The Best Whole House Water Filters for Well Water

Well water must be as safe to drink and use as treated municipal or city water supply. Families who want to ascertain the safety and quality of their well water must get only the best whole house water filter for well water.

These filtration products not only remove harmful substances, ensuring a healthier and safer drink. It also improves the taste, clarity, and odor of the water, allowing families to make delicious beverages and wow the crowd.

Picking the right whole house water filter for well water requires understanding several crucial factors, such as the following:

• Filtration Technology: Whole house water filters feature different filtration technologies. Some are efficient in filtering sediments, while others improve the water’s aesthetics. Comprehensive water treatment systems for well water also address total dissolved solids, iron, heavy metals, microorganisms, and other harmful contaminants.
• Filtration Performance: A well water filtration system that removes at least 90% of known contaminants is always better than a product that can only eliminate about 85%. However, it is one thing to issue these claims and a different matter to have an independent organization validating and certifying the evidence.
• Water Flow Rating: The issue with any filtration system is that it tends to reduce water flow. If the household enjoys 10 gallons per minute without the filter, they can experience a drop in their water consumption with the system. As such it is best to pick a water filter that provides maximum water flow – a 20-GPM unit is better than a 10-GPM filter.

Choosing the right whole house water filter for well water is not all about these three crucial factors. As one can see in the following product reviews and comprehensive buying guide, other factors can come into play. Recognizing and appreciating these factors can help people buy the best product to filter their well water.

Best Whole House Water Filter for Well Water Reviews

1. Culligan WH-HD200-C Whole House Filtration System

Culligan remains at the forefront of water filtration technology. Its WH-HD-200-C is a dependable system for accommodating the best whole house filter for well water one can buy.

I must point out that this house water filtration system is the canister only. However, potential buyers should not feel disheartened because its design allows the accommodating of various filter cartridges. One can always pick a modest sediment filter or an advanced membrane to reduce common well water contaminants. Its flexibility is worth it.

I love this water filter system’s shatter-resistant, transparent housing. One will never second guess if it is already time for a filter change. Unfortunately, I find the addition of a filter life monitor redundant. Nevertheless, some people will consider the dual filter monitoring mechanisms advantageous.

I appreciate the inclusion of a bypass valve in the heavy-duty filter head. Most house water filtration systems have the bypass valve shutoff mechanism outside the main filter body. However, I am surprised that some users found it more helpful to install a separate bypass valve because of reliability issues.

Depending on the filter cartridge one fits into this device, it can deliver a maximum of 10 GPM. It is sufficient for a medium-sized family. What surprised me is its 125 PSI maximum water pressure threshold.

This product also comes with WQA certification. While the validation does not come from ANSI/NSF itself, one will feel confident about the quality and performance of this water filtration system.

2. Express Water WH300SCKS Whole House Water Filter

I am one of the millions of people believing in Express Water’s water filtration product excellence. The company’s WH300SCKS is safe for households that take their drinking water from the well.

I consider this product the best water filtration system for well water for several reasons. First, it combines three proven filtration technologies, including sediment, activated carbon, and kinetic degradation fluxion. While I would have loved having a reverse osmosis system in this filtration product, I know it can do a splendid job of reducing at least 80 known water contaminants.

This Express Water heavy metal filter removes chlorine, mercury, arsenic, lead, iron, and other heavy metals. Its sediment filter eliminates rust, dirt, silt, sand, and other large particles. It is its KDF technology that I am impressed with, removing VOCs, pesticides, organic contaminants, and even some microorganisms.

Installation is never an issue because of its Express Connect design. The filter itself ensures a sufficient water flow rate of 15 gallons per minute. While I hoped to get a 20-GPM unit, this is more than enough for a family of six. The filter is also economical, accommodating 100,000 gallons before needing a replacement.

3. iSpring WGB32BM Whole-house Water Filtration System

The iSpring WGB32BM is a multistage filtration system suitable for reducing iron and manganese from well water.

This efficient well water filter system can deliver great-tasting and safe drinking water, even if it comes from an outdoor well.

I am amazed by this filtration system’s use of a catalytic membrane for reducing iron and manganese compounds. I feel more comfortable using this filter, especially in homes with modest groundwater iron concentrations. It can handle a maximum of 3 PPM of iron and reduce it to 0.1 PPM. I am glad to know there are no more rusty pipes for me.

I also like this filter’s polypropylene sediment and activated carbon block filters, improving the aesthetics of my beverages while allowing me to feel confident about not having impurities in my drinks.

In truth, this whole house water filtration can reduce up to 95% of sediments, organic compounds, chlorine, industrial solvents, and other contaminants that make well water unsafe and unpleasant to drink.

However, it is its flushable filter design that I am most impressed with. It has an auto-flushing mechanism that removes trapped particles in the filter elements, extending the filter’s lifespan. I consider this the best well water filtration system due to its long-lasting filter system.

People will also feel more secure with this product because it underwent extensive testing and validation by SGS against ANSI/NSF standards. The mounting plate is also as durable as one can hope for, ensuring a more stable installation.

4. Aquaboon Big Blue Whole House Well Water Filter System

Some families want a versatile product they can use with different whole house water filter brands. One such system is the Aquaboon Big Blue. Like the Culligan WH-HD200-C, this product is a filter canister that can accommodate various filter cartridges from different brands.

I find its universal design suitable for households that want to experiment with various types of filtration media across different brands. For example, one can install a filter from Pentek, Watts, iSpring, AquaPure, Dupont, and more. As long as the cartridge measures 20 inches long and 4.5 inches in diameter, it should sit perfectly inside this canister.

Also, I love this product’s double O-ring construction. Most water filter canisters I know only feature a single O-ring. Doubling this element can eliminate leaky issues, keeping the house free from puddles and temporary flooding.

Installing this whole house filtration device is also effortless. The mounting screws on top secure the device, while its built-in pressure valve release makes it worry-free to replace the filter.

I have worked with polypropylene materials before, and I can say this product has thick walls, unlike house water filter systems with flimsy-looking sidings.

5. SimPure DB10 Upgrade Whole House Water Filter Housing

SimPure makes reliable whole house well water filtration systems. The brand ensures the flexibility to choose which filter membrane to use for users’ homes. That is why many consumers consider the DB10 as one of the best filter housings on the market.

Unlike other filter casing-only systems, this product can accommodate either sediment or CTO filter. As long as the cartridge is not larger than 4.5 inches in diameter and 10 inches high, one should fit the preferred cartridge into this blue casing.

I like the idea of customizing one’s filtration mechanisms. One can choose from different manufacturers to use in this system. For example, households can insert CTO or sediment filters from Culligan, GeekPure, Aquaboon, iSpring, Hydronix, Ronaqua, and more. Such filter housing flexibility empowers families to decide how they want to treat their well water.

I love this canister’s design, especially its thick walls. The food-grade polypropylene plastic also has certification from an independent laboratory, giving people confidence every time they get the water filtered by this unit.

Mounting this filter housing is effortless, thanks to its robust bracket construction. One can save hundreds of dollars from professional installation because this device can be a worthy DIY project. Maintaining the product’s optimum operation is also hassle-free.

6. Pro+Aqua PRO-WELL-1E Whole House Filter System

The Pro+Aqua PRO-WELL-1E promises to be an exceptional home filtration system for well water. It has outstanding contaminant reduction capabilities, robust construction, and advanced technologies that make its operation as effortless as possible.

Like many water filters on this list, this device can reduce more than the usual water impurities. People no longer have to bear the rotten egg or rusty smell of their well water because this device can address the molecules causing these odors. It can also filter out manganese, copper, uranium, zinc, radium, and other heavy metals.

I love the advanced technologies embedded into this water softener-like device. The auto-shutoff valve is programmable, allowing people to keep tabs on the system’s operation.

I am amazed by this system’s auto-clean mechanism, ensuring hassle-free maintenance and optimum operation. I no longer have to worry about missed maintenance routines and other activities.

One can also save hundreds of dollars on installation costs alone. The instructional manual provides clear directions on how one can set this system in the home. It also does not matter if one has a female or a male adapter because it accepts both. One can also choose to install it with the bypass valve.

While I admire this product’s automatic controls, I wish its backflush programming is settable to manual or meter-based. The product automatically backwashes the system every two days, which can increase overall water consumption.

7. Home Master HMF2SDGFEC Whole House Water Filtration System

Families looking for a whole house water filter for well water with iron should buy the Home Master HMF25DGFEC. This water filtration system features a unique sediment filter and a radial flow filtration mechanism to make good on its promise of delivering exceptional quality well water.

I am surprised by this water filter’s different three-stage filtration design. Most products with three filter stages use a combination of sediment, carbon, and post-treatment. This product still uses a sediment filter for its initial stage. However, its second filter membrane is specific to iron, manganese, and sulfur. This unit can reduce these minerals by as much as 95%.

The third stage improves the water’s aesthetic qualities, trapping odor and taste molecules. It also eliminates other impurities that can make for a less than fascinating beverage. At least, making coffee, juice, or tea is a breeze with this unit serving the whole family.

Going back to its sediment filter, I am astonished to learn that it includes four layers of graduated filters. The smallest filter size is only 1-micron in diameter, while the largest is 25 microns. I find this arrangement unique because most products I have seen only have a single-size filter for the sediment membrane.

I also like this filter’s 15-GPM flow rate. It is not a 20-GPM device, but it guarantees exceptional water supply to everyone in the household without causing substantial water pressure reductions. A family of six can use water simultaneously.

8. 3M Aqua-Pure AP904 Whole House Water Filter System

The 3M Aqua-Pure AP904 continues to surprise many households despite being in the market for almost a decade. It is one of the most reliable systems, especially for families looking for a whole house water filter for well water sediment and CTO.

Unlike other products that remove almost every impurity from well water, this product works its magic against sediments, chlorine, nasty odors, unpleasant tastes, and other common contaminants. It is not as well-rounded as other systems, but it does an exceptional job. Additionally, one will feel more confident about this product’s claims because it has the backing of NSF.

I like its advanced Sanitary Quick Change technology, ensuring not only effortless filter change. It also facilitates safer replacements because one does not need to disassemble the entire thing. A quick turn of the canister is enough to access the cartridge. There is no need to call for a plumber because a newbie can replace the filter with ease.

I appreciate this filter’s 100,000-gallon capacity. While it seems mediocre compared to a million-gallon capacity unit, it still lasts longer than other products with similar capabilities. The best thing about this filter is that it provides up to 10 gallons of safe drinking water per minute. However, one can jack it up to 20 GPM intermittently.

9. Aquasana Rhino Whole House Well Water Filter System

This product is one of the best well water treatment systems one can ever get. Not only does it filter well water. It also delivers pure, germ-free drinking water. Very few products can outclass this system.

At the core of this water filtration system is its UV purifier that exposes harmful microorganisms to UV-C radiation. One can say goodbye to coliforms, cysts, viruses, protozoa, and other germs from their water.

I also love this filter’s Scale Control Media technology, which serves as a water conditioner. It ionizes calcium and other water hardness minerals, preventing them from adhering to the surfaces of water fixtures and appliances.

I am glad I will never worry about limescale in my water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, coffee maker, showerhead, and other fixtures ever again.

This product also removes other contaminants, including lead, chlorine, mercury, VOCs, pesticides, organic compounds, and more. Its dual-tank design maximizes water contaminant contact time with the filtration media, ensuring more efficient and comprehensive removal.

I am also surprised by this product’s exceptional filter lifespan. At 500,000 gallons, one can expect to replace the principal filters only after five years or so. Modern families will love the savings they get from this filter. Its hassle-free maintenance also contributes to increased savings because there is no need to call a professional.

10. SpringWell Whole House Water Filter System

People looking for a well water filter system that lasts many years can consider the SpringWell Whole House Water Filter System. Where most filtration systems come with plastic housings, this one features premium-grade stainless steel.

I love its main filtration tank, resembling an ion-exchange water softener but with an elegant sheen. One can tell the high quality of the materials used in this house filter system, making it a beautiful addition.

Notably, this house water filtration can screen up to a million gallons of well water. That is about ten times more than what standard well water filters offer. If a 100,000-gallon unit can last a year, there is no question this filter membrane will reach a decade of service before requiring a replacement.

The filter removes up to 99.6% of chlorine, chloramine, VOCs, organic compounds, and other substances present in well water. There is also no worrying about sediments because this device already includes a sediment pre-filter. It traps debris, dirt, silt, sand, rust, and other particles before these substances reach the main tank.

I also like its 9-GPM flow rate. It is not as copious as a 20-GPM system, but it should suffice for a family of four. Installation is never inconvenient, although one may have to enlist someone’s help because the device is quite heavy.

What to Look for When Buying Whole House Water Filter for Well Water

Novice homeowners often find it challenging to shop for the best whole house water filter system for well water. There are many options one can choose from, each providing benefits and advantages people may need. Whenever one is shopping for a well water filter, it would be best to keep the following things in mind.

Filtration Technology

Point-of-entry water filtration systems feature different technologies in removing or reducing water contaminants. One’s choice of filter depends on what impurities are present in the well water.

For example, if the household only has issues with sediments, rust. Silt, small rocks, and other large particles in their well water, a sediment filtration system is often sufficient.

However, if the well water has a nasty smell similar to a rotten egg, a filter with sulfur-reducing capabilities is essential. For ordinary smells and tastes, a carbon filter is often substantial in improving water’s aesthetic qualities. Making juices, smoothies, cocktails, coffee, tea, and other beverages should be a breeze.

Unfortunately, a carbon filter’s pore size may still be too large for some contaminants. If the family requires the removal of microscopic elements, a reverse osmosis system is a must. However, one should always install a sediment pre-filter before the RO system. Not adding this component can tax the reverse osmosis membrane, leading to faster degradation.

A few products are also more specific to iron, manganese, and sulfide reduction. If these are the household’s principal concerns in their well water, the right filter should include a membrane that can remove these minerals.

Some filtration technologies also remove bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. Filters with kinetic degradation fluxion technologies can execute these actions while improving the water’s aesthetic qualities.

However, if one requires well water purification, only a whole house filtration system with UV sterilizers will do the job. Ordinary filters only trap harmful germs. Ultraviolet systems inactivate and kill these microorganisms, rendering the well water safe to drink.

Some whole house filters also have water softening capabilities. These products do not use potassium and sodium chloride molecules to knock magnesium and calcium compounds from the water. Instead, the system uses a different mechanism to prevent water hardness minerals from adhering to surfaces and cause limescale buildup.

Filtration Performance

The best well water filter guarantees optimal performance. If the product claims it can remove 95% lead, mercury, and other heavy metals, it should have concrete and verifiable evidence to support its assertions.

One can feel more confident about a filter’s performance if it has a verifiable certification from reputable quality organizations. As much as possible, one should pick a product with an ANSI/NSF certification.

If the product does not have such validation, people can look for other trustworthy third-party organizations, such as the Water Quality Association.

Buyers must choose a filter with the highest possible filtration performance. For example, suppose one product can remove 99% of iron while the other can eliminate 99.99%. While both iron filters can remove 99% of ferrous molecules, the second product is better because of its 99.99% rating.

As always, one has to check the validity of these claims. Any company can publish outlandish numbers as a marketing ploy.

Water Flow Rating

Most water filters adversely impact water flow. In general, the tinier the filter pores, the more significant the water flow reduction. For example, a 5-micron carbon filter may only provide the household with a maximum of 15 gallons per minute. On the other hand, a 50-micron sediment filter can deliver 20 to 30 gallons of water per minute.

The number of filtration technologies in the system can also affect water flow. Fewer filters can produce sufficient water flow, while multiple filters can reduce the flow by about 30%.

That is why potential buyers must consider their average water consumption. The toilet can use about 2.5 gallons per minute, 3 GPM for dishwashers, 4 GPM for washing machines, 3 GPM for showers, and 2.5 GPM for sink faucets.

If one adds these figures together, the result is 15 gallons per minute. Unfortunately, if additional faucets, taps, and water appliances are also running, the water consumption also increases.

As a rule, it would be best to get a water filter that has almost the same GPM rating as what one already has in the home. If not, always check the filter with a higher GPM rating.

Filter Lifespan

Another essential factor potential whole house water filter buyers must consider is the filter’s lifespan. While many variables can affect a filter membrane’s longevity, one should always get a product with the longest possible service life.

Unfortunately, manufacturers rate their filters based on the volume of water they can accommodate before requiring a replacement.

For example, a filter can have a rating of 100,000 gallons. If the household has modest water consumption and their water is not full of contaminants, this filter can last more than a year. A heavy water-consuming family can reduce the same filter’s lifespan to only six to eight months.

Ideally, one will want to get a filtration system that can accommodate greater volumes of water. A 100,000-gallon unit is standard, although some manufacturers push the boundaries by creating filters that hold 500,000 to 1 million gallons of water.

Other Important Factors to Consider

Filtration technology, performance, and water flow rating are not only the essential factors one must consider when choosing a drinking water filtration system for well water.

• Installation Ease

Some products require expert installation to prevent voiding the unit’s warranty, while others recommend professional installation to eliminate leaks. Unfortunately, professional installation can be expensive.

If one does not want to spend extra on installation, it will be wise to get a water filter with a straightforward design. One must check unit compatibility to the existing plumbing network, allowing the person to buy the right materials to make the connection.

• Initial and Running Costs

In general, whole house filtration systems are more expensive than point-of-use products. A simple sediment filter can cost homeowners several tens of dollars. However, such a filter is often insufficient to make well water drinkable. There will still be contaminants in the water.

A three-stage filtration system can set families back by a few hundred dollars, often more expensive if the system includes a highly specialized filtration mechanism. For example, a standard sediment-carbon-GAC filtration system can cost a couple of hundred dollars, while a sediment-iron filter-ACF setup can cost families twice.

The cost of the filter is not the only thing one has to consider. The cost of replacement filters is also essential, which correlates to the filter’s service lifespan. The higher the filtration capacity, the less frequent the filter change. It can reduce total running costs because of less frequent filter replacements.

One also must consider the cost of installation. Do-it-yourself installation may only require purchasing additional materials to set the system up. If one wants expert installation, the cost can run anywhere between a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the nature of the activity.

• Availability and Accessibility of Parts

No filter component will last a lifetime. Steel fittings can degrade over time, while plastics can also deteriorate. Sometimes, the hardware included in the package does not fit one’s existing plumbing system. One must purchase these parts to get the filter up and running.

That is why it is equally essential to check the accessibility and availability of parts and components. For example, a filter with a universal design is a lot better than a highly specialized unit. One can purchase O-rings, pipe adapters, and other materials to use.

• Consumer Reviews

Some people may not like reading whole house water filter reviews because they can be biased. However, one can always find value in them by learning about the experiences of real people. One should not only look at the positive things about a product. He should also look at the problems or negative comments.

If one encounters a negative comment, one should read the rest of the reviews. Some issues are isolated, while others point to a fundamental design flaw. If several users flag the same problem, such a concern may be valid.

Potential buyers can decide whether they can live with the issues raised or not.

Other Important Factors to Consider

What is Whole House Water Filter for Well Water? How Does it Work?

A whole house water filter for well water is similar to any point-of-entry water treatment system that people install in their main water supply line before it branches into distribution pipes. Most households install the system in their basement between the main water shutoff valve and the first water distribution pipe.

The only difference is that a whole house well water filter removes more contaminants than conventional water filtration systems.

Water from artesian wells and other outdoor sources does not undergo chemical disinfection at a water treatment facility, making it unsafe for human consumption. The water can contain harmful microorganisms, toxins, chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and other compounds.

Water from the well travels through the main pipe, enters the filter, and goes to the different faucets, water appliances, and other fixtures in the house. Before entering the filter, the water can be unsafe to drink. It should be safe and pleasant to drink right after passing through the filter membrane.

The contaminants removed depend on the filter technology present in the whole house filtration system. Some products remove only sediments, while others also reduce compounds that give the water a foul smell and taste.

Other products kill microbes, reduce total dissolved solids, balance the pH, eliminate harmful substances, soften water, or a combination of these actions.

What are the Different Types of Whole House Water Filters for Well Water?

Whole house water filter systems come in different types, based on their filtration technologies or the contaminants they can remove or reduce.

• Sediment Filters

These water filter systems have large-diameter pores, allowing microscopic substances to pass through. The holes can range in size between 5 microns and 200 microns. Although, there are products that feature pores as tiny as 1 micron in diameter.

A sediment filter’s principal function is to screen large particles before these substances reach the system’s core filtration membrane. Most people call them pre-filters because the location of these devices is always before the home water filter system.

Because of the large-diameter pores, a sediment filter can only remove rust, silt, dust, dirt, sand, debris, small rocks, and other large particles. It cannot screen volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, toxins, and other harmful chemicals.

That is why sediment filters are suitable only for households with an existing whole house water filtration system for well water. It can serve as a standalone filtration mechanism if the family only wants to eliminate large particles from their well water and nothing else.

• Carbon Filters

Families who need more than large particle or sediment reduction can choose a product with carbon filters. These whole house water filtration systems rely on carbon’s unique adsorption properties to do one of two things, depending on the filter’s design.

A granular activated carbon block filter provides homes with an adsorptive media, trapping water contaminants in the carbon’s microscopic spaces. Granules touch at certain points, leaving gaps in between carbon molecules. Water impurities can lodge in these crevices, trapping them until carbon filter replacement.

Carbon filters are exceptional in trapping chlorine odor and taste molecules, improving the water’s aesthetic qualities. Well water does not have chlorine, but the absorptive properties of carbon can be exceptional in improving the water’s drinkable characteristics. Most manufacturers use coconut shell carbon media for their GAC.

On the other hand, solid carbon block filters attract suspended solids and other chemicals. As these compounds conglomerate on the filter, they push inwards and allow other substances to adhere to the surface. That is why carbon filters can also remove VOCs, some minerals, heavy metals, pesticides, and other organic contaminants.

Some products feature a kinetic degradation fluxion technology that enhances the carbon filter’s contaminant-removal capabilities. Some KDF technologies can also eliminate bacteria, cysts, and other microorganisms.

In a multi stage whole house water filter, the carbon filter often serves as a post filter.

•  Manganese and Iron Filters

Iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, and other heavy metals are present in the soil. These elements can get into the well and contaminate the drinking water. While these do not pose a serious threat to human health, iron can lead to rusty water fixtures and appliances. That is why a whole house iron filter may be necessary.

Iron filtration systems come in different types. Some products introduce an air pocket into the water chamber, exposing iron molecules to oxygen. The resulting oxidation renders the ferrous compounds incapable of forming rust in water fixtures.

• Reverse Osmosis Systems

Many water treatment experts consider reverse osmosis systems the best in removing water impurities. A special mechanism pushes well water through an ultra-fine membrane with holes as tiny as 0.0001 microns in diameter. Water molecules pass through the filter easily, but not other compounds.

A high-quality RO system can remove minerals, heavy metals, toxins, microbes, and other substances with a diameter larger than 0.0001 microns. Unfortunately, RO systems tend to remove even beneficial minerals, upsetting the water’s pH.

• UV Sterilizers

Ultraviolet or UV filters are not filters in a strict sense. Filtration involves passing water through a semipermeable membrane, trapping large molecules at the front, and allowing only small particles to pass through.

A whole house system with a UV filter exposes the well water to ultraviolet radiation. The UV-C kills microbes, including coliforms, viruses, fungi, cysts, protozoa, parasites, and more. It is the ideal solution for homeowners who live near livestock farms.

• Water Conditioners

Water from the well contains many minerals that can harden water. It can make shower times less pleasant while increasing the risk of developing limescale in plumbing fixtures and water appliances. That is why a water softener is an essential component of a well water system.

Unfortunately, traditional water softeners dispose of salts into the environment. If one needs soft water, a better option is a salt free water softener. These products are not water softeners but are water conditioners. They alter the chemical properties of hardness minerals to prevent adhesion to plumbing surfaces.

• Combination Filters

One must realize that no single whole house water filter type can remove all forms of contaminants. That is why experts recommend multiple filters assembled in several stages. For example, one can get a water treatment system that includes a sediment filter, carbon filter, KDF system, RO membrane, UV purifier, scale inhibitor, and iron filter.

Why Do You Need Whole House Water Filters for Well Water?

The main reason why households that rely on outdoor wells for their water need a whole house water filter is safety. One must realize that well water does not undergo any form of treatment before consumption. Unlike municipal water or city water, well water does not receive chlorine treatment and other chemicals to kill harmful microorganisms.

While its chemical-free nature can make well water more ideal for some people, one must recognize where the water comes from. Well water emanates from the waterbed or aquafer deep underground. Minerals, heavy metals, and other substances can leach into the water. Similarly, microorganisms can get into the water and multiply.

Unfortunately, one cannot see these changes in the well water. People may notice an unpleasant smell and taste coming from the dissolved substances and microorganisms. Making coffee, tea, smoothies, ice cubes, and juices will not be as thrilling as one expects. Taking a bath can also be less than enjoyable because minerals can affect the soap’s ability to form suds.

Households will also notice rusts, limescale, and other stains on their water fixtures. Limescale and rust buildup can clog holes, reduce water flow, and disrupt the family’s enjoyment of water-related activities.

Water with high heavy metal concentrations can also damage water appliances. The water heater may not work efficiently, leading to unnecessary energy expenditures. The dishwasher and washing machine can also function less efficiently, leaving families with smelly clothes and less-than-pristine-looking dishes and kitchen utensils.

What concerns most people about well water is coliform. City water or municipal water does not have this issue because of extensive chlorine treatment. Coliform bacteria can seep into the watershed, especially if the well is within the vicinity of livestock farms, such as cattle, hogs, poultry, and others.

Animal feces contain coliform bacteria as part of the livestock’s normal digestive flora. When they defecate, coliform bacteria can reach the waterbed and contaminate the well. While not harmful, the presence of coliform bacteria in well water can also signal an increased risk of contamination with pathogenic microbes.

Water filters for well water address these concerns, ensuring people will have safe, great-tasting, and clean drinking water even if it did not pass through a city water treatment facility. However, one must understand that no single water filtration product can solve all these concerns. It often takes a combination of technologies to ensure safer, cleaner, and greater-tasting well water.

Whole house filtration systems are also more economical than getting several point-of-use products. It is true these devices are more expensive than their POU counterparts. However, it delivers filtered water throughout the rest of the house. A POU product only filters the water that goes out from a particular faucet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best whole house water filter for well water?

Among the tens of manufacturers of well water filtration systems, Culligan, 3M, and Aquasana continue to lead the way. Not only are their filters top-notch, but they also perform splendidly. Not far behind are the products of Express Water, iSpring, SpringWell, and Pro+Aqua.

Simpure, Home Master, and Aquaboon also command respect and admiration for their well water contaminant removal capabilities.

Is well water safe to shower in?

Yes, it is safe to take a shower with well water. However, you may not be able to enjoy a delightful bath because the water’s heavy mineral concentration can impact your soap’s cleansing capabilities. People bathing with well water may notice difficulty forming a lather. After showering, they may also feel less clean because of the slimy feeling of soap residues on the skin.

Filtering the well water before showering should help make bath times more pleasant. While people do not ordinarily drink water from the shower, some kids may feel adventurous. Filtration safeguards children from upsetting their stomachs or coming down with another illness because they inadvertently drank the well water.

Can you filter iron out of well water?

Yes, it is possible to filter iron out of well water, provided one uses the correct filtration technology. A whole house iron filtration system is always a wise decision if one wants to reduce iron molecules in well water.

Reverse osmosis systems and water softeners can also remove iron from well water. Advanced RO filters can remove almost all heavy minerals and dissolved solids in the water. Their 0.0001-micron pores are so tiny that the system even removes beneficial minerals while eliminating microorganisms.

On the other hand, water softeners are suitable for removing magnesium, calcium, and, to a lesser extent, iron molecules. These products work by knocking off these heavy metals from the water and replacing them with other, non-hard water-producing compounds.

The best filter for iron removal is one that introduces air into the well water. Oxygenating the water oxidizes the ferric and ferrous compounds, preventing their adhesion to surfaces and giving people water with low iron content.

Can I use a reverse osmosis filter for my well water?

Yes, a reverse osmosis filter is always an excellent addition to a comprehensive domestic well water treatment system. One must remember that RO systems work best when combined with other filtration technologies.

In general, the system must include a sediment pre-filter to eliminate large particles and debris before the well water goes through the RO elements. Passing sediments and large particles through the RO membranes can clog the system faster, requiring more frequent maintenance and filter membrane replacements.

How long do whole house water filters for well water last?

Whole house water filters for well water can last between six months and two years, depending on several factors. For example, the more sediments and particles present in the well water, the faster the filter loses its effectiveness. The more frequent one will replace the unit.

One also has to consider the filter’s pore size. Filtration units with ultra-fine screens clog faster than products with larger holes. How quick the filter congests spells its longevity.

If one uses only sediment filters, it is possible to extend its longevity by many years. Most sediment filters come with stainless steel mesh, allowing for washability and reusability.

How much does a well water filtration system cost?

Several factors can impact a well water filtration system’s cost. For instance, a simple sediment filter can set households back by several tens of dollars. Adding an activated carbon filter or kinetic degradation fluxion technology can increase the price to a few hundred dollars.

If the system comes with an extra reverse osmosis membrane and an ultraviolet microbial treatment element, the well water filtration system can cost families several hundred dollars. One can expect to pay anywhere between $50 and $500 for a well-water filtration system, depending on the number and type of filtration technologies involved.

There is also the cost of installation. Some products have a straightforward design, allowing for a DIY installation. Other filtration systems require an expert installation to avoid causing leaks and voiding the product’s warranty.

Filter replacements and maintenance can also affect the filtration system’s operating costs. That is why potential buyers must also consider the price of replacement parts and other components.

How to care and maintain?

Caring and maintaining a whole house water filtration system for well water depends on the type of product one has in the home. Most products feature a bypass valve, allowing people to work on their filters without disrupting the water supply to the rest of the house.

Regular cleaning of the filter’s various components can help extend its service lifespan. Removing dust and dirt on the surfaces is crucial. Replacing the filter cartridge is also essential. The good news is that many products today come with their respective filter housing wrenches for disconnecting the casing from the filter head.

For whole house water filters with reverse osmosis technology, one may have to hire a professional to service the RO membrane annually or depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations. The same is true for systems with UV technology. Although, one can replace the UV lamp once it reaches the end of its service life.

Reusable sediment filters require frequent flushing to remove large debris, particles, and sediments. Note that not all sediment filters come with stainless steel screens. Hence, one may have to replace the filter with the correct product.

Conclusion

The best whole house water filter for well water not only ensures great-tasting water from an outdoor well. It can also safeguard the family’s health by removing harmful contaminants, such as toxins, heavy metals, organic compounds, microorganisms, and more.

While no single filtration technology can guarantee all these benefits, families can combine different products to form a comprehensive water treatment system.

Edward Manning

My work as a freelance copywriter allows me to work with Stephen later join Usawaterquality as a content producer. Our team works together to produce high-quality contents that cater to the needs of large companies and households.