The Brita Aqualux is a clear pitcher filtration system that delivers cleaner, healthier drinking water quickly and efficiently.

This unit consists of a slim line clear pitcher with a white lid and filter reservoir, and disposable carbon-based filter. The pitcher's capacity is about six 8-ounce galsses with the filtration reservoir in place. The slim design (4 inches wide by 7 inches long by 10 inches tall) saves space and can easily fit on a shelf or the door of your refrigerator.

A clever feature available on the Aqualux, as well as some of Brita's other pitchers, is the smart electronic change indicator, which reminds you when it's time to change the filter. The indicator is a small electronic device inserted in the pitcher's lid, with four bars that signal when the filter is at 100 percent of its useful life (all four bars lit); 75 percent (3 bars lit); 50 percent (2 bars lit); 25 percent (1 bar) and time to replace (no bars). The indicator is helpful for remembering when you need a new filter.

Filtering water with the Aqualux is easy. You simply prepare the new filter by soaking it in cold water for 15 minutes, and then insert the filter into its designated slot in the pitcher reservoir. The pitcher is then ready for use. Next pour water (you can use a cup if it's easier or dispense water from your tap directly into the pitcher reservoir). There is a handy flip-up panel in the lid, but we found it easier to just remove the lid altogether. The reservoir holds about six cups of water and can filter that amount in about 3-1/2 minutes. You can add up to 2 cups more without exceeding the capacity. For best results, Brita recommends filtering no more than 2 gallons a day or up to 40 gallons over the life of the filter. Each filter should last about 2 months.

Pouring from the Brita Aqualux is also easy. The snug-fitting lid snaps in place on top of the unit so there's no danger of it falling off during pouring. The lid also has a convenient hinged spout cover, which tilts away as the pitcher is tipped so water pours freely from the spout, with no dripping. The rounded handle is comfortable to hold and also has a rubberized coating on one side for a slip-free grip.

All in all, the Brita Aqualux is an ideal choice for those who want an easy system for filtering their tap water. The advanced filter with activated carbon and ion exchange resin is NSF and Water Quality Association certified to reduce lead, benzene, sediment, chlorine, copper, mercury and cadmium. Replacement filters (model OBO3) are available separately.


Pros: Compact, slim design
Cons: Filters need to be replaced every 2 months