Clean, safe drinking water is essential in every household, and for London homes, where tap water often contains limescale and chlorine, choosing the right water filter matters. In this guide, we provide a clear comparison of under sink and inline water filters, helping you select the best water filtration system tailored for your kitchen and family needs.
What Is an Under Sink Water Filter?
An under sink water filter is installed beneath the kitchen sink and connects directly to the cold water line. It often features a multi-stage filtration system, including carbon block filters and sediment filters, offering powerful purification for drinking and cooking water.
What Is an Inline Water Filter?
An inline water filter connects directly to an appliance or tap and filters water as it flows through. It’s a compact, easy-to-install filter typically used for basic filtration to improve taste and remove chlorine.
Key Differences: Inline vs Under Sink Comparison
1. Installation Comparison
- Under Sink: Professional water filter installation in London may be required. It involves plumbing adjustments.
- Inline: Easy to install, ideal for renters and smaller kitchens.
2. Filtration Strength
- Under Sink Water Filter: Provides deep purification, effective for chlorine removal and hard water solution. Often includes under sink RO systems.
- Inline Water Filter: Designed to remove chlorine and improve taste but limited against London water hardness and limescale.
3. Filter Lifespan and Maintenance
- Under Sink: Longer lifespan, fewer replacements. Some cartridges last 6–12 months.
- Inline: Requires more frequent cartridge changes, typically every 3–6 months.
4. Cost Comparison
- Under Sink: Higher upfront cost but long-term value and health benefits of filtered water.
- Inline: Lower initial cost but shorter filter cartridge lifespan and frequent replacements.

Best Water Filter for London Homes
For London tap water, which contains high levels of calcium and chlorine, under sink filters are more effective. With multi-stage filtration, they remove limescale, chlorine, heavy metals, and improve the overall tap water quality in London.
If your priority is taste improvement and space-saving, an inline water filter may be enough. However, for full kitchen water purification and health benefits, an under sink water filtration system is recommended.
Benefits Breakdown
Pros and Cons of Under Sink Filters
Pros:
- Powerful filtration (chlorine removal, limescale filter)
- Hidden under the sink
- Ideal filter for kitchen sink
- Supports carbon block and sediment filters
Cons:
- Requires space and possibly a plumber
Inline Water Filter Benefits
Pros:
- Simple and quick installation
- Affordable water filters for London homes
- Fits behind fridges or taps
Cons:
- Limited filtration capacity
Where to Install Inline and Under Sink Filters
- Inline filters: Ideal for appliance-specific use (fridges, kettles, single taps)
- Under sink filters: Best for complete kitchen use, including drinking and cooking
Why London Homes Need Water Filtration
London water hardness is among the highest in the UK. A proper filtration system protects your family and appliances. From removing chlorine taste to filtering micro-particles, a good water filter London residents trust is essential.
What Do Londoners Prefer When Choosing a Water Filter?
Most Londoners prefer under sink filters for their strong filtration against chlorine and limescale. However, renters often choose inline filters due to easy installation and compact size.
Recommended Products
- Buy Under Sink Filter London – Best long-term solution
- Inline Water Filter Price UK – Good for budget-conscious users
Shop high-quality filters at London Water Filter and choose the best water filter brand in London for your home.
FAQs
Are under sink filters better than inline filters?
Yes. Under sink filters offer advanced purification for hard water, chlorine, and contaminants. Ideal for full household use.
Is an inline water filter enough for hard water?
Not entirely. It helps improve taste but does not fully remove hardness minerals. A limescale filter or under sink RO system is more effective.
How long do under sink filters last?
Most under sink filter cartridges last 6 to 12 months depending on usage and water quality.
Which filter removes chlorine and limescale?
A carbon block filter with multi-stage filtration removes chlorine, and dedicated limescale filters help with mineral deposits.
Do I need a plumber to install a water filter?
For under sink filters, professional installation is recommended. Inline filters can often be installed DIY.
For the best filtration system in the UK, London Water Filter offers NSF certified, WRAS approved options tailored for London homes. Protect your health, enhance your water quality, and reduce limescale damage today.
Explore our range now at londonwaterfilter.co.uk