Brita Everyday Water Filter Pitcher review featuring SmartLight indicator and BPA-free design

Description

Sleek and Functional Design

The Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher, specifically the OB46/OB03 model, is visually appealing with its Stretch Limo Black finish. Its sleek and compact design fits perfectly in most refrigerator doors, making it a space-efficient option for those with limited kitchen space. The lightweight structure—weighing just 2.23 pounds—makes handling and pouring simple, even for kids or older family members. I was pleasantly surprised by the flip-top lid, which eliminates the hassle during refills, and it feels sturdy without being overly bulky. While the 10-cup capacity is a practical size for daily hydration, some might find it insufficient for larger households or high-consumption settings.

SmartLight Change Indicator

One of the standout features of this pitcher is the SmartLight filter change indicator. It’s a game-changer for people like me, who forget when it’s time to swap out the filter. The indicator light changes color based on the filter’s status—green for good, yellow for nearing replacement, and red when it’s time to replace. This precise and user-friendly system ensures you’re always drinking high-quality, filtered water without second-guessing. However, I did notice that the battery for the indicator is not rechargeable, and replacing it might be an inconvenience for some users down the road.

Water Quality and Filtration Efficiency

I tested the pitcher with several water sources, including tap water with noticeable chlorine odor, and the results were impressive. The standard Brita filter efficiently reduces chlorine (taste and odor), along with contaminants like copper, mercury, and cadmium, as certified by the WQA. The filtered water tasted clean, crisp, and refreshing—perfect for drinking or brewing tea and coffee. Additionally, the filter can process up to 40 gallons before needing a replacement, which translates to about two months for the average user. However, it’s worth noting that this pitcher is not compatible with Brita Stream filters, which could be a downside for those looking for faster filtration options.

Sustainability and Cost Savings

Switching to this water filter pitcher has visibly reduced my reliance on single-use plastic bottles. According to Brita, one standard filter can replace up to 300 disposable plastic bottles, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious individuals. Over time, this not only reduces plastic waste but also saves money. While the upfront cost of the pitcher and replacement filters might seem like an investment, the long-term savings and environmental benefits outweigh the expense.

Key Benefits:

• Compact and fridge-friendly design suitable for small spaces.
• SmartLight indicator for hassle-free filter replacements.
• Effectively reduces chlorine, mercury, copper, and cadmium contaminants.
• Can replace up to 1,800 single-use plastic bottles annually.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many advantages, the pitcher has a few shortcomings.

• The filtering process can be slower than expected, especially for those used to instantaneous results.
• Battery replacement for the SmartLight indicator could be a minor inconvenience.
• 10-cup capacity might not meet the needs of larger households or frequent entertainers.

Product Comparisons

In a market flooded with water filter options, this Brita pitcher holds its ground but does face competition. For instance, the ZeroWater Pitcher offers a five-stage filtration system that claims to remove virtually all dissolved solids, which might appeal to users prioritizing maximum contaminant removal. However, ZeroWater filters tend to be pricier and require more frequent replacement.

On the other hand, the PUR Water Filter Pitcher is another strong contender, boasting compatibility with a wider range of filters and offering a comparable design. That said, I found the Brita model’s SmartLight indicator more user-friendly than PUR’s filter change system. While the Brita pitcher doesn’t remove as many contaminants as ZeroWater, it strikes a great balance between filtering efficiency, cost, and ease of use.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering the features and performance of this water pitcher, it delivers excellent value for money. The SmartLight feature, combined with its durability and filter efficiency, justifies the price point. While there are cheaper options available, they often lack the precision and convenience provided by this model. For anyone looking to make a long-term investment in cleaner drinking water without breaking the bank, this product stands out as a cost-effective solution.

Overall, this water filter pitcher has become a kitchen staple in my household. While there are a few areas for improvement, its design, performance, and sustainability benefits make it a reliable choice for families and individuals alike.

Additional information