Brita vs Pur: Which Water Filter Pitcher Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to purifying our tap water, two household names instantly come to mind: Brita and PUR. These water filter pitcher titans have dominated the market for years, offering a convenient and affordable solution for cleaner, healthier water. But which one is truly the superior choice? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between Brita and PUR water filter pitchers, comparing their filtration capabilities, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Filtration Technology: Carbon vs. Ion Exchange

At the heart of any water filter pitcher lies its filtration technology. Brita employs activated carbon filters, while PUR utilizes ion exchange filters. Both technologies effectively remove impurities from water, but they operate in distinct ways:

• Activated Carbon: Brita’s carbon filters absorb contaminants through a process called adsorption. Activated carbon has a vast surface area with microscopic pores that trap impurities like chlorine, heavy metals, and organic compounds.
• Ion Exchange: PUR’s ion exchange filters use a chemical process to remove impurities. They contain tiny resin beads that exchange positively charged ions (such as calcium and magnesium) for negatively charged ions (such as chloride and sulfate). This process softens the water while also removing certain contaminants.

Contaminant Removal Capabilities

Both Brita and PUR water filter pitchers are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including:

• Chlorine
• Lead
• Mercury
• Pesticides
• Herbicides
• Bacteria (PUR only)

However, there are some nuances in their removal capabilities:

• Chlorine: Brita and PUR both effectively remove chlorine, which is responsible for the unpleasant taste and odor of tap water.
• Lead: PUR’s ion exchange filters are more effective at removing lead than Brita’s carbon filters.
• Bacteria: PUR’s MaxIon filter features an antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria, making it the only pitcher on the market that can remove bacteria from tap water.

Filter Lifespan and Replacement Costs

The lifespan of a water filter pitcher filter depends on various factors, such as the quality of your tap water and the frequency of use. Generally, Brita and PUR filters last for around 40-60 gallons or 2-3 months.
Replacement filter costs vary depending on the model and brand. Brita filters typically range from $10-$15 per filter, while PUR filters cost around $15-$20 per filter.

Capacity and Design

Water filter pitchers come in various capacities, ranging from 6 to 10 cups. Brita and PUR offer a wide selection of pitchers in different sizes and designs to suit your needs and kitchen aesthetic.

• Brita: Brita pitchers are known for their sleek and modern designs, with a variety of colors and styles available.
• PUR: PUR pitchers are more traditional in design, featuring a straightforward and functional aesthetic.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Both Brita and PUR water filter pitchers are easy to use and maintain:

• Filling: Simply fill the pitcher with tap water from the top.
• Filtering: Allow the water to filter through the filter into the bottom reservoir.
• Pouring: Pour filtered water from the bottom reservoir into a cup or glass.
• Cleaning: Regularly wash the pitcher and filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain optimal performance.

Price and Value

Brita and PUR water filter pitchers are comparably priced, with models ranging from $20 to $40. The overall value of a pitcher depends on its filtration capabilities, lifespan, and features.

• Brita: Brita pitchers offer a good balance of price and performance, providing effective filtration at an affordable cost.
• PUR: PUR pitchers tend to be slightly more expensive than Brita pitchers, but they offer additional features such as bacteria removal and a longer filter lifespan.

The Verdict: Which Water Filter Pitcher Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best water filter pitcher for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to remove chlorine and other common contaminants, Brita is a great choice. If you want a pitcher that can also remove lead and bacteria, PUR is the superior option.

Additional Considerations

Before making a final decision, consider these additional factors:

• Tap Water Quality: The quality of your tap water can impact the performance of a water filter pitcher. If you have particularly hard water or high levels of contaminants, you may need a more robust filtration system.
• Frequency of Use: If you use your water filter pitcher frequently, you’ll want to choose a model with a longer filter lifespan or a lower replacement cost.
• Aesthetics: If you’re concerned about the appearance of your water filter pitcher, choose a model that complements your kitchen decor.

Questions You May Have

Q: How often should I replace my water filter pitcher filter?
A: Generally, water filter pitcher filters should be replaced every 40-60 gallons or 2-3 months.
Q: Can water filter pitchers remove all contaminants from tap water?
A: No, water filter pitchers cannot remove all contaminants from tap water. However, they can effectively remove a wide range of common contaminants, including chlorine, lead, and pesticides.
Q: Which water filter pitcher is better for hard water?
A: PUR water filter pitchers are better for hard water because they use ion exchange filters that can remove calcium and magnesium ions.
Q: Can I use tap water to fill my water filter pitcher?
A: Yes, you can use tap water to fill your water filter pitcher. However, if your tap water is particularly hard or contaminated, you may want to consider using filtered or bottled water instead.
Q: How do I clean my water filter pitcher?
A: Regularly wash the pitcher and filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a mild dish soap and warm water to clean the pitcher and filter, and rinse thoroughly before using.