The best all-round filtration system for well water is the SpringWell WS. These are our top picks and runners up based on application, process, performance, and of course, affordability.
SpringWell WS Whole House Well Water Filter
SoftPro IronMaster Water Filtration System
US Water Systems Matrixx Infusion Iron & Sulfur Removal System
If you’re on a private well, you probably know as well as we do that testing and treating your own water is essential. We need water to survive, but the fact remains that well water is rarely safe straight out of the ground, and often has issues with taste, aesthetics, and quality. In fact, according to the USGS “Industrial discharges, urban activities, agriculture, groundwater pumpage, and disposal of waste all can affect groundwater quality“, causing widespread pollution and contamination crises that constantly plague our country.
Fortunately, there are ways to protect ourselves from dangerous well water contaminants. We can continue to enjoy the benefits of tapping into our own groundwater supply and avoid drinking harmful impurities at the same time if we implement suitable water treatment solutions that are specifically designed for wells.
We’ve tested and reviewed dozens of the best well water filtration systems on our own well water supplies across the US, and here are our findings.
Table of Contents
- 🥇 Best Whole House Water Filter for Well Water
- 📊 Well Water Filtration System Comparison Chart
- ⭐Reviews – Best Whole House Well Water Filter 2024
- 📝 11 Factors To Consider When Choosing Between Well Water Filtration Systems
- ✅ Specific Well Water Filtration System Buying Guides
- 🏠 What Is a Whole House Well Water Filtration System?
- 💸 How Much Does a Whole House Well Water Filter Cost?
- 🤔 Why Do I Need a Water Filter for Well Water?
- 📌 How to Choose the Best Filtration System for Your Home
- 🧪 Importance of Well Water Testing
- 🧫 Most Common Contaminants Found in Well Water
- ✔️ Types of Well Water Filters & Contaminants They Remove
- 🆚 Well Water Filters vs Water Softeners
- 🆚 Whole House Well Water Filtration Systems vs Regular Filters
- 🛠 How to Install a Whole House Water Filter
- 🔧 Whole House Well Water Filter Maintenance
- ⚖️ Pros and Cons of Whole House Filters for Well Water
- 👁🗨 Popular Well Water Filter System Brands
- ❔ FAQs
🥇 Best Whole House Water Filter for Well Water
- Best Overall: SpringWell Whole House Well Water Filter System
- Great for High Iron: SoftPro IronMaster Water Filtration System
- #1 for Sulfur: US Water Systems Matrixx Infusion Iron and Sulfur Removal System
- Best for Manganese: Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo System
- Top UV System: Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter System
- Best to Remove Sediment: Home Master HMF3SdgFeC
- #1 Acid Neutralizer: Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer
- Best Cartridge Filter: Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter
📊 Well Water Filtration System Comparison Chart
Product | SpringWell WS | SoftPro IronMaster | US Water Systems Matrixx | Pentair Iron & Manganese System | Springwell UV System | Home Master System | Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer | Express Water System " /> |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th |
Ratings | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
Price | $2204.09+ | $1,519.99+ | $3,065.41+ | $3,600 | $1,100.99+ | $579+ | $1,534.52+ | $499.99+ |
Mechanical (sediment) | Add-on | ✔️ | Add-on | ✔️ | Add-on | ✔️ | Add-on | ✔️ |
Oxidation (AIO/ chemical) | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||||
Adsorption (carbon/ KDF) | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||||
UV | Add-on | Add-on | ✔️ | |||||
pH Neutralization | ✔️ | |||||||
Flow Rate (GPM) | 12 - 20 | 6 - 12 | 10 - 20 | 10 - 15 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 15 |
Capacity | n/a | n/a | 500K gal. | 600K gal. | ~10,000 hours | 100K gal. | varies | 100K gal. |
Maintenance Costs | <$150 | <$150 | $250-$600 | $200-$400 | ~$100 | $260-$520 | ~$100 | $170-$340 |
Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime, 7 years | Lifetime, 10 years, 5 years | 1 Year | Lifetime | 2 Years | Lifetime | 1 Year |
Money Back Guarantee | 6 months | 2 months | - | 2 months | 6 months | 1 month | 6 months | 1 month |
⭐Reviews – Best Whole House Well Water Filter 2024
SpringWell WS Whole House Well Water Filter System
In our opinion, the SpringWell WS system is one of the most capable well water filtration systems on the market. We love this well water filtration system because it’s an all-rounder, removing high quantities of iron, manganese, and sulfur, rather than putting the main focus on only one of these contaminants. Plus, it has an excellent flow rate.
Specs
Best For
All-Round Protection Against Iron, Sulfur, & Manganese
Contaminant | Measurement | Pre-Filtration | Post-Filtration | % Change |
---|---|---|---|---|
Antimony | PPM | 0.0003 | 0.0005 | 66.67% |
Barium | PPM | 0.051 | 0.003 | -94.12% |
Boron | PPM | 0.023 | 0.013 | -43.48% |
Calcium | PPM | 56 | 1.44 | -97.43% |
Chloride | PPM | 10.5 | 11.4 | 8.57% |
Chromium (Total) | PPM | 0.001 | 0 | -100.00% |
Cobalt | PPM | 0.0007 | 0 | -100.00% |
Copper | PPM | 0.211 | 0.091 | -56.87% |
Fluoride | PPM | 0 | 0.244 | n/a |
Hardness | PPM | 220.84 | 5.62 | -97.46% |
Iron | PPM | 2.37 | 0 | -100.00% |
Lithium | PPM | 0.079 | 0.003 | -96.20% |
Magnesium | PPM | 18.2 | 0.414 | -97.73% |
Manganese | PPM | 0.002 | 0.022 | 1000.00% |
Molybdenum | PPM | 0.003 | 0.002 | -33.33% |
Nickel | PPM | 0.009 | 0.0009 | -90.00% |
Nitrate (as N) | PPM | 0.309 | 0.364 | 17.80% |
Potassium | PPM | 1.43 | 0.156 | -89.09% |
Selenium | PPM | 0.002 | 0.001 | -50.00% |
Silica | PPM | 9.04 | 12.6 | 39.38% |
Sodium | PPM | 18.8 | 191 | 915.96% |
Strontium | PPM | 1.08 | 0.015 | -98.61% |
Sulfate | PPM | 132 | 151 | 14.39% |
Titanium | PPM | 0.001 | 0.0005 | -50.00% |
Turbidity | NTU | 0.42 | 0.21 | -50.00% |
Uranium | PPM | 0.002 | 0.002 | 0.00% |
Vanadium | PPM | 0.0007 | 0 | -100.00% |
Zinc | PPM | 0.126 | 0.074 | -41.27% |
Highly Effective Air Injection Oxidation
SpringWell WS Configurations | Price |
---|---|
1-4 Bathrooms | $2,204.09 |
4+ Bathrooms | $2,962.94 |
DIY-Friendly Install & No Maintenance
Upgrades | Price | Uses |
---|---|---|
Salt Based Water Softener System | $1683.59 | Addressing hard water |
Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System | $442.23 | Drinking water |
UV Water Purification System | $1100.99 | Microorganism contamination |
SoftPro IronMaster Water Filtration System
The SoftPro IronMaster is our top choice for the best well water filtration system for iron removal. In our research, this system blew us away with its unbeatable iron removal abilities (a staggering 30 PPM). Being an air injection filter, the unit requires virtually no maintenance on your part.
We recommend the SoftPro IronMaster if your well water has exceedingly high iron levels, but it doesn’t take the overall top spot for us because even the largest model has a lower flow rate (10 GPM) than the smallest SpringWell WS model.
Key Features:
- Uses all-natural air injection – Assembled in the USA, the SoftPro IronMaster uses air injection technology with a katalox media. We’ve found that air injection is the most natural and consistently effective method of reducing iron.
- Unbeatable iron removal – You won’t find any other air injection system that removes up to 30 PPM of iron – that’s much more than you’ll have in your water table. The system also removes up to 5 PPM of hydrogen sulfide and up to 7 PPM manganese, so like the SpringWell WS, it’s an all-rounder.
- Three sizes to choose from – This unit comes in three sizes: 1 cubic foot, 1.5 cubic foot, and 2.0 cubic foot. The 1 cubic foot system is only suitable for small homes with 1 bathroom. For the average family with 1-3 bathrooms, we’d recommend the 1.5 cubic foot system, which has a decent flow rate of 7 GPM.
SoftPro IronMaster Configurations | Price |
---|---|
1.0 Cubic Foot | $1,519.99 |
1.5 Cubic Foot | $1,759.99 |
2.0 Cubic Foot | $1,919.99 |
Best for:
People dealing with particularly high iron levels who don’t want to pay extra money for the SpringWell WS. The SoftPro IronMaster is about $1,000 cheaper upfront than the WS, but the media lasts half as long and the max. flow rate is poorer than the SpringWell WS’s.
Pros:
- The SoftPro IronMaster is the best well water filtration system for iron that we’ve tested. If iron is a major problem in your home, this system is your go-to solution.
- We love the simplicity of installing and maintaining this system. DIY installation is possible and SoftPro offers install videos and guides for support. The unit cleans itself, and there are no filters to replace. The Catalox media lasts up to 10 years – about 15 years less than the SpringWell WS media, but still decent.
- The IronMaster is fully automated, so once you’ve installed it, that’s pretty much it. Simply set the programmable control valve and let the system do the rest.
- Quality Water Treatment has more than three decades of industry experience and is known for offering outstanding customer support. The 60-day trial period, limited lifetime warranty on the control valve and tank, and 7-year warranty on the circuit board, are second-best to SpringWell’s warranty and guarantee.
Cons:
- The IronMaster has a slower flow rate, shorter warranty and guarantee, and shorter media lifespan than our top pick, the SpringWell WS.
- We don’t think the smallest 5 GPM system is suitable for most standard family sizes. You’ll probably have to upgrade at least to the mid-sized system, costing around $200 extra.
US Water Systems Matrixx Infusion Iron and Sulfur Removal System
Based on our investigation, the Matrixx Infusion is the best filter for well water that has a rotten egg smell and an unpleasant taste. This is because the system filters up to a staggering 30 PPM of hydrogen sulfide – and is also effective against iron and sulfur bacteria.
Unlike the SpringWell WWS and the SoftPro IronMaster, the Matrixx Infusion uses hydrogen peroxide injection rather than air injection. Hydrogen peroxide is an incredibly powerful oxidizer and has the added benefit of treating bacteria – but it’s not a natural, chemical-free method of water treatment.
Key Features:
- Impressive sulfur and iron removal – The Matrixx Infusion injects a measured dosage of hydrogen peroxide into water. This oxidizes an incredible 30 PPM of hydrogen sulfide, 20 PPM of iron, and 1 PPM of manganese. The average sulfur level in well water is 1-5 PPM, so you’re covered against even the worst contamination with this system.
- Carbon filtration – The oxidized minerals are trapped in a coconut shell catalytic activated carbon media. Why carbon? Because hydrogen peroxide is known to damage the likes of birm and katalox. Plus, carbon has two benefits: it removes the oxidized sulfur and iron, and breaks down the residual peroxide, removing it from water.
- Four system sizes – There are four flow rates to choose from: 10 GPM, 15 GPM, 20 GPM and 25 GPM. Prices start at around $2,600, so this isn’t the cheapest well water filter on the market.
- Long-lasting filter media – This US Water Systems model self-cleans by backwashing the catalytic carbon media. The media needs replacing every 3-5 years, so it’ll take more upkeep than the SpringWell WS and the SoftPro IronMaster.
USWS Matrixx Configurations | Price (3/4 in) | Price (1 in) |
---|---|---|
10 GPM | $3,065.41 | $3,065.41 |
15 GPM | $3,218.41 | $3,218.41 |
20 GPM | $3,371.41 | $3,371.41 |
25 GPM | $3,524.41 | $3,524.41 |
Best For:
If your biggest concern is sulfur in your well and you don’t mind the extra maintenance and potential risks involved in hydrogen peroxide top-ups, the Matrixx Infusion is the obvious choice for you, since it removes more sulfur than any other system we’ve tested.
Pros:
- The Matrixx Infusion is one of the best filters we’ve tested for hydrogen sulfide removal – and its iron removal abilities are exceptional, too. Meaning: no more rotten egg smell or metallic taste. Plus, the system can remove iron and sulfur bacteria, which an air injection system can’t do.
- We found the system easy to use, and pretty hands-off. You can program the WaterLogix technology in 30 seconds and get the system up and running. The system backwashes automatically to remove accumulated contaminants from the media.
- The folks at US Water Systems know the importance of a good warranty. The media tank has a lifetime warranty, while the head valve has 10 years and the chemical injection panel has 5. We can’t find information about a guarantee or a trial period, though.
- The Vortech plate in the bottom of the tank saves 30% water by increasing backwashing efficiency and prolongs the carbon media’s lifespan by preventing channeling. Using hydrogen peroxide instead of chlorine produces no unwanted byproducts.
Cons:
- The Matrixx Infusion needs regular hydrogen peroxide topups and the carbon filter lasts for five years, so the system isn’t a maintenance-free solution like the SoftPro and SpringWell models. Maintenance cost: $200-400 per year.
- We found the Matrixx Infusion fairly difficult to install. If you’re not handy with tools, you’ll probably need to pay extra for professional installation.
Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo System
We recommend the Pentair (formerly Pelican) Iron & Manganese Filter Combo System as the number 1 whole house water filtration system for manganese removal. This system combines chlorination with greensand iron reduction media to remove up to 10 PPM of iron and manganese.
We love how reliable this system is – but with a $3,600 price tag, it’s not a budget pick by any means.
Key Features:
- Thorough water treatment – The Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo System covers all the bases with four stages of water treatment: a 5-micron sediment pre-filter, a chlorination system, greensand media, and a carbon filter.
- Broad contaminant removal – You can remove a broad range of contaminants from your water with this Pentair model. Although the system’s main purpose is iron and manganese removal (up to 10 PPM), it also targets sediment, chlorine, chloramines, pesticides, and any particles that affect aesthetic water quality.
- Two sizes available – You can buy the system in two sizes: for 1-3 bathrooms and 4-6 bathrooms. There’s about a $400 difference in cost between the two. There’s no mention of flow rate for these systems.
Best For:
Anyone who doesn’t mind spending more money on the most thorough multi-stage well-water filtration. We think the Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter system is the best whole house water filtration system for improving overall water quality, including taste and smell, because it targets manganese, iron, aesthetic contaminants, and more.
Pros:
- You can get up to 10-15 years of high performance from the unit before it reaches the end of its lifespan. Plus, the bypass fittings are NSF certified for quality.
- This Pentair system combines some of the most capable filter media to reduce manganese, iron, and more.
- Even though this whole house filter system adds chlorine to water, it then removes the chlorine – and more – with an activated carbon filter. This extra filter stage is particularly useful for wells with pesticide problems.
Cons:
- With multiple filter stages comes multiple maintenance responsibilities. The 5-micron sediment filter needs replacing every 6 months, and the iron and carbon media system has a 5-year lifespan. Plus, you’ll need to add chlorine to the system every 2-3 months based on your water usage. The Pentair system is the most maintenance-heavy system on this list.
- There’s a lot going on in this system, so hardly surprisingly, it costs a lot of money. It may be too expensive for some people’s budgets. And that’s a lot of money to be spending when the comprehensive system warranty is only 1 year (the tank, valve and electronics have 5 years – still not the best we’ve seen).
Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter System
In our opinion, the SpringWell Blackcomb UV Water Filter System is the best UV system for well water. Why? Because this highly capable system eliminates a whole host of pathogens, including nearly 100% bacteria – and it comes with all the perks of the SpringWell name, including a lifetime warranty and unparalleled support.
This system comes in a single size and delivers a 30mj/cm2 dose of ultraviolet light – standard for a residential UV water treatment unit.
Key Features:
- Kills 99.9% of bacteria – The SpringWell Blackcomb UV Water Filter System offers the best protection against bacteria (up to 99.99% elimination). It also removes 99.9% of viruses and other common pathogens.
- Eliminates microbiological contaminants – This SpringWell model delivers targeted ultraviolet light that destroys the DNA of pathogens and prevents them from reproducing. Why do we love this method? It’s reliable every time – no need to worry about clogged filters.
- 12-month lifespan – The lifespan of this UV lamp is about 10,000 hours, equal to 416 days. That’s on the top end of the 8-10-year average lifespan for UV systems.
Upgrades | Price | Uses |
---|---|---|
Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System | $442.23 | Drinking water |
Sediment Filter Canister + 5 Micron Filter | $83.23 | Prefiltration |
Whole House Water Filter System | $1016.44 | Removal or reduction of other contaminants |
Best For:
Anyone who has recurring issues with microbiological contamination, or anyone who just wants the reassurance of being protected against pathogens by a high-quality system. We think the SpringWell Blackcomb is the best UV system for all needs because it delivers more consistently reliable results than any other system we’ve tested.
Pros:
- UV is one of the most effective treatments for microorganisms in water. The SpringWell Blackcomb UV Water Filter System offers the reliability you need if your well water is microbiologically unsafe.
- We love that this system doesn’t use chemicals or filters to kill microorganisms. It’s natural and costs virtually nothing to run. Just change the UV lamp approximately once a year and the UV sleeve every 2-3 years.
- You can either use this system alone or combine it with another whole house filter system, depending on your needs. Flexible uses? Check. We recommend combining the SpringWell Blackcomb with the WS for the ultimate reliable treatment option for iron, bacteria, and more.
- SpringWell’s limited lifetime warranty and 6-month money-back guarantee couldn’t be more reassuring.
Cons:
- SpringWell recommends installing a sediment filter upstream of the UV filter, but this doesn’t come included. Prepare for the extra payment.
- Considering it only targets a select range of contaminants, this UV system is quite expensive.
Home Master 3 Stage Filtration System
If you’re not a fan of the price tag that comes with the tank-based whole house water filtration systems, the Home Master 3 Stage Filtration System offers the most similar performance for a fraction of the price (cost: less than $600). It’s especially well-suited to well water containing chlorine and moderate iron concentrations.
This high-capacity filter system removes up to 95% of chemicals, sediment, and more, with a fast flow rate and long filter lifespans. The catch? It’s a cartridge-based system, so it needs more frequent maintenance than any other system on this list.
Key Features:
- High-quality sediment filtration– The Home Master 3 Stage Filtration System excels at sediment removal, with a large dedicated sediment filter cartridge with a multi-gradient density design that (according to the manufacturer) allows for finer filtration and greater dirt holding capacity.
- Thorough contaminant removal – Alongside sediment, this system uses a radial flow iron filter and a 20-micron nominal activated carbon media to reduce up to 3 PPM ferric and ferrous iron, as well as manganese, pesticides, herbicides, VOCs, TOCs, and more. The result? No more metallic taste, iron staining, or chemical smells – just clean, clear water.
- 1-year filter lifespan – You can get up to 12 months of use out of the system before the filters need changing.
- 15 GPM flow rate – Don’t assume that the Home Master model will slow down your flow rate because it uses filter cartridges. Thanks to its oversized fittings and filters, it offers a consistent 15 GPM flow of water through the system – suitable for homes with up to five bathrooms!
Upgrades | Price |
---|---|
1 Pressure Gauge | $36.95 |
2 Pressure Gauges | $59.95 |
3 Pressure Gauges | $79.95 |
Best For:
People with high-sediment well water who want to spend less on the best cartridge-based system for well water. Thanks to its large contaminant-holding capacity and its massive housings with 1-inch ports, this system has one of the best flow rates and filtration processes that we’ve seen.
Pros:
- The Home Master 3 Stage Filtration System is one of the best cartridge systems we’ve tested for removing sediment and other common well water impurities. The system uses three unique filtration stages, which target contaminants including iron, sediment, VOCs, and herbicides.
- Installing the system is easier than installing most tank-based models on this list, and we appreciate only having to change the filters once a year (some cartridge filters in competitors’ models need changing every 6 months).
Cons:
- Because it contains filters, this unit requires more maintenance than any of the other tank-based systems on this list, and the 2-year warranty is no match for the lifetime warranties offered by SpringWell and SoftPro.
- This Home Master model doesn’t remove as much iron or manganese as dedicated filters, like air injection and chemical injection systems.
Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer
In our opinion, the Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer is the best acid neutralizer for well water.
This durable system raises the pH of acidic water with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5, preventing problems associated with acidity. As part of the SpringWell range, the Calcite pH Neutralizer is backed by guaranteed professional support, a lifetime warranty, and a 6-month money-back guarantee.
Key Features:
- Raises pH to neutral – The Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer raises acidic water to a pH range of about 7.5r. Bringing your water’s pH back up to neutral prevents appliance and plumbing damage and the health effects associated with acidic water.
- Premium calcite – This state-of-the-art system uses premium calcite, which is slowly dissolved into water to gradually raise its pH. In our testing, we found that calcite is the most effective method of increasing water’s alkalinity.
- Good warranty and guarantee – You can enjoy the reassurance of a limited lifetime warranty 6-month money-back guarantee with this system. Buy it and try it risk-free.
Upgrades | Price | Uses |
---|---|---|
Whole House Water Filter System | $1016.44 | Whole house water protection |
Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System | $442.23 | Drinking water |
UV Water Purification System | $1100.99 | Boil water advisory protection |
Best For
Anyone who wants a low-cost, minimal-maintenance solution that provides long-term prevention of the effects of acidic well water, such as corrosion and metal leaching. We think the Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer is best for treating acidic water in most scenarios because it treats water with a pH as low as 6.0.
Pros:
- Of all the acid neutralizing systems we investigated, the SpringWell Calcite pH Neutralizer produced the most obvious results. No more metallic-tasting water or blue and green stains.
- This SpringWell system houses everything in a single tank. You’ll need to have some DIY knowledge to install the unit, but we found it easy enough to follow the instructions. We read reports from customers saying they were able to easily install this system themselves.
- The 12 GPM flow rate is ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms.
Cons:
- If you have exceedingly acidic water (below 6.0), this whole house filtration system won’t work for you.
- Routine backwashing wastes a small amount of water.
Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter
If your well water is high in heavy metals, we recommend the Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter. Why? Because it’s highly sought-after thanks to its affordable price and ability to reduce far more than just the standard metal contaminants (iron and manganese) removed by the likes of SpringWell and SoftPro tank-based systems.
Key Features:
- 3-stage filter system – The Express Water Filter combines three stages of filtration: a polyproplene microfiber 4-layer sediment filter (removes sediment and large particles), a KDF media (removes dissolved minerals, heavy metals, and chlorine), and a carbon filter (captures organic chemicals, chlorine, pesticides, tastes and odors).
- Thorough filtration – The cartridges in this system are designed to have extended contact time with impurities, increasing their reduction capabilities. Each filter stage has a capacity of about 100,000 gallons, or 6 months.
- 15 GPM flow rate – The 15 GPM flow rate is speedy enough to be used in homes with up to 5 bathrooms.
Best For:
People who want to remove heavy metals from their well water without the hassle or expense of an injection system. We think the Express Water Filter is the best heavy metals removal filter for most families because it’s an upgrade from standard cartridge-based systems, with added features such as pressure gauges.
Pros:
- Like most cartridge systems, the Express Water Heavy Metal Whole House Water Filter is easy to use, with no control head to set and monitor, no backwashing to worry about, and no media to replace (the filters need replacing, but this is quick and easy with the pressure-release buttons).
- We’re impressed with the types of contaminants that this cartridge filter unit can remove (tested to remove 80+ impurities from water). It’s a fantastic alternative to air or chemical injection for wells with a low-to-moderate iron problem.
- The pressure gauges are a super convenient feature for scheduling maintenance. As soon as water pressure drops after one of the filter stages, you know it’s time for a new filter.
Cons:
- The system’s filters need changing every year or so, making it a higher-maintenance unit than air or chemical injection systems. It only really offers basic filtration – and isn’t capable of removing ferrous iron.
- We’ve seen better warranties than the Express Water system’s 1-year warranty. Tank-based units are more durable.
📝 11 Factors To Consider When Choosing Between Well Water Filtration Systems
Wondering how to choose the best whole house water filtration system for your well water?
We’ve shared the 11 most important considerations to make when deciding on a well water filtration system for you.
Contaminant Reduction Capability
The best whole house water filters for well water should remove the contaminants that are a problem in your own drinking water supply. You won’t know which well water filtration system best suits your needs until you know what your water contains.
Get your water tested to learn which contaminants you want to remove.
System & Technology Type
The type of system affects its size, performance, price, and maintenance requirements.
Most well water filtration systems are either tank- or cartridge-based. Tank based systems use a media that lasts longer than filter cartridges. However, they’re usually more expensive.
Product | Mechanical | Oxidation | Adsorption | UV Purification | pH Neutralization |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
SpringWell WS | Add-on | ✔️ | Add-on | ||
SoftPro IronMaster | ✔️ | ✔️ | Add-on | ||
US Water Systems Matrixx | Add-on | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||
Pentair Iron & Manganese System | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||
Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter | Add-on | ✔️ | |||
Home Master HMF3SdgFeC | ✔️ | ✔️ | |||
Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer | Add-on | ✔️ | |||
Express Water Heavy Metal Filter | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Filter Capacity
Capacity is the volume of water a filter can treat before it becomes saturated with contaminants. We usually see this expressed in gallons, but some manufacturers provide a suggested timeframe as well.
Backwashing systems have high capacities as the media doesn’t adsorb the contaminants and is backwashed daily. Cartridge-based filters are much smaller and have shorter lifespans due to their restricted capacities.
System | Capacity |
---|---|
SpringWell WS | n/a |
SoftPro IronMaster | n/a |
US Water Systems Matrixx | 500,000 gallons |
Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo | 5 years or 600,000 gallons |
Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter | 5 years or 500,000 gallons |
Home Master HMF3SdgFeC | 1 year or 100,000 gallons |
Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer | n/a |
Express Water Heavy Metal Filter | 1 year or 100,000 gallons |
Water Pressure & Flow Rate
The water flow rate of a filter, measured in GPM, is a measure of how quickly water can travel through the system.
System | Flow Rate (GPM) |
---|---|
SpringWell WS | 12-20 |
SoftPro IronMaster | 6-12 |
US Water Systems Matrixx | 10-20 |
Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo | 10-15 |
Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter | 15 |
Home Master HMF3SdgFeC | 15 |
Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer | 12 |
Express Water Heavy Metal Filter | 15 |
You need a filter that won’t cause a distinct drop in pressure, and has a high enough water flow rate to meet your demands.
Here are the flow rates of common household appliances:
Appliance/ Fixture | Flow Rate (GPM) |
---|---|
Toilet | 2-3 |
Shower | 1.5-4 |
Faucet | 2-3 |
Dishwasher | 2-4 |
Washing Machine | 3-5 |
Most well water filtration systems need a minimum pressure of 40 PSI and a maximum pressure of 100 PSI. Make sure your home’s water pressure is within this range (you can buy a booster pump if it isn’t).
You can measure your water pressure with a pressure gauge.
Sediment Pre-Filter Micron Rating
The micron rating of a sediment filter tells you what sized particles it can remove. The lower the micron rating, the smaller the particles the filter can remove.
From our testing, we recommend a sediment filter with a 5-micron rating or higher to avoid early clogging.
Space Available & System Footprint
Some whole house filtration systems take up more space than others. Systems with multiple filters and add-ons need plenty of room – both for installation and maintenance.
Measure your available space carefully before buying a unit.
Most filters are intended for indoor installation, but some can be installed outside.
Installation
Some of the best whole house filtration systems can be DIY installed, but many manufacturers recommend professional installation by a plumber.
Installation is relatively complex for all POE systems. If you do it wrong, you’ll have to pay for the damage to be fixed.
Product reviews should tell you how other customers found the installation process for a certain system.
Maintenance Requirements
Any system that uses filters will require filter replacements, typically within 6 to 12 months of use.
Tank-Based Systems | Higher upfront cost | Higher Capacity | Limited maintenance involved |
Cartridge-Based Systems | Lower upfront cost | Lower Capacity | Require frequent filter replacements |
Well water systems that use a media, not a filter, perform their own automated maintenance, like system flushes. The media will need replacing after 8-25 years.
If your whole house water filter comes with a UV filter lamp, the lamp will need changing once a year, and you’ll need to clean the sleeve to keep it working well.
System Type | Annual Filter Replacement Cost |
---|---|
Cartridge-Based Systems | $100 - $500+ |
Tank-Based Systems | $25 - $100+ |
Well Water Systems | $25 - $100+ |
UV Disinfection Systems | $100 - $300 |
Reverse Osmosis Systems | $100 - $500+ |
Chemical Injector Systems | $50 - $500+ |
Certifications
If a filter has been either third-party tested to meet NSF Standards, or certified by the NSF itself, it’s a promising sign that the system does what the manufacturer claims it can do.
Common certifications for whole house water filters for well water are:
- NSF/ANSI 61 – indicates that a system has been made from quality components
- NSF/ANSI 42 – for chlorine or chloramine removal
- NSF/ANSI 53 – for the reduction of health-harmful contaminants, like lead
- NSF/ANSI 58 – for reverse osmosis filters that reduce total dissolved solids (TDS)
NSF certifications are expensive. Some manufacturers save money by having a third-party company test their whole house filtration system to check it meets NSF standards.
Warranty & Money-Back Offers
The best warranty offered for a whole house well water filter is a lifetime warranty, which covers you throughout the system’s entire lifespan should anything go wrong.
Some filter manufacturers also offer a money-back guarantee, which entitles you to a full refund within so many weeks or months if you’re not impressed with the quality of the filter.
System | Warranty | Money Back Guarantee |
---|---|---|
SpringWell WS | Lifetime on tank and valves | 6 months |
SoftPro IronMaster | Lifetime on tank, 7 years on control valve | 2 months |
US Water Systems Matrixx | Lifetime on tank, 10 years on valves 5 years on controller | - |
Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo | 5 years | 2 months |
Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter | Lifetime on tank and valves | 6 months |
Home Master HMF3SdgFeC | 2 years | 1 month |
Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer | Lifetime on tank and valves | 6 months |
Express Water Heavy Metal Filter | 1 year | 1 month |
Ongoing Ownership Costs
The type of well water system you buy determines your ongoing costs.
A cartridge system, such as a carbon filter system, needs regular filter replacements. This increases your ongoing costs. To reduce your annual spend, look for a system with high-capacity filters.
Systems that use tank-based media require less maintenance and are cheaper to operate in the long run.
System | Costs Involved | Average Yearly Cost |
---|---|---|
SpringWell WS | Sediment pre-filter | <$150 |
SoftPro IronMaster | Sediment pre-filter | <$150 |
US Water Systems Matrixx | Hydrogen peroxide | $250-$600 |
Pentair Iron & Manganese Filter Combo | Chlorine, sediment pre-filter | $200-$400 |
Springwell Blackcomb UV Water Filter | UV Filter | $185 |
Home Master HMF3SdgFeC | Cartridge replacements | $260-$520 |
Springwell Calcite pH Neutralizer | Calcite media | $90 |
Express Water Heavy Metal Filter | Cartridge replacements | $170-$340 |
✅ Specific Well Water Filtration System Buying Guides
🏠 What Is a Whole House Well Water Filtration System?
A whole house well water filtration system is a system designed to remove harmful contaminants that are commonly found in well water.
These systems filter the water in your entire home. They’re installed at your waterline’s point of entry, upstream of your water heater.
How a Whole House Water Filtration System for Well Water Works
Most whole house water filtration systems for wells combine several processes:
- A sediment filter – removes large particles and protects the media in the main treatment stage.
- A main treatment stage – such as KDF, activated alumina, and carbon filters, a second sediment filter, or pre-oxidation and greensand or birm media.
- A post filter (optional) – such as a UV filter, which removes microbiological contaminants that can’t be removed by most filters.
💸 How Much Does a Whole House Well Water Filter Cost?
The cost of a whole house well water filtration system varies widely. Expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $5,000, depending on the complexity of the filtration process, the number of filter stages, and the contaminants removed.
The annual cost of owning a whole house filtration system for well water is $50-$350, depending on the maintenance is required.
System | Upfront System Cost | Installation Cost (Professional) |
---|---|---|
Cartridge-Based | $800 – $3,200 | $150 – $2,000+ |
Tank-Based | $2,100 – $3,400 | $150 – $2,000+ |
Sediment Filter | $50 – $400 | $150 – $300 |
AIO | $1,200 – $2,500 | $150 – $2,000+ |
Chemical Injection | $2,600 – $3,400 | $150 – $2,000+ |
UV Purifier | $600 – $1,300 | $150 – $500 |
Reverse Osmosis | $3,500 – $8,000 | $150 – $2,000+ |
Water Softeners | $800 - $2,000 | $200 – $2,000+ |
🤔 Why Do I Need a Water Filter for Well Water?
Water in private wells isn’t tested or regulated by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), or treated by public water facilities.
Water from a private well may contain bacteria, parasites and other harmful microorganisms that could make you sick, and minerals like sulfur, iron, manganese and heavy metals.
The best whole house water filter system can trap these contaminants in your water, offering cleaner, safer, fresher drinking water for your home.
📌 How to Choose the Best Filtration System for Your Home
There are four important stages to choosing a whole house water filtration system for well water:
1) Understand Your Well Water Quality
The first step is to find out what your water contains. Use a DIY testing kit, or, for more accurate results, get your water tested by a laboratory.
Note down which contaminants are most predominant in your water, and which you’d like to remove.
2) Identify the Appropriate System Type
Next, look at the types of systems available and decide which is best suited for your contaminant removal needs.
Some systems may be out of your budget. Narrowing down your options will make it easier to choose a single filter that you can afford.
3) Determine the System Size
Once you know what system types are available, work out what sized system you need. Look at your water bill to work out your average monthly water usage in gallons.
Look for systems that have high enough capacities to deliver the water you need every month. Most systems are available in multiple size options.
4) Find a System That Fits Your Needs
Of your shortlisted options, choose the filter that best suits your budget, installation and maintenance needs, and space available.
🧪 Importance of Well Water Testing
If you don’t test your well water and treat it accordingly, you’re at risk of drinking dangerously high levels of chemicals, heavy metals, or microbiological contaminants.
Testing your well water gives you the knowledge you need to choose the best well water filtration system for your home.
🧫 Most Common Contaminants Found in Well Water
The contaminants you’re most likely to come across in well water, and how they get into your water, are:
- Arsenic – industrial and agricultural pollution, such as fertilizer run-off
- Fluoride – naturally occurring in rocks and sediments
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – industrial pollution
- Microbiological contaminants – poor well construction, leaking septic system
- Radionuclides – natural deposits in rock formations, industrial processes like mining
- Iron – seeps from the earth’s crust
- Nitrate – flooded sewers or septic systems, local geology
- Manganese – in sediments and minerals in the earth
- Radon – naturally occurring in rocks and soils
- Sulfur – oxidized sulfur ores in the ground
If this is present: | Then test for: |
---|---|
Nearby mining operations | Metals, pH, corrosion |
Corroded plumbing | Corrosion, pH, lead |
Dump, junkyard, landfill, factory, gas station or dry-cleaning operation nearby | Volatile organic compounds, total dissolved solids, pH, sulfate, chloride, metals |
Gas drilling operations nearby | Chloride, sodium, barium, strontium |
Intensive agriculture nearby | Nitrate, nitrite, pesticides, coliform bacteria |
Strange taste or smell | Hydrogen sulfide, corrosion, metals |
Odor of gasoline or fuel | Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) |
Rapid wear & tear of water treatment equipment | pH, corrosion |
Recurring gastro-intestinal (GI) illness | Coliform bacteria |
Salty taste | Chloride, total dissolved solids, sodium |
Scaly residues, soap doesn't lather | Hardness |
Stained plumbing fixtures, laundry | Iron, copper, manganese |
Source: epa.gov
How To Remove Iron From Well Water
Iron in well water presents itself in ferrous (soluble) and ferric (insoluble) form. You can’t see it or smell ferrous iron, while ferric iron may show up in water as reddish-brown cloudiness, and stains your faucets and fixtures when it comes into contact with air.
The easiest way to remove iron from your well water is to find a filter that will do it for you. Oxidation systems oxidize ferrous iron into its ferric form, then filter it out using greensand or birm.
The best whole house water filter systems can remove up to 30 PPM of iron from contaminated water.
How to Remove Coliform Bacteria from Well Water
Coliform bacteria is found in human and animal feces, and causes diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and loss of appetite.
The best coliform bacteria removal solutions kill the bacteria, rather than filter it out.
UV purification is one of the best ways to remove coliform bacteria, using ultraviolet rays to damage the DNA of bacteria and inactivate them.
How to Filter Arsenic from Well Water
Arsenic is a semi-metal element that causes long-term health problems, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.
The best arsenic-removal filter systems are reverse osmosis, ion exchange, distillation, and activated alumina systems.
✔️ Types of Well Water Filters & Contaminants They Remove
Oxidation Filters
Oxidation filters use chemical injection or an oxygen bubble to oxidize dissolved impurities, then filter them out using a media. These filters remove:
- Iron
- Manganese
- Hydrogen sulfide
Mechanical Sediment Filters
Mechanical sediment filters are cartridge filters that physically block large suspended solids, including:
- Sand
- Dirt
- Sediment
- Rust
Carbon Filters
Carbon filter cartridges use adsorption to trap contaminants in their media, including:
- Chlorine
- Fluoride
- Pesticides
- VOCs
KDF Filters
There are several types of KDF filters available today. Depending on the KDF filter you opt for, it may remove:
- Chlorine
- Iron
- Copper
- Zinc
- Other water-soluble heavy metals
Water Softeners
Water softeners use ion exchange to replace hardness minerals with salt. A water softener removes:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Low levels of iron
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis systems provide thorough multi-stage filtration, including a semi-permeable membrane, and remove virtually everything from water, including:
- Heavy metals
- Chemicals
- Bacteria
- Fluoride
- Arsenic
- Nitrates and sulfates
- Hardness minerals
UV Light
UV purification treats water with ultraviolet light. This process removes:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Protozoa
- Cysts
We strongly recommend getting your water professionally tested to see which contaminants you need to remove.
🆚 Well Water Filters vs Water Softeners
Well filtration systems and water softeners are not the same.
A water softener produces soft water by removing hardness-causing minerals, which cause scale in plumbing and appliances.
Unlike water filters, water softeners can’t remove any well water contaminants like viruses and bacteria, heavy metals, or manganese.
You may need a water softener as well as a filtration system – but the two can’t be used interchangeably.
🆚 Whole House Well Water Filtration Systems vs Regular Filters
What’s the difference between regular filters and whole house water filtration systems?
A whole house well water filter is installed at the earliest possible point in your home’s plumbing, has large tanks, and often backwashes or requires electricity.
A regular water filter treats drinking water. Regular filters are small, compact, and affordable, but they don’t offer the same level of protection as a whole house well water filter.
🛠 How to Install a Whole House Water Filter
Here, we’ve outlined the general process of installing a well water filtration system at your point of entry.
- Check if you need to perform any tasks prior to installation, such as priming the media.
- Shut off your water supply and open your faucets to drain the water from the pipes.
- Use a hacksaw or a pipe cutter to remove a piece of your water line. Install bypass and shut-off valves upstream and downstream of the filter.
- Connect the whole house system, ensuring that the inlet and outlet ports are in the right positions. Use Teflon tape to seal the threaded ends.
- Gradually open your water supply and check for leaks. Tighten or add more tape if necessary
- Allow the filter to flush for several minutes – then it’s ready for use.
🔧 Whole House Well Water Filter Maintenance
For standard cartridge-based systems, you’ll need to replace the filters 1-2 times a year. Here’s what to do:
- Shut off the water supply and drain the water by opening your faucets.
- Use a filter wrench to open the filter housing and remove the old filter.
- Insert a new filter and lubricate or replace the O-rings if necessary.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
- Flush the cartridge if necessary.
If you buy a tank-based system containing media, you’ll need to replace the media every 6-25 years. For chemical injection systems, you’ll need to top up the chemicals every few weeks.
⚖️ Pros and Cons of Whole House Filters for Well Water
Pros:
- They protect your entire home, including your drinking water, shower water, and the water in your appliances.
- They make your water safe and enjoyable to drink, improve your indoor air quality, and prevent aesthetic damage to your home.
- Once they’re installed, they’re easy to maintain.
Cons:
- They’re more expensive than POU drinking water filters.
- They may cause your water pressure to drop slightly.
- They don’t remove everything. For instance, if you have hard water and high sediment, you’ll need a water softener and a sediment filter.
👁🗨 Popular Well Water Filter System Brands
SpringWell
Based in Florida, SpringWell has been providing quality water filtration systems for more than 20 years. SpringWell has become renowned for its durable, top-of-the-line, competitively priced water treatment solutions. All SpringWell’s systems are backed by a lifetime warranty.
Check out our Comprehensive Review of Springwell Water Filtration Products 👈
SoftPro
SoftPro offers both residential and commercial softening and filtration systems. The manufacturer sells a number of specialized systems that are well-suited to tackling common well water contaminants.
Aquasana
Aquasana is another US-based water filtration company that produces great-value, reliable water treatment systems. Many of Aquasana’s filters are NSF certified, and Aquasana is one of the few manufacturers that produces its systems in a more environmentally-friendly manner.
Keen to learn more about Aquasana Filters? Check out our 2024 Review of the Top Aquasana Filters 👈
Pelican
Established in 2007, Pelican delivers a variety of water treatment solutions, including water softeners and filtration systems. Pelican’s systems are easy to DIY install, and quality and durability are guaranteed with this manufacturer.
❔ FAQs
Can I install a well water filter outside?
Some filters are designed for outside installation, but others don’t do well if they’re subjected to outdoor climates. The majority of whole house water filters are designed for installation at the water’s point of entry into your home.
Should I use a water softener system for well water?
If you’re dealing with hard water issues, such as problems with water flow and scale formation, then yes, you should consider using a water softener alongside a whole house filter for well water.
Can I use a reverse osmosis filter for my well water?
Sometimes. Reverse osmosis is one of the most effective well water whole house filter options. However, well water is often acidic, with high iron, sediment, and hardness levels, which can damage the RO membrane. You’ll need to protect the membrane with a pre-treatment filter.