Buying a new water filter cartridge that won’t fit into your under-sink system is extremely annoying, especially if it’s a pain to return.
Some filter brands play on the fear of this happening, and it’s enough to persuade you to buy only their branded filters, whatever the cost.
The truth is, most water filtration systems function perfectly well using own-brand, often better quality filter cartridges
Consumers are often unaware they have a choice.
Most standard under-sink water filtration systems, Reverse Osmosis systems and filtered water dispensers accept and perform equally well with an own-brand water filter cartridge.
With a bit of research, it is easy to buy high-quality, compatible water filter cartridges at a much more affordable price than branded versions.

Quality Guarantee
One of the main concerns people have about buying an own-brand water filter is that it won’t work as well as a branded water filter.
Quality own-brand filters have probably been made in the same way and by the same people who make the branded version.
Like many manufacturers of household goods and products, companies that make water filters often sell the same filter to several retailers who add their company branding and sell it at different prices.
In Australia, for extra peace of mind, the quality of products that come into contact with a drinking water supply, including water filters, is strictly governed.
It is a good idea to look for the Australian WaterMark Certification Scheme symbol, as this can provide assurances about its quality.
To achieve certification, the water filter cartridge must be tested by a recognised testing lab, comply with AS 3497:2021 – Drinking water treatment systems — Design and Performance requirements, be manufactured using an approved Quality Assurance Programme and carry a warranty.
Beware of imitations
Be careful, as there are many “cheap” filter brands selling online, whose products are unregulated and inferior and won’t remove the contaminants they promise.
You want and deserve great-tasting drinking water, and the quality of the filters you buy will determine the quality of the water you drink.
Save money on compatible filter cartridges
At Water2water, we sell a wide range of filters, including our own-brand Water2water (W2W) water filter cartridges, which are often more cost-effective than branded versions and meet all Australian drinking water quality regulations.
The amount you could save on regular replacement filters can make a valuable contribution to your household expenses.
With over 25 years in the water filtration industry, we have the expertise and knowledge to recommend filters that will perform best and offer the best value for money for your filtration system.

Warranties and guarantees
Check that using an own brand filter with your filtration system or drinking water dispenser won’t void any system guarantees or warranties.
Reputable water filtration companies provide their own warranties and guarantees with their filters and water dispensers, so do check before you buy.
In Australia, the Competition and Consumer Rights Regulator (ACCC) ensures warranties remain valid when using own-brand filters that comply with the regulations.
How to check if you’re buying the right filter
Reputable water filtration companies will always be happy to help you buy the right water filter cartridges.
If there is a local water filtration company close to where you live or work, pop in and talk to a member of the team, and they will find you the right filter and talk you through how to fit it.
If you’re shopping online, make sure the company’s contact details are easy to find and include a contact email and telephone number so that you can speak to someone if you have any queries before you make a purchase.
Check the company’s Google and/or social media reviews and that their filters have been rated and are Australian-approved or watermarked.
Check the specifications
Ensure the new filter cartridge has the same micron rating as the filter you are replacing.
The micron rating relates to the size of the pores on the filter, which determines what contaminants, chemicals, dirt, and particles will be filtered out.
The lower the micron rating, the higher the level and effectiveness of filtration.
Do you trust the company selling the filter?
If you can, buy replacement filters in person from a local water filtration company.
You’ll know within minutes of meeting them whether they know what they are talking about and only sell high-quality products.
Good water filtration companies will always be happy to give you free, unbiased advice and will never try and persuade you to spend more than you need to.
About Water2water
Water2water has been selling, renting, installing, servicing and repairing water filtration systems and drinking water dispensers for over 25 years.
We are a privately owned Australian company and hold ISO Certification.
Our head office is in Perth, Western Australia, and we have retail stores in Perth and Karratha.
We are always happy to provide free, unbiased advice and will always recommend the most cost-effective water filter system or product to meet your drinking water needs.
Call us on 1300 880 303 and our friendly team will be happy to help.
