If you’ve ever stood in front of your tap wondering what exactly is coming out of it — you’re not alone. Whether it’s that faint chlorine smell, weird taste, or just wanting to cut down on plastic bottles, choosing the right water filter system can feel like a guessing game.
But it doesn’t have to be.
In this guide, we’re going to break down the different types of water filter systems available for Australian homes. We’ll look at what they do, how they work, how much they cost, and which one might be the best fit for you. Simple, clear, and no jargon. Just clean water talk.
Let’s start with the basics. A water filter system is any device that improves the quality of your tap water by removing nasties like chlorine, heavy metals, sediment, and bacteria.
Some systems are small and sit on your bench. Others hide under your sink. Some even go full James Bond with multi-stage filtration. The goal? Better taste, better health, and less reliance on single-use plastic bottles.
It depends on the type — but here’s the general idea:
Carbon Filters trap chemicals like chlorine and improve taste.
Ceramic Filters block bacteria and sediment with microscopic pores.
Multi-Stage Systems combine several filter types for deeper cleaning.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) filters push water through a membrane to catch even teeny-tiny contaminants.
The best part? You don’t need to be a plumber to use them (well, most of them).
Not all filter systems are made equal. What works for a busy family in Sydney might not be ideal for a couple in a rural Queensland property. So let’s explore your options.
Perfect for: Renters, apartment dwellers, minimalists.
Benchtop filters are compact, simple to install, and sit right on your kitchen counter. They’re great if you want filtered water without drilling holes or messing with pipes.
👉 Take a peek at the Single Countertop Benchtop Water Filter. It connects directly to your tap, has a solid carbon filter, and doesn’t eat up much bench space.
Why Aussies love it:
No installation stress
Great for rentals
Quick access to cleaner water
Perfect for: Larger households, home cooks, clean freaks.
Under sink water filters are installed out of sight, saving bench space and giving you instant access to filtered water straight from the tap.
Check out the H2O Undersink Water Filtration System Kit. It’s sleek, low-maintenance, and delivers consistently clean water for families.
Why it’s worth considering:
Hidden from view
High volume filtration
Great long-term solution
Perfect for: Health-conscious families, wellness lovers, water snobs (we see you 👀).
These systems don’t just stop at one filter. They’ve got multiple stages to remove everything from chlorine to heavy metals to bacteria and more.
Our favourite? The 8-Stage Water Filter System. It purifies, alkalises, and even adds minerals back into your water.
Client story time! Sophie, a mum of two from Melbourne, emailed us saying, “I didn’t realise how metallic our tap water tasted until I got the 8-stage filter. Now my kids are actually drinking water without a fuss, and I’m refilling my bottle twice as much at work!”
Perfect for: Off-grid homes, rural living, eco-minded households.
Ceramic dome filters are made of natural materials and work using gravity. No plumbing, no electricity. They’re slow, but they’re mighty.
The Ceramic Double Countertop Filter is an eco-friendly gem. It uses ceramic and carbon to trap bacteria, chlorine, and other impurities.
Why we’re fans:
Reusable and long-lasting
Doesn’t need electricity
Low maintenance
Perfect for: Serious filtration fans, immune-compromised individuals, tech enthusiasts.
RO systems are super thorough. They use pressure to push water through a membrane that catches nearly all impurities. Want next-level clean? This is it.
Check out the RO 3000 Benchtop Reverse Osmosis Unit.
Bonus: it also alkalises your water for added health perks.
Key benefits:
Removes fluoride, lead, heavy metals
Great for sensitive tummies
Compact but powerful
You don’t just drink water—you bathe in it too. Chlorine in shower water can dry out your skin and hair, which is where shower filters come in handy.
The Universal Shower Hose Filter helps reduce exposure to chlorine, especially handy if you’ve got skin sensitivities or little ones in the bath.
Prices can vary depending on the filter type and replacement frequency.
| Filter Type | Average Cost | Replacement Filters |
|---|---|---|
| Benchtop | $100–$150 | Every 6–12 months |
| Under Sink | $250–$400 | Every 6 months |
| 8-Stage | ~$159 | Refills available here |
| Ceramic Dome | $140–$180 | Cleanable, replace yearly |
| Reverse Osmosis | ~$395 | 6–12 month cycle |
| Shower Filters | ~$69 | Every 3–6 months |
Remember: clean water is a long-term investment. Many Aussie families find that filter systems actually save them money compared to bottled water.
Still scratching your head? Here’s a quick guide:
Renting? → Go benchtop or ceramic.
Own your home? → Under sink or multi-stage for convenience.
On a tight budget? → Start with a benchtop or shower filter.
Got health concerns? → Look at RO or 8-stage filters.
Eco-conscious? → Ceramic filters are reusable and plastic-free.
Browse the full Water Filter System Collection to compare all options in one place.
Better taste = more hydration. You (and your kids!) will actually enjoy drinking water again.
Cost savings. Skip the bottled water aisle for good.
Peace of mind. Know what’s going into your body (and what isn’t).
Sustainable living. Fewer plastic bottles, lower carbon footprint.
You don’t need to install a water treatment plant in your kitchen to start enjoying clean water. Even a small upgrade like a benchtop filter or shower hose filter can make a big difference.
No matter your home setup, there’s a water filter system out there that fits your lifestyle. If you’re unsure where to start, browse our most trusted options and read reviews from real Australian households just like yours.
Explore our full range of home water filter systems and take the guesswork out of choosing the right one.
Need a nudge in the right direction? Our friendly team is just a message away, no pressure, just good advice and cleaner water on the way.
🦘Ah, the age-old Aussie question! Honestly, it depends on your setup. Renting a flat? Go with something easy like the Single Countertop Benchtop Water Filter — no tools, no drama.
Got a growing family and a kitchen that sees more action than a weekend Bunnings trip? Try an 8-stage system or a tucked-away under sink kit. You’ll be pouring crystal-clear water straight from the tap in no time. 💦
🧽 A: Think of it like changing the sheets — not daily, but don’t leave it forever either. Most filters need swapping out every 6 to 12 months.
The 8-stage filters are good for around 6 months if you’re using it daily (which, let’s be honest, you should be!). Ceramic ones can last longer with a gentle clean. If your water starts tasting a bit funky, it’s probably time for a change. 👃🚱
🔧 No toolbox needed, mate! The Single Countertop Benchtop Water Filter literally screws onto your tap.
It’s like giving your kitchen sink a quick upgrade without the call-out fee. No drilling, no grunting, just clean water in minutes. Perfect for renters or commitment-phobes. 😄
It’s like a water obstacle course — but for germs and gunk. The 8-stage system tackles chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria like a pro, then adds back minerals your body actually needs.
It even alkalises your water, which basically means it’s smoother, tastier, and easier on the tummy. 🥤✨
They do more than look pretty in a bathroom flat lay! The Universal Shower Hose Filter helps reduce chlorine and chemical nasties that dry out your skin and frizz up your hair.
If you’ve got eczema, coloured hair, or sensitive little ones, it’s a small change that makes a big splash. 💆♀️🚿
Overusing it is like driving on bald tyres — things might still technically work, but it’s not safe. As the filter ages past its recommended 6-month lifespan, it can become clogged or start leaking contaminants back into your water (yikes!).
Always check the filter condition and swap it out regularly with fresh 8-stage refills. Your body will thank you.
Very! It removes all the usual suspects — chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, bacteria, odours and finishes with a mineral boost and pH balance.
It's like the overachiever of the water filter family. Plus, it's perfect for busy households that want the most bang for their buck with minimal effort. You get safe, tasty water every time you pour. 💧👏
