Water Filters

One of the main differences between the two types of whole house water filter is the filter material. Cartridge filters include one or more removable filters that have a limited lifespan and must be replaced regularly. Contaminants in the water are typically trapped in the cartridge, and when that cartridge is all clogged up, it can be pulled out and replaced with a clean filter. Depending on the quality of your water and what the filter is treating, it may need to be replaced every 3 to 12 months.

A backwashing filter – sometimes called a media filter – includes a large tank that contains a loose form of the filtering media. After a certain amount of water flows through the tank for treatment, the system is “backwashed, ” meaning that water is pushed through the tank in the opposite direction and most of the contaminants are rinsed away. While the filter media doesn’t last forever, it can often be used for several years before it needs to be replaced.

A water filter can be very effective at removing specific contaminants from your water. The type of filter you need will depend on what you need to remove, however. A carbon filter can be used to remove chlorine and chloramines from your water, for example, but you’ll need calcite or soda ash to treat acid water.

The right whole house water filter can treat the following problems:

• Chemicals (including PCB, trichloroethylene, and other toxins)
• Chlorine
• Fluoride
• Chloramine
• Iron and manganese
• Acidic water (low pH)
• Sulfur (rotten egg smell)
• Sediment, sand, and turbidity

Typically, a home water filter should be placed first (or second, after an additional sediment filter) in any water treatment system. Once the water has been properly filtered, it can then be passed to a water softener, if needed, the water heater, and the household taps.