APEX RF-1050 Alkaline Filter Cartridge

This filter has been an excellent product for me, and its' been great to not have to schlep all those water bottles. The only drawback was dreading the filter change that has received not insignificant reviews about the difficulty of replacing the filter. Replacing the filter on mine turned out to be a non-event. Specifics to follow: The common complaint is that the unit is hard to "crack" open, or break the seal allowing the unit to be unscrewed from the base. The first step in that process is to disconnect the black tubes from their connections. Next, drain as much water from the unit as possible. My process was to put a folded bath towel on the kitchen floor, securing the unit between my knees. With the plastic wrench (provided with the original unit) on the outer casing, and bearing down on the base to prevent rotation, steady, firm pressure resulted in immediate rotation of the casing away from the base. The seal was snug, but not so secure that it needs to be wrestled or "cracked" to release. (Disclosure: I'm a 5'11" male w/fairly sturdy but not exceptional build. A tinier or more delicate frame may have more of a challenge.) So mine was a non-event. That said, assuming these are primarily hand assembled or done with some mechanical assistance, there probably is variability in how torqued each particular unit may be. Point being, my experience represents only my unit, which surely isn't universal. But ... I continue to be pleased with the unit, new filter, and overall experience. I give a strong "buy" recommendation.

We absolutely love how the water tastes. Been using the product for 5 years. We replace the filter cartridge annually. So far really happy.

5 star quality and service. I was shipped a bad refill cartridge. The seller replaced mine with no cost to me. I have been using this water filter for over a year. Pro's- - Water flow is the best. I cannot imagine one can get a better water flow out of a filter than this - Taste is alkaline and pleasant - Trouble free once hooked up. Switch between filter and regular tap is smooth and seamless - Owners/Sellers of Apex filter are very responsive to customers Con's - Because of the tight seal of the filter it is difficult to open for installing replacement filter. I think it is a expected that the seal will be tight for a high quality filter

I replaced the KX MATRIKX Pb1 which had a bad taste to it. I have had the Ispring countertop water filter for over a year now and after trying several filters, I decided to spend a little more and get one that had more filter media in it and also makes the water more alkaline. It was easy to install and the instructions say to run it 2-3 minutes which I did. It makes the water taste great and my GF also notices the better taste and like it better than the other one. They also say it will last a year which is a plus, as others have said, less than $4 a month, so I will replace this filter with a new one in a year from now. Very good water. NOTE; DO NOT drink this kind of water with a meal. Like soda, it will lower your stomach acid and make it harder to digest your food, so you get even less nutrients than what little is in the food.

I have been using this water filter for about two years now. It’s definitely a bargain, much better than paying for the bottled alkaline water. The taste is great too. Can’t really complain much. So why the four stars? Below are the two reasons. 1. It doesn’t remove fluoride. I’ve looked on Amazon and on the Apex website, and I haven’t found a replacement that is compatible with my water filter - that will remove fluoride and increase the PH levels to make it alkaline. I know that fluoride is a big deal to some people, but I still come back to this filter every time. To me, it’s simply the best for your money. If they can come out with an upgrade that can do both those things that would be awesome. I know Apex usually reads these comments, so if you know of one that is already out there, please reply with the model number. 2. That darn filter is hard to replace. It’s impossible to unscrew it from the housing with your bare hands. I followed the instructionsi, I filled my sink with hot water and poured some vinegar. I let it soak for 10 minutes. When I tried to unscrew it with the original plastic wrench that came with the water filter, it wouldn't open. I had to revert back to how I did it before. I stuck a screwdriver in one of the holes and used a little strength to unscrew it. The problem with that though is that I feel that will eventually damage the housing base. I really think Apex could come up with a better tool if they really wanted to. It would save their customers a whole lot of trouble. Despite those two complaints, I do feel the quality of the water is good enough to deserve four stars. It’s definitely a great little investment. I do recommend this product if can get live with my two complaints.

Super

I never thought of this until I started reading reviews but where you live can determine how often you need to change it. I, fortunately, only need to change it out once a year. I tested the water with the old filter and the new and it surprisingly tasted the same. NYC is known to have one of the best waters in the country but I often can taste the chlorine. This filter takes that out and it's noticeable. The filter overall is great and I'm on my 3rd filter. I see reviews of people having a hard time unscrewing the the case and I totally get it. I don't think it's a bad design and all but it's just hard to get good leverage with your hands because the base unit is large. You definitely need a bit of mustard so when you initially install it, only tighten until the water doesn't leak when you run the filter. Keep the tightness at a minimum as possible.

I'm obsessed with this filter after my (very knowledgeable) brother put me on to this. I recently moved to Chicago and when I would boil tap water (for spaghetti) crystalized bubbles would form at the top once it reached boiling point. I'd buy bottled water and I still felt icky. It was so bad I didnt eat for 3 weeks and lost 27 lbs (yay I guess?) Finally my brother told me about this filter even tho he has an entire 3 filtered tank in his kitchen I needed something small for my apartment but effective and didnt care the cost. I bought this and boiled water immediately and alas! No weird crystal bubbles at top! I ended up moving from that god forsaken state back to Brooklyn and my beautiful filter came with me. So easy to install and remove to wherever you move to. I changed the filter a year later and yuck! The disgusting slimy mustard yellow goop that was filtered from the water. UGH. I vouch for this filter 110% and they offer 10% discount after buying the filter for replacement pieces. Thank you filter man for making this. This saved my marriage because I refused to cook with crystal water lol

Easy to install

Bought this replacement filter since I was so impressed with the original one that came with the unit. The water from this tastes chalky, metallic and slightly salty—not exactly the refreshing, crisp tasting product promised. Less inspired to drink water than ever before.

Well packed and quality is good.

Great product...I feel way better now..healthier than before

I have big problem to unscrew the housing though i soak it into hot water with vinegar and baking soda… what can I do?