BritaPlus Replacement Water Filter Review Traps Twice More Contaminants Enhancing Taste

Description

Ice Quality & Type

Testing the Brita Plus Water Filter, model OB08, has been quite an experience, especially when it comes to the quality of water it produces. Although this is a replacement filter primarily designed for pitchers and dispensers rather than ice machines, the water quality directly affects any ice made from it. The filtered water tastes noticeably cleaner and fresher, with a significant reduction in the chlorine taste and odors that usually linger in tap water. Using this filtered water in our ice trays and machines has yielded ice cubes that are clearer and less likely to carry off-flavors, which is a subtle but appreciated difference in everyday use.

Features

The Brita Plus OB08 filter boasts a high-density filtration system that traps twice as many contaminants compared to the standard Brita filters. This is not just marketing fluff—I noticed the water tastes smoother and the filter effectively reduces common impurities like chlorine, copper, and cadmium. It also has built-in mesh screens that stop those annoying black flecks from appearing in your glass. Another cool feature is the ion exchange resin that further purifies the water by reducing heavy metals. The filter is compatible with nearly all Brita pitchers and dispensers except the Stream model, which might be a bummer if you own that system. Each filter lasts about two months or 40 gallons of water, which aligns well with my household’s usage.

Ease of Use

Installing the Brita Plus filter was a breeze. The filter fits snugly into the pitcher, and setting it up took less than five minutes. The process involves soaking the filter beforehand, then placing it in the pitcher reservoir, which is pretty standard for water filters. I appreciate the clear instructions included, as my kids even helped me set it up without much hassle. Replacing the filter every two months is a manageable routine, although I wish there was a built-in indicator on the pitcher that could alert me when it’s time to swap it out. Overall, it’s straightforward enough for anyone to handle without frustration.

Noise Levels

This filter operates silently since it’s a passive filter system inside a pitcher or dispenser. There’s no motor or active component to generate noise, which is a definite plus in a kitchen environment. This contrasts with some larger filtration systems or ice makers that can be quite loud during operation. If quiet is what you want, this filter certainly delivers.

Durability

The Brita Plus replacement filter is built with solid plastic housing that seems sturdy enough for regular handling. Over several weeks of use, the filter maintained its integrity without any cracks or leaks. The mesh screens held up well, preventing particles from slipping through. However, since these are consumable filters, durability is more about how long the filter remains effective rather than physical toughness. The two-month lifespan is realistic, but heavy water consumers might find themselves changing filters a bit more frequently. Still, this product feels reliable, and I didn’t experience any performance drop-offs before the recommended replacement time.

Warranty

There isn’t a lot of fanfare about warranty with these replacement filters, but Brita, being a well-known brand, offers standard product guarantees that should cover manufacturing defects. I didn’t encounter any issues that would require warranty service, but it’s reassuring to know that customer support is accessible if needed. The lack of an extended warranty for consumable items is understandable, but transparency about this would have been nice.

Ice Production Speed

Though this filter isn’t directly responsible for ice production speed, the cleanliness of the filtered water indirectly influences the efficiency of ice makers that use it. I’ve noticed less mineral buildup in my ice trays and machines since switching to the Brita Plus filter, which can help maintain ice production speed over time. The filter doesn’t slow down my kitchen routine, which is a relief compared to some purification systems that require extended flushing or setup times.

Price Performance

Evaluating the price point of the Brita Plus filter reveals it to be a solid investment for households wanting better water quality without breaking the bank. Compared to other premium water filters, this model offers a balance between affordability and effective contaminant removal. The fact that a single filter can replace up to 300 plastic bottles makes it not only cost-efficient but environmentally responsible. It’s worth every penny for those who consume filtered water daily, especially considering the reduction in tap water impurities and improved taste. However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t prioritize water flavor, there are cheaper alternatives available, though they might lack the same filtration efficiency.

Benefits

• Traps twice as many contaminants as standard filters, ensuring safer and better-tasting water.
• Compatible with most Brita pitchers and dispensers, offering versatile use.
• Easy installation and maintenance make it user-friendly for all ages.
• Environmentally beneficial by reducing plastic bottle waste significantly.

Drawbacks

• Not compatible with the Brita Stream system, limiting options for some users.
• Lacks an integrated filter change indicator on the pitcher, so you have to keep track manually.
• The lifespan might be shorter for heavy water drinkers, requiring more frequent replacements.
• Some users might find the filter’s plastic construction less eco-friendly despite reducing bottle waste.

Product Contenders

In comparison to other water filter replacements, the Brita Plus OB08 holds its own due to its advanced filtration capabilities and trusted brand name. Products like the PUR Replacement Filter or ZeroWater’s filters also target similar contaminants but sometimes at a higher cost or with shorter filter lifespans. The ZeroWater filter, for example, boasts near-total dissolved solids removal but can slow water flow and requires more frequent changes. PUR filters often come with a built-in electronic indicator, which is a feature missing in Brita’s offering. However, Brita’s filter balances taste improvement and contaminant reduction well, making it a popular choice among families and casual users. It excels particularly in reducing chlorine taste and odors, which some competitors struggle with. On the downside, the lack of compatibility with the Stream line might push some users to look elsewhere if they already own that system.

Durability and Build Quality

After weeks of regular use, I found the filter’s build quality to be consistent with the brand’s reputation. Despite being lightweight at just under two ounces, the filter feels robust enough to endure daily handling and water pressure within the pitcher. Its plastic casing is BPA-free, which is reassuring for health-conscious users. I didn’t notice any degradation in the filter’s physical condition, even after multiple water refills. This durability extends to the filter’s performance, which remained steady throughout its advertised service life, maintaining water clarity and taste without any noticeable decline.

Testing the Brita Plus Water Filter OB08 in my household has been a practical journey. It has made a clear impact on water taste and quality, which my family appreciated, especially my kids who are picky about drinking water. The ease of use and reliable performance make it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade from standard tap water or older filter models. While there are minor downsides like the lack of an indicator and the incompatibility with one Brita system, the overall experience has been positive. This filter strikes a good balance between filtration effectiveness, convenience, and eco-conscious design.

Additional information