Best water purifiers in Singapore
Tap water in Singapore may be safe for drinking, but if you’re from a typical Singaporean family, chances are you’re used to only drinking tap water that has been boiled. While that is a good enough way of getting rid of most germs, there are often still trace amounts of chemicals like chlorine, lead and mercury that don’t go away even after bubbling it at 100°C. For clean-as-can-be water straight out of your tap, upgrade your kitchen with a water purifier.
On top of saving time and electricity, they’re able to sift out 99% of germs and unwanted chemicals in the water. For all those considering getting one, below are the best water purifiers and filters in Singapore to check out.
P.S. There’s a hidden promo code for Amazon Singapore in this article!
Table of Contents
- Best water purifiers in Singapore
- What’s the difference between a water purifier & a water filter?
- How often must I change the filter in my water purifier?
- 1. Filtech Countertop Twin Water Filter
- 2. PUR Advanced Faucet
- 3. BRITA Marella Water Pitcher Filter
- 4. 3M AP Easy Complete Undersink Filtration System
- 5. OSIM uPure 2
- 6. Mitsubishi Chemical Clinsui
- 7. PHILIPS GoZero Next-gen Instant Water Filter Pitcher
- 8. Kubichai Water Purifier
- 9. Panasonic Water Alkaline Ionizer
- 10. Hyflux Spring Digital
- 11. Philips On-Tap Water Purifier
- How to maintain your water filters & water purifiers
- Water purifiers & filters in Singapore
What’s the difference between a water purifier & a water filter?
Before we dive into our recommendations, let’s first determine what actually is the difference between a water purifier and a water filter. Water filters help to filter out and remove all impurities such as bacteria, chlorine, and protozoa while water purifiers take it a step further as they can remove viruses as well. Water filters are also part of a water purifier’s system and its filtration processes. Here are some of the common types of filters you can find:
- Carbon: Activated carbon removes contaminants like chlorine, sediments, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and taste and odour from water.
- Ion exchange: Exchanges calcium and magnesium ions for sodium or potassium ions in water for a “softer” texture.
- Reverse osmosis: Semi-permeable membrane to remove salts, lead, and other heavy metals.
- Distillation: Condenses steam into water to remove minerals, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
- Alkaline/Water ionisers: Uses electrolysis to split water into acidic and alkaline components. Alkaline water is said to offer some health benefits.
- Ceramic: Traps harmful bacteria and sediments through a porous surface.
- Ultraviolet: Uses UV light to kill bacteria and viruses to disinfect water.
How often must I change the filter in my water purifier?
On average, you can expect to change out the water filter of your water purifier every 3 months or so. Use this handy breakdown to see when you have to replace your filter:
| Water Purifier | Best Feature | Price | When to Replace Filter |
| Filtech Countertop Twin Water Filter | 7-layer filtration system from Japan | $249.90 | Every 6-8 months |
| PUR Advanced Faucet | Reduces >70 types of contaminants | $61.05 | Every 2-3 months |
| BRITA Marella Water Pitcher Filter | Low-maintenance filter | $50 | Every 4 weeks |
| 3M AP Easy Complete Undersink Filtration System | Compact undersink filter, BPA-Free | $599 | Every 6 months |
| OSIM uPure 2 | 3 water dispensing modes | From $129 | Every 5 months |
| Mitsubishi Chemical Clinsui | LED display countdown for filter replacement | $52.50 | Every 3 months |
| PHILIPS GoZero Next-gen Instant Water Filter Pitcher | Countertop instant water filter | $67.38 | Every month |
| Kubichai Water Purifier | Affordable with 7-layer filtration | $15.30 | Every 3-6 months |
| Panasonic Water Alkaline Ionizer | 7 different pH levels, including alkaline water | $2,546 | Every 12 months |
| Hyflux Spring Digital | Digital monitor for daily water intake tracking | $239 | Every 6 months |
| Philips On-Tap Water Purifier | Alerts to replace filter | $76.95 | Every 3 months |
P.S. Just for TSL readers, you can get $10 off when you spend a minimum of $60 on Amazon Singapore. It is valid from 8th-13th October 2024 only.
1. Filtech Countertop Twin Water Filter
7-layer filtration system from Japan
Image credit: Filtech
Japan has long since gained the reputation of manufacturing trustworthy products and in the product category of water filters, you’ve got the Filtech Xeltro CT 22, a countertop twin water filter.
Despite its compact size, this powerful contraption hides a seven-layer filtration system with a 0.1-micron ceramic filter, FIR layer, ion exchange resin, anti-bacterial ions, KDF activated carbon and their specially-made carbon membrane filter.
For our Science-averse friends, this translates to a system that removes everything you don’t want in your water, from bacteria to rust while deodorising it along the way.
Fitting it into your tap is a breeze as well, as each purchase comes with multiple adaptors for an easy installation. A video tutorial is also available to guide you through any hiccups.
Image credit: Filtech
Alternatively, those looking for a more budget-friendly option can also check out the 6-layer faucet filter, Filtra Plus FWF 177 ($44.90).
Price: $249.90
When to change filter: Every 6-8 months
Get the Filtech Xeltro CT 22
2. PUR Advanced Faucet
Reduces >70 types of contaminants
Image credit: That Nerdilicious
Although mostly unheard of in Singapore, PUR is a well-known brand in the US. And when it comes to purchasing water purifiers off Amazon, their Advanced Faucet Water Filter is among the most popular, with thousands of positive reviews as testament to its quality.
You can put any worries about chemical nasties away as this filter reduces more than 70 types of contaminants in your water including chlorine, lead and mercury.
Available in black, silver and stainless steel, these on-tap water purifiers can easily match the colour scheme of most sink areas as well, so the aesthetic department is more or less sorted. Read the instruction manual to check if it’s suitable for your tap.
Price: $61.05
When to change filter: Every 2-3 months
Get the PUR Advanced Faucet on Amazon
3. BRITA Marella Water Pitcher Filter
Low-maintenance filter
Image credit: Rock And Roll Pussycat
Although not your conventional water purifier that attaches to a faucet, the BRITA water filter is also something to look out for if you’d prefer a low commitment option that doesn’t require any installation or lifestyle change.
The filter for this water purifier is inbuilt into what looks like your everyday jug. Despite its unassuming appearance, it still does the job and sifts out the usual impurities like chlorine, lead and copper, converting tap water into clear-tasting drinking water.
Price: $50
When to change filter: Every 4 weeks
Get the BRITA Marella Water Pitcher and replacement BRITA water filters on Amazon
4. 3M AP Easy Complete Undersink Filtration System
Compact undersink filter
Small and discreet water filter that sits under your sink.
Image Credit: @jerilynmoon via Instagram
For those who prefer an immaculate and modern kitchen, the 3M AP Easy Complete Undersink Filtration System is the way to go. It effectively eliminates chlorine, odours and parasites in the water that could possibly be the cause of your stomach aches. Better yet, it fits neatly under your sink so you won’t have to sacrifice any of your precious counter space.
Drinking water comes out of a faucet that you can install beside your sink.
Image Credit: @jerilynmoon via Instagram
This water filter is BPA-Free and also certified by NSF International, an independent global health organisation, so you can be sure the water you’re drinking is clean of any nasties.
And unlike other water filters, this one doesn’t run on any electricity, so you won’t have to worry about an inflated utility bill and can still have access to clean water during a power outage!
Recommended for families of up to 6, this water filter only requires a cartridge change ($130) every six months. It’s simple to do too – you will just need to twist the filter cartridge out to replace it.
Price: $599
When to change filter: Every 6 months
Get the 3M AP Easy Complete Undersink Filtration System
5. OSIM uPure 2
3 water dispensing modes
With its relatively low price tag and renowned household brand for reassurance, the OSIM uPure 2 is a safe option for those buying a water purifier for the first time.
Shower mode.
Image credit: Damon M via Lazada
Possibly the best part about this purifier is its versatility. Although a small device, you have the option to switch between 3 water dispensing modes with the turn of a knob.
2 of the modes – Water Stream and Shower – dispense regular tap water for washing your dishes and the like. The 3rd mode fills your glass with purified drinking water, channelled through four different types of filters including activated charcoal, which removes chlorine and odours.
Fun fact: To get rid of chlorine from your water by boiling, you’ll have to keep it bubbling for at least 20 minutes.
Each set comes with 8 different adaptors to ensure a perfect fit.
Image credit: ratalious from Carousell
Price: from $129
When to change filter: Every 5 months
Get OSIM uPure 2 and OSIM uPure 2 replacement filters on Amazon
6. Mitsubishi Chemical Clinsui
LED display that counts down when to change filter
Image credit: Cleansui
Unless you’ve set a date in your calendar to remind you of when to change out your water purifier’s filters, chances are you’ll only be doing so once you actually remember to. That’s why the Mitsubishi Chemical Clinsui on-tap filter takes all the guesswork out for you with its LED display countdown.
Watch the numbers decrease from 900 to 0 – the number of litres your filter is good for – then replace as necessary. The display is illuminated in green until it needs changing, then it’ll be orange. This water purifier’s filter is able to remove 17 different substances, including bacteria, lead, and rust.
Price: $52.50
When to change filter: Every 3 months
Get Mitsubishi Chemical Clinsui on Amazon
7. PHILIPS GoZero Next-gen Instant Water Filter Pitcher
Countertop instant water filter
Image credit: Philips
Say goodbye to having to wait for water filters to work their magic with the Philips GoZero Next-gen Water Filter Pitcher. All you have to do is fill up the water tank, then press to dispense purified water. The tank of this water purifier holds up to 3L – more than enough for your daily water needs. Since there’s no installation needed, you can also transport the water purifier pitcher for use in your office, bedroom, or even in the car. Keep it in the fridge if you want cold, purified water at any time.
In terms of filtration, a carbon fibre filter is used to decrease levels of chlorine, microplastics, and impurities. You’ll be alerted to when you’ll need to change the filter through the dispenser button.
Price: $67.38
When to change filter: Every month
Get PHILIPS GoZero Next-gen Instant Water Filter Pitcher and PHILIPS replacement filters on Amazon
8. Kubichai Water Purifier
Affordable option at less than $16
Image credit: Anonymous user on Lazada
If you’re just looking to upgrade that piece of cloth your mom ties to the tap, in a feeble attempt at filtering – you’ll know what I mean if you’ve seen it – try the Kubichai Water Purifier. Priced from just $15.30, this is a great option for those on a tight budget.
Each filter cartridge comprises a 7-layer filtration system that’ll filter out heavy metal ions and chlorine among other impurities. As an added bonus, each set purchased on Lazada also comes with two extra filter cartridges, so you can expect each purchase to last you a good year.
P.S. The instruction manual is in Mandarin, but you can refer to this Youtube video for an installation guide instead.
Price: $15.30
When to change filter: Every 3-6 months
Get the Kubichai Water Purifier
9. Panasonic Water Alkaline Ionizer
Dispenses in 7 different pH levels, including alkaline water
Image credit: Panasonic
At $2,546, the Panasonic Water Alkaline Ionizer might seem like a pricey contraption – but if you’re looking for something that provides added health benefits, this is one to consider. On top of removing impurities in your water, this dispenses water in 7 different pH levels – alkaline, purified, and acidic water.
There’re plenty of studies behind it but in essence, alkaline water is said to help with boosting health, by balancing out the acidic food and drinks we consume, like sodas. Some benefits reported include improving bowel movements and overall immunity.
Drink it as it is or use it in your cooking – it’s said that it can slightly enhance the flavours and textures of certain food as well!
P.S. For those with troubled skin, this purifier also has a mode that dispenses slightly acidic pH5.5 water which – as beauty gurus might know – matches the natural acidity levels of our skin. Use this to wash your face daily for softer skin and fewer breakouts.
Price: $2,546
When to replace filter: Every 12 months
Get the Panasonic Water Alkaline Ionizer
10. Hyflux Spring Digital
Monitor that displays daily water intake
Image credit: Elo Living
They say you have to drink eight glasses of water a day – but who’s really counting?
The Hyflux S218 Spring Digital purifies your water with 3 layers of filtration, including a nanofiber disk that sifts out bacteria and other contaminants. But those who don’t have the discipline to drink the recommended amount of water will benefit from its digital monitor that tracks and displays your daily water intake.
Now you’ll know how much water you’ve actually been drinking, at least while at home!
On top of that, the display screen also shows the total amount of water filtered so you’ll know exactly when to replace the filter cartridge of your water purifier, instead of relying on time-based estimations.
Price: $239
When to change filter: Every 6 months
Get Hyflux S218 Spring Digital
11. Philips On-Tap Water Purifier
Alerts to replace filter
Image credit: Philips
We’re often so busy with our lives, remembering when to change the water purifier filter is probably the least of our worries. For all the busy bees out there without brainpower to spare on the nitty-gritty, consider the Philips On-Tap Water Purifier WP3811/00.
While there are many similar models by the brand out there, only this specific one comes with a handy colour-coded alert function to easily tell when the filter needs to be changed. Simply check the colour of the filter membrane once every few weeks, to see if it matches the colour guide on the lid.
Once it turns into the specified shade of brown or dark grey, switch out your filter cartridge for a new one.
Image credit: Philips
Although tiny, this water purifier is also mighty, filtering out nasties like soluble lead, chlorine and 99% of bacteria at rates of up to a speedy 2L per minute.
Price: $76.95
When to replace filter: Every 3 months
Get the Philips On-Tap Water Purifier
How to maintain your water filters & water purifiers
To prolong the life of your water filter or water purifier, regular cleaning, maintenance, and replacing of the filter is necessary. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model for best results. You can also do these steps for most water purifiers:
- Disassemble the filter: Remove the filter cartridge, membrane, and other parts of the filter that needs to be switched out.
- Rinse the filter and/or filter housing mechanism: If the filter is reusable, rinse under cold water to remove sediment or debris. For ceramic ones, you can use a soft brush to scrub the surface. Don’t forget to rinse out the housing system as well, to dislodge any trapped dirt.
- Soak and sanitise: Some reusable filters need to be soaked in water and mild bleach or vinegar to sanitise them. Be sure to rinse the filter thoroughly after as well.
- Reassemble and flush the system: Replace the filter and run water through the filter a couple of times to flush out any remaining impurities and cleaning agents.
Do note that not all filters are meant to be cleaned and reused. Some, like reverse osmosis or carbon filters, should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
Water purifiers & filters in Singapore
We’ve all learnt since young that water is essential for our survival and that we’re supposed to drink lots of it, so let’s make sure we’re hydrating our bodies with only the best stuff. For those who don’t have a water purifier at home yet, you now know where to get the best ones!
Read our other guides on the best appliances in Singapore:
- Tips on buying electronics in Singapore
- Rice cookers
- Microwaves
- Blenders
- Water dispensers
- Robot vacuum cleaners
- Desk lamps
- Cordless vacuum cleaners
- Desk fans
This article contains partial partnership content. However, all opinions are ours.
Last updated by Mae-Z Fam & Raewyn Koh on 30th September 2024.
Cover image adapted from: @jerilynmoon via Instagram, Filtech, Elo Living