, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels must be between 000 and 001 ppm to be considered purified enough for bottled use, while TDS levels above 1,000 ppm are considered unsafe to drink. For reference, typical tap water has a TDS level of around 500 ppm.
A filter is considered effective if it can reduce the TDS level to 200 ppm. ZeroWater filters not only achieve this but also claim to bring the TDS level down to 000 ppm, which is on par with bottled water standards.
The 5-Stage Filtration Process for Lead Removal in ZeroWater Filters
ZeroWater filters employ a unique 5-stage filtration process to ensure the removal of lead and other contaminants:
- Stage 1 – Coarse Filter Screen: This initial stage filters out large solids such as dust or rust that can make water appear cloudy.
- Stage 2 – Foam Distributor: This stage removes larger slippery solids that may have passed through the coarse filter screen in Stage 1.
- Stage 3 – Activated Carbon and Oxidation Reduction Alloy: This multi-layered stage removes organic contaminants such as herbicides, pesticides, mercury, chlorine, and chloramine. It also inhibits bacterial growth.
- Stage 4 – Dual Comprehensive Ion Exchange Resin: This stage is responsible for removing inorganic compounds from water, including metals, non-metals, and radiological contaminants.
- Stage 5 – Ultra-Fine Screen and Non-Woven Membrane Layers: The final stage captures any remaining small solids that have bypassed the previous stages and keeps the resin in place.
This comprehensive 5-stage filtration process ensures that virtually no unsafe contaminants are left in your water, providing you with clean, crystal-clear drinking water every time.
Read my comprehensive article about filtering lead from water with ZeroWater pitcher filters.
4. Do Clearly Filtered filters remove lead
Clearly Filtered offers water pitcher filters that use their proprietary Affinity Filtration Technology to remove lead and other contaminants from water.
- Lead reduction: Clearly Filtered’s filters are certified to remove up to 99.3% of lead.
- Filter life: Clearly Filtered filters have a lifespan of approximately 100 gallons or four months of regular use.
5. Do EPIC Pure Pitcher filters remove lead
The EPIC Pure pitcher filter is a top choice for water purification, designed to remove up to 99.99% of all tap water contaminants, while providing an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic water bottles. Made in the USA, these pitcher filters are tested and certified to exceed NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, 401, and P473 for contaminant reduction. With a 150-gallon (568 liters) filter capacity, the EPIC PURE pitcher is not only effective but also economical.
Each Pure Pitcher comes with one (1) Pure Filter, which typically lasts for three to four months, depending on daily usage and the quality of your municipal tap water. Heavily contaminated tap water will require the filter to work harder, reducing its lifespan. The pitcher also features a built-in LED timer, counting down from 90 days, to remind you when it’s time to replace the filter.
The bottom reservoir of the pitcher holds approximately half a gallon of unfiltered water. By considering the 150-gallon filter capacity, you can estimate the filter’s lifespan based on your usage:
- Light Use (filling up once or twice a day): change filter every 4-6 months
- Normal Use (filling up twice or three times a day): change filter every 3-4 months
- Heavy Use (filling up more than three times a day): change filter every 2-3 months
Comparing Water Pitcher Filters for Lead Removal: A Chart
| Brand | Lead Reduction | Filter Life | Additional Features |
| Brita | Up to 99% | 120 gallons | BPA-free materials, electronic filter indicator |
| PUR | Up to 99% | 40 gallons | BPA-free materials, filter life indicator, mineral enhancement |
| ZeroWater | 99.6% | 40 gallons | BPA-free materials, 5-stage filtration, digital TDS meter |
| Clearly Filtered | Up to 99.3% | 100 gallons | BPA-free materials, Affinity Filtration Technology, filter indicator |
| Epic Pure | 99.4% | 150 gallons | LED timer for filter replacement, 100% recyclable, reduces 99.99% of tap water contaminants |
Maintaining Pitcher Filters for Optimal Lead Removal
To ensure your water pitcher filter continues to provide effective lead removal, proper maintenance is crucial. Here are some key tips to maintain optimal performance:
- Change the filter: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement intervals. This ensures that the filter remains effective in removing lead and other contaminants.
- Regularly clean the pitcher: Over time, residue and contaminants can build up in the pitcher. Cleaning the pitcher and filter housing regularly prevents bacterial growth and keeps your filtered water fresh and clean.
- Inspect the filter regularly: Keep an eye on the filter’s physical condition. If it appears damaged or worn, replace it immediately to avoid reduced performance.
- Store the pitcher properly: Keep the pitcher in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and sunlight can negatively affect the filter’s lifespan and efficiency.
- Track your water consumption: Be aware of your household’s water consumption, as it can affect the filter’s lifespan. If your family consumes a significant amount of water, consider replacing the filter more frequently.
- Be mindful of water quality: If your tap water has a high level of contaminants, your filter may need more frequent replacement to maintain optimal performance. Regular water testing can help you understand your water quality and adjust filter maintenance accordingly.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your water pitcher filter remains effective in removing lead and providing your family with safe, clean drinking water.
Understanding Lead in Drinking Water
Identifying the Sources of Lead in Drinking Water
Lead can enter drinking water through various sources, including:
- Lead pipes and plumbing: Older homes may have lead pipes or plumbing materials containing lead. As these materials corrode, lead can leach into the water supply.
- Lead solder: Before 1986, lead solder was commonly used in plumbing systems. This solder can release lead into drinking water over time.
- Brass fixtures: Brass faucets and fittings often contain small amounts of lead. As they wear down or corrode, lead can enter the water supply.
Potential Health Effects of Lead Exposure
Exposure to lead, even at low levels, can have serious health effects, especially for children and pregnant women. Some of the potential health effects include:
- Developmental delays and learning difficulties in children
- Kidney damage and high blood pressure in adults
- Harm to a developing fetus during pregnancy
Testing Your Water for Lead Contamination
To determine if your drinking water contains lead, you can:
- Contact your local water utility to request information on lead levels in your water supply.
- Purchase a lead testing kit and follow the instructions to collect a water sample for testing.
- Hire a certified laboratory to test your water for lead contamination.
Effective Strategies for Removing Lead from Water
Combining Multiple Filter Types for Enhanced Lead Removal
While water pitcher filters are effective at removing lead, combining them with other filtration methods can further improve water quality. Some options include:
- Whole house filters: These systems filter water at the point of entry into your home, ensuring that all faucets provide clean, filtered water.
- Under-sink filters: Installed under your kitchen sink, these filters provide targeted filtration for drinking and cooking water.
- Reverse osmosis systems: These advanced systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove lead and other contaminants from water.
Key Factors to Consider for Water Pitcher Filter Lead Removal
NSF 53 Certification: Ensuring Effective Lead Removal
When selecting a water pitcher filter for lead removal, look for products with NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification. This certification indicates that the filter has been independently tested and verified to effectively remove lead and other harmful contaminants.
Evaluating the Quality of Filter Components
Choose a water pitcher filter made from high-quality, durable materials. BPA-free plastics and premium filter components will help ensure the filter’s longevity and effectiveness.
Weighing the Cost Factors of Water Pitcher Filters
Consider the initial cost of the water pitcher filter as well as the ongoing cost of replacement filters. Some filters may have a higher upfront cost but offer a longer filter life, ultimately saving you money over time.
Removing Additional Contaminants for Improved Water Quality
In addition to lead, water pitcher filters can also remove other contaminants such as chlorine, heavy metals, and certain bacteria. Check the product specifications to ensure the filter addresses your specific water quality concerns.
Selecting the Best Water Filter for Lead Removal
Choosing the best water filter for lead removal depends on your specific needs and preferences. Factors to consider include the level of lead in your water, your budget, and the desired level of filtration. Compare the features and performance of various water pitcher filters to make an informed decision.
Exploring Different Types of Filters for Lead Removal
Whole House Systems: Comprehensive Lead Removal
Whole house systems filter water at the point of entry, providing clean water throughout your home. These systems typically include a sediment pre-filter, a carbon filter, and a post-filter to remove lead and other contaminants.
Pitchers & Dispensers: Convenient Lead Filtration Solutions
Water pitcher filters are portable and easy to use, making them a popular choice for lead removal. They are an affordable option that provides clean water for drinking and cooking.
Under-Sink Filters: Targeted Lead Removal at the Point of Use
Under-sink filters are installed directly beneath your kitchen sink and provide targeted filtration for drinking and cooking water. These systems often include a separate faucet for dispensing filtered water.
Reverse Osmosis Systems: Advanced Technology for Lead Removal
Reverse osmosis systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove lead and other contaminants from water. These systems are highly effective at reducing lead levels but may require professional installation and ongoing maintenance.
Faucet Filters: Instant Lead Filtration at the Tap
Faucet filters attach directly to your kitchen faucet and provide on-demand filtration for drinking and cooking water. These filters are easy to install and remove, making them a convenient option for lead removal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there alternatives to pitcher filters for lead removal?
While filters are the most effective way to remove lead from drinking water, you can also take steps to reduce lead exposure:
- Run cold water for 30 seconds to two minutes before using it for drinking or cooking, as lead levels tend to be higher in standing water.
- Regularly clean faucet aerators, as lead particles can accumulate in them over time.
- Install a faucet filter to remove lead at the point of use.
- Replace old plumbing materials, such as lead pipes or lead-containing fixtures, with lead-free alternatives.
Should I test my well water for lead contamination?
Lead can be present in well water due to natural deposits or contamination from nearby industrial activities. If you use well water, have it tested for lead and other contaminants regularly. Consider installing a whole house filtration system or a reverse osmosis system for effective lead removal.
Does boiling water remove lead?
Boiling water does not remove lead. In fact, boiling water can concentrate the lead levels, making it even more unsafe to consume. It is essential to use a certified filter to remove lead from drinking water.
How can I be certain my pitcher filter removes lead?
To ensure your chosen filter effectively removes lead, look for products with NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification. Additionally, compare product specifications, customer reviews, and the filter’s performance data to make an informed decision.
Concluding Thoughts on Water Pitcher Filter Lead Removal
Water pitcher filters are an affordable and convenient solution for reducing lead in drinking water. By comparing different brands and models, you can find a filter that meets your specific needs and preferences. Remember to consider factors such as NSF 53 certification, filter life, and the quality of filter components when making your decision.
| Key Takeaway |
| Water pitcher filters are an effective, affordable, and convenient way to remove lead from drinking water. Ensure you select a filter with NSF 53 certification, consider filter life and ongoing costs, and evaluate additional features to find the best option for your needs. |