What Is an Undersink Water Purifier?

An undersink water purifier is a water purifier installed beneath your kitchen sink. It connects directly to your water supply and filters the water before it comes out of your tap or a separate filtered-water faucet.

Since it’s hidden under the sink, it helps keep your kitchen counter neat and tidy. This makes it a great choice for smaller Malaysian homes or modern kitchens that prefer a clean look.

More than just saving space, undersink systems are known for their strong performance and large capacity. Many models, like the CUCKOO ACE, use multi-stage filters that remove chlorine, rust, sediment, bacteria, heavy metals, and bad smells from your water. This gives you clean and safe water that tastes fresh.

Undersink water purifiers typically feature a sterilising function that is ideal for cleaning tableware, food, and other daily essentials. While installation may require professional assistance, most systems are designed for long-term use with user-friendly maintenance.

If you prefer a hidden yet high-performance water filtration solution that supports your everyday needs, an undersink water purifier is a practical and reliable choice. It is ideal for drinking, cooking, and washing food.

What Is a Countertop Water Purifier?

A countertop water purifier is a water filtration unit placed directly on your kitchen counter. It connects to your existing tap or has its own built-in water tank, depending on the model. Since it sits on the counter, it is very easy to install and does not require any changes to your plumbing.

This type of purifier is popular in many Malaysian homes because of its convenience and accessibility. It is especially useful for renters or those living in apartments, as it can be set up quickly and moved easily. Many models also come with user-friendly features, such as touch panels, hot and cold water options, and instant dispensing.

Countertop filters often use multi-stage filtration to remove chlorine, bacteria, sediment, and other common impurities. If you want a simple, portable, and easy-to-use water purifier without any complicated setup, a countertop model like the CUCKOO GLAMOUR or CUCKOO GRANDE is a great choice for your home.

Space and Installation Considerations for Malaysian Homes

For Malaysian homes, space is often a premium, particularly in the kitchen.

• Undersink water purifiers are ideal for clutter-free countertops, freeing up valuable space in compact kitchens. They offer a sleek, discreet look with a dedicated faucet. However, their installation is more complex, often requiring drilling and plumbing work, making professional installation highly recommended for proper setup and to prevent leaks.
• Countertop water purifiers offer significant flexibility and ease of use. They’re easy to install as you can connect them to your existing kitchen faucet within minutes. This makes them an ideal choice for renters or anyone who prefers a non-permanent solution without altering their home’s plumbing. The main trade-off, however, is that they occupy visible counter space. While many modern designs are sleek and stylish, their presence on your countertop might be a significant consideration, especially in the compact kitchen layouts common in many Malaysian homes.

Water Filtration Performance and Maintenance Needs

Both types of filters offer varying levels of filtration performance, depending on the specific model and technology.

Undersink Water Purifiers

• Water Filtration Performance: Undersink filtration systems often come with multi-stage filtration processes that can tackle a wider range of contaminants, providing exceptionally pure water. An example is the CUCKOO ACE, which features a 5-stage filtration system with 100°C steam sterilisation. This advanced system includes powerful filters like the Carbon Composite filter and the Nano Positive Plus 3.0 filter, ensuring comprehensive purification.
• Maintenance Needs: Undersink systems typically use larger filter cartridges, resulting in less frequent replacements compared to countertop models. However, due to their concealed installation beneath the sink, filter changes can be more complex and may require professional assistance or specialised tools to ensure proper handling.

Countertop Water Purifiers

• Water Filtration Performance: Countertop water purifiers also offer excellent filtration, but their specific capabilities depend on the model and the technologies employed. They are highly effective at removing common contaminants, making tap water safe and pleasant to drink.
• Maintenance Needs: Most countertop models are designed for easy filter changes. You can usually replace the cartridges on your own without tools, making them convenient for users who prefer quick and simple upkeep.

When choosing, consider the specific water quality issues in your area. If you’re concerned about heavy metals or specific contaminants, a more robust under sink filtration system might be preferable.

Which Water Purifier Is Better Suited for Your Household?

The best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and lifestyle:

Choose an undersink water purifier if:

• You live in a larger household or have higher daily water consumption.
• You have limited counter space and prefer a discreet solution.
• You’re looking for a long-term, semi-permanent water filtration solution.
• You value added functionality like steam sterilisation are especially beneficial for cleaning tableware, rinsing food, and managing daily kitchen tasks.

Choose a countertop water purifier if:

• You’re renting or prefer a portable water filtration solution.
• You have ample counter space and don’t mind a visible unit.
• You’re looking for a more affordable initial investment.
• You prefer a compact and convenient water filtration system designed to deliver clean and safe drinking water for everyday use.

At the end of the day, it’s about what fits your lifestyle, home size, and water usage habits.