If you get caught up by flashy marketing like I do, you’ve probably been tempted to buy the Canopy Shower Head Filter. It’s expensive, but has an attractive design, great reviews, and a fancy aroma diffuser that we haven’t seen in any other showerhead filters.
But just because Canopy knows how to market its products, that doesn’t mean this shower filter is better than the rest—and, when we tested the filter ourselves, we quickly determined that it wasn’t. It took sixth place out of the nine shower filters we tested, based on our evaluation of its contaminant reduction, flow rate, installation and maintenance requirements, and more. Here, we’ve shared the results from our subjective and objective assessments.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
| Price | $150 |
| Contaminants Reduced | 14+ |
| Certifications | Not Certified |
| Process | Granular Activated Carbon, KDF-55 & Calcium Sulfite |
| Filter Capacity | 3,000 gallons/cartridge |
| Annual Cost | ~$140 |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Table of Contents
📊 Scoring Data
The Canopy Shower Filter is, on average, around twice the price of most of the other shower filters we tested, with an upfront cost of $150. With this in mind, we were keen to determine the filter’s overall value for money by analyzing its performance across 6 key testing factors. We combined and averaged the scores to award the system an overall performance score. You can find our test results in the following table.
| Criteria | Results |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.25 |
| Health Related Contaminants | 7.80 |
| Aesthetic Related Contaminants | 9.90 |
| Performance Certification | Not Certified |
| Filtration Rate | 2.33 GPM |
| Component Quality | Fair |
| Component Certification | Unsatisfactory |
| Setup | Excellent |
| Servicing Requirements | Excellent |
| Costs | $0.012/ gallon |
| Warranty Length | 1 year |
| Shipping | Free on orders over $25 |
| Returns | 60 days |
🚰 Contaminant Reduction
Score: 7.71Canopy makes a lot of vague but impressive-sounding performance claims, especially regarding how it can improve skin and hair health. We conducted our own contaminant reduction testing to see exactly how the filter altered our water quality, comparing the contaminants detected in our unfiltered and filtered water samples.
Another area that influences the contaminant reduction score is certifications. We also checked to see if the Canopy Shower Filter had been certified by the NSF/ANSI, IAPMO, or the WQA for reducing select contaminants in shower water.
Our Performance Testing
Score: 7.91
To keep our testing as fair as possible across the board, we used SimpleLab Tap Score, a laboratory testing service, for all our shower filter contaminant reduction analyses. We took samples of our unfiltered and filtered shower water and sent them to the Tap Score laboratory for comprehensive testing.
Laboratory testing is more comprehensive than DIY test strips. This was important to us as we wanted to achieve the most accurate testing outcomes. Our Tap Score test report listed all the contaminants detected in both water samples, their detection concentrations, and whether or not they were considered a health risk. We compared our results to Tap Score’s Health Guideline Levels (HGLs), which are stricter than the MCLs and prioritize human health.
Alongside our laboratory tests, we used the included test strips to detect chlorine in our water, which is highly volatile and doesn’t remain in water long enough for it to be accurately detected at the lab.
We also conducted separate titration tests, so we knew we were getting the most accurate reading of our water hardness in real time.
Health-Related Contaminants
Score: 7.80
Our Tap Score report showed that more than 10 contaminants with known health effects had been detected in our shower water.
But many of these contaminants, like lead, arsenic, and lithium, aren’t known to have health effects in their “normal” concentrations in shower water. So, we only focused on the contaminants that can be harmful to health in shower water, as a result of dermal exposure or inhalation (rather than ingestion).
5 contaminants with possible health effects were detected in our unfiltered water test:
- Around 2 PPM of chlorine
- 5.47 PPB of chloroform
- 2.62 PPB of bromodichloromethane
- 0.74 PPB of dibromochloromethane
- 0.25 PPB of bromochloromethane
| Contaminant Name | Unit | Unfiltered | Canopy | Difference | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bromochloromethane | PPB | 0.25 | 0.2 | -20.00% | Disinfection Byproducts |
| Dibromochloromethane | PPB | 0.74 | 1.43 | 93.24% | Disinfection Byproducts |
| Bromodichloromethane | PPB | 2.62 | 5.26 | 100.76% | Disinfection Byproducts |
| Total THMs | PPB | 8.83 | 22.8 | 158.21% | Disinfection Byproducts |
| Chloroform | PPB | 5.47 | 16.02 | 192.87% | Disinfection Byproducts |
| Bromoform | PPB | 0.09 | n.a | Disinfection Byproducts | |
| Boron | PPM | 0.01897 | 0.01374 | -27.57% | Inorganics |
| Nitrate (as N) | PPM | 0.006 | 0.006 | 0.00% | Inorganics |
| Phosphorus | PPM | 0.00587 | 0.00587 | 0.00% | Inorganics |
| Chloride | PPM | 19.881 | 21.01 | 5.68% | Inorganics |
| Sulfate | PPM | 19.887 | 36.293 | 82.50% | Inorganics |
| Fluoride | PPM | 0.004 | 0.231 | 5675.00% | Inorganics |
| Nickel | PPM | 0.0004253 | 0.000103 | -75.78% | Metals |
| Lithium | PPM | 0.00421 | 0.00403 | -4.28% | Metals |
| Strontium | PPM | 0.18737 | 0.18557 | -0.96% | Metals |
| Cobalt | PPM | 0.000004 | 0.000004 | 0.00% | Metals |
| Iron | PPM | 0.00072 | 0.00072 | 0.00% | Metals |
| Vanadium | PPM | 0.000166 | 0.000166 | 0.00% | Metals |
| Barium | PPM | 0.03189 | 0.03204 | 0.47% | Metals |
| Uranium | PPM | 0.0005325 | 0.0005397 | 1.35% | Metals |
| Copper | PPM | 0.07381 | 0.09762 | 32.26% | Metals |
| Molybdenum | PPM | 0.0002244 | 0.0002972 | 32.44% | Metals |
| Arsenic | PPM | 0.0002311 | 0.000448 | 93.86% | Metals |
| Lead | PPM | 0.0002713 | 0.0013676 | 404.09% | Metals |
| Zinc | PPM | 0.00919 | 0.81767 | 8797.39% | Metals |
| Manganese | PPM | 0.00007 | n.a | Metals | |
| Carbonate | PPM | 1.68 | 0.52 | -69.05% | Minerals |
| Potassium | PPM | 2.01457 | 1.98126 | -1.65% | Minerals |
| Bicarbonate | PPM | 148.14 | 148.22 | 0.05% | Minerals |
| Sodium | PPM | 12.2439 | 12.38306 | 1.14% | Minerals |
| Magnesium | PPM | 10.15845 | 10.33339 | 1.72% | Minerals |
| Calcium | PPM | 34.43656 | 40.02903 | 16.24% | Minerals |
Chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromochloromethane are all disinfection byproducts. The first three exceeded the Tap Score HGL, meaning they could possibly cause health effects (based on emerging evidence from animal studies) in their detected concentrations. Bromochloromethane was detected below the Reporting Limit, so its safety couldn’t be evaluated in our water.
What were we expecting from the Canopy Shower Filter here? Canopy claims to filter “chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants”, but doesn’t specifically mention DBPs.
Starting with the positives, the filter reduced 100% chlorine in our shower water, so it met our basic expectations for a shower filer. But, it didn’t reduce DBPs—in fact, total THMs actually increased by 158%.
Should we be concerned about this increase? We don’t think so: most likely, it’s incidental, due to fluctuations in the DBPs in our water, which simply tells us that the filter was unable to reduce them. This was disappointing to us, given that several of the shower filters we tested had reduced DBPs, so it’s definitely possible.
Unusual Testing Outcomes
Aside from its inability to reduce disinfection byproducts, there were some unusual testing outcomes that further contributed to the filter’s poorer score in the contaminant reduction category.
First, there was a 32% increase in copper and a massive 8,797% increase in zinc in our filtered water (although both were detected at concentrations still within the lab’s HGL). We think these contaminants leached from the KDF media, and while they don’t have known health effects through dermal exposure or inhalation, they still affected our water quality.
Our Tap Score test data also reported that fluoride increased by 5,675%, and arsenic by 93%. In this case, we don’t think these came from the filter itself. We tested our filtered water later in the day, so we believe fluoride and arsenic were incidentally higher in this test, especially as we saw similar results with other shower filters that we tested on the same day.
Finally, perhaps the most concerning testing outcome was the 404% increase in lead. This is quite a substantial increase and seems less likely to be incidental, suggesting that lead could have been leaching from the filter media. However, we don’t know this for certain, and we need to do a re-test to see if there’s a pattern in the results.
Lead isn’t known to be dangerous when inhaled, and the skin doesn’t absorb lead so it has no dermal effects, despite its known health effects when ingested in drinking water.
Water Hardness
We assessed our before-and-after water hardness by reviewing our lab test and on-site titration test results.
Canopy claims that the Shower Filter can reduce “magnesium (increases hardness of water)” and “calcium carbonate (increases hardness of water)”. Since magnesium and calcium are the two minerals primarily responsible for hard water, we were expecting the Canopy Shower Filter to reduce our water hardness.
In our Tap Score test, our unfiltered water sample had a total hardness reading of 128.19 PPM, or 7.49 GPG, putting it in the “hard” category. The onsite titration test detected a similar hardness of 8 GPG.
Our filtered water test results were interesting, but also disappointing:
- Magnesium wasn’t reduced at all
- Calcium increased by 16%
- Carbonate did decrease by 69%
- Our total hardness increased by 12.45%
So what does that mean? The filter has some ability to address temporary hardness, aka carbonate hardness, which can also be removed by heating water. But because of its inability to reduce calcium or magnesium, it clearly does not address permanent water hardness, or non-carbonate hardness, which needs a more specialized approach.
Our results didn’t align with Canopy’s claims, and we weren’t exactly surprised. According to the product page, the filter contains granular activated carbon, KDF-55, and calcium sulfite, none of which can address hardness. Only a few filters we tested reduced calcium and magnesium, and these contain an ion exchange resin.
Canopy’s Claims
Before we move on, we want to quickly address the contaminants that Canopy claims to reduce in response to the “What does it filter out?” question on the product page FAQ.
Aside from chlorine and hardness, Canopy also says that its Shower Filter also reduces iron, hydrogen sulfide, mercury, chromium, chloramine, and harmful microbes, bacteria, and fungi.
Hydrogen sulfide, mercury, chromium, and chloramine weren’t detected in our unfiltered water, so we can’t comment on the filter’s ability to remove these.
As for iron, 0.00072 of this contaminant was detected in both water samples: a 0% reduction
There were no “harmful microbes, bacteria, or fungi” in our water, but Canopy shouldn’t say that the filter can reduce these. This actually points to a lack of knowledge about how KDF-55 filter media works. While KDF-55 media does control the buildup of bacteria in the filter itself, it’s not designed to reduce bacteria or any other microorganisms in the filtered water. This is a key difference to understand.
Performance Certifications
Score: 6.00
Canopy claims that its filters have been tested to NSF 177 Standards, and it’s important not to get confused here: any filter can get tested by anybody to NSF Standards, and this is not the same as an official certification.
For shower filters, we look for proof of a certification to NSF 177, for the reduction of chlorine. We couldn’t find evidence that the Canopy Shower Filter holds a contaminant reduction certification, which is unfortunate given its expensive upfront cost.
🚦Filtration Rate
Score: 10.00We measured Canopy’s flow rate by timing how long it took to fill 2 cups of water from the filtered showerhead. We repeated the test three times, then averaged these timings before converting them into a gallons-per-minute (GPM) flow rate.
The Canopy Showerhead Filter had a filtration rate of 2.33 GPM, based on its ability to fill 2 cups of filtered water in an average time of 3.22 seconds. That made it the fastest-filtering shower filter of all the systems we tested.
This is among the most positive testing outcomes we recorded for Canopy, and we noticed no reduction in our showerhead water pressure after installing the filter. But remember, flow rate isn’t everything. While you obviously don’t want to shower in a trickle of water, it’s important that the water has enough contact with the filter media to effectively reduce contaminants. So, prioritize contaminant reduction over flow rate.
📐 Design
Score: 7.20The Canopy Shower Filter has a unique funnel-shaped design and contains the filter inside the showerhead, which means it has to replace an existing showerhead.
We got the static Filtered Showerhead, which connects directly to your shower arm. Canopy also sells a Handheld Showerhead Filter or a Showerhead Bundle containing both filters. The units are available in four finishes:
- Polished chrome
- Matte black
- Brushed nickel
- Brass
The filter has a unique design feature: it includes an aroma kit (this is just a felt diffuser that you add essential oil to and hang from the shower), so you get to enjoy a nice smell while you’re showering.
Our assessment in the design category was mostly subjective, and we focused on how the filter looked felt, and functioned in terms of durability and quality. We also looked for evidence of official certifications for materials safety.
Component Quality
Score: 8.00
While the Canopy filter has aesthetic appeal, we noted that the unit is made from flimsy plastics and doesn’t feel particularly solid or durable.
In the case of the filter cartridge itself, it looks similar to the cartridge in the Sprite Shower Filter, which costs a quarter of the price. Maybe they’re not the same, but we questioned once again why the Canopy Shower Filter is so expensive when it doesn’t offer anything more than its competitors.
Filter Materials
The Canopy filter contains three filtration media:
- Granular activated carbon
- KDF-55
- Calcium sulfite
These are all commonly used in shower filters and are favored for their chlorine-reduction abilities. We think Canopy could improve the filter by using activated carbon block media, which offers more thorough contaminant removal (including DBPs removal) thanks to its more compact nature.
Materials Safety Certification
Score: 6.00
Canopy hasn’t obtained a materials safety certification, which is a shame, but not altogether surprising.
Materials safety certifications aren’t a legal requirement, although it’s good to know that a filter has been tested and approved for design safety.
⚙️ Setup
Score: 9.00Shower filters are generally quick and easy to install, so we expected the same from Canopy.
The filter earned a high 9.00 score in the setup category because it took less than 5 minutes to install at our shower line. We just unscrewed our existing showerhead and inserted the filter cartridge into the new showerhead, then attached the new showerhead to the shower arm. There’s some plumber’s tape included to secure the filter in place and prevent leaks.
We also followed Canopy’s instructions to prime the filter by turning our water on and letting it flush through it for 30 seconds. You can use the filter straight away, and there are no special priming tools or processes required.
🔧 Maintenance
Score: 9.50Canopy also got a good maintenance score because we found the filter easy and affordable to maintain.
Servicing Requirements
9.00
There’s just one filter to replace in the Canopy unit, with a lifespan of 3,000 gallons, which equates to approximately three months. That’s around half the average six-month lifespan claimed by many other shower filter manufacturers—although, of course, the gallon-to-month conversion isn’t 100% accurate and depends on factors including your water quality and usage.
The Canopy model is thoughtfully designed for easy filter replacements with a removable front that pops off, giving you access to the filter cartridge. That saved us the job of having to unscrew the showerhead every time we needed to replace a filter.
Aside from filter changes, we just followed our normal shower cleaning schedule. If you choose to use the scent diffuser; you’ll also need to buy more aromas when the included scent runs out.
Costs
Score: 10.00
Canopy’s maintenance costs are affordable when we compare them to the average POU filter, even though it was on the more expensive end compared to many of the other shower filters we tested.
| Product | Upfront Cost | Replacement Filter Cost/ gal. |
|---|---|---|
| Shower Stick | $375.00 | $0.002 |
| Jolie | $165.00 | $0.012 |
| Canopy | $150.00 | $0.012 |
| Aquasana | $119.99 | $0.006 |
| Weddell | $89.99 | $0.003 |
| Hello Klean | $87.00 | $0.015 |
| Berkey | $60.00 | $0.003 |
| AquaBliss | $59.95 | $0.002 |
| Sprite | $35.00 | $0.002 |
We calculated that replacement filters cost $0.012 per gallon (up to $0.010 more per gallon than similar systems). This is likely due to Canopy’s shorter filter lifespan claims and slightly more expensive replacement filters.
🏢 Company
Score: 8.80Canopy is a newer brand, so we were particularly interested in its company offerings, including its warranty, shipping, and returns policy.
Warranty
Score: 8.50
Canopy warrants its shower filter for 1 year, entitling customers to a repair, replacement, or refund (depending on the issue) if a problem is detected that’s covered by the warranty.
This is actually one of the best warranties we’ve come across for a shower filter, although as is typical, the warranty doesn’t cover accidental damage or normal wear and tear.
Learn more about Canopy’s warranty here.
Shipping
Score: 9.00
Canopy offers free shipping to all US territories, but only on orders over $25. This is pretty annoying given that a single-filter replacement subscription costs $25 every 90 days, so you’ll have to pay for shipping each time.
You can get around this by upgrading to the 2-pack filter replacement subscription, which costs $50—but you’ll still receive filters every 90 days, so you’ll end up with twice the amount that you need.
Click here for more information on Canopy’s shipping policy.
Returns
Score: 9.00
You can return the Canopy Shower Filter for any reason within the first 60 days after your purchase thanks to Canopy’s money-back guarantee. This gives you a good amount of time to try the product and decide whether or not it’s right for you.
To return the filter, you’ll need to fill in the return request form on the Canopy website (this requires your order number), and choose whether to exchange the system or return it for a refund. Canopy will pay for your return shipping if you live in the US, but you’ll need to pay for shipping yourself if you live in Canada.
View Canopy’s 60-day guarantee here.
💰 Value For Money
So, with all aspects of its performance in mind, do we think the Canopy Shower Filter offers good value for money? The short answer is no.
While the filter has an attractive design, and the aroma diffuser is a nice touch, we weren’t impressed with its inability to reduce disinfection byproducts and its misleading hardness reduction claims, not to mention the concerning lead increase in our filtered water.
Our main issue with Canopy is that there’s nothing to justify the filter’s $150 price tag. It doesn’t perform better than the filters selling for half its price, it’s not certified for reducing any contaminants, and its flimsy design quality doesn’t bode well for durability.
Ultimately, you might decide to buy this filter if you’re just looking for an attractive showerhead that can do a bit more than your normal shower. It’s worth considering if you’re only bothered about addressing chlorine and/or you like the novelty appeal of the aroma diffuser.
But if you’re looking for a filter that addresses disinfection byproducts and has a certified performance, we recommend the Weddell Duo, which was the best shower filter we tested.