Yet another point-of-use water purification system, but with a whole lot of difference.
In this Zen water filter review, we bring you all you need to know about the filter and how does it compare to other countertop filtration systems.
So, let’s begin.
Zen Water System Overview
This filtration system combines five different functions into one.
- Filters
- Purifies
- Alkalizes
- Mineralizes, and
- Magnetizes
It transforms the source water to a fresh, crisp, and natural spring-like water.
The filter uses no external power source and operates purely on gravity to carry out all the filtration and purification processes.
Zen’s powerful purification system removes contaminants like bacteria, spores, cysts, parasites, chemical impurities, and heavy metals, and energizes water through the 5-stage purifier system.
Not only the filtration system within but also the outer plastic casing of the Zen water system is sturdy and safe for storing water.
However, the company offers a 30-day warranty on any manufacturing defects or defects that arise within 30 days of purchase.
Key Features
7-Stage Filtration
The Zen water filter completes this process to provide clean, drinkable water in just a few minutes.
Stage 1: Ceramic Filter
The first step of filtration involves the dome-shaped ceramic filter through which the water passes. It filters out contaminants like bacteria, cysts, spores, and parasites. Additionally, it also removes chemical pollutants from agricultural processes.
Stage 2-6: Purification Tower
The next step is a 5-stage process of purification that takes the water through a tower of layered natural purifying minerals.
The water first passes through silver-impregnated activated carbon that removes malodors, and chlorine. Silver ensures that any bacteria that escaped through the ceramic filter are left incapacitated.
The subsequent step is an ion-exchange resin which removes heavy metals.
The mineralization process involves going through Far-IR balls, silica sand, and mineral sand and stones. It remineralizes the water with calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium.
Stage 7: Optional Mineral Stone Base
Zen water purifier and filter comes with a circular disc that encases Maifan mineral stones. These stones are said to infuse a balanced taste to water while inhibiting any secondary bacterial growth.
Magnetic Screw
The spigot is screwed to the base tank with a magnetic screw. It magnetizes water and boosts overall health.
Large Capacity
Zen countertop water filter comes in different variants. Depending on the size of your family and its water needs, you can choose the variant that serves your purpose.
The four models that come from the stable of Zen include:
Vitality 4-Gallon – Suffices the water needs of singles, couples or a small family.
Rejuvenate 6 Gallon – Meant for a larger family where water consumption is up to 5 to 6 gallons/day.
Active 8 Gallon – Serves large families where water is shared with pets.
Pulse 4 Gallon –This variant is made to sit atop a water dispenser and relieve you from the stress of lifting heavy water bottles.
Filter Maintenance and Replacement
The ceramic filter needs to be scrubbed clean every 2-4 weeks or more frequently, depending on the quality of tap water in your area. However, no amount of cleaning will restore its functionality once it has filtered 1000 gallons of water or 1 year.
Similarly, the purification tower/cartridge needs a replacement every 6 months or 500 gallons, whichever comes first.
The mineral stones case has a longer life. It can be replaced every 3 to 5 years or when mineral stones are noticeably eroded. As a part of the routine maintenance, the stones need to be boiled every six months to re-activate mineral properties.
Annual Maintenance Cost: $70
Zero-Dependency Installation
The Zen countertop filter requires no plumbing or electrical fittings, or battery-operated equipment to be attached to it.
It means that all you need is the installation manual that comes with every Zen filter. Just follow the instructions to assemble all the parts, and your machine will be up and running.
Sturdy and Safe
Zen has a sturdy design. Though it is built of plastic, it is BPA-free. You can store water in the bottom reservoir for as long as you want without having to worry about the plastic’s toxic effects.
Warranty and Refund Policy
The 10/30 Zen water systems warranty, as it is popularly known, covers any manufacturing defects that the product arrives with, within ten days of purchase.
And any defects of workmanship that surfaced within 30 days of purchase and reported to the customer care will be replaced with a new setup at no additional costs.
The Zen Water Countertop Water Filtration system does come with some downside.
Consideration Factors
Filtration and Purification Time
Once the setup is installed and topped up with water, it will take a good 7-8 minutes to get a steady trickle, and even after 2-3 hours, the base tank is not even half-full.
Imagine having to go through two such iterations during the initial setup process to clean all the filters and parts thoroughly.
Fluoride Filtration
Despite such thorough filtration, the Zen water system fails to remove fluoride from water. It is not recommended if you intend to remove fluoride.
Filter Care & Maintenance
Regular scrubbing of the ceramic filter to prevent clogging, boiling Maifan stones every six months or earlier, and replacing the cartridge tower can wear down the most diligent filter owners.
But, despite all these defects, it still serves to produce crisp water that tastes as natural as water can be.
Pros and Cons
Here is what users of the Zen countertop water filter have to say.
+ Remineralize the water.
+ Portable and easy to use.
– Constant maintenance is required.
– First setup is time consuming.
– Unable to remove fluoride.
Technical Specs
And for those who believe in technical specifics, here are the technical details
- Weight: 8.3 pounds
- Treatment Type: 7-stage filtration that includes a ceramic filter, a purification and mineralization cartridge, and Maifan stone.
- Product Dimensions: 12.75 x 12.75 x 24 inches.
- Each purchase includes: Zen Water Systems Manual.
Our Verdict: Recommended
Zen Water System not only filters out contaminants but also purifies and remineralizes your drinking water. Best of all, the water is alkaline, which helps in boosting general health.
Powered by gravity, this countertop water filter needs no external energy source to operate, thus saving on installation costs.
Although the filter is slow and ineffective in removing fluoride, it is still a recommended system.
Where Can I Buy It?
Check the latest price directly with the Zen Water System.