A whole house filter system is integral to any home’s water management. It helps to protect you and your family from harmful contaminants that may be present in the water supply, such as sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, pesticides, and other substances. In addition to providing a safer drinking water source, whole-house filters can also improve the taste and odor of your water.
What Is A Whole House Filter System?
A whole house filter system is a comprehensive filtering system installed on a home’s main water line, usually near where it enters the home. The system passes all incoming water through filters designed to remove sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants. The water then continues to the fixtures and appliances in your home.
How Does A Whole Home Water Filter Work?
A whole house water filter system typically works by drawing in raw, unfiltered water from a main supply line and pushing it through several stages of filtration. This can involve anything from sediment filters to activated carbon filters that remove contaminants like chlorine, rust, heavy metals, and other particulates before the water is cleaned and sent out to every fixture in the house. Whole home systems also often include a softener component to reduce hard water and ensure that your water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances last longer.
Where Are Whole House Filter Systems Installed?
Whole house filter systems are typically installed at your home’s main water line entry point, either in the basement or outside near an exterior wall. The location of your system will depend on its type and size, but it should be installed as close to a power source as possible. Depending on the model and brand you choose, installation may require the assistance of a professional plumber.
How Long Do Whole House Filter Systems Last?
The lifespan of a whole house filter system will vary depending on the type and model and the quality of your water supply. Generally, filters should be replaced after 6-12 months or when there is a significant decrease in water pressure.
What Is A Flow Rate, And Why Is It Important?
Flow rate measures the amount of water that passes through a filter system per minute. The higher the flow rate, the faster and more efficiently contaminants are removed from your water supply. A lower flow rate may indicate an ineffective filtration system, as it could be clogged or not working correctly. It is essential to select a filter system with an appropriate flow rate for your water needs.
What Connection Size Should I Choose?
The size of the connection you choose depends on the type of filter system you are installing. Generally, a 10-inch diameter opening is sufficient for most whole house filter systems. If you have a larger home or a higher water flow rate, an 11 or 12-inch connection may be better suited for your needs. It would be best if you referred to your specific equipment manual for the ideal size for your system.
What does a whole house filter look like?
A whole house filter typically looks like a giant box mounted near the main water line. Depending on your specific needs, it usually contains one or more activated carbon or sediment filters.
What size filter housing should I choose?
The filter housing size you choose depends on your water supply’s pressure and flow rate. Generally, a 10-inch filter housing is suitable for most applications, but this can vary depending on the amount of dirt and debris present in the water.
What kind of filter does a whole house filter system use?
Whole house filter systems typically use a multi-stage filtration process to remove impurities from the water supply. The first stage is usually a sediment filter, which helps to remove dirt, rust, sand, silt, and other particles from the water before it reaches the other stages of filtration. After that, the system may use a carbon filter to remove chlorine, odors, and other chemicals from the water.
Which whole house filter type is right for me?
The right filter system for you depends on your needs and water conditions. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of sediment in the water, you might need a whole house sediment filter. Other filters are designed to reduce chlorine or other contaminants from your water, so you must consider what type of filtering qualities you need.
Do whole house water filters provide drinking water?
Yes, whole house water filters can provide clean drinking water. However, it is essential to note that while a whole house filter system will reduce sediment and other large particles from the water, it may not remove all contaminants that could affect the safety of your drinking water.
What is POE whole house water filter?
POE (Point of Entry) whole house water filters are filtration systems that filter all the incoming water for your home from one point before it gets distributed to different outlets. This filter eliminates the need for multiple smaller filters and provides a more cost-effective solution to purifying your home’s water supply.
Who needs a whole house water filter?
Anyone who wants to reduce the number of contaminants in their drinking water will benefit from a whole house filter system. Whole house filters are ideal for households with multiple people using the same water supply and want to ensure everyone has access to clean, safe water.
How much does a whole house water filter system cost?
The cost of a whole house water filter system varies widely depending on the size and complexity of the system. Generally, the average cost of an entry-level system ranges from $800 to $3,000, while more advanced systems can range in price up to $15,000 or more.
Is functioning and maintenance of whole house water easy?
Yes, maintenance of a whole house water filter system is relatively straightforward. You must periodically change the filters or clean them according to your manufacturer’s instructions.
Will the whole house water filter system soften my water?
The whole house water filter system does not soften the water. It will, however, remove sediment and chlorine from the water that may cause hardening and discoloration of your fixtures and clothing. To soften your water, you would need a separate softening system explicitly designed for that purpose.
Can I remove the water filter system if I move house?
Yes, you can easily remove and reinstall your whole house filter system if you move house. If the piping in the new property is of a different diameter than that used in your previous property, you will need to purchase suitable adapters to fit the new pipes.
Can I install the whole house water filter system myself, or do I need to employ a plumber?
You can install a whole house water filter system yourself in most cases. However, if you have limited DIY experience, it is recommended to employ the services of a plumber.
Can I use the whole house water filter system if I use a borehole?
Yes, you can use the whole house water filter system if your home is connected to a bore hole. However, it is essential to note that groundwater may contain different contaminants than those found in municipal or public water sources.
What is it like to live in a house with a whole house water unit and a separate drinking water filter?
Generally, you can expect improved water quality and taste throughout your home. You will also experience a reduction in the amount of sediment buildup on your faucets and showers. In addition, as long as your filter is regularly maintained and replaced, you may start to feel better overall due to minimized chemical exposures.
How Effective Are Whole House Water Filters?
- Chemical Removal: Whole-house water filter systems are generally very effective at removing chemicals from your home’s drinking water. Many systems are NSF certified to remove contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and other heavy metals.
- Flow Rate & Impact On Water Pressure: Whole house filter systems typically have a high flow rate, so they won’t reduce your home’s water pressure. This is important if you are concerned about maintaining adequate pressure when using multiple fixtures.
What are the different types of whole house water filters?
- Water softeners: These systems use salt to exchange minerals in the water, such as calcium and magnesium, for sodium ions. This process helps reduce the hardness of the water, which can help improve the performance and lifespan of appliances that use water.
- Ultraviolet purification systems: These systems use UV light to kill microorganisms in the water, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
- Sediment filters: These filters remove sediment and large particles from the water, such as dirt, rust, and silt.
- Carbon filters: Carbon filters contain activated carbon used to absorb contaminants from the water, such as chlorine and other chemicals.
- Acid neutralizers: These systems use a process called “neutralization” to reduce the acidity of the water, making it less corrosive and more pleasant tasting.
Meet Jeffrey B Roberts, your dedicated guide into the realm of water science and technology. As a hydro biologist with an insatiable curiosity, Jeffrey’s journey has been one of unraveling the mysteries of water systems and advocating for clean, safe water for all.
With an academic background steeped in the sciences, Jeffrey’s passion lies at the crossroads of science, technology, and nature. A deep fascination with plants and genetics has not only enriched their understanding of aquatic ecosystems but has also propelled them into the world of water softening solutions.
Believing that clean water is a basic human right, Jeffrey’s writing transcends the technicalities, making the intricate world of water softening accessible to all. Through their blog, they ardently share insights, tips, and breakthroughs, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their water quality.
Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Jeffrey is a respected figure in the hydronics industry education. With years of hands-on experience, they serve as an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of experts at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. His involvement on the Technical Advisory Board further cements their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in water technology.