With alarming level increase in water pollution, the importance of a reliable whole house water filter cannot be overstated – It is not just a matter of taste or clarity, but of health and safety.
But what exactly is a whole house water filter?
It is a comprehensive filtration solution that purifies water at the point it enters your home, ensuring that every drop—from the kitchen sink to the bathroom shower—is free from contaminants.
With countless options vying for attention, pinpointing the ideal one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
In this article, we will delve into the best whole house water filters that are shortlisted after testing and analysing by experts who have been using them for several months.
Additionally, our “Purchasing Guide” offers an in-depth analysis of various filtration methods, detailing their advantages and drawbacks, to assist you in selecting the perfect fit for your needs.
Best Whole House Water Filter Table
| Best Whole House Water Filter | Type of System | Treatment | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iSpring Whole House Water Filter | Water Descaler | Reduces Hardness in Water | 1 Year Long | Check On Amazon |
| SimPure Whole House Water Filter | Water Descaler | Remove Contaminants such as Sediment, Debris, Rust, and Other Impurities | 1 Year Long | Check On Amazon |
| Aquasana Whole House Water Filter | Water Filter System - Carbon & kdf Home Water Filtration | Reduces 97% of Chlorine | 10 Year Long | Check On Amazon |
| AO Smith Whole House Water Filter | Water Descaler | Reduces Hardness in Water | 6 Year Long | Check On Amazon |
| EXPRESS Whole House Water Filter | Water Descaler | Reduces Heavy Metals | 1 Year Long | Check On Amazon |
| Aquasure Whole House Water Filter | Water Filter and Water Softener | Reduces Hardness, Odor, Chlorine, and Other Impurities | 10 Year Long | Check On Amazon |
| Aquaboon Whole House Water Filter | Water Filter | Removes Chlorine, Iron, Lead, Particles, Sand, Rust, Dirt,etc. | 6 Months | Check On Amazon |
Best Whole House Water Filter Reviews
1. iSpring Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: Electronic Salt-Free Hard Water Conditioner
- Flow Rate: Up to 50 feet
- Filter Capacity: Suitable for hardness levels of 10-19 grains per gallon (GPG)
- Warranty: 1-year warranty from iSpring
The iSpring ED2000 Whole House Water Descaler is a cutting-edge solution to hard water issues. If you are looking to deal with hard water in your home with the need for any additional filtering solutions, then whole house water filter is the right choice.
Its electronic salt-free technology ensures a chemical-free water conditioning process. The system works effectively on any pipe, including PEX and PVC, making it versatile for various plumbing setups. With a focus on environmental friendliness, this descaler is designed for very hard water areas, providing energy savings, and extending the life of your appliances.
The iSpring ED2000 is a user-friendly and cost-efficient option. Its easy installation, low maintenance, and effective descaling make it a practical choice for homes seeking an alternative to traditional water softeners. With an average one-year payback period, this reliable descaler reduces energy consumption and extends the life of your appliances.
Positives
- Requires no plumbing modifications, offering a hassle-free installation process.
- Inexpensive Operation and maintenance
- Works on any pipe
- Treats hard water up to 19 GPG
- Works up to 50ft
Negatives
- Not ideal for large homes
2. SimPure Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: Spin Down Sediment Filter
- Flow Rate: 20 gallons per minute
- Filter Capacity: 40-micron filter mesh (with an extra 200-micron option for well water)
- Warranty: One-year warranty
SimPure’s 40/200 Micron Spin Down Sediment Filter is a comprehensive pre-filtration system designed to protect your home’s plumbing and appliances. Regardless of whether your water comes from the city or a well, this filter is an excellent option. It proves highly effective, user-friendly, and excels at eliminating sediment and other impurities from your water.
Built with food-grade stainless steel and brass, the filter effectively removes sediment, rust, debris, calcium, and sand. The 40-micron filter mesh acts as a super-fine sieve, capturing even tiny particles, with an additional 200-micron filter element for well water.
With this whole house filter, you can deal with the removal of sediment, rust, debris, calcium, and sand are effectively filtered, enhancing water quality. Its self-cleaning mechanism allows for easy maintenance without disassembly, and it works seamlessly with several filter housings.
It is compatible with various threaded connectors, making installation simple for users. This whole house water filter is made of food-grade stainless steel and brass, ensuring longevity and reliability.
Positives
- Effective filtration
- Long-lasting materials
- Versatile compatibility
- Self-cleaning for convenience
- Improves drinking water quality
Negatives
- Requires periodic filter replacement
- May need more frequent replacement with well water
3. Aquasana Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: Activated Carbon, Sedimentation
- Flow Rate: 14.6 Gallons Per Minute
- Filter Capacity: 1,000,000 gallons or 10 years
- Warranty: 10 years
The Aquasana Water Filter stands out for its simplicity, effectiveness, and durability, making it an optimal choice for enhancing the water quality in your home. Proficient in removing dirt and a significant portion of chlorine, it enhances the overall usability of your water.
Crafted from quality materials, it proves to be a practical choice for families aspiring to have cleaner, better-tasting water across various household applications—from drinking and cooking to bathing and cleaning.
Compatible with 0.75-inch pipes, the system, encased in robust plastic with specialized filters, consists of two components: one dedicated to removing dirt and the other addressing chlorine and undesirable elements in the water.
An inherent advantage lies in its user-friendly nature, as both installation and maintenance are straightforward, catering to the accessibility needs of most households. Maintenance is easy as it is designed for a replacement interval of 10 years or after filtering 1 million gallons of water. This ensures prolonged enjoyment of clean water without the need for frequent replacements.
Positives
- Improves water quality
- Cost-effective
- Quality materials
- Comprehensive filtration
Negatives
- Periodic replacement needed
- Limited to 0.75-inch pipes
4. AO Smith Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: Salt-Free Descaler System
- Flow Rate: Not specified
- Filter Capacity: Up to 6 years or 600,000 gallons
- Warranty: 6-Year warranty
Next up is AO Smith’s AO-WH-DSCLR, a water descaler that strikes a balance between effectiveness and affordability, making it an excellent choice for larger homes.
This descaler, priced in the mid-range, is a reliable solution for extending the lifespan of your home’s pipelines and appliances. It achieves this by delivering a continuous supply of clean water, free from hardness.
The clever engineering and the scale control media housed within the tank enable this descaler to soften water without the need for salt, harsh chemicals, or electricity. Installing it along the water supply pipeline is all it takes to start enjoying its benefits hassle-free.
What sets this descaler apart is its minimal maintenance requirements. Designed to cater to a family of four, it can efficiently clean up to 600,000 gallons of water or last up to 6 years. Impressively, the tank comes with a 6-year warranty, providing peace of mind. For optimal results, consider pairing it with a whole house water filtration system.
Positives
- Ideal for a family of 4 members
- Long-lasting life span
- Easy installation
- Works for various water needs
- Long-lasting efficiency
Negatives
- Need to buy water filtration system separately
5. EXPRESS Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: 3 Stage Water Filtration System
- Flow Rate: Standard 1” inch connections
- Filter Capacity: Up to 10 years
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
The Express Water Whole House Water Filter has been a game-changer in our home, transforming the way we access water. The system not only ensures cleaner and better-tasting water but also stands out for its remarkable user-friendly design.
Situated at our main water supply line, the system treats all the water entering our home. Its robust stainless-steel build, coupled with three filter cartridges—dedicated to removing sediment, preventing scale buildup, and eliminating chlorine, taste, and odor—ensures a comprehensive water filtration experience.
The cost-effectiveness is another highlight, delivering purified water for less than a cent per gallon. Crafted with top-notch materials and craftsmanship, it comes with the assurance of a solid one-year warranty. When it comes to maintenance, filter changes are required only every 10 years or after cleaning 100,000 gallons of water. This means an abundance of clean water without the inconvenience of frequent changes.
Positives
- Improves water quality
- Cost-effective
- Quality materials
- Comprehensive filtration
- Long-lasting filter life
- Easy to install and maintain
- On-demand support
Negatives
- Limited to 0.75-inch pipes
6. Aquasure Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: Triple Purpose Sediment/GAC/Zinc Pre-Filters
- Flow Rate: Not specified
- Filter Capacity: 48,000 grains
- Warranty: 30-day money-back, 5-year extended manufacturer warranty
The Aquasure 48,000 Grains Whole House Water Filtration system is designed for professional-grade whole-house water treatment, delivering high-quality filtered and ultra-softened water to every outlet in your home. It is rated to treat 48,000 grains of hardness, effectively removing hard minerals, and rejecting water contaminants.
With its 4-stage water filtration, ensures cleaner, healthier, and better-tasting water. The automatic digital metered control head comes with a programmable backlit digital display, allowing customization of auto-flush intervals based on water quality and usage.
Aquasure provides free lifetime U.S.-based tech support and a 5-year extended manufacturer warranty for added assurance.
Positives
- 48000 grain capacity water softeners
- Triple Purpose Sediment/GAC/Zinc Pre-Filter
- High-strength, corrosion-resistant construction for durability
- Free lifetime U.S.-based tech support
- Ideal for large homes
Negatives
- Requires a professional for installation
7. Aquaboon Whole House Water Filter
Product Specifications
- Filter Type: 3-Stage Filtration (Spin-down Pre-filter, Sediment Filter, KDF, Activated Carbon Block)
- Flow Rate: Not specified
- Filter Capacity: 10,000 gallons
- Warranty: Not specified
If you are in search of a budget-friendly whole house filtration system, the Aquaboon 3-Stage 20″ Whole House filter stands out as one of the top choices. It is designed for guaranteed leak-free operation, featuring a double O-ring design and 1″ NPT ports. The system ensures a secure and waterproof seal, providing peace of mind and preventing frustrating leaks.
With a 20-inch water filter housing and larger filters, this system offers an extended filter lifespan, increased capacity, and reduced maintenance costs. The comprehensive 3-stage filtration process includes a spin-down pre-filter, sediment filter, KDF, and activated carbon block filters.
Installation and maintenance are hassle-free with easy-to-follow instructions, a housing wrench, bracket, and screws included. Pressure gauges and pressure release buttons make monitoring filter life and performing replacements effortless. The system is equipped to handle well water, providing a continuous and uninterrupted water supply throughout your home without compromising on quality.
The BB Carbon block CTO water filter and KDF media filter contribute to making the water soft by removing hard minerals such as iron, lead, nickel, and chromium. The system adheres to NSF standards, and video tutorials and professional assistance by phone are available for added convenience.
Positives
- Guaranteed leak-free operation with double O-ring design
- Extended filter lifespan and reduced maintenance costs
- Comprehensive 3-stage filtration for effective contaminant removal
- Hassle-free installation with included accessories
- Professional assistance and video tutorials available
Negatives
- Water treatment capacity could be better
What is Whole House Water Filter?
A whole house water filter is a comprehensive water purification system designed to treat all the water entering a residential property, ensuring clean and safe water throughout the entire home. Unlike point-of-use filters that target specific faucets, a whole house system is typically installed at the main water line, addressing water quality for every source.
How Does a Whole House Water Filter Work?
The filtration process starts when water enters the system, passing through different filters to remove contaminants at various levels. This ensures that water used for drinking, bathing, cooking, and even laundry is purified. Regular maintenance, including filter replacements, is crucial for sustained effectiveness. The result is not only enhanced water quality but also the protection of plumbing systems and appliances throughout the entire household.
What to Look For When Shopping For The Best Whole House Water Filter?
Selecting the best whole house water filter is crucial, not just for your health but also for the longevity of your home appliances. While we have highlighted top water filter systems above, if you are still uncertain, our buying guide is here to clarify. It is packed with essential insights to guide your decision, so give it a thorough read.
1. Type of Water Filter
The first important factor to consider for purchasing the best water filter for whole house is the type of filter it contains. We have mentioned some of the common ones below for your reference. You must make the choice based on kinds of contaminants you want to filter.
a. Cartridge Whole-House Water Filters
These filters utilize replaceable cartridges to eliminate contaminants. They can remove contaminants ranging from 0.04 to 500 microns. They come in various types, including sediment filter, organic chemical filters and heavy metal. The choice of cartridge depends on the home’s specific needs. Typically, cartridges should be replaced once in 3 months to an year, depending on usage and water quality.
- 1-Stage Whole-House Water Filters: As the name suggests, it has one filter connected to sediment filter cartridge. Ideal for basic filtration needs, so you can pair them with water softeners for reducing heavy metals.
- 2-Stage Whole-House Water Filters: Featuring 2 filtration tanks, the contaminants filtered depend on the cartridges used. Commonly designed to remove sediment, rust, chlorine, dust and others.
- 3-Stage Whole-House Water Filters: These require ample space due to their 3 filter tanks. Each tank can have a distinct filter type, making them highly versatile. They can remove a wide range of contaminants, including organic matter, heavy metals, microorganisms, and more. They are the most comprehensive option among cartridge filters.
b. Reverse Osmosis Whole-House Water Filters
Highly efficient, these filters can remove particles as tiny as 0.0001 microns. They eradicate virtually all organic matter, delivering exceptionally pure water.
These systems come with a higher price tag for both installation and maintenance, making them less popular for whole-house setups. However, they are more affordable and popular.
a. Ion Exchange
Mainly employed in homes with hard water, often associated with water softeners. Uses sodium to exchange and remove magnesium and calcium from the water.
b. Absorption
It mainly relies on carbon, often catalytic, to absorb contaminants present in tap water. Particularly adept at removing chlorine, utilizing activated carbon from plant-based sources like trees.
2. Contamination Removal
Understanding the composition of your water is crucial for effective filtration. At a minimum, filtration systems should eliminate chlorine and sediment. Beyond that, they can target chemicals, volatile organic compounds, scale, minerals, and metals.
The extent of filtration varies among manufacturers and filter types. Filtration methods range from simple sediment removal to comprehensive approaches involving UV light exposure to eliminate microorganisms on a molecular level.
3. Degree of Filtration
The filtration degree is measured in microns, indicating the size of impurities removed. Micron ratings denote the largest particle size allowed through the filter. For instance, a five-micron filter prevents larger particles but allows smaller ones.
Pre-sediment filters capture larger contaminants down to about 50 microns, while finer filters targeting 20-micron particles enhance water clarity. Five-micron filters eliminate visible particles and many bacteria, cysts, and organics. Filters with one-micron or smaller ratings produce exceptionally pure water.
4. Flow Rate
The flow rate is a pivotal factor when selecting the best whole house water filter, and it directly influences the water supply throughout your home.
Simply put, the flow rate indicates how much water can go through the filter at once, impacting the overall water delivery in your household. Systems typically range from 5 to 25 GPM to cater to the demands of large appliances.
For a one or two-bathroom home with a smaller demand, a five GPM (gallons per minute) filter is typically sufficient. However, it is crucial to understand that the finer the filtration for cleaner water, the lower the flow rate.
For those with existing low water pressure, paying close attention to maximum flow rates is crucial. It is generally considered good if the flow rate is above 7 GPM (gallons per minute).
5. Pressure Range
For whole house water filtration systems to function effectively, sufficient water pressure is essential. Typically, these systems demand a minimum of 20 pounds per square inch (PSI) to operate, with higher filtration levels requiring increased pressure. While most municipal water systems provide approximately 35 PSI, homes relying on private wells need to ensure their well pump can deliver the necessary pressure.
6. Filter Lifespan
Filters possess a finite lifespan and should be timely replaced to uphold peak water quality. Generally, sediment and carbon filters endure for 3-9 months, yet extended capacity filters boast a prolonged lifespan. Notably, reverse osmosis membranes exhibit endurance ranging from 2-5 years.
In gauging the overall cost of a whole-home filtration system, it is imperative to incorporate the expense of replacement filters. Opting for cheaper cartridges may seem economical initially, but their frequent replacement incurs additional costs. Investing in superior filters not only ensures prolonged filtration but also minimizes the need for frequent maintenance.
7. Ease of Installation
When selecting a home water filtration system, consider the simplicity of installation and operation as well. Some systems may require professional installation, while others are designed for easy setup by homeowners. Ensure there’s sufficient space around the unit for proper functioning and maintenance. Be cautious of potential obstructions, like cramped plumbing and concealed piping behind walls, which may hinder accessibility and serviceability.
8. Maintenance Costs
In the realm of water filtration systems, the simplicity of maintenance holds equal significance to ease of installation. Consistent upkeep, including replacing filters, cleaning components, and conducting system checks, if necessary, is paramount. To steer clear of frequent filter changes and expensive professional services, choose cost-effective and straightforward filter replacement options.
9. Warranty
When you are looking for a home water filter, take a close look at what the warranty covers from the manufacturer. Read the terms and conditions beforehand so you know what protection you have during the filter’s life. This way, you will feel more at ease and prepared in case any problems come up.
Who Should Invest in a Whole House Water Filter?
Consider a whole house water filter if:
- Your hair feels dry and brittle after showering
- Your water shows slight coloration
- Your skin feels dry or flaky after bathing
- Your water has an unusual smell
- You frequently face plumbing issues
- Your clothes age quickly and lose color
- Dishes from the washer have spots and streaks
Benefits of Whole House Water Filter
- Experience purified drinking water throughout your entire home with a whole house water filtration system.
- Designed to eliminate chlorine and other chemicals used in municipal treatment plants from all water sources in your home.
- Effectively reduces sediment buildup in pipes and fixtures, preventing potential clogs or reduced flow rates.
- Often more cost-effective than purchasing bottled water or individual filters for each faucet in your home.
Drawbacks of Whole House Water Filter
- Requires regular maintenance and filter changes to ensure consistent optimal performance.
- Initial installation costs may be higher compared to individual filters due to larger size and complexity.
- Might not remove all contaminants, necessitating thorough research to find the system that best suits your needs for maximum safety benefits.
How to Install Whole House Water Filter by Yourself?
Using the instructions mentioned below, you can install the whole house water filter without any issues.
- Turn off the main water supply.
- Choose a convenient spot for the filter, preferably near the main water line.
- Install shut-off valves on both sides of the filter for easy isolation.
- Use flexible tubing to connect valves securely.
- Connect tubing from the filter’s outlet to a T-fitting in the main water line.
- Attach another length to the same T-fitting, leading to a shut-off valve connected to a drain.
- Insert filter cartridges, ensuring secure placement and leak-free connections.
- Turn on the main water supply, check for leaks, and test pressure and flow rate.
- Open shut-off valves connected to the filter.
Enjoy purified water throughout your home! Remember, video tutorials are available on the manufacturer’s website and YouTube for additional guidance.
How to Maintain Whole House Water Filter Properly?
Keep your whole house water filter in top shape with these simple steps:
- Replace The Filter Every 3-6 Months: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions based on your water quality.
- Regularly Clean The Housing Unit: Unscrew and remove it, then rinse with warm water to remove accumulated dirt or debris.
- Inspect All System Parts: Ensure secure connections and check for corrosion or damage in your whole house water filter system.
- Annual Water Pressure Test: Use a pressure gauge to confirm it is within the normal range (usually 40-60 psi). Adjust with professional help if needed.
- Periodic Sediment Buildup Flush: Prevent clogs by flushing out sediment every 6 months using a suitable device like a garden hose or backwashing valve.
- Frequent Leak Checks: Visually inspect fittings for any signs of leaks. If found, seek professional plumbing assistance for immediate repairs.
- Consistent Water Quality Monitoring: Regularly test your water for contaminants and safety standards. Adjust the filter with professional assistance if needed.
Conclusion
Whether you are dealing with hard water problems, sediment, and rust issues, or simply aiming for overall water quality improvement, there is a whole house water filter system that suits your specific requirements.
With considerations for factors like filter type, flow rate, filter capacity, and additional features such as digital control heads and pressure gauges, you can make an informed decision based on your household’s unique needs.
Our top contenders for whole house water filters are
- For a small family targeting affordable water hardness treatment, iSpring Water Filter is ideal. While designed for smaller homes, multiple units can be installed for larger houses, given their cost-effectiveness in reducing limescale.
- For comprehensive water treatment, Aquasure Water Filter is the top choice. It includes a dedicated 75 GPD RO water purifier unit and a 48,000-grain capacity salt-based water softener. The bundle offers a well-priced solution with a generous 10-year warranty.
- If you solely need a water filter without a water softener, Aquaboon Water Filter is recommended. With a massive capacity of up to 1,000,000 gallons, it effectively removes contaminants like Chlorine, Chloramine, and Hydrogen Sulfide, ensuring safe water use at home.
Was the information mentioned in this article has helped you? Which model did you choose among our best whole house water filters? Is there anything you would like to share with our readers?
Water Filter – FAQs
Ans: The installation expense for a whole house water filtration system varies based on the chosen system. Simple filtration systems, priced at under $30, are often DIY-installable. Meanwhile, more complex systems, exceeding $1,000, usually necessitate professional installation. On average, the installation cost for a whole house water filtration system is around $2,000.
Ans: The ideal whole house filter is one that addresses your specific water concerns. Depending on your requirements, a system may not need UV filtering. If your water presents multiple issues, it is advisable to seek a filtration system capable of handling various challenges.
Ans: A whole house filter proves valuable for those regularly purchasing bottled water or relying on well water. If water tests reveal contaminants, the investment in a filtration system becomes worthwhile.
Ans: Optimal placement for a whole house water filter is near the main water shutoff, typically located in the basement or a utility closet. Some systems offer outdoor installation options.
Ans: The best filtration system for city water effectively addresses the city’s treatment limitations and combats additional pollutants. Activated charcoal and UV light purification prove beneficial in removing existing pollutants and microorganisms.
Ans: Whole house water filters excel at providing safe drinking water. They go beyond large-scale filtering used in municipal water treatment, addressing elements that might remain. Moreover, these filters remove contaminants that can enter water after leaving the city’s treatment facility, ensuring purified drinking water.
Ans: For the most comprehensive removal of contaminants, a whole house Reverse Osmosis filtration system stands out. While it comes with a higher cost, it excels in eliminating a wide range of organic molecules, viruses, and particles as small as 0.0001 microns. For residential use, the traditional under sink reverse osmosis filtration tank media is a more practical and suitable option.
Ans: Most whole house water filters operate without electricity. Confirm the power requirements with the specific system you choose.
Ans: Yes, a whole house filter can enhance the taste of well water by removing impurities and contaminants. Select a system based on your well water analysis.
Ans: Some whole house filters are equipped with cartridges designed to reduce lead. Check the product specifications to ensure it meets your lead-removal needs.
Ans: Filter replacement frequency varies, but it is typically recommended every 3 to 6 months. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific system.
Ans: High-quality filters are designed to maintain adequate water pressure. However, it’s essential to choose a system that aligns with your home’s water demands.
Ans: Whole house filters can address some issues related to hard water, but for comprehensive water softening, a dedicated water softener system might be necessary.
