Aquasana Under Sink Water Filter System - Reduces PFAS, Lead, & Chlorine in Drinking Water - Under Counter Claryum Filtration for Kitchen - 2-Stage - Brushed Nickel Faucet - AQ-5200.55

(Note: See August and January 2025 updates on filter replacement at the end of this review.) My kitchen sink cabinet, now nearly 20 years old, remains pristine, like new .... and I would like to keep it that way. Water is our beloved friend, a huge part of our bodies, but, as homeowners, water is also our dreaded enemy. Did I really want to add another possible source of a water leak under the kitchen sink? Surveying the product reviews for the Aquasana introduced all sorts of potential leaky nightmares: faulty O-rings, shredded threads, pressure-cracked plastic housings ... Yiiii! But I really really wanted to cut the cord from the spring water company, save some money, and liberate the hall closet from the water cooler and 5 gallon bottles. So, I took the plunge (so to speak) into home-filtered water. So far, cautiously optimistic. Reading the product reviews in more detail, it seems like the bulk of the leak problems may be due to faulty installation. It seems important to hand-tighten only when installing new filter replacements, to be very careful to have the threads engaged properly when putting in the new filters, and - strange to say - to actually read and follow the product literature. Probably the most serious potential problem with the Aquasana units themselves is the tendency for the plastic housing containing the filter units to crack after some years of use. This was noted by several reviews, and is now tacitly acknowledged as an issue by Aquasana, which notes in the product literature you receive with the unit that the housing should be replaced every five years! I may have inadvertently given myself some added protection from these pressure-induced fractures: for reasons not related to the water filter, I recently had to have the water pressure coming into the house (measured originally at about 90 psi) reduced to about 65 psi. That may buy me some extra time against unit aging, although I think it would be foolish and a false economy to not do a replacement as recommended by Aquasana. It should be noted that the Aquasana product literature (but not the web description of the products!) includes these cautions: (1) "Do not install this system where the line pressure may exceed 80 psi." (2) "The filter housing must be replaced every five years. Failure to do so could result in potential leaks ...". A phone number is provided to order the replacement; but the price of the replacement and cost of shipping are not mentioned. Some extra precautions I've taken to protect my under-sink cabinetry (see photo): 1. I had a shut-off valve installed in the shunt (C) going to the Aquasana unit (A) from the main cold water line to the main faucet (B). Now, if there ever is a leak, I can isolate the Aquasana and still have use of the main faucet. The other advantage is when it comes time to change the filters, I can use this added valve to isolate the Aquasana, open the tap on the countertop Aquasana faucet, and thus relieve the internal pressure, which should make it easier to safely remove the old filters. 2. I added a silicone mat with a raised edge under the sink (D), so that if there is a leak it will first collect into this silicone basin; I've also added a wireless water detector (E) inside the mat area which will alarm and also email me if a leak is detected. The YoLink unit I used can detect not only water pooling underneath it, but also water dripping on top of it, which is why it is positioned directly under the Aquasana system. Of course the mat and water detector will guard against any leaks, including from the disposal or the main kitchen sink, so are definitely worth doing anyway. Note that the mat I purchased skirts the main water lines and drainpipe at the back (if you order a mat that includes this area, you not only have to carefully cut holes in the mat, but also - by doing so - you compromise the mat's ability to contain leaks). One note about the taste of the filtered water. I followed instructions and ran the filter unit for 10 minutes before trying to drink the water. The first taste at that point was extremely disappointing. There was a distinct sulfur-like taste to the water that is not present in my unfiltered tap water! I ran another gallon or so of water through the system and the taste was still there, but perhaps somewhat less noticeable. I probably ran another couple of gallons through and the taste was barely detectable, and after another gallon or so I can no longer detect the sulfur taste. So clearly it is a matter of properly and completely flushing the system (and new filter units in the future), and the Aquasana recommendation of 10 minutes is just not enough to do the job. First Filter Replacement, January 13, 2025. The Aquasana performed admirably since the installation described above, and at six months I ordered the authentic Aquasana replacement, AQ-5200R, from Amazon, with a standing order for a new filter every six months. I should note that on removal of the old filters they were gray, compared with the white new ones, suggesting that in fact they are removing something from my city water! The replacement filters arrive with a succinct, but adequate, description of how to swap out the old and replace with the new, and a new button battery to drive the replacement time indicator. The replacement went smoothly, although several of the steps required more strength and effort than I expected. That said, I was finally able to get it done. My wrists are beginning to show a little arthritis, which may have contributed to my struggles. The first challenge was in separating the top and bottom halves of the outer unit that contains the filter; finally I went to one of those thin rubber, cloth-like "grippers", which gave me a grip on the top half, and allowed me to twist and separate. The second challenge was to pull the filter out of the separated top. I'm wondering whether part of my problem was the factory source of the unit ... the fact that the filters had never been replaced before and may have been especially firmly attached. I'll be eager to see whether the next filter change goes any better. I noted in my original review above that I needed to run water through the Aquasana longer than suggested before the water lost a sulfurous aftertaste clearly due to the filter unit. This turned out to be true for the newly installed filters as well. I believe the longer time may be due to the fact that - as described above - my house water pressure was previously adjusted down significantly from the 90 psi that comes in from the city system. Likely this slows the flow rate of the water through the filter system so that more time is required to deliver the necessary volume of water. This time I carefully did some measurements: First, I found that the flow through my Aquasana, at the current, reduced, water pressure of my house, is about 1.5 quarts per minute. Second, I found that I needed to run about 6 gallons of water through the system before I lost the aftertaste. (At the 10 minutes suggested by Aquasana, I had run 15 quarts, or just short of 4 gallons, through the system.) Overall, I remain very positive about the Aquasana. Stay tuned for another update after the next filter change. Second Filter Replacement, Aug. 7, 2025. I continue to be quite happy with this water filtration system. Everything is going well. Once again both removed filters were dark gray indicating removal of something. As I hoped after the first filter change in January, the second filter change - involving replacing filters I myself installed in January - went a lot better, in that it was much easier to unscrew the components to free up the filter units for replacement. This time I didn't need any help from a gripper, nor was there any straining involved. Very smooth; replacement was a breeze. Air bubbles. It is worth pointing out two types of air bubbles that can appear in the filtered water that some might be concerned about. These may not be noticeable unless you collect filtered water in a clear pitcher for use around the kitchen. The first issue is the appearance of cloudiness in the filtered water that transiently appears after about the first gallon or two of water has been run through newly installed filters. The cloudiness is due to very small gas bubbles. Apparently this is gas that is slowly driven out of the dry filters as you run water through them after installation. After a few more gallons there are no micro-bubbles and the filtered water runs clear. The second is the appearance of larger gas bubbles that tend to adhere to the side of the pitcher you collect the water in. The source of these bubbles is the temperature difference between the cold underground water pipes leading to your home and the room temperature the newly filtered water reaches on standing. This is just "out-gassing" due to the solubility difference of gasses like oxygen and nitrogen in cold water ( higher solubility) versus warm water (lower solubility). You will observe this only in a cold climate. I see it here in Pittsburgh in the winter, and not in the summer. Totally normal. Interestingly, public water systems have to install special features in the water delivery systems to avoid problems arising from this out-gassing on a large scale. I don't see any reason to continue to post these biannual updates, so long as things continue to go smoothly with my Aquasana system. Of course if that changes I will update. I may also update when the time comes for the recommended five year swap-out of the basic unit, four years from now.

Let me start by saying the Aquasana 2-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System has been an absolute game-changer in our home. From the ease of installation to the remarkable filtration performance, the entire experience has been nothing short of perfect. The installation process was surprisingly simple and hassle-free. Even for someone like me who isn't the handiest around the house, setting up this system was a breeze. The instructions provided were clear and straightforward, and all the necessary components were included, making the whole process smooth and efficient. Once installed, the difference in water quality was instantly noticeable. The Claryum filtration system worked wonders in improving the taste and quality of our tap water. It effectively filters out chlorine, leaving us with crisp, clean, and refreshing water that's perfect for drinking and cooking. The convenience of having filtered water right from the tap is a game-changer. No more relying on bottled water or bulky pitchers—the Aquasana system delivers clean, filtered water effortlessly, directly from our kitchen faucet. I also appreciate the sleek and elegant brushed nickel faucet that comes with the system. It blends seamlessly with our kitchen decor, adding a touch of style to our sink area without compromising on functionality. Moreover, the overall durability and build quality of the system inspire confidence. It feels solid and well-constructed, assuring us that it'll continue to deliver exceptional filtration performance for a long time. In conclusion, the Aquasana 2-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System has exceeded our expectations. Its ease of installation, remarkable filtration capabilities, and stylish design have made it an indispensable addition to our home. If you're looking for a hassle-free, high-quality water filtration system that delivers on both performance and ease of use, the Aquasana AQ-5200.55 is an excellent choice that won't disappoint.

We REALLY wanted to love this. We looked up lots of reviews. And when we installed it, it was pretty straightforward: up and behind the disposal unit (not easy to reach for many). And for about 2 months of *light* use, it was great. Yay. Clean water. Not. We then decided to move it about 10 inches and 90 degrees from the original under the sink location to make it super easy for others who share the house to change the filters. And after this was done, it leaked. Badly. From the housing. I triple checked the inlet and outlet tubing - not a drop. It was a sort of "slow drip.. surge" - a bit of time between each one and then "drip drip surge... stop" and repeat. I called the customer support and got really strange advice: "put a quarter underneath the filter itself in the filter casing" (does this change the water quality, we wondered?) - made no difference; "put the unit back in the original location to see if the water pressure makes a difference" (huh? it's the EXACT same water feed using the EXACT same fittings that came with the unit!); "we can replace the sumps [the actual plastic parts that hold the filter cartridges] but you have to email us the proof of purchase and make an account with us" (huh? there really is this much to do prior to getting some sort of remedy?). Nope. No to all of it. And of course now the return window has closed. We have no recourse. I may continue to fiddle with it in hopes something makes sense, but I would not in good conscience recommend this to ANYONE. There is something really odd about the concept from an engineering standpoint (something about the pressure) that this company is NOT owning up to. I also took the route of a third call to customer support. I thought it might work... not! That individual asked for and received my purchase info and original receipt, telling me they'd resolve the problem. 2 months later - crickets. So, giving them the benefit of the doubt, I wrote again. They said they were overwhelmed by email. Okay. I can be patient. Waited one more month (it's now December). I sent a note that said, in effect, look: simple way to do this - send me just the housing. Easy. No reply at all. Total silence. This is a BAD COMPANY. And to note: in my own home, I still have an old GE under sink 2 cartridge unit. I've mucked about under there many times, the entire housing has come off the mounting screws several times, and I have never had so much as a droplet of water leak from it despite years of accidental and incidental mishandling.

Though a little hesitant from some reviews about leaking, I chalked that up to improper end user installation bc it is pretty simplistic and straightforward providing you use teflon tape along with proper tightening. This is not time consuming other than having to drill a hole in counter top then securing filter bracket. Actually used the piece of cardboard box the filters were fitted in inside the cabinet w/out the need of attaching it to anything since it all supported itself. We're in a camper, should have done this a long time ago, game changer in water taste/quality. I agree w/many that say the water flow is slow - it is but waiting 10 more seconds is not the end of the world. Overall the quality is very good, simple install and only wanted 2 filter that was somewhat compact which this checked all the boxes.

Works great with really good water flow. We have used a GE brand from Home Depot and a Britta from the same place. Both two stage filter systems. With each of those they were OK until you changed the filters. Then for some reason the flow rate dropped substantially. This one right off the bat has a better flow then either the GE or Britta. The install is a bit hard but just be patient and you will get it done. We have a farm sink so it was a bit hard to get the tube connected to our faucet. We did not use the provided faucet since we already had one that matched. I like that the filter replacement seems simple. Many on here and other places say to put the unit in the back but only if you have a good place to mount it. I put in on the side so that I have easy access to the filters. No leaks at all. You REALLY need to make sure you follow the directions and push the tubing all the way into the unit. It will go in just about an inch. When I first pushed in didn't seem that far so did again and it went in more. The connection to our faucet went well and no leaks at all. Do not over tighten things, if you do on most plumbing it can cause problems. We now have good tasting water at a decent flow rate again. I would HIGHLY recommend this filter. Only negative, and did not mark down for this, is that the Oil Rubbed Bronze is a bit lighter than our current faucets. More like an oil rubbed brass.

First, I've been through a lot of under sink water filters, from RO/DI to bulky 3 filter systems. NONE of them, including this one are easy to install IMO. The demos and instructions show how easy it really is, but they are done by pros with an empty cabinet to start with, all parts RTG, plus a hardware store is no doubt within a block away and opened 24/7. An RO/DI unit has a fatal flaw: It filters out everything including important minerals needed. Over the long haul this showed up in more dental work, and body damage. The added cartridges for replacement minerals aren't really compatable with the body either. The under sink three filter systems have one useless cartridge if you live in the city, that filters out silt, sand and debris. The Aquasana two filter system was a bit easier to install although it took about 3 hours, much easier than the clumsy space hogs of the above mentioned. As for installation, I had to adapt some of the fittings from the old system to the new one, since some of the fittings for Aquasana weren't compatable with the existing incoming lines. Might need to make a trip to your local hardware store before you begin and once you evaluate the needs. Once installed, NO LEAKS when it was tested, which for me is an achievement beyond measure. The taste was refreshing, not the thick tap water taste of the three filter system, or the sterile taste of RO/DI water. Hooked up my ice maker and I noticed the difference in good tasting ice cubes. Got rid of the plastic bottles. This 2 filter system seems to meet the needs across the board of taste, convenience and more room under the sink. The only con might be the life of the filters. We drink a LOT of water living in arid Arizona, and may be zipping through 500 gallons faster than 6 months. Perhaps the best part of this is I felt confident that I had purchased a system made in the USA with instructions that weren't laughable and parts that didn't break. Aquasana had good reviews across the board, and on Amazon as well. Will return to update once replacements are needed. Update: Something I missed which was the reason I bought the filters: Lab analysis of what is filtered. PEX tubing is know to leech specific chemicals such as Toluene and other dangerous VOC's. We had our whole house repiped with this tubing before I discovered this problem. The taste of our water was poor. Almost all the non RO DI units under the sink, that were best sellers couldn't back up what was being filtered. When inquiring about this, they either skirted the issue, gave a lame quasi technical response or just didn't respond to my inquiry. Aquasana has the analysis sheet of all the chemicals that are removed which IS extensive, on their website AND also send it with the instruction booklet. They talk the talk and seem to walk the walk.

They are the replacement you need. Easy to switch out. Great tasting water again.

We have hard, bitter water and this absolutely made a difference. My only complaint is the faucet is pretty slow and only so maneuverable. Other than that, when we first got it the manifold must have been cracked or something because it leaked water everywhere. I called their support team and they shipped out a new one free of charge, took about 10 days to get it, swapped it out easily and now it doesn't leak. I'd have to see where we are in 6 months to know how long the filter bottles last, that's my only concern, is if they don't last 6 months. But definitely a good buy. Those saying it's hard to install, I think that really depends on how much room you have underneath the sink. I had a hell of a time getting the faucet in place, but there's not much room under there. Otherwise it was an easy setup. I'd advise mounting the manifold so you can take it off when you need to change the bottles. It makes it so much easier.