A Guide to the Best Whole House Water Filters of 2022
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Best Whole House Water Filter
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These systems are among the most complete solutions to provide filtered water for your entire home. They are highly efficient and convenient compared to point-of-use options since you only have to install one system, and every fixture in your house will receive filtered water. They also tend to be better for the environment, as they don’t waste water and may even reduce your energy costs.
To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best whole house water filters currently available.
UPDATED: May 5, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Express Water WH300SCKS because it features a three-stage filtration system, 1” connections for up to 0.25 gallons per second (15 GPM), and twist off housings for quick filter changes.
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What is a Whole House Water Filter?
As the name suggests, a whole house water filter is a filtration system that treats all the water in your house. You don’t have to buy individual filters for your kitchen, showers, refrigerator, laundry rooms, etc. The filter does it all.
Most whole house filtration systems will filter out unpleasant smells and tastes in addition to harmful chemicals and heavy metals. They keep rust, dirt, and contaminants from damaging your appliances such as the fridge dispenser, washer, dishwasher, etc.
Point-of-Entry vs Point-of-Use Systems
You’ll hear “whole house filtration systems” referred to as “Point-of-Entry (POE) systems”. This is because they treat the water as it enters your home. Then, the clean water flows to all the rooms from there.
On the contrary, smaller systems such as faucet filters, water pitchers, filters for your bathroom faucet, or refrigerator filters are called “Point-of-Use” (POU) systems. Instead of treating the water at the source, they treat the water right before it flows out. These systems are useful if your water is good enough to shower and wash clothes in, but you just want an extra layer of protection for drinking water. You can also use them in combination with a whole house water filter for more in-depth cleansing.
How to Choose the Best Filter For Your Home
Step 1: Determine your contaminants
A whole house water filter may be for you if your water is contaminated with chlorine, bacteria, or has a strange taste. To determine if you need a filter, it’s a good idea to test your water quality.
Reach out to your local water utility company and ask for a copy of your water quality report. If the company will not provide the report — or if you are not on a city water system — you can get your water tested independently using a home test kit.
Whichever way you go, the tests will tell you what contaminants are present in your water. Then, you’ll want to look for a filtration system that specifically targets those contaminants.
Types of Drinking Water Contaminants
Physical contaminants: sediment or organic material suspended in the water of lakes, rivers, and streams from soil erosion.
Chemical contaminants: naturally occurring or man-made. Examples: nitrogen, bleach, salts, pesticides, metals, toxins produced by bacteria, and human or animal drugs.
Biological contaminants: organisms in the water. Examples: bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and parasites.
Radiological contaminants: chemical elements. Examples: cesium, plutonium, and uranium.
Source: “Types of Drinking Water Contaminants” United States Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/ccl/types-drinking-water-contaminants.
Step 2: Check the certifications
Now that you know what type of filter you are looking for, check the system to make sure it has the right certifications. Both the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and the Water Quality Association (WQA) are reliable sources that provide certifications for water filters.
If the filter you are looking at is not NSF or WQA certified, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is a low-quality filter. But you should look to see if it has been tested in labs against NSF or ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards.
Step 3: Think about maintenance
Before you make the final purchase, make sure you know the cost of replacement filters for this particular model. Without proper maintenance, your water filtration system will cease to be useful. So, it’s important to know what your investment will be long-term. Don’t purchase a cheap water filter system only to find that the replacement filters cost an arm and a leg.
After you’ve made your purchase, set reminders on your calendar to check the filters, so your system stays effective and in good condition for years.
Common Whole House Water Filter Features
Flow rate - gallons per minute (GPM). Standard requirements will vary from 15 to 40 GPM depending on your total fixture counts and individual flow rates.
Filter life - replacement cycle based on the filter type, level of water contaminants, and flow rates.
Port size - connection point diameter. The minimum ideal port size is one inch to avoid pressure drops.
Source: “Advanced Whole House Water Filtration Buying Guide” Advanced Water Filters, www.advancedwaterfilters.com/buying-guide-whole-house-water-filtration/.
Types of Filters
The most common method of filtration for these systems is a three-stage setup. This configuration passes water through a series of filters, each of which is designed to specifically remove certain contaminants.
The first stage typically consists of a sediment filter that removes any relatively large items such as sand, rust, dirt, and silt.
The second stage often consists of a Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) filter. This is made of brass granules, along with a range of zinc and copper alloys. It filters out heavy metals that don’t break down easily, such as iron or lead, to provide protection for your pipes and fixtures.
The third and final stage usually consists of an Activated Carbon Block (ACB) filter. Carbon filtering works by trapping contaminants inside the pores of the carbon. The carbon granules are extremely porous which creates a large surface area for its size, which makes it great for filtration. This type of filter is ideal for removing things such as chlorine and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) while improving taste.
Simpler systems may use just one or two of these stages which is often a more affordable solution. Depending on your specific filtration requirements, this may be sufficient.
The more advanced systems can offer additional features such as UV filtration. This is used to remove any presence of viruses and bacteria such as e-Coli, giardia, and cryptosporidium. This is particularly ideal if you are on a well water system or in a city that regularly issues boil warnings.
Filter Life
The life of each filter will vary greatly depending on the type and design. The replacement schedule will be measured in either the gallons of water processed and/or the length of time used. For example, a filter may last up to 100,000 gallons or 12 months, whichever comes first. Some sediment filters can simply be cleaned and reused.
Check the specific manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule to get an idea of the ongoing costs of maintaining the system.
Now, on to the individual products. Each system has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy. Every unit has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make a selection.
Best Overall: The Express Water WH300SCKS
Express Water is a company that specializes in creating easy-to-install water filtration systems. Their systems come with a 30-day refund guarantee, no questions asked — as well as a 1-year warranty and free lifetime customer support. This particular system filters out chlorine, dirt, rust, iron, lead, and mercury. And, it will purify your water from more than 80 different types of contaminants.
The triple-filtered water system is accompanied by 3 pressure gauges, so you’ll know exactly which filter to replace when the time comes. Filter 1 captures sand, rust, dirt, and other contaminants, protecting your filters and appliances. Filter 2 is a Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) filter. Basically, this filters out heavy metals. The heavy-duty components will not break down easily. The 3rd filter is called an Activated Carbon Block (ACB) filter. It removes chemicals and pesticides and will ensure that your water tastes fresh and clean.
You can rest assured knowing that all the components in this system are NSF/ANSI verified. You will also be able to install the system easily on your own. It ships with 1-inch standard connections as well as water filter replacement cartridges. Each filter will last for 100,000 gallons of water or about 6-12 months for the average family.
Easy to set up, easy to monitor, and built to produce delightful, freshwater to help make your home healthier in a hassle-free way.
Runner-Up: The iSpring WKB32B
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, iSpring Water Systems is a family company that creates water filters for homes and businesses. They’ve been around for 20 years and they have a responsive, friendly customer support line. Their filters are a breeze to install, and they work with homeowners and businesses of all sizes with the same degree of service.
Their WKB32B product is fairly middle-of-the-road as far as cost. It’s well-suited for the DIY homeowner because it’s simple to set up and understand. Plus, it comes with a manual and several YouTube videos for guidance.
The three-stage filtration system has been third-party tested to meet NSF/ANSI standards. This system doesn’t require a lot of maintenance over time. It also comes with an extended manufacturer warranty through iSpring and a lifetime of free tech support.
Best for Well Water: The Home Master HMF3SDGFEC
A company founded in 2002, Home Master carries water filters that are available in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Their water filtration systems are specifically designed to purify your water without impacting your water pressure. This Home Master model features three oversized water filters that completely filter out all kinds of contaminants and make the water taste and smell clean.
The filter works wonderfully on well water, water with high iron content, or water with a strong sulfur smell. It’s also an ideal choice if you have a lot of iron and rust damaging your appliances. It removes up to 95% of the sediments, chemicals, and contaminants in your water.
Better yet, the system’s huge filters and 1-inch ports work together to produce incredibly strong water pressure, up to 15 gallons per minute. That means it won’t impact the water pressure in your home even if you have several appliances going at once (like the shower and toilet, dishwasher and washing machine, etc).
You will be able to install this filter with minimal effort. The large filters last longer than most other models, so you don’t have to worry about changing them as frequently. In fact, the coconut shell carbon filter will purify up to 95,000 gallons of water before it needs to be replaced. This will last a full year for the average 4-person family.
Best for Residential Homes: The Culligan WH-HD200-C
One of the most well-known water treatment companies, Culligan has been creating solutions since 1936. Their products are known around the world for their quality, innovation, and effectiveness. This whole house water filtration system is an excellent choice for residential homeowners or anyone on a budget.
The model features a 1-inch inlet/outlet that allows water to flow quickly and in large quantities, preserving your water pressure. It’s designed so you can see the condition of the filter at all times, making it easy to know when it’s time to replace the filter. The system filters out sand, dirt, and silt buildup to freshen your water and keep your appliances in working condition for longer.
Installation is not incredibly difficult, but it will require a number of specialized tools. If you’re handy, you can do it yourself easily. Otherwise, you’re better off hiring a plumber to do it for you. The product ships with a housing wrench, a P-5 filter, and a mounting bracket.
To install it, you’ll need a pipe cutter or a hacksaw, two adjustable wrenches, Teflon tape, a file, two three-quarter-inch compression fittings with ferrels, a Phillips screwdriver, and a marker. Culligan has made a video to walk you through the installation process.
While the system comes with the lithium battery that is required to run it, you will need to purchase the filter cartridge separately. Culligan sells a number of filters that are compatible with this system.
Best with UV Purifier: The Aquasana 1,000,000 Gallon
If you want to really go for it and fully purify your water from every possible contaminant — including viruses, bacteria, chlorine, chemicals, and heavy metals — this is absolutely the best filtration system for you.
Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Aquasana sells high-quality products that are all NSF certified. While their 1,000,000 gallon model carries a hefty price tag, the incredible filtration abilities will absolutely pay off in the long run.
This Aquasana filter features UV filtration to remove 99.99% of viruses and bacteria in your water, including e-coli, giardia, and cryptosporidium. This is an ideal system for people on well water systems or in cities that frequently issue boil warnings. It filters out heavy metals such as iron or lead, so it will protect your plumbing and appliances.
Best for Sediments: The GE GXWH40L High Flow Filter
This water filtration system by GE will filter out dirt, silt, sediments, sand, and rust, as well as removing any chlorine taste or smell. The system is NSF/ANSI certified and will work with either ¾-inch or 1-inch plumbing.
The system is designed with a filter reminder light so you’ll know when it’s time to replace the filter. You can also see straight through the clear canister to double-check the condition of the filter. A bypass valve allows you to change the filter without shutting off your water supply — no need to interrupt your family’s life!
You’ll likely need to change the filter on the system every 3 months. The product also ships with a canister wrench to make the replacement process easier. Be aware, though, that you’ll have to purchase the filter separately. GE offers compatible filters and replacement filters.
Best for Chemicals: The iSpring WGB21B Whole House Water Filter
If you’re worried about chemicals, herbicides, or pesticides in your water, this system will put your mind at ease. High-quality filters will remove up to 95% of chlorine, sediment, pesticides, rust, VOCs, industrial solvents, and other contaminants from your water. It also features a carbon block filter to remove bad tastes and smells.
One filter will last for up to 50,000 gallons of water, which is the equivalent of about a year of water for a family of four. This long life cycle means you will only have to change the filter on an annual basis. The system comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, as well as a 1-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime customer/tech support. You can even register your system through iSpring to extend the warranty.
One note: if you have high levels of calcium in your water, you’ll want to go with a Reverse Osmosis System rather than the whole house system. The Whole House System is not built to filter out healthy minerals such as calcium.
Best Automatic: The Whirlpool WHELJ1 Central Water Filtration System
Not into the idea of replacing the filters yourself? Look no further than this Whirlpool filtration system, equipped with an automatic system that will flush, clean, and drain the internal filter every 14 days. This is a dream for busy individuals, landlords, or families on the go.
The system is NSF certified and comes with an easy-to-follow installation guide. A bypass valve will maintain your water pressure even after the system is set up. It also comes with a 1-year parts and labor warranty, 3- year electronics warranty, and 5-year tank warranty.
Note: This is a relatively large unit. It measures 10⅛ inches deep by 13-7/16 inches wide by 33-3/4 inches high.
Best Budget: DuPont WFPF13003B Universal 15,000-Gallon Whole House Water Filter
Made by DuPont, this is a standard, straightforward filter that filters out dirt, sediments, iron, and other contaminants to keep your water tasting fresh. Featuring ¾-inch inlets and outlets, it will filter up to 15,000 gallons before the filter needs to be replaced.
This is a good starter system for the home or the office. It will protect your appliances from damage and keep the most harmful contaminants out of the water. Although this is a fairly bare-bones (and very affordable) system, you can easily invest in higher-quality water filters to increase the sophistication of the system. It also comes with a 3-year limited warranty through DuPont.
Best for Chlorine: The APEC 3-Stage Whole House Water Filter System
This three-stage filter by APEC is perfect for homes that have high chlorine levels in the water. The system features three specialty filters that remove sediment, chlorine, dirt, rust, smells, and chemicals. The first filter is a 30-micron reusable sediment filter that goes to work on sand, dirt, silt, and rust. The second filter removes iron stains and metallic tastes, and the third filter will remove all traces of chlorine from your water.
This system has a 100,000 gallon capacity — for the average family of four, it will last for 6-12 months. Pair it with a water softener to make the water in your home feel like new.
I hope this list of the best whole house water filters was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
