12 Best Whole House Water Filters In 2022

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With a filter, you can always ensure you are getting purified water.

Whether your supply comes from the city or well, a whole house filtration system will remove impurities allowing you to drink, cook with, and consume safe water during your daily activities at every faucet.

It is easy to get overwhelmed, given the number of options and brands available. To simplify your decision-making process, we have compiled the 12 best whole house water filter reviews to make getting the one right for your home very clear.

My Quick List of The Best Whole House Water Filters for 2022 and beyond.

• Best for Well Water: iSpring WGB32BM
• Best for Low Maintenance: Home Master HMF3SDGFEC
• Best for Lead: Aquasana OPTIMH20
• Best Small Spaces: Culligan WH-HD200-C
• Best for Budget: GE GXWH04F
• Best UV: Vitapur
• Best for Small Houses: Filtersmart FS1000
• Best for Three-Stage Filtration: Express Water
• Best for Organic Matter: Pelican UV Filter
• Best Soft Water Results: Aquasana 1000 Rhino
• Best Overall: AquaOx
• Best for City Water: Springwell CF1

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12 BEST Best Whole House Water Filters Reviews for 2022

Overview:

This AquaOx is our top pick for the best whole water filtration system. This 7-stage filter removes 71 contaminants, including iron, chlorine, and lead.

Thanks to the model’s thoroughness, your water will taste better, and you will have less chalk buildup in sinks around your home.

It has a 15 gallons per minute flow rate. And the Fleck Digital head of the AquaOx is available in 2 sizes – regular and XL. The XL head is an excellent addition for large houses with more than four bathrooms.

It is a sizeable investment. However, the backwash mechanism means you will never spend a penny on replacement cartridges. Plus, the manufacturer’s 10-year or two-million gallons guarantee is impressive.

Pros

• Massive filter housing
• No maintenance required
• Excellent water pressure

Cons

• Very expensive

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Overview:

As one of the highest-quality, best-priced options on the market, the Springwell CF1 provides odorless, tasteless water. Best suited for city water filtering, it uses 4-stages inclusive of premium coconut carbon and KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) media to remove chlorine, chloramine, PFOA, PFAS PFOS, heavy metals, herbicides, and more.

Furthermore, at the time of writing, the Springwell CF1 achieved 4.8 stars out of 5 on Amazon. The innovative technology design increases water contact with the media, maximizing cleansing up to 99.6 percent.

Since media changes are necessary after 1,000,000 gallons, you will not need a filter replacement until the next 10-years. Within that time, you can enjoy water pressure is between 25 and 80 PSI and a 9 GPM (gallons of water per minute) flow rate.his model is not to be confused with the 2-stage

In addition to the 6-month satisfaction guarantee, there is a lifetime warranty on all parts. And lastly, an easy installation kit to follow.

Pros

• DIY-friendly
• 4-stage water filter
• Extended filter lifespan
• No electricity needed

Cons

• Quite large
• No replacement filter

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Overview:

The iSpring WGB32BM Whole House Water Filter is our top pick for well-supplied water. It uses three stages to filter sediment, chlorine, rust, pesticides, herbicides, and other contaminants, except fluoride and lead.

This model is not to be confused with the 2-stage iSpring WGB22B – as the iSpring WGB32B includes an extra cartridge to eliminate iron and manganese. Its easy installation means it is perfect for anyone who loves DIY projects.

After setup, you can expect a 15 gallons per minute water flow rate.

Its pricing is typically below a thousand, and its coconut carbon filter media meets NSF/ANSI certification standards. If you are unsure whether you want to splurge on whole house water filtration, the iSpring WGB32BM promises value for money.

Pros

• Very affordable
• 3-stage design
• Coconut carbon media

Cons

• No drain – heavy when filled with water

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Overview:

The Home Master HMF3SDGFEC whole house filter uses three stages to clean your water. The first removes large components down to one micron. The second eliminates heavy metals, and the third stage rids water of chlorine and chemicals.

You will visibly notice the difference in your water’s taste, and clarity as the four gradient density filter stops impurities better than most models.

Made by Home Master, this whole water filter is available in two product types. The HMF3SDGFEC improves well water, but the HMF2SMGCC best produces filtered water for municipal homes.

The manufacturer has given this unit a 2-year warranty. And a water filtering capacity of 95,000 gallons before the media needs replacing. Just note that there are a few drawbacks to the affordable pricing.

Pros

• Reasonable pricing
• Good instruction manual
• 95 percent removal of contaminants like heavy metals

Cons

• Low water flow
• Leakage is common
• Only removes 90 percent of iron in your water

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Overview:

Best used to improve the taste and reduce water contamination, the Aquasana OPTIMH20 is another system with a 100,000-gallon capacity before the filter needs replacing. The filtration process uses ultra-dense carbon block media and has a flow rate of 8GPM.

Its key difference from most brand models is the ability to expel fluoride by 95 percent. Furthermore, it removes 97 percent of chlorine, plus 86 other contaminants, including lead, mercury, asbestos, and more.

If needed, you have the option to boost the results by adding a salt-free water conditioner and UV filter. Besides the Aquasana Rhino, the Aquasana OPTIMH20 is the only whole house water cleanser to eliminate 99% of lead and cysts. So, if lead contamination is a cause for concern in your area, this is the right choice.

Pros

• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Contains LED flow meter indicator
• Filtration occurs without chemicals
• NSF certified to reduce 99% lead and cysts
• Ultra-dense activated carbon block filter system

Cons

• Expensive
• Only 100,000 gallons before cartridge replacement
• Less durable than the Rhino whole house filter

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Overview:

If you do not have space at your disposal, then the Culligan WH-HD200-C is the perfect fit for your cramped space. You can easily house this compact whole house water filter in your residential home, condo, or apartment. It features 1″ stainless steel reinforced inlet/outlet connectors for a secure, leak-free connection.

Furthermore, it delivers safe water by removing sediment, rust, scale, dirt, sand, silt, chlorine taste, and odor.

But the unit is certified by WQA because the lead compliance is too low to meet NSF/ANSI 372 standards. Only the material safety and structural integrity receive NSF/ANSI certification. As a consolation, the technology features a WR-HD housing wrench, mounting bracket, filter life monitor, and filter monitor battery to aid using the system for the long term.

Pros

• Affordable
• Removes rust very well
• Small canister perfect for tiny spaces

Cons

• Professional help needed for installation
• Limited NSF/ANSI certification
• Hard to unscrew when its time to filter replacement

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Overview:

Designed to meet clients’ purity needs, the Filtersmart FS1000 is available in several sizes with the option to include a water softener. Most sizes are ideal for homes with 1-3 bathrooms. However, you can buy the larger model for a property with 4-6 bathrooms.

Another notable characteristic is that the model uses granulated coconut shell carbon filters that are NSF certified. Furthermore, the 1,000,000 gallons or 5-year guarantee means thousands of moments using clean, fresh water at home. As for inconveniences, you will need to change the sediment pre-filter every 8-10 months.

Two advantages are one, the easy to install design. And two, the fact that the unit can operate without electricity. So if light often disappears for lengthy periods in your area, you will not be without filtered water.

Pros

• Lifetime warranty
• No electricity required for operation
• Optional salt-free water softener prevents limescale and corrosion.
• It removes chlorine, chloramine, organic matter, pesticides, herbicides, and industrial solvents.

Cons

• Does not expel fluoride
• Professional help necessary for installation
• Only the primary filter has a 1,000,000 gallon lifespan

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Overview:

The Express Water whole house filter is a product where design meets function. This product has the flexibility for mounted or unmounted installation.

Built into the design are 3-compulsory filter stages. That means, unlike alternative models, all the filters have to be installed and used. The first stage removes sediments.

The second stage is where the KDF filter traps heavy metals, chemicals, chloramine, and arsenic; plus inhibits microorganism growth. Finally, the activated carbon block stage improves water taste and drinkability by expelling pharmaceuticals, turbidity, and pesticides.

The 100% polypropylene made filters are quick and easy to replace. Furthermore, the manufacturer also provides on-demand support, proof of the seller’s commitment to keeping your system up and running. Still, the warranty is just one year. This guarantee is far below the quality satisfaction promise of most in the market.

Pros

• Free lifetime support
• Pressure gauges built-in the system
• Durable design complete with standing stainless-steel frames
• Removes over 80 different contaminants

Cons

• Leaks are a common issue
• Does not reduce Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

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Overview:

Here’s a unit that includes the UV light capability rather than provides it as an add-on. The combined effect of filtration and UV treatment enhances the taste, color, and odor of water while destroying 99.9% of harmful microorganisms.

One significant advantage of the Pelican UV Filter is the stainless steel water chamber. What is not great is that both the small and large versions have a 25 to 80 PSI water pressure. Instead, the flow rate and filter lifespan differ. The micro-unit has a flow rate of 16GPM and a lifespan of 600,000 gallons, whereas the massive unit has a flow rate of 34GPM and a lifespan of 1,000,000 gallons.

If, however, warranty is a big concern of yours, purchases come with a lifetime guarantee limited to select parts: the bypass valves, filter housings, in and out heads, and tanks.

Before buying, check the quality of your water. This product’s effectiveness extends beyond chlorine to kill microorganisms such as fungi, cryptosporidium, and giardia.

Pros

• Affordable
• Low maintenance
• Kills organic matter
• 5-year performance guarantee
• A long-lasting stainless steel water chamber

Cons

• No optional add-ons

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Overview:

Duality is not foreign to the Aquasana 1000 Rhino. The Rhino whole house water filter can purify both well and municipality water. Complete with a pro-grade installation kit consisting of brass fittings, a pre-filter, a post-filter, and all the supports and shut-off valves you will need.

Unfortunately, the 1,000,000 gallon filter rule is only for the primary media. The sediment pre-filter needs changing every 3-6 months for municipal users, whereas the pre-filter of well-users calls for changing every 1-3 months.

There is also a post-filter that requires replacement. In the case of city dwellers, it is 6-12 months and 2-6 months for well-supplied houses. This post-filter is a carbon sub-micron, and it lowers water impurity down to 0.35 micron. Overall, the Rhino is stronger than the Aquasana OPTIMH20 and is worth consideration.

Pros

• Reduces water’s hardens
• Long-lasting primary filter
• Excellent removal of sediment and chlorine

Cons

• Low flow capacity
• Professional help needed for both installation and filter replacement
• Consistent cartridge replacement is expensive.

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Overview:

When you can’t get used to chlorine in your ice, the GE GXWH04F the best buy for your home to enjoy your drinking water. This device removes filters chlorine particles, debris, sand, sediment, and all visible contaminants in your water supply. Although it only improves the appearance of your water, the model is very affordable. The GE GXWH04F suits just about everyone’s budget and is small enough to fit in tight corners.

Many users loved having the taste and transparency of their water improved and were relieved their water pressure did not change after its installation. One reviewer noted the portability of the product is a big plus for persons who rent. Due to the large particles eliminated by the GE GXWH04F, the filters need changing every three months. The price of these replacement filters is also very affordable.

Pro:

• Affordability
• Easy to install
• 180-day returnable timeframe
• Compact size
• Reduces visible contaminants in water

Con:

• 3-month replacement filter lifespan
• The need to depressurize the housing before changing the filter
• Requires securing with Teflon tape

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Overview:

The Vitapur VPS1140-1 water filtration and ultraviolet disinfection system are best suited for water sources from a drilled well or surface water.

This filter made it into our list of top picks mainly for its dual capabilities. The filter reduces sediment, particulate, chlorine taste, and odor. Simultaneously, the UV lamp inactivates volatile organic compounds and harmful bacteria and viruses like Ecoli, salmonella, and microorganisms.

The filter has a Flow Rate of 8GPM. It also utilizes a 2-stage filtration process where the sediment filter reduces sediment and particulate, and the carbon block filter reduces chlorine taste and odor in the water. The unit itself is relatively small and weighs 51lbs, making it an ideal option to be installed indoors.

Pros

• Low maintenance
• Kills organic matter
• Includes a ready to install UV Rack System

Cons

Profession installation is needed to avoid leaks.

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How Does a Whole House Water Filter Work?

All these devices expel impurities from your water supply. So, the nasty particles you do not want to consume or touch your skin never flows through your home’s plumbing.

You may want to rid your water of hardness, chlorine, sand, chemicals, or bacteria. Therefore, complexity increases the more elements you want to remove.

In its simplest form, a whole house filter works by removing large debris first to prevent plumbing issues. At the next stage, chlorine and chloramines get filtered.

Some machines have an activated carbon or UV light stage to trap bacteria, metals, herbicides, and pesticides. Finally, the water passes along a very narrow tubing to leave behind any remaining sediments and organic material.

How to Choose the Best Whole House Water Filter?

Water filters come in many shapes, sizes, and functionalities. To get the best choice of the whole house water filter, choose based on purpose, water supply, cost, filter quality, maintenance requirements, and additional features.

1. Check Your Water Quality

The first step is to confirm the impurities in your tap water. If you receive your water supply from a private supplier, well, or river, you can call a water specialist or use water testing kits to analyze the water quality.

However, if you receive water from the government, you can get the water quality index (WQI) report from your local supply office. These reports will help you understand the filtration type you need.

2. Know Your Plumbing Flow Rate

It is ideal to buy a water filter with a flow rate of 1-2gpm per minute higher than your average home dispensers and appliances. A professional can help you decide since flow rates differ between appliances and faucets.

If your plumbing flow rate is lower than the filter pressure, the chances of your pipes bursting or leaking increases. If your plumbing flow rate is higher than the filter, you will have low water pressure and reduce your whole house filter’s lifespan.

3. Consider The Life and Certification of The Filter System

The best brands usually provide a seller’s guarantee and include FDA and NSF-certified parts. Installation and regular maintenance with the manufacturer or certified plumber protects your warranty.

Mid-sized and large filters mean longer intervals between service periods. Low water pressure is often an indentation that your filter needs cleaning. We recommend keeping records of filter changes to maintain the life of your system.

The Benefits of Using Whole House Water Filters

A viable home filtration system supports your well-being. You are probably very familiar with the benefits of clean water. Here is a reminder of why a whole house filter is beneficial to you:

1. Clean Water

It reduces exposure to chlorine, sand, metals, and other debris; ensuring your family drink and use only clean, filtered water in your home.

2. Disease Prevention and Convenience

Regardless of the level of chlorine in your supply, viruses and fungi do survive. Filtration is effective in expelling harmful organic material, which can cause diseases and infections.

Filters also provide flexibility and the convenience of getting water right where you are rather than at select sinks and dispensers.

3. Improved Wellness

Chorine contributes to the taste of tap water. Once removed, your drinking water will taste better. Plus, chlorine and other chemicals cannot become airborne to affect people who suffer from asthma and allergies.

4. Better Skin

Even if you do not get an additional water softening device, your skin and hair benefits because a whole house filter lowers your water supply’s hardness. For example, you may notice your hands feel soft and tender without wearing gloves while washing the dishes.

How to Install a Whole House Water Filter

1. Drain Your Pipes

First, shut off the main water supply valve. Next, turn on the lowest level faucet to release system pressure and drain any water in the pipes.

2. Cut the Pipe

Identify the roomiest location along your pipes, then mark the exact point with the template provided in the kit. Space will allow for easy removal and replacement during periodic filter changes.

Use a pipe cutter or mini-cutter in tight spaces. Align the blade with the marked section, next tighten the handle and rotate until it cuts all the way through. When complete, expel burrs of the freshly cut pipe with a reamer blade.

3. Insert the Fittings

Attach the compression nuts, fittings, and filter port to one end. And repeat on the next. For the filter to work well, follow the manufacturer’s guide to correctly position the ‘in’ and ‘out’ ports. The “in” port should be closer to the water meter; the “out” should point toward the water heater. Tighten for a snug fit and apply waterproof tape to secure the seal.

4. Turn Your Water Back On

With the system in the ‘off’ position, slowly open your main supply valve and check for leaks. Turn the filtration system from ‘off’ to ‘filter’ again check for leaks. If there is dripping, tighten until it stops.

5. Change the Filter Periodically

At the recommended interval, change the filter cartridge. Turn off the main valve. Place a bucket under the filter unit. Use the filter handle to remove the canister from its housing.

Pour the water out of the tank, discard the old cartridge, and wipe the tank down with a clean cloth. Insert a new cartridge and rehouse the tank. Return the system valve to ‘filter’ and slowly turn on the main water supply.

Installation Tutorial

If you prefer to see someone in the act of installing a whole house filtration system, check out this Youtube video:

Conclusion

If you are concerned about the water in your taps, a whole house water system is a sensible investment. Our review of the best comprehensive filters yields three great picks to suit most home situations.

The AquaOx is the best overall pick. Not only is it excellent for both city and well water, but it also is customizable to the size of your home.

The iSpring WGB32B is best for city water at an affordable price. And the Springwell WS1 is best for well water supplied homes.

Whichever model you chose, weigh the pros and cons to get the best one for healthy water in the long term. We recommend not skimping on the investment to ensure high product quality and minimal maintenance.