Purewell PW-FH Gravity Water Filter: 6-stage countertop system explained

The Purewell PW-FH is a countertop gravity water filter in 304 stainless steel. You pour tap water into the upper container, it drips through two filter elements, and the filtered water collects in the lower container. It needs no plumbing and no electricity, which makes it a simple option for a kitchen counter, a rental or a place without a filter under the sink.

How the six stages work

Purewell describes each filter element as a composite of six stages: a pre-filter mesh, a PP cotton membrane, activated carbon, KDF media, silver ions and a 0.01 μm hollow fibre ultrafiltration (UF) membrane. In general terms, the mesh and cotton stages catch larger particles such as sediment and rust flakes. Activated carbon is the usual material for reducing chlorine and improving taste and odour. KDF is a copper-zinc alloy often used alongside carbon. The UF membrane is a physical barrier with extremely small pores.

Purewell says the system reduces chlorine and intercepts rust, sediment, organic matter and heavy metals, and quotes a 99% chlorine reduction. It also points out that its 0.01 micron pore size is much finer than the 0.2 micron pore size it attributes to other brands.

Size and capacity

The system is 8.8 inches (about 22 cm) wide and deep and 20 inches (about 51 cm) tall, and weighs 8.8 lb (about 4 kg). The capacity is 2.25 gallons, or roughly 8.5 litres. A transparent water-level window on the side lets you see how much is left without lifting the lid. A stand and two filters are included.

Filter life and replacement

Purewell rates each filter element at up to 3,000 gallons, so the pair covers up to 6,000 gallons. It notes that real life depends on the quality of your water, and it recommends replacing the elements about every six months. The filters are specific to this model, and the brand states the system is not compatible with other filter elements.

Using it day to day

Gravity filters are slow by nature, so many people fill the top container in the evening and draw from the bottom container through the day. Purewell gives one clear warning: once the lower container is full of filtered water, do not add more tap water to the top, or it will overflow.

What it does not do

The listing is upfront that this system does not lower the TDS (total dissolved solids) value. That is worth understanding, because some filters, such as reverse osmosis units, are designed to reduce TDS, while carbon and ultrafiltration designs generally are not.

What to check before you buy

• Counter space: about 9 inches square and 20 inches high, with room to lift the lid and fill it.
• Whether a 2.25-gallon capacity covers your household's drinking and cooking water between refills.
• Whether you want TDS reduced; this model does not do that.
• Your local water quality report, so you know what you are hoping to filter out.
• Filter replacement timing and that you can source the matching Purewell elements.
• Cleaning: stainless steel containers and the tap should be washed regularly according to the manual.

The short version

• A plumbing-free, 304 stainless steel gravity filter with a 2.25-gallon capacity.
• Six stages per element, ending in a 0.01 μm ultrafiltration membrane.
• Two filters rated at up to 3,000 gallons each, with replacement suggested about every six months.
• Does not lower TDS and does not accept other brands' filters.

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