How do carbon filter systems compare to pitcher filters and faucet-mounted water filters?

Pitcher and faucet-mounted filters rely solely on activated carbon filtration. While activated carbon is very effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, the problem with these types of filters is that they contain a very small amount of activated carbon. In addition to small amounts of carbon, the time the water spends in contact with the carbon, especially faucet mounted units, is too little to provide full absorption. Counter top and under sink activated carbon systems have removal rates of about 90-99%, while faucet mounted and pitcher style units only remove about 30-60% (if the filters are changed regularly).  more

Pitcher and faucet-mounted filters rely solely on activated carbon filtration. While activated carbon is very effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, the problem with these types of filters is that they contain a very small amount of activated carbon. In addition to small amounts of carbon, the time the water spends in contact with the carbon, especially faucet mounted units, is too little to provide full absorption. Counter top and undersink activated carbon systems have removal rates of about 90-99%, while faucet mounted and pitcher style units only remove about 30-60% (if the filters are changed regularly).  more