Let’s start with the good news: you don’t need to sell a kidney. A basic faucet-mounted filter runs you about $20 to $50. You can install it yourself while wearing pajamas, no tools required.
Then there’s the countertop model, which sits pretty next to your sink. These run $50 to $150, and they’re perfect for renters or anyone who hates calling a plumber. Just twist, click, and you’re done. It’s like assembling IKEA furniture, but without the crying.
If you want something that lives inside your fridge—like a built-in water dispenser—be ready to spend $100 to $300 for the kit. Installation is a bit trickier, so you might trade a few cookies for a friend’s help. Totally worth it for that crisp, cold water on a hot day.
