Chlorine filters are the best way to ensure the water you drink contains safe levels of chlorine. Since all municipal water supplies in the US are treated with chlorine, having chlorine filters is essential to achieve this.
The good news is that there’s a wide variety of options out there, from whole house systems to water pitcher filters. This variety ensures you’ll find something that fits both your needs and budget perfectly.
If you’re looking for a faucet filter, the PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System is the best one we tested. It removes 70 contaminants, including chlorine, and it can be connected to almost any type of faucet.
If you’d prefer a whole house system, we recommend the SpringWell CF1 Whole House Water Filter System. It removes 99% of chlorine and has a flow rate of 9 to 17 GPM, making it ideal for large homes. And if you need a more affordable whole house system, we’re sure you’ll like the Kind Water Systems Whole House Water Filter.
If your budget is tight or you’re short on space, the Epic Pure Water Filter Dispenser and the Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher are both cheap and highly effective. In fact, the Clearly Filtered unit has the best chlorine removal rates on our list!
If reverse osmosis tech is a priority for you, then you should try the AquaTru Reverse Osmosis System, and if you’re after an under-sink unit, we suggest going for the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under-the-Sink Water Filter System.
Chlorine Water Filters Comparison Chart
- Filtration technology: Activated carbon, ion exchange, and natural mineral core
- Filter type: Faucet
- Chlorine reduction rate: Not specified
- Contaminants removed: 70
- Flow rate: 0.44 GPM
- NSF 42 certification: Not specified
- Warranty: 2 years
- Filtration technology: Sub-micron
- Filter type: Water pitcher
- Chlorine reduction rate: 98.4%
- Contaminants removed: 200+
- Flow rate: Not specified
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Filtration technology: KDF & catalytic carbon
- Filter type: Whole house filter
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 99%
- Contaminants removed: Unspecified
- Flow rate: 9 – 17 GPM (1 to 7 bathrooms)
- NSF 42 certification: Not Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Filtration technology: High-performance catalytic-activated carbon block technology
- Filter type: Cartridge-based whole house filter
- Chlorine reduction rate: Unspecified
- Contaminants removed: Unspecified
- Flow rate: 15 GPM (1 to 6 bathrooms)
- NSF 42 certification: Not Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Filtration technology: Activated carbon + reverse osmosisstage filtration tech
- Filter type: Countertop reverse osmosis system
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 96.6%
- Contaminants removed: 82
- Filtration capacity: One gallon
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: One year
- Filtration technology: Affinity Filtration
- Filter type: Water filter pitcher
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 99.5%
- Contaminants removed: 365+
- Filtered Water Capacity: 10 cups (80oz)
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Filtration technology: Clearly Filtered 3-stage filtration tech
- Filter type: Under-the-sink system
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 98.6%
- Contaminants removed: 232+
- Filtration capacity: 2,000 gallons for each filter (lasting roughly a year)
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
List of Water Filters That Remove Chlorine
- PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System
- Epic Pure Water Filter Dispenser
- SpringWell CF1 Whole House Water Filter System
- Kind Water Systems Whole House Water Filter
- AquaTru Reverse Osmosis System
- Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
- Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under-the-Sink Water Filter System
PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System
- Filtration technology: Activated carbon, ion exchange, and natural mineral core
- Filter type: Faucet
- Chlorine reduction rate: Not specified
- Contaminants removed: 70
- Flow rate: 0.44 GPM
- NSF 42 certification: Not specified
- Warranty: 2 years
PROS
- Its 3-in-1 filter is very efficient at removing a variety of contaminants, including chlorine
- It’s really easy to install and you won’t need any tools to do it
- With a filtration capacity of 100 gallons, it’s designed to last for around 3 months
- It’s compatible with most faucet types, making it a flexible choice for your home
- Includes a filter light that alerts you when it’s time for a new filter
CONS
- PUR claims the product is NSF-certified but doesn’t give any information about which certifications it has
- Its 2-year warranty is short when compared to the lifetime warranties of most of the other units on our list
- Its chlorine reduction rate isn’t specified by the manufacturer, which could be a deciding factor for some
The PUR PLUS is the best option if you want a unit that connects directly to your faucet. It’s super easy to install and doesn’t take up any space. While its contaminant removal capabilities aren’t as powerful as some of the other filters on our list, it can still remove up to 70 different contaminants, including chlorine.
3-in-1 Filtration
The PUR PLUS filter combines activated carbon and ion exchange to reduce contaminants like chlorine, microplastics, and heavy metals. Once the contaminants have been removed, the water passes through a Mineral Core™ Filter made of natural minerals. This gives the water a clean, fresh taste.
We were slightly skeptical about this last stage, but we found that the water was crisp and refreshing. So, the Mineral Core™ Filter clearly does its job well.
Easy Installation and Good Compatibility
We loved how easy it was to install this unit – it took us about 5 minutes. All we had to do was remove the washer and aerator from the faucet and then screw the PUR PLUS onto the end. It didn’t require any tools, and we certainly didn’t need to hire a plumber to help.
Another great thing about this unit is its compatibility with most faucet types. Unless you have a very unusual faucet, you shouldn’t have any issues installing the PUR PLUS.
Filter Change Light
Although it might seem like a fairly basic feature, you’d be surprised by how often we come across filters without filter change lights. When a system doesn’t have this, you essentially have to guess when the filter needs to be changed.
Fortunately, the PUR PLUS comes equipped with a light on the side of the unit, so you can easily tell when it’s time to change the filter.
Epic Pure Water Filter Dispenser
- Filtration technology: Sub-micron
- Filter type: Water Pitcher
- Chlorine reduction rate: 98.4%
- Contaminants removed: 200+
- Flow rate: Not specified
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
PROS
- Highly effective at reducing chlorine, with a success rate of 98.4%
- Uses sub-micron filtration tech to remove over 200 contaminants
- Comes with an LED timer that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter
- Capable of storing up to 2 gallons of filtered water, so you’ll always have a supply of water ready when you need it
- All components are BPA-free, so there’s no risk of BPA leaking into your water
- For a pitcher, it features an impressively long-lasting filter with a 150-gallon filtration capacity
- Priced at $75, it’s an affordable option for those looking to improve their water quality without breaking the bank
CONS
- The replacement filters are pretty expensive and cost more than half the overall price of the unit
- Epic doesn’t provide information about the unit’s flow rate, which might be helpful for those looking to understand how quickly it filters water
The Epic Pure is one of the most impressive water filter pitchers we’ve ever tested. It can filter out more than 200 contaminants and has a chlorine reduction rate of 98.4%. Considering how effective it is, we were quite surprised to find out it only costs $75. So, if you’re looking for a very affordable pitcher that doesn’t compromise on quality, we think you’ll really like this unit.
Advanced Filtration
The best thing about the Epic Pure is that its filter is more effective than many under-sink and whole house systems. Amazingly, it can remove more than 200 contaminants and it reduces chlorine by 98.4%. So, how is the filter so efficient?
Well, it’s made with a proprietary blend of media, which greatly increases the contact time between the water and the filter. This means the water can be in contact with the filter for up to 2 hours. As a result, the water is thoroughly purified. In fact, the filter is so good that you can even use this pitcher to purify well water!
NSF Certified
The Epic Pure is certified for NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, 401, and P473. This means the unit has been independently tested in a lab to verify its contaminant removal rates. We always look out for NSF certification when testing filters, as it backs up the manufacturer’s claims about the unit’s filtration capabilities.
In particular, we looked for standard 42 when compiling our list since it relates to the reduction of chlorine in water. The fact that the Epic Pure is certified to standard 42 is one of the many reasons it made it onto this list.
Eco-Friendly
This unit is also one of the most eco-friendly filters we’ve reviewed. Unlike many other units we’ve tested, its filters are 100% recyclable. We always feel guilty when throwing used filters in the trash, so we’re pleased to know that Epic has made its filters recyclable.
Plus, if you sign up for Epic’s Filter Recycling Program, you get a free replacement filter for every 5 used pitcher filters you mail back to them.
SpringWell CF1 Whole House Water Filter System
- Filtration technology: KDF & catalytic carbon
- Filter type: Whole house filter
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 99%
- Contaminants removed: Unspecified
- Flow rate: 9 – 17 GPM (1 to 7 bathrooms)
- NSF 42 certification: Not Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
PROS
- Reduces chlorine by 99%, which is exceptionally high
- Made of sturdy materials, it promises a high level of durability you can rely on
- Outstanding flow rate of 9 GPM, which can be expanded all the way up to 17 GPM, depending on the size of the filter you buy
- Lifetime warranty, so you’re covered for most repairs and replacements
- As a trusted brand all across the United States, you can be confident in the quality and reliability of this unit
- Made in the USA, so you shouldn’t have any issues sourcing spare parts
CONS
- Doesn’t have an NSF 42 certification, which can be a downside for some
- It’s expensive, but we think it’s worth it for such an effective whole house system
- Installation requires a professional plumber, which increases the costs even more
Here at Water Defense, we recommend SpringWell because the brand domestically manufactures some of the most trustworthy, effective, and sturdiest water treatment products, including water filters that remove chlorine. The CF1 is probably the best SpringWell unit we’ve tested, and that’s really saying something!
It’s highly effective at removing chlorine and many other contaminants. Plus, it has a high flow rate of at least 9 GPM, making it a great option for larger homes with high water demands.
Key Features:
- 4-stage filtration: The SpringWell CF1 model removes chlorine with a 99% success rate because of its state-of-the-art, four-stage filtration process that employs a flex bed, kinetic degradation fluxion (KDF) media, catalytic carbon bed, and a sediment filter. The sediment filter and flex bed are not directly involved in the process of removing chlorine but are equally important. The former ensures that sediment particles like dirt and clay don’t interfere with the operations of the primary filtration media. The latter prolongs the contact time between the water and filters, improving the effectiveness of the filtration. The KDF and catalytic carbon technologies, on the other hand, are engineered to remove chlorine and other aesthetic impurities.
- High flow rate: We also recommend the SpringWell unit over others because of its high water flow rate. Most whole-house water filter devices provide only 7 gallons per minute (GPM), yet the SpringWell CF1 offers up to 17 GPM. This flow rate makes the product perfect for meeting the water needs of households with 1 – 7 bathrooms.
- Incredible filtration capacity: The CF1 has the highest filtration capacity of any filter system we’ve ever tested—1,000,000 gallons. This means its filter can last for up to 10 years before it needs to be replaced. You won’t find a longer-lasting filter than that anywhere else.
Kind Water Systems Whole House Water Filter
- Filtration technology: High-performance catalytic-activated carbon block technology
- Filter type: Cartridge-based whole house filter
- Chlorine reduction rate: Unspecified
- Contaminants removed: Unspecified
- Flow rate: 15 GPM (1 to 6 bathrooms)
- NSF 42 certification: Not certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
PROS
- The high-performance catalytic-activated carbon block technology makes the filter highly efficient against chlorine and other contaminants
- Easy to install, saving you the expense and trouble of hiring a plumber
- Doesn’t take up much space as it uses cartridges instead of tanks
- 15 GPM flow rate is more than enough for crowded households with up to six bathrooms
- Lifetime warranty that offers long-term security by covering most repairs and replacements
CONS
- Doesn’t hold an NSF 42 certificate, so it hasn’t been independently tested
- Expensive when compared to other units on our list, like the Epic Pure
Traditional whole house systems, such as the SpringWell CF1, often feature heavy water tanks that can be difficult to install, especially due to a lack of adequate space.
The Kind Water Systems E-1000, on the other hand, doesn’t have this challenge because it’s a cartridge-based water filter that doesn’t come with a water tank. Yet, it’s among the best-performing products for chlorine removal. If you’re looking for a more affordable, space-saving alternative to the CF1, then we highly recommend this unit.
Key Features:
- Catridge-based filtration: The Kind Water Systems has two filter cartridges. The first of these cartridges houses a sediment filter that takes care of dirt and clay, easing the process of the second cartridge. After removing dirt and clay, the second cartridge, which employs a high-performance catalytic-activated coconut shell carbon-block filtration technology, is responsible for flushing out the chlorine.
- No drop in water pressure: The advantages of cartridge-based filters over traditional whole-house tanks aren’t only in regards to installation, space, or filter replacement. Since there’s no tank through which the water must pass, the Kind Water Systems Whole House Water Filter doesn’t affect water pressure as much as tank-based systems. Because of this, the unit delivers 15 GPM, which is an astounding flow rate for a whole house system, and can serve households with up to six bathrooms.
- Long-lasting filters: Although they’re nowhere near as long-lasting as the CF1’s, the filters in the E-1000 only need to be replaced around once a year. This is still good longevity, considering the filtration efficiency of the unit.
- Low maintenance: We found changing its filter really easy. All we had to do was unscrew the old one and screw in the new one. Overall, the process took us about 10 minutes from start to finish. Considering it only needs to be done once a year, we’d say the unit is pretty low maintenance!
AquaTru Reverse Osmosis System
- Filtration technology: Activated carbon + reverse osmosis
- Filter type: Countertop reverse osmosis system
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 96.6%
- Contaminants removed: 82
- Filtration capacity: One gallon
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: One year
PROS
- Ultra-efficient combo of activated carbon and RO technology, making it highly effective at removing chlorine
- NSF 42 certification, meaning its chlorine removal capabilities have been independently verified
- An impressive success rate in removing 81 contaminants other than chlorine, offering you exceptionally clean water
- Countertop unit that requires no installation whatsoever
CONS
- Its 96.6% chlorine reduction rate is the lowest among our listed units that specify their removal rates
- Features plastic components that don’t last as long as stainless steel
- Only one year of warranty, which is really poor compared to the lifetime warranties of some other models on this list
In addition to KDF media and catalytic or activated carbon technologies, reverse osmosis (RO) is another common and effective water treatment technique for chlorine removal. The AquaTru Reverse Osmosis System is one of the most competent and affordable units on the market in this category.
It’s the ideal choice if you want a high-end RO system that efficiently removes chlorine from your drinking water.
Key Features:
- NSF-certified: Unlike the SpringWell and the Kind Water systems, the AquaTru RO holds an NSF 42, as well as NSF 53 and 58 certifications. So, it comes with a performance data sheet provided by an independent lab that tested the unit. The data sheet proves the product reduces chlorine by 96.6% alongside 81 other contaminants such as lead, fluoride, and hexavalent chromium.
- Powerful filtration: Themechanical pre-filter removes sediments and turbidity, making it easier for the following filters to tackle contaminants like chlorine. Then, the activated carbon pre-filter eliminates aesthetic impurities, such as color, taste, odor, and chlorine. It also improves the efficiency of the succeeding reverse osmosis membrane to a great extent. The activated coconut shell carbon VOC filter deals with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and gives the water a subtle coconut flavor.
- Reverse osmosis membrane: Apart from the most prominent and dangerous drinking water contaminants (lead, chromium, etc.), the RO membrane of the AquaTru system handles any chlorine leftover from the activated carbon stage.
- Good storage capacity: The AquaTru RO System isn’t a whole house system – it’s a countertop one, meaning it can’t process the water at all your taps. However, so long as you keep its unfiltered water tank full of water, it’ll always have a gallon of filtered, chlorine-free water ready for you and your family.
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
- Filtration technology: Affinity Filtration
- Filter type: Water filter pitcher
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 99.5%
- Contaminants removed: 365+
- Filtered Water Capacity: 10 cups (80oz)
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
PROS
- Affinity Filtration technology reduces chlorine by a minimum of 99.5%
- The same filtration technology eliminates 365 other contaminants
- It holds all the relevant NSF certifications, giving you peace of mind that it meets strict health and safety standards
- Its filter has a life expectancy of four months, which is pretty good for a water pitcher
- Lifetime warranty, which tells you Clearly Filtered are confident in the longevity of the unit
CONS
- Expensive for a water pitcher but still much more affordable than other complex systems like the CF1
- The cost of replacement filters becomes a burden in the long term
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher is slightly more expensive than the Epic Pure. Still, considering it removes 99.5% of chlorine and 365 other contaminants, we’d say it’s more than worth the price. The main reason it’s lower on our list than the Epic Pure is that it has a 100-gallon filtration capacity and the Epic unit has a 150-gallon capacity.
However, if you’re willing to pay a little more upfront and you’re happy to replace the filters more often, you might want to choose this pitcher instead.
Key Features:
- Amazing contaminant removal: The pitcher reduces more than 365 contaminants, as seen in its NSF-certified performance data sheet. It does it with the help of its exceptional, patented, and innovative filtration technology referred to as Affinity Filtration.
- Affinity Filtration tech: Two essential components of the Affinity Filtration technology ensure the removal of chlorine: The Clearly Filtered filter’s structure is full of twists and turns, prolonging contact time and allowing the filtration media to pick up contaminants like chlorine and reduce them more thoroughly than other filters. The filter structure also acts as a contaminant magnet that identifies, attracts, and binds contaminants in a long-lasting bond.
- Good filtration capacity: The filter can produce 100 gallons of chlorine-free water (roughly four months) before the contaminant buildup renders it ineffective, which is a great capacity for a pitcher filter. That being said, the Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher and its replacement filters are among the most expensive in comparison to the other units in this article. Even if you replace its filter once every four months, it might still be expensive to maintain in the long run.
Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under-the-Sink Water Filter System
- Filtration technology: Clearly Filtered 3-stage filtration tech
- Filter type: Under-the-sink system
- Chlorine reduction rate: Minimum of 98.6%
- Contaminants removed: 232+
- Filtration capacity: 2,000 gallons for each filter (lasting roughly a year)
- NSF 42 certification: Certified
- Warranty: Lifetime
PROS
- The best non-reverse osmosis under-the-sink unit for removing chlorine
- 98.6% chlorine reduction rate is impressive for an under-the-sink system
- Successfully removes over 232 other contaminants, providing you with comprehensive water purification
- Holds all NSF certifications possible and comes with a detailed performance data sheet for complete transparency and assurance of its capabilities and safety
- Lifetime warranty, which is a testament to its durability and the manufacturer’s confidence in its performance and quality
CONS
- The unit itself and its replacement filters are expensive
Despite not boasting the same numbers as the water pitcher from the same brand, the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under-the-Sink Water Filter is undoubtedly one of the best products in its category. It’s able to reduce more than 232 contaminants, as listed in its NSF-certified performance data sheet, and reduces chlorine by 98.6%, which is not far from the best chlorine reduction rates.
Key Features:
- 3-stage filtration: The Clearly Filtered Under-the-Sink Water Filter employs a three-stage filtration process to reduce chlorine and other contaminants. Like in many multi-stage water filtration systems, the first stage is a sediment filter, which, in the case of this Clearly Filtered unit, is referred to as an “advanced priming filter.” However, in addition to sediments like dirt, sand, and dust, this filter effectively reduces aesthetic impurities like color, odor, taste, and chlorine. Then, the heavy metal + VOCs filter removes chemicals such as chlorine and its byproducts and total trihalomethanes. Lastly, a built-in fluoride filter removes fluoride without removing healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium. Since RO units typically remove healthy minerals, we love this particular aspect of the Clearly Filtered Under-the-Sink filter.
- Universal compatibility: The unit is compatible with all sinks, so you’ll have no problem connecting it to yours. It’s also really easy to install it yourself. The only tool you need is a wrench. Still, if you’re not confident with plumbing, we recommend hiring a plumber.
- Filter longevity: Depending on the water usage levels in your home, the filter might not need to be replaced for up to a year. This is great news as the replacement filters cost $396, which we’re sure you’ll agree is very expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chlorine is not a health risk. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), drinking chlorinated water is unlikely to result in complications.
However, when chlorine comes into contact with natural organic matter, the chemical reaction between the two often creates total trihalomethanes (TTHMs). When the density of TTHMs in water surpasses 80 parts per billion, they can lead to several conditions, as TTHMs are associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer.
Additionally, the presence of chlorine might give water a bleach-like taste and smell and a cloudy appearance. And such water is unpleasant to drink. Considering both health-related and aesthetic aspects of drinking chlorinated water, it’s understandable why many Americans want to remove it from their drinking water supply.
Yes, buying a water filtration unit that removes chlorine will prevent the formation of TTHMs. Furthermore, a water filter that removes chlorine will significantly reduce your drinking water’s taste, color, and odor.
You can tell if there’s too much chlorine in your drinking water supply by its bleach-like taste and odor or its cloudy appearance. You should also check the consumer confidence report your water supplier publishes annually to ascertain how much chlorine they use to disinfect the water supply lines.
The most accurate way to test your water for contaminants, including chlorine, is to collect a water sample from one of your faucets and send it to an EPA-certified water testing lab. In return, you’ll receive a data sheet listing everything in your water and how their presence fares up against EPA rules, regulations, and standards.
Of course, this process will take a bit of time, and depending on your location and the lab, you may have to pay between $25 and $400.
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher reduces chlorine by a minimum of 99.5%. If you want chlorine-free water across the whole house, the SpringWell CF1 Whole House Filter reduces chlorine by 99%.
Those who want to purchase only NSF-certified products should look for an NSF 42 certification. NSF 42 specifically pertains to manufacturer claims regarding aesthetic impurities such as taste, odor, color, and chlorine.
Conclusion
The PUR PLUS is the best option if you want a chlorine filter that connects directly to your faucet. It can remove 69 other contaminants, and the installation couldn’t be more straightforward.
The Epic Pure is a really impressive water pitcher that removes 98.4% of chlorine and over 200 other contaminants. Plus, it has a filtration capacity of 150 gallons, which is high for a water filter, meaning you won’t need to replace the filter too often.
The SpringWell CF1 is a whole-house unit with 99% chlorine reduction and 9 GPM flow rates.
The Kind Water Systems Whole House model is a cartridge-based alternative to the SpringWell CF1 that’s easier to install and maintain.
The AquaTru Reverse Osmosis System is a countertop RO device that reduces chlorine by 96.6% and provides one gallon of chlorine-free water as long as you keep its unfiltered water tank full.
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher is the best water pitcher on the market, as it can treat water for 365+ contaminants and has an impressive 99.5% chlorine reduction rate.
The Clearly Filtered Under-the-Sink is a great alternative to RO units, reducing chlorine and more than 232 other contaminants by 98.6%.
