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Silver British Berkefeld water filter system

Countertop Water Filter Systems

Discover how countertop water filter systems offer a simple, portable and powerful solution for healthier hydration.
What Is a Countertop Water Filter system?

A countertop water filter system is a portable water filtration unit designed to sit on your kitchen counter. These systems typically come in two forms: tap-mounted and gravity-fed.

There are many reasons you might be considering a countertop water filter system. For renters, they’re a convenient, fuss free option that can move easily from one home to the next. Others may want a temporary solution during home renovations, or a portable system for events, travel, or outdoor gatherings.

The best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle needs. That’s why we’ve broken down the different types of countertop systems and key factors to consider, so that you can make an informed decision built around your needs.

Countertop Water Filter Systems

British Berkefeld 6L Schwerkraft-System-Starter-Paket
SAVE 15%

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld 6L Schwerkraft-System-Starter-Paket

€386,95
€386,95
An image of an embossed grey gravity system

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld® Edelstahl-Schwerkraft-System + Ultra Sterasyl-Keramik-Filter

Von €195,95
Von €195,95
An image of a 1 liter gravity system

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld® 1-Liter-Edelstahl-Gravitationssystem & Ultra Sterasyl®

€140,95
€140,95
An image of an over counter water filter

Doulton

Doulton® Arbeitsplatten-Wasserfiltersystem mit Biotect Ultra®

Von €219,95
Von €219,95 €217,95
An image of an embossed gravity system in grey

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld® Edelstahl-Gravitations-System + Ultra-Fluorid-Keramik-Filter

Von €252,95
Von €252,95

Gravity water filter systems versus tap-mounted countertop systems

As mentioned, countertop water filter systems usually come in two forms: Gravity-fed or tap-mounted. Both options are ideal for renters or anyone looking for the convenience of filtered water in multiple locations. For example, a gravity filter could be used in the garden during a BBQ, in your office while working, or even on a bedside table if you're recovering with a newborn and need to stay hydrated during night feeds! Whilst the tap-mounted system could be taken on holidays with you to caravans or lodges, as long as the owner grants permission and the tap is compatible.

Gravity system size comparison

Gravity-fed water filter systems are typically larger and suitable for both individuals and families. They work by using gravity to pull water from an upper chamber through specialist filters into a lower chamber. These systems are incredibly popular for those who want to enjoy filter fresh water daily and can be used in various locations, such as your kitchen, office, garage, shed, or even the garden. Gravity filters also come in a range of sizes. If you're just starting out with water filtration, the 1-litre British Berkefeld system could be the perfect introduction and a great, plastic-free alternative to a classic filter jug. It offers the same benefits as the larger British Berkefeld systems but in a more compact form.

 Gravity Systems
Person pouring water from a carafe into a glass next to a kitchen faucet.

Tap-mounted systems, on the other hand, attach directly to the end of your kitchen tap and use water pressure to push water through the filter system and out through a small, separate, pillar style tap. The tap-mounted countertop water filter from Doulton comes with everything you need to set up in the box, allowing you to switch between filtered and unfiltered water with a small valve. This setup is perfect for those who enjoy the instant gratification of filtered water on tap but aren't ready to commit to plumbing in an under sink water filter system.

 Tap-Mounted System
British Berkefeld SS Tap

Which Countertop Water Filter System to Choose?

When it comes to which one meets your needs the best, there are a few points to consider, especially when the versatility of each solution is so consistent! To help make the decision easier, we've outlined some pros and cons of both the gravity and tap-mounted water filter systems below.
countertop water filter
Tap-Mounted Water Filters

Tap-mounted countertop water filters use water pressure directly from your tap. They are easily fitted and allow you to switch between filtered and none filtered water effortlessly with a small valve on the side of the tap adapter. These are perfect for those amongst us who enjoy the instant gratification of filtered water direct from the tap.

Silver British Berkefeld water filter next to a potted cactus on a countertop with a mustard yellow wall background.
Gravity Fed Water Filters

Gravity water filter systems use the power of gravity to filter water from a chamber on the top, down into another chamber below. These require no plumbing or electricity and can be used in a variety of locations both inside and outside of your home. They are available in a range of different capacities, perfect for personal or family use.

Gravity System Pros Gravity System Cons
No electricity needed Slower filtration rate due to gravity doing all the work
No plumbing required Manual refilling required
Easy to set up Takes up more space
A range of capacities to suit needs May not suit all household aesthetics
Works during water or power outages
Portable and can be used in any location
Countertop Pros Countertop Cons
Filters water on demand from your tap Requires compatible connection
Takes up less countertop space Additional pipe needs to come from the valve on the tap
Can be positioned anywhere around your sink Use and installation can depend on water pressure
Easily switch between filtered and unfiltered water
Easy to uninstall leaving no issues

Another consideration would also be your water quality and the specific concerns you have around your drinking water. A gravity system filters through much slower than a pressure system such as the tap-mounted water filter, so if you are specifically looking for targeted reduction you may want to look at the test data for each to make an informed decision.
Glass of water

How does the cost of countertop filters compare to bottled water?

If one of the items on your weekly shopping list is a few litres of bottled water, then switching to a countertop water filter system can save you money in the long term. When we took a look at the average amount families are spending on bottled water in this article, it quickly became clear that a lot of households would make significant savings by making the switch to a water filter option.

Of course, this is based on the estimated consumptions and prices that were correct in supermarkets at the time of publication. With the ever-increasing cost of living and inflation rates it’s worthwhile to invest now to future proof your bank balance.

Read the article
Which filter cartridge suits your needs best on countertop systems?

Okay, so you’re set on a countertop filtered water system, but now you’re looking at which ceramic filter to have inside. At Doulton we have various option available. If you’re looking at the British Berkefeld gravity system, then you have the choice of Ultra Sterasyl or Ultra Fluoride ceramic filters. What’s the difference? The Ultra Sterasyl is highly effective at filtering up to 99.99% of some common contaminants. These include bacteria, cysts, and particulate matter, ensuring that your water is not only refreshing but also safe to drink. The Ultra Fluoride filter is specifically designed for those with concerns around fluoride being present in their tap water. These are engineered to effectively reduce the presence of fluoride and other common contaminants, and like the Ultra Sterasyl filters they also retain essential minerals.

For Doulton Countertop Water Filter Systems they come with the Biotect Ultra with the option to change these to the Biotect Ultra SI. The Biotect Ultra SI water filter is one of our most advanced filters offering reduction of monochloramine, cadmium and mercury to prevent scale deposition. This is great for households who suffer the implications of limescale in their appliances.
Counter Top Water Filter System

Do I need any specialist equipment to use a countertop water filter system?

You shouldn’t need any equipment to set up countertop water filter systems. Everything you would need is supplied within the box, including the filters to get you started. When it comes to setting up your gravity system, it’s simply a case of installing the filter elements inside the top chamber and placing this over the bottom chamber. For the first few uses you will want to flush the water through and discard, as this will allow for ceramic filters to work to their utmost efficiency.

For a tap-mounted water filter system you may need to check that your current tap is compatible with the system. Some, like the Doulton Countertop System, will come with a valve and adapter in the box. With some other brands you may need to purchase this separately. You may also just need something to grip the end of your tap to remove the current end to reveal the threading, allowing the mount to be screwed on.

Neither of these water filter options would usually require a plumber or electricity to set up and run!
An image of a gravity water system on a picnic table

Can I use a countertop filter system outside of the kitchen?

If you choose a British Berkefeld gravity water filter system you can effortlessly place this in a variety of locations both inside and outside of your home. Not only are they fantastic for popping onto your kitchen counter, you can also place them in your office, garden or even at an event! Providing your guests filtered water on tap, is a great way to introduce them to the difference in taste and quality, whilst also keeping them hydrated. Some people also use their gravity filter system for off-grid living. Whether you’re in a narrowboat, or motorhome, you can enjoy the ease of transporting your filtered water wherever you roam.
An image of a gravity system

Countertop filters for shared living or rented accommodation.

If you are unable to plumb an under sink water filter system into your current home or accommodation, but still want to enjoy filtered water from your kitchen tap, then a countertop water filter system would easily bridge this gap. With the versatility to install without any changes to pipework or fittings, you simply screw the valve into the end of your kitchen tap. This can be easily be taken off whenever you need it to be. They can also be quite handy for when you’re travelling or visiting friends and family. If you have permission from the home owner/accommodation host to pop one onto the kitchen tap, it can be screwed on and off in no time and with no damage.

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Explore our Range of Countertop Systems

British Berkefeld 6L Schwerkraft-System-Starter-Paket
SAVE 15%

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld 6L Schwerkraft-System-Starter-Paket

€386,95
€386,95
An image of an embossed grey gravity system

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld® Edelstahl-Schwerkraft-System + Ultra Sterasyl-Keramik-Filter

Von €195,95
Von €195,95
An image of a 1 liter gravity system

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld® 1-Liter-Edelstahl-Gravitationssystem & Ultra Sterasyl®

€140,95
€140,95
An image of an over counter water filter

Doulton

Doulton® Arbeitsplatten-Wasserfiltersystem mit Biotect Ultra®

Von €219,95
Von €219,95 €217,95
An image of an embossed gravity system in grey

British Berkefeld

British Berkefeld® Edelstahl-Gravitations-System + Ultra-Fluorid-Keramik-Filter

Von €252,95
Von €252,95

FAQs

No, you shouldn’t need a plumber to install a gravity filter system or a Doulton countertop water filter system. These options do not require any changes to your plumbing set up and can be fitted and removed where needed with no specialist skills.

This would depend on which option you choose. With a tap mounted system you can easily switch the valve to allow for filtered or unfiltered water to flow out of the tap. With the gravity system, all water that comes into the bottom chamber will be filtered water.

We do not recommend using any of our countertop water filter systems with hot water.

If you purchase a Doulton or British Berkefeld system we always recommend that you change the filters every 6 months. The frequency will also depend on the amount of water you filter through and how often.

Alongside ensuring that the retailer you purchase from is authentic, reliable and has great reviews, you should also look out for details such as testing and certifications.

Some of the key accolades you would be looking for are certifications from bodies such as NSF and WRAS. Other things you should consider is the ease of set up and use, alongside how they look in your home.