Water purifiers have become a necessity in modern households, ensuring clean and safe drinking water. There are multiple types of water purifiers available. Under-sink water purifiers are becoming increasingly popular. They are favored due to their space-saving design and direct connection to the water supply. However, despite their advantages, they also have several disadvantages that potential buyers should be aware of before making a decision.

In this blog, we will discuss the major disadvantages of under-sink water purifiers. We will cover aspects like cost, maintenance, water wastage, installation issues, and more.

1. High Installation Cost

One of the primary drawbacks of under-sink water purifiers is their high installation cost. Unlike countertop or wall-mounted purifiers, which can be set up easily, under-sink models require professional installation. Here’s why:

• Plumbing modifications may be needed to connect the purifier to the main water supply.
• You might need to install an additional faucet on your sink or countertop for purified water.
• Professional installation charges can be high, especially if your kitchen requires extensive modifications.

For homeowners who prefer budget-friendly solutions, this high initial cost can be a deterrent.

2. Difficult Maintenance & Filter Replacement

Maintaining an under-sink water purifier can be more challenging compared to other types of purifiers. Some key issues include:

• Difficult Accessibility: The purifier is placed beneath the sink. This positioning can make it difficult to access for cleaning. It can also complicate servicing or replacing filters.
• Professional Assistance Required: Countertop or wall-mounted purifiers often allow users to replace filters easily. However, under-sink models might require a technician. This requirement adds to maintenance costs.
• Higher Long-Term Costs: Frequent servicing and filter replacements increase the overall cost of ownership.

If you’re someone who prefers DIY maintenance, an under-sink purifier may not be the best option.

3. Takes Up Space Under the Sink

Though under-sink purifiers save counter space, they require sufficient room beneath the sink for proper installation. Potential issues include:

• Limited Storage: If you store cleaning supplies, trash bins, or other items under your sink, you may need to clear out space. You might have to remove some items to create more room. Significant clearing might be necessary.
• Not Suitable for Small Kitchens: In compact kitchens, there might not be enough space to install the purifier. You might need to modify existing plumbing.

Before purchasing an under-sink water purifier, measure the available space under your sink to ensure a proper fit.

4. High Water Wastage

Most under-sink water purifiers use Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology, which produces a significant amount of wastewater. Often, the water wastage ratio is 3:1. This means that for every one liter of purified water, three liters of water are wasted.

This is a major concern for:

• Environmentally Conscious Users: Wasting water is not sustainable, especially in areas facing water shortages.
• Households with High Water Consumption: If your family consumes large amounts of drinking water daily, consider the cost implications. An RO-based under-sink purifier may contribute to a noticeable increase in your water bill.

Some newer models offer water-saving technology, but these often come at a higher price.

5. Plumbing & Leakage Issues

Since under-sink water purifiers are directly connected to the main water supply, they may be prone to plumbing issues, including:

• Leakage Risk: If the pipes or fittings are not installed properly, leaks can occur. This could potentially cause damage to kitchen cabinets or floors.
• Low Water Pressure Problems: Some purifiers require a minimum level of water pressure to function effectively. If your home has low water pressure, the purifier may not work efficiently. It may need a booster pump, which is an additional cost.
• Pipe Blockages: Over time, impurities and minerals from water can cause blockages in the pipes, leading to reduced water flow.

Regular inspections and professional servicing are necessary to prevent these problems.

6. Additional Faucet Requirement

Many under-sink water purifiers require a separate faucet for dispensing purified water. This presents several challenges:

• Countertop Drilling: Some kitchens may need a hole drilled in the sink or countertop. This is necessary to install the additional faucet. Drilling can be a hassle.
• Not Aesthetically Pleasing: If your kitchen has a modern, seamless design, an extra faucet might not blend well. This could affect the overall aesthetics.
• Extra Cost: If the faucet is not included in the purifier package, you may need to purchase one separately.

Before installation, check whether your sink or countertop can accommodate an additional faucet.

7. No Portability

Unlike countertop or wall-mounted purifiers, under-sink models are fixed in one place and cannot be easily moved. This becomes a disadvantage in several situations:

• Frequent Relocations: If you move houses or shift frequently, it can be tedious to uninstall and reinstall an under-sink purifier. You may need professional help.
• Not Suitable for Renters: If you live in a rented apartment, you might not be allowed to make permanent modifications. These include changes such as drilling for an extra faucet, which might be prohibited by your landlord.

If you need a purifier that can be moved easily, a countertop or wall-mounted model might be a better choice.

8. Limited Water Dispensing Capacity

Compared to other types of water purifiers, under-sink models usually have lower dispensing rates. They rely on a gravity-based or pressurized system. Potential drawbacks include:

• Slow Water Flow: The time taken to fill a bottle or a large container can be longer than expected.
• Not Suitable for Large Families: If multiple people need purified water simultaneously, the dispensing rate might not suffice.

If you need quick and high-volume water dispensing, a wall-mounted or high-flow RO system could be a better choice.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy an Under-Sink Water Purifier?

Under-sink water purifiers offer a clutter-free, space-saving solution, but they come with various drawbacks, including:

✅ Pros:
✔️ Saves countertop space
✔️ Direct connection to water supply for convenience
✔️ Aesthetically pleasing, as it remains hidden under the sink

❌ Cons:
❌ High installation and maintenance costs
❌ Difficult filter replacement
❌ Significant water wastage
❌ Possible leakage and plumbing issues
❌ Not easily portable

Who Should Buy an Under-Sink Water Purifier?

✔️ Homeowners with sufficient under-sink space
✔️ Those willing to invest in professional installation and maintenance
✔️ People looking for a hidden, clutter-free water purifier

Who Should Avoid It?

❌ People with small kitchens or limited cabinet space
❌ Renters or frequent movers
❌ Those concerned about water wastage and environmental impact

Before purchasing, consider the advantages and disadvantages carefully. Determine if an under-sink water purifier is the right fit for your home.

Need Help Choosing a Water Purifier?

If you’re still unsure which type of water purifier suits your needs, consult a professional. You can also check out our expert reviews on the best water purifiers for your home! 🚰💧

Top 5 Under-Sink RO Water Purifiers“