More than 2 million Americans rely on drinking water high in arsenic. Filter pitchers are a convenient water purification method capable of removing arsenic from drinking water for the whole household.
Water filter pitchers that utilise activated carbon and/or ion exchange are able to effectively remove arsenic from water. The Epic Water Pure, Epic Water Nano, and AquaGear water pitchers can remove >94% of the arsenic contaminating a drinking water supply.
This article discusses arsenic and the health issues associated with its exposure, and where to buy an Arsenic water testing kit. We also list the top 13 water filter pitchers that can remove arsenic.
What is Arsenic and what health effects does it have?
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element in the earth’s crust. The element is also found in industrial waste, fertilizers, and pesticides/herbicides and is released in large quantities into the environment.
This element combines with organic or inorganic substances to form various compounds.
In its inorganic form, arsenic is highly toxic. The compound is found in soils, groundwater, and sediments and easily enters the water. This contaminates drinking water (especially in wells), exposing people to its toxicity if the water is not well purified.
Similarly, the arsenic compounds can get into the water table through rain, snow, and surface runoff.
Some areas in the US are at a higher risk of arsenic poisoning than others. These parts include the West, Midwest, Northern, Parts of Texas, and South-eastern regions of the US. According to the US Geographical Survey, the high concentration of arsenic in these areas is due to alkaline soils, a dry climate, residents watering practices, and the long time water (and arsenic) remain in the ground.
Metal ore mines, lead arsenate pesticides, hazardous waste sites, and metal processing/cement factories are also major factors contributing to highly toxic levels of arsenic in the soil and our drinking water.
High concentrations of arsenic are most commonly found in well water. People that use private wells are at a higher risk of inorganic arsenic poisoning than treated household tap water.
Large doses of inorganic arsenic lead to vomiting, nausea, dehydration, and abdominal pain. However, according to WHO, long-term exposure to this contaminant leads to severe health complications like:
- Skin cancer
- Diabetes
- Pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases
Can Water Filters remove Arsenic?
Water filters are one of the most effective water purification methods. Most water filters can remove up to 99.9% of water contaminants.
Some (but not all) brands of water filter pitchers have been tested and certified to remove arsenic.
However, it’s paramount to note that there are two species of inorganic arsenic, namely, Arsenic III and Arsenic V. Arsenic III is difficult to remove from drinking water and requires oxidation to arsenic V for filtration to work.
The oxidants include liquid chlorine and hydrogen peroxide.
There are 4 filtration methods able to remove arsenic from water.
- Activated carbon filtration
- Reverse Osmosis
- Ion exchange
- Iron oxide filter systems.
I. Activated Carbon Filtration
Activated carbon filtration is one of the effective methods of arsenic III and V removal. The method removes water contaminants through physical absorption.
Arsenic elements in water come into contact with activated carbon and react. This forms arsenic ions, which are absorbed in the activated carbon surface, allowing pure water to pass through.
II. Reverse Osmosis
Reverse Osmosis (RO) is one of the best ways to remove arsenic from drinking water. The best RO systems remove up to 95% of arsenic V (or pentavalent arsenic).
RO uses a porous membrane that blocks the arsenic pollutant, allowing water to pass through. However, the method requires pre-filtration for effective purification.
III. Ion Exchange
The process involves toxic arsenic ions exchanging with chloride ions as contaminated water passes through a resin bed.
The water must have a TDS of less than 500 mg/L and low sulfate levels of below 50 mg/L. If not, a pre-filtration is necessary for effective arsenic removal from the water.
Similarly, arsenic III must be oxidized to arsenic V for ion exchange to work.
IV. Iron Oxide Filter Systems
Iron Oxide Filter Systems is a relatively new arsenic reduction method that has been recommended for Oregon private wells.
The method uses the same concept as in activated carbon filtration. The filters have a large surface area and an affinity for arsenic to adhere to their surface.
You can fit these systems in reverse osmosis systems to improve their effectiveness in removing arsenic III.
However, one downside is the need to replace the media regularly.
Water Purification Guide has more detailed information on these different types of water filters that remove arsenic available here.
Top 13 Water Filter Pitchers That Remove Arsenic
As discussed above, water filters can remove inorganic arsenic from water. These filters help ensure that your household has access to clean and contaminant-free drinking water.
Here are the 13 best water filter pitchers that can remove arsenic:
1. Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher
Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitchers are tested to effectively remove 98.3% arsenic from drinking water.
If you are looking for an affordable, trusted brand, clearly filtered is a great option. Their water filter pitcher is independently tested to effectively remove a suite of water contaminants, including lead, PFAS/PFOA, arsenic, and fluoride.
This American-built filter guarantees peace of mind knowing that your water is 98.3% free of arsenic. It’s also 100% (Bisphenol A) BPA-free and certified to satisfy the NSF/ANSI standards.
To top it off, clearly filtered assure a full refund in case of dissatisfaction. Similarly, they offer a lifetime warranty with a free replacement if your pitcher breaks.
2. Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher
Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher is a BPA-free filtration system tested to efficiently remove arsenic from your tap water. It’s independently tested against NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, 401, & P473 and found to remove 94% of arsenic.
Your household is always guaranteed the purest tasting water with this sophisticated pitcher. Every glass from this pitcher has been purified with 99.9% of all tap water contaminants removed.
The Epic Pure Pitcher filter has an exemplary capacity of purifying 150 gallons of water before requiring a replacement. i.e., for a light user, you get 4-6 months and 2-3 months for a heavy user.
This US-based company uses 100% recyclable material for their filters (which are made in the US) and offers a recycling program, thus contributing to environmental conservation.
What’s more, the pitcher comes with an LED timer integrated into the lid to remind you when it’s time to change the filter. The pitcher’s space-efficient design also makes it easy to fit in modern refrigerators perfectly.
For 20% off any Epic Water product, use the discount code WPG on checkout at epicwaterfilters.com – YOU’RE WELCOME!
3. Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher
Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is a US-made water filter that efficiently removes 95% arsenic and other water contaminants leaving your drinking water pure and safe.
Similar to the Epic Pure, this pitcher is tested against NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, 401, P473, and P231 for 99.99% effectiveness in removing tap water contaminants.
The Nano filter lasts 3-4 months on average with a capacity to filter 150 gallons before replacement. It’s also made of 100% recyclable material, making it environmentally friendly.
The nano filter can remove up to 95% of arsenic from your tap water.
The nano pitcher also features a sleek design and perfectly fits refrigerator shelves.
4. WaterDrop Chubby Water Filter Pitcher
The WaterDrop Chubby 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher uses a multi-stage water filtration process to reduce arsenic, chlorine, and other contaminants effectively.
The pitcher is NSF 372 and 42 certified. NSF 42 – for chlorine reduction, taste, and odor, while NSF 372 is for lead-free materials.
Its filter has a significant life capacity of 200 gallons of purification before replacement.
The WaterDrop Chubby pitcher features a creative design to fit most fridge doors perfectly. It also comes with an innovative spout lid that helps prevent dust and other impure particles from getting into the pitcher.
Invest in this innovative water pitcher for cost-effective and efficient drinking water purification.
5. ZeroWater Water Filter Pitcher
ZeroWater Water Filter Pitcher features a 5-stage ion exchange filtration process that removes 99% of arsenic from your tap water.
If you are looking for an efficient pitcher for your household water purification, then ZeroWater’s pitchers are an excellent choice. They are 80% cheaper than leading brands but still offer high efficiency.
These pitchers are certified by National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) to remove 99% of TDS for pure, tasty water. It’s also made from BPA-free materials.
The ZeroWater pitcher was tested and proved to reduce arsenic concentration from alarming levels of 1000 μg/L to as low as 0.05 μg/L to 2.6 μg/L.
They come in different capacities to fit your requirements. Also, it features a free TDS meter that helps you know when it’s time to change the filter.
Enjoy the purest tasting water with the ZeroWater pitcher and contribute to environmental conservation through reduced plastic pollution.
The only downside to a ZeroWater pitcher is that because of its efficiency in removing literally all contaminants from your water, is that it needs frequent filter changes.
6. Invigorated Water pH Alkaline Pitcher
The Invigorated Water Alkaline Water Pitcher is an excellent pH restore pitcher capable of removing 90% of arsenic from household drinking water.
This elegant modern-designed water pitcher the best plastic alternative for water filter pitchers. It’s made of food-grade stainless steel guaranteeing a longer lifespan compared to ordinarily plastic water pitchers that can break easily.
Also, the pitcher has a significant capacity of 105 Gallons, making it an ideal household water purification option.
You can buy with confidence thanks to Invigorated’s 100% satisfaction money-back policy.
7. InvisiClean Water Filter Pitcher
InvisiClean Water Filter Pitcher features a 5-stage filtration process guaranteeing the removal of arsenic and other water contaminants.
The pitcher’s 5 stage filtration process enables it to remove approximately 95% of arsenic in water. It also guarantees high-quality drinking water with zero Total Dissolved Solids (TDS).
You can never go wrong with this US-made water pitcher that holds up to 8 cups while filtering 2 cups at a time.
8. Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher is a US-made filter that removes up to 98% arsenic. It’s BPA-free and recyclable hence good for the environment.
The pitcher features a remarkable capacity of 120 gallons hence lasts longer and helps you save.
Aquagear filters remove most water contaminants while maintaining traces of healthy minerals. These include magnesium and calcium. Therefore, you enjoy healthy and pure water at a lower cost.
You will also love its sleek design and how well it fits in modern refrigerators.
However, there is one drawback to this incredible pitcher, i.e., you will have to wait a while for the filtration process before you can enjoy that refreshing glass of water.
9. Seychelle pH2O Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher
Seychelle pH2O Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher is a premium water filtration system that removes arsenic from water. The filter can remove up to 99.99% of heavy metals like arsenic, lead, mercury, copper, etc.
The pitcher uses a US-made filter that is tested to effectively protect your family from water contaminants like arsenic, lead, mercury, benzene, chloroform, and many more. It also enhances the water pH up to 9.5. This makes it an ideal filter for alkaline water.
Seychelle pH20 filter can filter up to 200 gallons of water before requiring a replacement. This gives you a longer period of the purest water while saving you some significant bucks.
It also features a space-efficient design that’s ideal to fit in fridges.
If you are looking for a cost-efficient water purification system, the Seychelle pH20 alkaline pitcher is a great option.
10. IKT water filter pitcher
IKT water filter pitcher is an NSF-certified water purification system that can reduce arsenic and other water impurities.
The pitcher features a compact size design ideal to fit in fridges, desks, offices, kitchen, e.t.c. Also, it offers a large capacity of 2.5Litres of pure filtered water. However, the filter has a lifetime of 150Litres.
IKT water filter pitcher is a good option for households with low to medium usage. It’s BPA-free and uses a 3-layer 9-stage filtration process that guarantees 98% arsenic removal.
11. Nakii Water Filter Pitcher
Nakii Water Filter Pitcher employs the activated carbon filtration process to reduce arsenic by 70%. It also removes 98% chlorine and mercury, leaving the water healthier and refreshing.
The system uses carbon filtration as the purification method; hence can be combined with other arsenic removal filtration systems in the household. This ensures that your drinking water is pure and free of arsenic III and V.
Nakii pitchers are certified by the Water Quality Association (WQA) for their exemplary performance in meeting the NSF/ANSI standards. The filter has a lifespan of 150 gallons and offers a fast flow of 1.3 litres per minute.
They also feature a space-efficient design suitable for fridges and in limited space.
Grab yourself this modern pitcher and experience guaranteed healthy water and BPA-free material.
12. Zero TDS water filter pitcher
Zero TDS water filter pitcher by WaterDrop uses a 6-stage filtration process to effectively reduce arsenic, lead, fluoride, and heavy metals from your drinking water. Its creative filtration process also guarantees 0 TDS water.
The pitcher uses BPA and Lead-free materials, making it environmentally friendly.
It also features a sophisticated design with a touch-free spout lid for easy use. It comes with a gravity induction indicator and a LED light to remind you when to replace the filter.
Additionally, you get a 10-cup capacity on a space-saving pitcher that perfectly fits your fridge and other areas with limited space.
13. Invigorated pH Replenish Alkaline Water Pitcher
The pH Replenish Glass Alkaline Water Pitcher by Invigorated is an eco-friendly, BPA-free alkaline water filter that eliminates heavy metals like arsenic.
The pitcher is made of glass (zero plastic), thus helping reduce plastic pollution- it’s the alternative to plastic we’ve all been looking for.
It features a multi-stage alkaline filter that eliminates contaminants while adding healthy minerals to the water. These include calcium, iron, zinc, lithium, iodine, and magnesium.
The pH replenish also comes in an elegant modern design that is space-efficient. It comes with a reusable filter that lasts up to 105 gallons before replacement.
The filter has a resealable, waterproof pouch that you can carry anywhere you go. You can then use the filter in any 0.9-4litre container and enjoy purified alkaline ionized water.
ARSENIC Specialized Water Testing
Because arsenic has no smell, color, or taste, it’s not detectable in water.
The only way to find out if you have ARSENIC in your water supply is to get it tested in a lab.
MyTapScore have a good quality Arsenic Speciation home water testing kit for $150.00. It’s an expensive test but it covers you for both arsenic oxidation states (III and V).
- Order today and they’ll send out the kit and instructions on how to collect the samples.
- Shipping is included.
- Samples are tested in a certified laboratory and this test is recommended for people who have a confirmed total arsenic concentration over ~6 parts per billion (PPB).
- You’ll get the results in about 5 days.
For more information and to order your Arsenic Speciation water testing kit click here.
Do carbon filters remove arsenic?
Activated carbon filters can remove 30-70% of arsenic from water, while standard carbon filters are inefficient at removing arsenic. There are two forms of inorganic arsenic, arsenite (Arsenic III) and arsenate (Arsenic V). Arsenic III must be oxidised to arsenic V for a carbon filter to be able to remove it from water.
Although this may not guarantee the purest drinking water, it’s a significant percentage to make the water less toxic.
The effectiveness of carbon filtration is affected by factors like where the water comes from, i.e., well or tap water.
Water from wells has a higher concentration of arsenic compared to tap water. Therefore, the effectiveness is lower in well water compared to tap water.
Do refrigerator filters remove arsenic?
Most refrigerator filters are not capable of removing arsenic from water. These filters typically rely on standard carbon filtration which is effective at removing chlorine and odors, but unable to remove most contaminants from water. A refrigerator filter made from activated carbon would be able to reduce arsenic concentrations by 30-70%.
This is because most refrigerator filters use carbon filtration, which doesn’t guarantee the total removal of most contaminants.
However, carbon filters combined with reverse osmosis filtration or another media will guarantee maximum arsenic removal.
Ensure you read the manual for every filter you buy to know the type of contaminants removed and at what percentage.
This helps you decide on the most cost-effective and performance-efficient water purification system to use.