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As our planet becomes increasingly overpopulated, having access to clean, safe drinking water is essential if we are to keep as healthy as possible.

In this article, we compare two techniques that can be used to provide us with pure, clean drinking water without adding to the problem of plastic pollution. These are reverse osmosis and water softener. Let’s take a look at each one in turn.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) System

What is a Reverse Osmosis System

If you paid attention in science lessons at school, you may remember the term osmosis- as the movement of water passively from an area of high to low concentration. Reverse Osmosis works in the opposite way to this principle by moving water out of an area where it is in low concentration to one where it is high.

How does the Reverse Osmosis System work?

A high-pressure pump is applied to remove salt ions and molecules by increasing pressure on the salt side of the membrane. This forces the water out, keeping the dissolved salts and pollutants on one side of the membrane and pure water on the other.

The negative aspect and positive aspect of RO System

On the plus side, RO units give a simple, cost-effective solution for providing clean, pollutant-free water for the family to enjoy. It can be relied upon as a thorough filtering method as it removes a lot of harmful microbes, sediment, and salts that could otherwise enter the body. Not to mention clog up plumbing and appliances with limescale.

However, there are concerns amongst some experts that as it removes all salt ions from water then our bodies may become deficient in levels of salt ions such as sodium and potassium which are needed for healthy functioning of the heart and muscles.

Water Softener System

What is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a product that removes the ions that make water hard from it. These are usually calcium and magnesium.

How Does Water Softener Work?

Water softeners are based upon a system called ion-exchange. They involve passing hard water which is high in calcium and magnesium ions through an ion-exchange resin. As the water flows through the tank, the calcium and magnesium ions are replaced by sodium chloride (brine).

The Negative and Positive Aspects of Water Softener

The advantage of this system is that the calcium and magnesium ions that can wreak havoc on your washing machine and water pipes are removed. Thus, saving you money by extending the lifecycle of your appliances.

The disadvantage is that these processes can be expensive and ion levels need to be monitored to make sure that you don’t end up with too high levels of other unwanted compounds in the water.

What’s the Difference Between a Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis?

So, to sum up- the key difference between reverse osmosis and water softener techniques is that in reverse osmosis, everything is removed from the water leaving you with just H20. Whereas water softeners involve replacing hard water ions such as calcium and magnesium with ones such as sodium that don’t form the annoying limescale that clogs up your water pipes.

Do I Need a Water Softener and a Reverse Osmosis System?

For the best quality drinking water, many people recommend installing both systems. The RO system will remove impurities and some salts from the water. Removing hard ions with the water softener helps to prolong the life of the reverse osmosis membrane system (RO) and protect it from damage.

Best Water Softener with Reverse Osmosis

1. Aquasure Whole House Water Softener/Reverse Osmosis

How does Aquasure Whole House Water Softener work?

This system comes in three parts:

Stage 1- an SCP Sediment/ GAC Whole house water filter

The outer layer removes suspended particles while the inner carbon core absorbs chlorine, odours and chemicals. It can treat 50,000 gallons of water. Its unique dual, radial flow design produces a high flow rate. This enables the system to maintain pressure and effectively reduces water contaminants.

Stage 2- 48,000 grains Whole House Water Softener

This is constructed from a high strength corrosion resistant fiberglass line polyethylene tank. It is designed to treat up to 48,000 grains of hardness by removing hard ions such as calcium and magnesium. Its advanced digital control valve calculates the amount of water treated – providing a cost-effective solution to giving you spa quality water and increasing the longevity of your pipes and plumbing fixtures.

Stage 3: 75 GDP Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System

This amazingly simple, yet powerful system removes 99% of water contaminants such as fluoride, arsenic, lead, bacteria and viruses. This allows you to enjoy healthy, clean, crisp drinking tater water from the comfort of your own home. Its next-generation quick twist cartridge design is compact and easy to install and maintain, even in the tightest of spaces. For added peace of mind, it comes with a SHOkBLOK flow leak prevention system.

Our Test Results:

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2. Tier1 Essential Series 48,000 Grain Water Softener with Under Sink Reverse Osmosis System

How Does Tier1 Essential Series work?

This complete package uses 4 stages to deliver up to 50 gallons of water a day. The first stage uses sediment and activated Carbon to remove large particles and chlorine, in a backwash phase- preventing them from reaching the main filter.

The next step is the RO membrane where dissolved metals and salt contaminants such as barium, cadmium, copper, fluoride and nitrates are removed from the water and sent down a separate wastewater drain. The water enters a recharge phase- it passes through a brine tank where calcium and magnesium ions are exchanged for sodium.

Lastly, the mineral tank is flushed or regenerated to remove excess brine and the tank is refilled. This system operates on an electric timer in which it is flushed and recharged on a regular schedule.

Features:

• Operating pressure of 20-120 PSI and temperature of 40-120 F
• Flow rate- 11.2 GPM
• Mineral tank measures:15″ X 34″ with 1.5 cubic feet of resin in the mineral tank. The tank holds 130L square of brine with a grid and well.

Our Test Results:

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3. iSpring RCC7 Under Sink 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System and Ultimate Water Softener

How Does iSpring RCC7 work?

This economical water filter and water softener system is America’s favorite brand of water filtration system. It is based on a 5-stage reverse osmosis system and mounted under the sink for ease of storage and fitting.

It removes up to 99 % of contaminants including lead, chloride, arsenic, asbestos etc. The system can easily be installed by yourself with all parts included and clear, easy to follow instructions and videos.

To fit, simply attach the tubing to quick fitting connectors and lock. No threading pipes are needed. Water enters the system through a series of filters. The first is a PP sediment filter. Next is the Carbon KDF (GAC) filter and finally a carbon block (CTO) filter.

These remove large contaminants and protect the RO membrane from chlorine and other chemicals. Next, is the RO filter which removes particles down to 0.0001 microns, ensuring that your water is as pure as possible. Water then passes through a final GAC filter before arriving at the faucet. This gives you bottled quality water with no hardness and no sodium.

Our Test Results:

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

What is better- reverse osmosis or water softener?

To answer this question, you need to decide on what outcome you are looking for. Reverse osmosis purifies water by removing microbes and impurities so it looks, smells, and tastes better than water supplied by the municipality.

A water softener removes calcium and magnesium so your hair and skin will appear shinier and it will extend the lifespan of your appliances.

What is not removed by reverse osmosis?

Reverse osmosis does remove many salts, microbes, and impurities. However, smaller molecules may pass through the membrane such as herbicides and chlorine.

Does reverse osmosis remove salt from a water softener?

Reverse osmosis will generally remove salt and other smaller molecules such as manganese, iron, fluoride, and lead from water that has been treated with a water softener.

Conclusion

If you are looking for fresh, pure, clean drinking water, a combination reverse osmosis and water softener system appears to be the best solution- not just to your health but to your appliances also. There are lots of water purification systems on the market which are simple to install and use and have good customer service to back them up.

The cost of purchasing a reverse osmosis and water softener system may well be paid back several times over in terms of the benefits to your health and prolongation of the lifespan of your plumbing and appliances.

Recommended Resources:

Water softeners are quickly becoming a required appliance for many people who are dealing with hard water characteristics like chlorine and magnesium. Without a softening system in your home, these calcified minerals can attach to your water pipes and appliances, causing major headaches for both you and your checkbook.

As water softening technology evolves, more and more options are available to the consumer giving you endless options for a fully, customized water softening system that is suited to your home’s water supply.

The most trusted water softening and filtration brands on the planet continue to add more and more features to their water softening units, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
Each home is different in terms of their water’s makeup, and because there are so many options available, odds are there is something that will work for you. By following the in-depth review breakdown and our handy buying guide below, we will help direct you towards the best water softener on the market for you and your family.

Do I Need a Water Softener?

This is a question that will have a different answer for each one of you that is reading this article. For starters, there are some visual things that can tell you whether you are dealing with a hard water problem.

The first thing you should look at it is your dishes and glassware. If you are seeing a ton of hard water spots on glasses, then that is a tell-tale sign that you have a large amount of calcium in your waterline. Additionally, if you notice an odd smell, like sulfur in your water, this is another major sign of the need for a water softener.

If you have the means to test your water, this is the best way to know about your hard water and the best way to have a definitive answer if a water softener is right for you.

Water testing will give you a direct and accurate count of how many grains per gallon you are dealing with, and the amount of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium.

If you see a notable amount of these minerals in your water, it is best that you investigate installing a soft water softener.

What Size Water Softener do I Need?

Both salt-based and salt-free water softeners will come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Most systems have an include pre-filter that removes larger sediment and grain water from your water, too. It is important to remember this because those filters will have a maximum capacity rating along with a maximum water softener capacity as well.

When it comes to choosing the best size water softener for you, make sure you consider the number of bathrooms in your home, and the number of people. Many hard water softeners, both types, will come with a bathroom number rating.

The higher this number, the more water your softener will be able to handle. Each system will have a different formula for determining the perfect size for you; make sure you investigate this before buying. A combination of the total bathrooms within your home and the number of people will usually be the criteria for most sizing questions.

How Much Does a Water Softener Cost?

Water softeners, like all appliances will fluctuate heavily in regard to the costs associated. The major factors that will contribute to costs include, capacity, efficiency, additional filtration features, and overall reliability.

You will see water softener cost for smaller, single bathroom homes starting in the low $400-range, while other systems that are designed to handle larger homes and have all the bells and whistles will go for several thousands of dollars. It is important to remember that many hard water softeners are affordable to run, and they are one of the most long-lasting appliances within your home.

The initial investment may seem steep, but overtime, they are highly affordable, and with the added benefits of how they protect your other appliances make them worth it almost right away.

 Best Water Softener Reviews – (Updated List)

1. SpringWell FutureSoft Water Softener

Highlighted Features

The SpringWell salt-free system comes with everything you need to improve the longevity of your appliances and remove some of those pesky hardness particles from your water supply. It has a great track record for being a reliable hard water softening unit at an affordable price. The include sediment filter is housed in a coconut shell container, which boasts its unique contaminant fighting qualities.

Installing the SpringWell system is one of our favorite aspects of this system. It comes with in-depth instructions, and the support that the company provides is top-notch.
They have a bevy of online support manuals and DIY videos that allow homeowners to install this system with ease.

After the easy installation, you will see immediate results. The chlorine levels are virtually eliminated, and magnesium also takes a hit.

If you are trying to remove some of that gross limescale buildup, this system will be your best friend. On average, after a few weeks of usage, you will see a reduction of over 96%.

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2. Pelican NaturSoft Water Softener Alternative

Highlighted Features

The Pelican water softener alternative is a salt-free water softener that combines the typical water de-ionization process with a coconut-shell housed sediment filter.

The first thing you will notice about this system is that it is built from quality materials. It is a solid, sturdy system that NSF/ANSI has certified to be safe to operate and built solid.
We like having options, and the Pelican makes sure to provide this by giving is the option to choose from a system designed to handle 1-3 separate bathrooms or 3-6.

There is an included sediment filter that does a wonderful job of removing large rocks, grain water, and sediments from your water connection before it even hits the softener.

Water testing has proven that this system removes these grains but also does a wonderful job of lowering the levels of hardness minerals that can cause calcification and scale buildup. The system guarantees to remove upwards of 99.6% of calcium buildup, and water testing confirms this.

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3. SoftPro Elite High-Efficiency City Water Softeners

Highlighted Features

When it comes to the SoftPro System, the word that comes to mind is efficiency. They went out of their way to ensure that their salt-based water softening system does not waste any unnecessary water, along with ensuring that homeowners have full control over their water softener.

The first thing you will notice is that this system comes with a crystal-clear LED control valve that allows you to control the system simply. You can use this to place the system in vacation mode or refresh the system at your ease.

When comparing the system’s efficiency ratings to comparable water softeners, the SoftPro system is among the best.

On average, the SoftPro discharges nearly 65% less water than other salt-based water systems during the regeneration process.

Additionally, you will save money on both salt and total operational costs by about 70% on both accounts.

SoftPro also offers you the ability to upgrade your water softening with several upgrade options that you can add to your system. These include multi-stage filter systems, carbon filters, and quick-flow valves of any size.

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4. Fleck 5600SXT Water Softener System

Highlighted Features

We cannot say enough good things about the Fleck 5600 SXT valve and water softening system. The valve itself is loaded with features that allow you to have complete control over your system, including a vacation mode that will suspend the system’s intake, ensuring you are not wasting water.

We appreciate the options that Fleck offers in terms of grain capacity. There are five different options ranging from 24,000 to 64,000 grains; the best one for you will depend on how much water your home uses and the quality of ground water.

Additionally, Fleck offers several optional upgrades to ensure that you are getting the absolute most out of your water softener.

These things include reverse osmosis (RO) alkaline add-ons specifically designed for drinking water, carbon filters, and high-efficiency resin that will lessen wastewater and improve salt efficiency.
Another thing we appreciate about the Fleck system is the easy installation process. They provide detailed instructions and a ton of online support options that ensure you will easily install the system by yourself.

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5. FilterSmart Whole House Water Filter & Salt-Free Combo

Highlighted Features

The dual-tank FilterSmart system truly takes everything you could want in a water filtration system and rolls into a compact package that will fit in near space in your home.

The installation is among the easiest in the business, too. FilterSmart is known for its technical support, and in-depth installation guides, and this system is no exception. They have several online resources to leverage, and we are confident you will find it easy to install on your own.

In terms of performance, it is hard to look past the 1,000,000-gallon capacity, the longest in the business, and quite an impressive start. The rest of the whole house water softener system is one of the best whole house water softener and filters we have gotten to experience.

The combined filtering agents and the resin-based softening process removes more contaminants than any other system on our list.
The pre-filter is also a nice touch; it removes large sediment and debris before it even reaches the softener and filtration tanks.

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6. Nuvo H20 Dphb-a Home Water Softener System

Highlighted Features

The Nuvo system is the smallest and most compact system that we have reviewed thus far. It is our favorite for smaller homes or mobile homes where space can be at a premium.

The system is extremely simple, too, making installation take less than an hour in most cases. Nuvo offers a ton of resources to help with installation and maintenance as well; it truly is a user-friendly system.

The package will come with everything you need to install, including a mounting bracket that is solid, along with a housing wrench that will allow you to easily change filters.
When it comes to the water softening aspects of the system, for the price and size, you are getting phenomenal value.

The system will remove existing scale buildup among your pipes and appliances, which will elongate the life of your appliances tenfold. Additionally, it will help prevent any future scale buildup. Cartridge life is decent and is rated to handle up to 20,000 gallons of water before needing to be replaced. Replacing them is simple too, and they are affordable replacement cartridges that come directly from Nuvo.

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7. ABCwaters Built Fleck 5600sXT 48,000 Grain Water  Softener

Highlighted Features

Powered by the Fleck 5600SXT control valve, the ABCwaters system is among the most reliable and most popular systems out there. They truly go above and beyond to ensure that you have everything you need to install this system when it arrives at your home.

The pre-filled resin tank, along with the pre-programmed Fleck control valve, removes any confusion about the control valve and helps you avoid lugging around heavy bags of resin.
Water testing proved that the system was ultra-effective at removing hard water molecules that derive from magnesium and calcium within your water supply.

These are two of the leading causes of hard water and scale buildup, making them among the most important things to consider when you are choosing the best water softeners for you.
Water testing showed that calcium and magnesium were virtually removed from the water line, ensuring that you will see a reduction in scale buildup in your appliances and pipes.

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8. Whirlpool WHESFC Pro Series – Softener/Whole Home Filter Hybrid

Highlighted Features

The Whirpool Hybrid system is among the most unique systems that we have a review to this point. It combines the best of both water softening systems and basic filtration devices into one small and compact system that runs effectively and efficiently. It comes with the NSF’s gold stamp of approval that ensures it is safe to operate, and the water it produces is safe to consume.

The system includes everything you need to install the system on your own. It is simple to install thanks to Whirpool’s in-depth instructional manual and an endless library of support videos that are available online to use at your expense.

This hybrid system comes with a secondary filter that removes sediment and contaminants, but the most notable part is that this filter never needs to be replaced. It is cleaned internally by the system, and because of this, you will never have to deal with cleaning or replacing the filter, nor will you see any deduction in flow rate due to a slow filter.

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9. EcoPure EP31 31,000 Grain water Softener

Highlighted Features

We were highly impressed with the features that the EcoPure provides, especially for the price point that this system falls under. The easy to use control panel will allow you to easily configure your system to your exact needs, place it in vacation mode, and will also warn you when the salt level is getting low.

On the subject of salt, this system features a salt sensing technology that calculates the exact amount of salt it needs to effectively treat the water. This guarantees that you are not wasting any salt and will save you money in the long run on refills.

One thing we like to see is an NSF/ANSI certification, and the EcoPure features a certification that confirms a major reduction hardness causing particles.

Water testing has proven that you will see a major deduction in calcium and magnesium, which are two of the leading causes of water hardness. Additionally, you will see a reduction in iron, which is a bonus for a water softener, especially at this price.

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10. Water Boss 74011 Water Softener

Highlighted Features

If you are looking for smaller, and more compact softening system with several additional benefits, this system may be the best choice for you.
For starters, its small and compact design is perfect for RVs, trailers, or cabins where space is at a premium. It is perfect for these types of places where you may not rely on that water supply every day throughout the home.

For a system at this price point, we were impressed with the additional features that it includes. Most systems around this price will include your basic water softening agents, but not much else. With the Water Boss, you will get solid a softening system with the added benefit of a sediment filter and the ability remove a large chunk of iron. Overall, this is the perfect system for a smaller home or RVing family.

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11. Pentair WS48-56SXT10 Fleck Water Softener

Highlighted Features

If you are dealing with constantly having to rewash your dishes and glassware once it is removed from your dishwasher, then this system should be on your list.

Right after installation, the hard water spots and dinginess that was constantly left on my glasses was completely removed with this fleck water softener. To me, that was worth the price alone. You will benefit the quality of your showers, and the overall taste of the water, too!

Water testing proved that there is massive reduction of magnesium and calcium, the two biggest culprits of causing hard water in your home.

In addition to the bevy of water improvements, the fleck water softener system also includes several safety features that make it a choice that leaves you with peace of mind.

The Fleck valve has a variety of features that will alarm you of any issues. There is also a safety float that will prevent any leaks from your tank, which is a major help to your wallet.

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What Does Hard Water Mean?

This is an important question to understand as you begin the search for the best water softener system for you. Hard water refers to a water supply that has a surplus of dissolved minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sulfates. Without treating or ‘Softening’ your water, these things can cause deposits of calcium and limescale to build up within your pipes and appliances.

Because the minerals are dissolved, does not mean that they come through the entire water system the same way.

Often, you will find scale buildup and other deposits clogging and attaching to your appliances that use hot water and your hot water pipes. The key here is the term, ‘Hot Water.’ When hard water is brought into your home, it is bringing with it the dissolved minerals.

When this water is heated up for a shower, cooking, or in the water heater, the heat will cause the minerals to expand and solid calcium carbonate can form. Without treating this, you will lessen the life of your appliances and constantly be fighting hard water spots and dishes, glassware, and water-based appliances.

Are you Located in a Hard Water Area?

Our readers come from all over the world, making it impossible for me to sit here and tell you about each of your water supplies. But I can say with some degree of confidence that you are most likely dealing with hard water in some capacity. Some places are worse than others of course, but on average, 85% of people with a ground water supply are dealing with hard deposits in some capacity or another.

The things that will affect the amount of hard water in your area are tenfold. There are many factors to consider, including elevation, ground material composition, and overall weather patterns in your area. Odds are, you are dealing with hard water, and it would do you and your family well to do everything you can to control this.

How do I Determine If I Have Hard Water?

This should be your first step when you begin your search for the best water softener for you. There are numerous water testing kits available in stores and at several online distributors. Water testing kits are a great start in your fight against hard water because it outlines the exact makeup of the water supply and gives you exact measurements of each contaminant within your water supply.

By knowing exactly what you have in your water, you will be more able to correct this and find a water softening solution that fits YOUR exact needs.

Without a water test, there are a few simple ways to tell if you are dealing with hard water. These ways will obviously not give you the exact measurements like a water testing kit, but with the naked eye, you can easily tell if you are dealing with calcium deposits or other hard water contaminants. If you notice that your showerheads, faucets, or water pipes have a thick, calcium deposit on them, you may have a hard water issue. Additionally, if the water smells odd, or has a tanginess to the taste, these are other symptoms of a hard water issue.

What Else do I Need to Know?

What is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a device that you can install into your home that will clean your water as it flows into your faucets, showerheads, and any other water delivery area.

A water softener system will take the water directly from the source, and condition it to be better tasting, smell better, and, most importantly, it will stop the limescale buildup within your pipes and appliances.

They come in all shapes and sizes, allowing almost any home, RV, cabin, or any other water place to garner the benefits of soft water by installing a softening system.

Water softeners will come with optional water filtration upgrades as well, allowing you to customize your home water supply. UV lights, multi-stage filtration systems, and water deionizers can all be added to your softening solution to make your water the best it can possibly be.

Types of Water Softeners

In general, there are two specific types of water softeners that you will see when you begin your investigation into the best water softening solution for you. Both systems have their own unique characteristics and features, but regardless of what you choose, it will improve your water and make it healthier and better for you pipes and appliances.

Salt-Based Water Softeners

The most popular water softening solution is a salt-based system. This system uses crystallized salt pellets as a buffer and membrane to remove hard water traits from water molecules and capture them before the water flows back into your home’s central water supply.

Salt-Based systems are often the more preferred solution because they will remove the negative minerals and contaminants from the water supply, rather than just condition the water to ‘disrupt’ these water molecules. The salt pellets that are in the water softener’s holding tank will act as a hard water buffer. As water flows through the system and salt pellets, the salt pellets have such a small Micron rating that any dissolved hard water contaminant will be stopped in its track, while healthy water minerals are sifted through with it.

As the hard water molecules are trapped within the salt pellets, the salt pellets will slowly dissolve until it is time to replenish the salt tank.

Salt-Free Water Softeners

The salt-free solution to hard water issues is an alternative to the salt-based system that is preferred by people that do not want to replenish the salt tank or deal with any maintenance.

Salt-Free systems are typically maintenance-free and are super simple to deal with after the installation is complete. Additionally, they are typically smaller and more affordable than the salt-based systems because they technically do not remove any contaminants from the water supply.

Instead of complete removal of hard water contaminants, salt-free system will rather rework and ‘condition’ the water supply and its water molecules to not be able to stick to pipes and faucets. If scale buildup within your appliances and pipes is your biggest concern, then a salt-free system is a phenomenal solution for you. But keep in mind, these systems do not remove anything, nor does it technically ‘soften’ the water. It conditions it.

How do I Choose the Best Water Softener System for me?

Salt-Based or Salt-Free System?

This is the most common question I receive regarding water softeners, and it is a great question. The answer is largely based on what you are wanting to accomplish by installing a water softener. If you are not very concerned about the water’s molecular makeup and about removing water molecules but rather focused on keeping your pipes and appliances clear, then a salt-free system is your choice.

They have far less maintenance, are typically cheaper, but keep in mind they do not remove anything from the water, so you will still be consuming the dissolved minerals, which will not be harmful but may not be as tasty.

If you want to get the absolute most out of your water softener system and wish to not only protect your pipes and appliances but also make your water taste perfectly and be as healthy as can be, a salt-based system should be on your mind. They require slightly more maintenance since there is usually a pre-filter included, but this added maintenance ensures that your water is not only good for your appliances, but also good for your health.

Water Pressure

Water softeners, and water filtration solutions are notorious for slowing down water pressure throughout your home. If you think about it, it does make sense as to why. Water goes through several levels of filtration and therefore, it is hard to expect that the water pressure would be able to continue at the same rate as when it goes through your home completely unimpeded.

One thing that you will need to investigate is how much a specific water softener will affect your water pressure. It is safe to assume that they will all have an effect of some sort on it but there are systems that deal with this better than others.

When I chose my personal water softening solution, I made sure that the system was designed with pressure in mind, and I was able to find one where the pressure drop is not noticeable. Each softening system will have a PSI rating, look at this before making your decision. Keep in mind, if you do not pay attention to your pre-filter longevity and basic maintenance schedule, all systems will slow down eventually.

Technology

We have already discussed the differences in technology between the salt-based systems and the salt-free systems, but there are more things you can be aware of in terms of technology. For starters, you will notice that nearly all the soft water system solution out there will offer several additional components that will enhance your water even further.

This is where that water test, we discussed comes into play. Each water supply will come loaded with different contaminants and different levels of hardness molecules.

For example, someone who lives in a more mountainous area will most likely have a much higher amount of rock and sediment in their water, while someone else who is in a wetland area, may have more bacteria and protozoan. Depending on the additional options that your water softener system has, these may be beneficial to you.

For example, an area with higher bacteria may benefit from the popular add-on, the UV-Light. This is an optional accessory for many systems that claim to help combat bacteria and protozoa-like contaminants.

If you are dealing with higher levels of these things, the light may make sense to you, but maybe not for our mountain home. There, they are likely dealing with sediment, rock, and harder material. Many softeners will allow you to add on multiple sediment filters, or sometimes multiple filters to remove these things before they ever reach your water softening unit.

DIY Installation

When it comes to installing your water softener, like most things on the list, it will depend on the model and size you choose. Often, salt-free systems tend to be less involved when it comes to DIY installation. These are usually smaller systems with less moving parts, which makes it easy to install on your own without the need of a plumber. Because salt-free systems do not require a salt holding tank, they are also better for small spaces where you may not be able to fit a tank.

Salt-Based systems can waiver in their degree of installation difficulty. They usually require a larger holding tank for salt, and if you are using it every day, getting a small tank will not make sense because of the constant need to replenish the salt. However, if you can follow directions well and are not worried about an extra hour or two of installation, even salt-based systems can be easily installed by the homeowner.

The most important thing you can do is verify that the company provides good technical support and that they have a solid installation manual. Most systems are now designed with the homeowner in mind and if the company offers good support and online help, I am confident that you will be able to install any system on our list.

How Do I Install a Water Softener?

Thankfully, most water softeners these days are designed to be installed by the homeowner. Companies have quickly realized the value in this, and the public (You!) is benefitting the most. Each system will be slightly different but in general, most water softeners have the same general installation concepts. It is also important to realize that if you are replacing an old softener, this will be far quicker than installing one for the very first time.

After you have verified that your water softener will fit into a space near your water inlet lines, BEFORE your water heater, the installation process can begin. You do not want to install a water softener downstream of a water heater; the hot water may damage the system.

One thing to check is the type of material your existing water lines are made from; this will determine how easy it is to install your water heater. Salt-Free systems will usually be less involved and require an easy water line connection and system mount, while salt-based systems may have more pipes and connections to consider.

Before you begin the process of connecting your water lines, turn of the main water to your home and your water heater. This is a general safety rule that is important to remember. With those things turned off, find the area among the main water line where you want to install the water softener.

If there is already a pipe coming out of the line for an existing water heater, connect the pipe to your inlet valve on your softener. If there is not an existing line, cut a small area out of the main water pipe and install and elbow bracket. From that main water line connection, either adds a small pipe to the elbow bracket and connect it to the softener valve or connect the existing pipe to the softener as stated above.

When the inlet water line is connected to the softener, you will need to check and see if there Is an outlet valve on your water softener, if not, that means your water enters the system and returns to the waterline using the same valve. If there is an outlet valve, repeat the above process to set the outlet valve up to the main water line.

Most systems will also have a drain hose to allow any trapped water to be expelled, clamp this, and feed it to the drain of your choosing. Sinks, floor drains, or sump pumps will all work. Once these are done, flush the system for several minutes to prime your system and flush any dust or debris that was picked up during install.

How Do I Clean a Water Softener?

There are several ways to clean your water softener and with recent technological advances, many systems now have a cleaning mode you can utilize. Salt-free systems are the easiest to clean, quite frankly, you do not need to do it. If there is a pre-filter to capture sediment, you will want to ensure that the housing and the filter are always in peak condition, but the cleaning of the actual softening system is not required often.

Salt-Based systems are another story. The salt holding and brine tank will need to be scrubbed out to avoid salt buildups within the tank.

This will also help ensure that your flow rates remain at the highest possible rate. Use a dash or two of dish soap with hot water in any empty tank and a soft brush to scrub the sides. This will not allow minerals to crystallize and find their way into your water system. Each system will have its own unique way of managing this; refer to the manual for the best results.

How Long Do Water Softeners Last?

This is a question that will largely depend on how much you use the system and the type of system you choose. In terms of salt-based systems, many will come with 10+ year warranties and have life expectancies that are nearly double that. For the amount of weight the salt-based system is pulling, this is highly impressive considering the low up-front and operational costs of the system.

Salt-Free systems have an expectation that with normal usage, the last decades. Many have warranties that exceed 12 years, and some will advertise that this system will never need replaced. Since salt-free systems do NOT require electricity, they have far less that can go wrong with them. There is no switchboard or pump that can go bad, they are simply install and let do their job for dozens of years on end.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Do Water Softeners Remove Iron?
Most systems will not remove a large amount of iron, but you will see a slight decrease from your water softener. Trace amounts of iron can be removed with a standard water softener but if your water is a high in iron, you may want to find a separate filter to combine with your softening system.

Does a Water Softener Reduce Water Pressure?
You will most likely see a decrease in pressure but if you keep pre-filters clean and do not overwork your softener, it will hardly be noticeable with a quality system. Cheaper systems will not handle flow rate and pressure as well as higher-end systems, but if you do not overwork the system, you will not see a huge decrease.

Do Water Softener Remove Chlorine?
Yes! This is what they specialize in! Chlorine is the leading cause of limescale buildup and other crystallization within your appliances and water pipes. You should see large deduction chlorine from both salt-based and salt-free water softeners.

Do Salt-Free Water Softeners Really Work?
This depends on what you want to get out of your softening system. If your number 1 goal is to remove limescale buildup and to elongate the life of your appliances, then a salt-free system will work for you. If you want to remove minerals and contaminants in your water supply, then a salt-based system is the key.

What Hardness Should a Water Softener Be Set?
This depends on your water and the settings of the system that you choose to go with. The harder your water, the higher the setting on your device will be. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and you will be good to go. Just make sure to get that water test done!

Is it Okay to Drink Softened Water?
Yes! It is even healthier than untreated water. A quality water softener will allow not allow crystallizations and heavier sediment through to your faucets, but it will leave trace amounts of good minerals that are healthy for you!

When Should I Add Salt to the Water Softener?
The easiest way to know when to change the salt is to constantly check and know your exact levels of salt. I do not suggest waiting until it is empty because you would then run into the issue where you will have untreated water. I will constantly keep mine filled, usually adding salt every few weeks.

Are Water Softeners Safe?
Absolutely. There is no safer way to treat your water than a trusted and proven water softener. Both salt-free and salt-based systems are safe for your home and to consume the water after it is treated.

Conclusion

Water softeners are among the most important appliances that you can have in your home. They may seem like something that is a luxury, but if you are looking for an improvement in your overall health and to get the most out of your appliances, a softener is vital.

Additionally, you will have a massive improvement in your shower quality, soap lather, and softened water is better for your hair and skin. There are several options to choose from when it comes to water softeners, and with a little bit of research, we are confident that you will find the best water softener for you. Between our in-depth buying guide and ultra-detailed water softener review section, I am sure your perfect system is hiding in this article somewhere!

We thank you for tuning into this article, and please look around our website for more information on all your water filtration and softening needs.

Recommended Resources:

Salt-Free water softeners are quickly becoming one of the most popular water softening solutions to date. There is a multitude of reasons why they are so popular and as this technology evolves, you will see advancements that make them even more effective than they currently are.

The unique thing about saltless water softeners is that they are completely maintenance-free and do not require any electricity. These things are ultra-appealing to consumers when compared to salt-based systems because there is no need to add salt every few months and there is no need to discharge water with no salt water softener.

As salt-free technology has evolved, more and more systems are coming into the market and it can be daunting to choose the best salt free water softener for you. Throughout this guide, we will tell you all about our favorite systems and answer some questions in our buying guide that will help you choose the perfect system for you.

Top Saltless Water Softener – (Recommendations)

Last update on 2020-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Do Salt-Free water softeners work?

The evolution of the salt-free water softener has made it easier and easier to rely on a salt-free system for all your water softening needs. While it is true that there are several aspects of the salt-free system that are not as effective as the traditional salt-style water softener, they can be relied upon if you are looking to ensure that your water stays healthy.

Salt-free water softeners work entirely differently than their counterparts. The salt-free water softener does not necessarily remove the hardness particles from the water but rather conditions the water not to be able to bind to surfaces.

One of the biggest issues you will see with hard water is the scale buildup on appliances and in your water pipes. Salt-free water softeners will not remove these hardening particles from the water, but it will rather convert them to a hardness crystal that cannot bind to surfaces like water pipes and shower heads.

Overall, the salt-free water softener works if you are looking to improve the longevity of your pipes and appliances. It also does condition water so that minerals are still in the water supply but by not binding, it is better for ingestion. You will not notice a drop in grains or TDS counts with a salt-free system, but overall, it does have positive effects on your water supply.

Salt Based Water Softeners vs. Salt less Water Softeners

Since the salt-free water softener became available, this has been a hot-button question in the water filtering community. There are many advantages of the tried and true salt-based system but do not sleep on the salt-free water softener option; it has excellent benefits as well.

Saltless Water Softener

Maintenance-Free

Saltless water softeners are most known for being entirely maintenance-free. Compared to the systems that rely on salt, they are much more user-friendly.

Gone are the days when you need to constantly check your salt tank, realize you are running low and then head to the hardware store and spend big money on salt. Because the hardening particles are not being removed by salt, there is no need to discharge any water with these systems either. You will not waste any energy or water with a salt-free water softener, which is a big draw for many people.

No Electricity Needed

Because the salt-free system does not require an ionization process like the salt-based system, there is no electricity required to run these systems. This is great because you are not only saving money on the electric bill, but you are also conditioning your water naturally so you will waste any unnecessary energy.

Salt Water Softener System

“Cleaner” Water

If you are dealing with a municipal water supply that is high in contaminants such as lead, chlorine, or other heavy metals, the salt-based system will be the best solution to combat this.

The salt envelops water contaminants as water is brought through the system and removes these contaminants while allowing the clean water to make its way through. You will also notice that the water will produce more suds and bubbles in the shower and will help keep your skin moist and free of dryness.

Appliance Longevity

Salt-Based water softeners are extremely popular for their ability to help appliances and faucets stay clean from scale build-up. Chlorine and other insoluble contaminants can leave sticky mildew and residue in your water delivery system, and the best way to combat this is with a solid water filtration system, like a salt-based water softener.

By keeping pipes and faucets clean of scale build-up, your appliances will last much longer than without a softening system.

 Best Salt Free Water Softener Reviews – (Updated List)

1. FutureSoft Salt-Free Water Softener

Highlighted Features

The salt-free water softening system that SpringWell offers is loaded with everything one could want out of a salt-free system. It comes with everything you need to install the system by yourself, which will save money and allow you to provide your entire home with clean water sooner.

The installation package includes the mounting brackets and pre-filter supplies, so you do not have to go out of your way to find an add an additional sediment filter.
In terms of performance, the SpringWell system is one of the highest-rated salt-free systems on the market for a reason.

The included pre-filter does a great job with water supplies that are high in sediment like sand, gravel, and other larger contaminants.

As water is brought into the system after the pre-filter, the softening system will condition the water to “break-up” hard water particles, which means that these hard water particles cannot attach to anything like pipes or faucets. The steep decline in scale build-up is worth the price of this unit; it virtually removes all of it!

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2. Pelican NaturSoft Water Softener Alternative Using Salt-Free Technology

Highlighted Features

The Pelican Natursoft system is one of the most sophisticated water softening systems on the market that does not rely on salt. It combines the salt-free water re-ionization process with a pre-sediment filter that is rated to handle anything that is larger than 10 Microns.

This combination allows homeowners to improve their overall water quality and helps your appliances last longer. The most important appliance that you need to worry about limescale with is your hot water heater.

Most water heaters feature a device that helps descale water is it flows into the water heater, but even the best water heaters have trouble avoiding residue build-up on these nodes.
This system will elongate the life of your water heater and every other appliance in your home. The combination of the salt-free system and sediment filter will stop the limescale build-up within your pipes and water supply.

The installation process is simple and straight forward, thanks to Pelican’s in-depth instructional videos and detailed instructional booklet.

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3. Aquios AQF220 Whole House Salt-Free Water Softener and Filter System

Highlighted Features

The Aquios Salt-Free water softener is one of the most affordable options on our list. With a price tag coming in under $500, you are getting great value for the price with this system.

It combines the water ionization process that you will find in most salt-free systems with a 5-Micron filter that can remove chlorine and other large sediments.

The water softening process takes hard water particles into the device and sequesters them, which does not allow them to stick to a surface. This is a great feature if you are trying to remove scale build-up and lime deposits from your pipes and appliances.

The 5-Micron filter boasts a 40,000-gallon maximum capacity and will retain a solid water pressure throughout its life.

If you are looking for a water softening system that does not require any maintenance and does not require water to be discharged, this is the system you should have your eye on.
Once it is installed, you will not have to worry about any softening system maintenance, just keep an eye on the filter. Additionally, because it does not require electricity, it is free to operate, and you will not see any increase on your monthly water bill!

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4. APEC Water Systems Whole House Salt-Free Water Softener

Highlighted Features

One of the biggest complaints we get with salt-based water systems is the additional sodium that homeowners experience in their water supply. While some sodium is good for you and your drinking water, there is a point where you do not need any more sodium in your water.

The APEC salt-free water softener does not only avoid salt pellets all together; it does a wonderful job of disrupting sodium and other chemicals that may sneak their way into your water supply.
The APEC system is not only easy to install, the company is a joy to work with. They do a great job of providing environmentally conscious water solutions to not only their salt-free softeners but all their products.

Some folks have complained to us that their untreated water has a somewhat slimy feeling to it, and if you are dealing this, you know exactly what I am referring to.

With the APEC system, this will go away, and you will notice that the odor and taste of the water will improve because of it. Overall, the APEC system and all their optional accessories are a great solution for your water softening needs.

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5. Tier1 Essential Certified Series Saltless Water Softener

Highlighted Features

Tier1 is an extremely popular salt-free water softener for a variety of reasons that would make any homeowner happy. For starters, I believe that this is the only water softening device that we have reviewed that is certified by NSF/ANSI for standard 62, which ensures that you are getting a device that will improve your water quality.

Before installing this system, you will know that you are about to improve your entire home’s water quality. Speaking of installation, this is one of the easiest systems to install that we have reviewed thus far. It is a simple yet effective product that will immediately improve your water quality.

One of the things we appreciate the most about this system is the wonderful job it does removing chlorine from your water supply.

After installing, we saw virtually zero traces of chlorine, which is one of the toughest contaminants to deal with for salt-free water systems.

In addition to chlorine, it also does a wonderful job dealing with metals such as iron, magnesium, and copper. The pH level of the water is also something we like to be aware of, and the Tier1 System does a great job of maintaining a pH between 6.5 and 8.5.

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6. Aquasana Salt-Free Water Conditioner

Highlighted Features

We are a huge fan of Aquasana water purification products on this site, and the salt-free water softener they provide is up there with the best.

First off, we are huge fans of the size of the unit. It is so small and compact that you will be able to fit it into virtually any space you could want to install this system. While the instructions are not the best in the business, the installation process is simple because there are so few parts to this system.

In terms of water softeners that do not rely on salt, the Aquasana has some of the best water testing results that we have seen.

Most notably, the chlorine is completely removed from your water supply, which is a tough contaminant to kill. We were also very impressed with the flow rate of all the faucets throughout the house. This is one of the biggest complaints that we get, is the reduction in water pressure after installing any water softening or filtration system.

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7. OneFlow + Salt-Free Scale Prevention and Water Softener System

Highlighted Features

The OneFlow salt-free softener is one of the most popular salt-free solutions available on the market. Due to its small stature, it is easy to fit into even the smallest spaces you could imagine.

Do not let this fool you though; even with its small size, it is one of the most effective salt-free softening solutions that we have seen to date. Looking at it from afar, it is one of the simplest designs that we have seen, but there is a lot going on in that cartridge.

By combining both the TAC process that is unique to the OneFlow system and the 20-Micron sediment filter, you get great results for both water testing and the main benefit, which is scale buildup. Because there is no electricity required, this system will also save you around $300 per year in operational costs based on your typical 4-person household and a 75 gallon per day maximum.

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8. AO Smith Whole House Salt Free Water Descaler

Highlighted Features

We love AO Smith products and this salt-free water softener is one of their best products. It is a small, compact system that does a wonderful job removing sediment buildup and limescale from your appliances and water pipes.

It does a beautiful job maintaining a stable pH balance within the water supply and will make any water supply healthy to drink and for everyday usage.

The one thing that sticks out about this system is its ability to work with a water supply that relies on a well. Many salt-free water softeners have a maximum amount of grains per gallon that they can manage, and the AO Smith does not have this shortfall.

Well water is among the most difficult water supplies to deal with, and out of all the systems that we have reviewed, this is the best one that we have found.
Overall, the AO Smith salt-free conditioner is among the most reliable systems that we have seen to date.

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Types of Salt-free Water Softener

There are multiple different options to choose from when deciding on the best salt-free water softener for you. It is important to remember that salt-free water softeners are an option that allows for water to be conditioned to reduce lime-scale and other build-ups.

Therefore, saltfree water softeners are often combined into other water filtration styles that allow you to choose the best solution for you. These things include multi-stage filtering options and electronic water descalers that are considered to salt-free water softeners.

Salt-Free Water Softeners and Filtering Combinations

There are several water softening solutions available that allow you to combine the salt-free water softening descaling qualities with water filtration that will remove contaminants in your water.

This is a very good solution if you are short on space or wish to improve the water quality outside of the re-ionization process that the salt-free water softener will accomplish. These systems will combine the ionization process with several filters that do a better job of removing solids and other heavy metals.

Electronic Descaling Options

In addition to all the other water softening options available, another solution that works well as salt-free water softening option is the electronic descaling devices. These systems are attached to the water pipe.

As water flows through, they provide a jolt of re-ionization that breaks up water molecules into smaller parts, so that contaminants will be removed from the water molecule. Because the electrical destabilizes the ions, the water contaminants minerals do not have anything they can attach to. These help a ton with reducing limescale buildup among your appliances and pipes.

Advantages and disadvantages of  No salt water softener

Advantages

There are several advantages one can gain from installing a salt-free water softener, otherwise known as a descaler.

The system is proven to be effective at removing scale from your water and helping elongate the life of your appliances. Most importantly, the water heater. Water heaters are expensive and if you are running untreated water through there consistently, you are leaving yourself open to issues with erosion and water pipe scale build-up.

Because a salt-free water softener conditions the water at a molecular level, a simple descaling device will help save your appliances from an early visit by the plumber.

The other thing to remember is that salt-free water softeners are entirely maintenance-free. They do not require the lugging around of salt bags and the constant refilling either. Simply install and if you saltfree system includes a filter or two, make sure those are clean and replaced and that is it!

Disadvantages of  No salt water softener

In terms of disadvantages, there are some things that you may need to consider before installing a salt-free water softener.

For starters, the descaling properties of the salt-free system only work with water that is running. The tiny amount of energy that is produced from the running water is required for the descaling to take place.

The ions within the water need to be moving in order for them to be re-ionized and therefore, this water softening solution will only work on running water. Additionally, there are some limitations to the hardness of the water that salt-free systems can handle.

Most systems will not be effective if your ground water exceeds 75 grains per gallon. If this is the case, you will need a more sophisticated solution or a combination of a salt-free system and pre-filter system.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Are salt-free water softeners effective?

Depending on your expectations, best non salt water softener can be highly effective. They are best at removing limescale build-up from your pipes and appliances, but it is important to remember that this water softening solution does not technical remove contaminants. It conditions the water at a molecular to be safer for consumption.

What is the most trusted salt-free softener brands?

We review a lot of water softening systems and have a great insight into the best brands. When it comes to salt-free water softeners, we highlighted plenty of brands in our reviews earlier on in the article. Pelican seems to be one of the most popular, and it has great reviews by nearly all users. We also really liked installing the OneFlow system; it is simple, affordable, and highly effective.

Do salt-free water softeners remove iron?

Technically, no it does not remove anything from the water on its own, but with a solid filtration combination system, it will remove iron and other contaminants. With a salt-free water softener, it will still be healthy for consumption, but the contaminants will still be there in theory. The re-ionization process will disrupt the molecular structure, but it will technically not remove it.

Are salt-free water softeners healthy?

Overall, they are healthy. The water you consume from a salt-free water softener will be healthy to consume and healthier for your hair, skin, and nails. There are other ways to improve the water to be even healthier with a combination of salt-free conditioning and water filters.

How much does a salt-free water softener cost?

This will depend on how sophisticated the system you choose is. There will be more a higher cost associated with systems that have more features, but on average, a salt-free water softener will cost anywhere from $400 upwards to over $1500 for the top of the line system.

Conclusion

Salt-free water softeners are an overall excellent solution to help elongate the life of your appliances and improve the overall quality of your water.

When choosing the best salt-free water softener for you, there are several factors that you should consider, including the quality of your raw water and what you hope to achieve out of your new system.

The total dissolved solids (TDS) and grains per gallon of your water supply will greatly affect which system you should go with.

However, we are confident that the information provided to you in this article will help you find the perfect salt-free system for you.

Between our in-depth reviews and the information outlined in the buying guide, all the information you to choose the best system is right here. We thank you for tuning into this article and wish you the best of luck in your search for the perfect salt-free water softener.

Recommended Resources:

Finding the perfect solution to remove sediment and other contaminants from your well water can be a tough task. Well water is notoriously very high in sediment, iron, and other total dissolved solids that can cause harmful effects to your health and home.

Luckily for us, more companies are gearing their products toward being able to effectively filter well water and the contaminants that come with it.

Because well water is so high in sediment and heavy igneous traits, many homes rely on bottled water for their drinking and hard, contaminated water for everything else. Thankfully, there is no longer a need to settle for this lifestyle. There are now dozens of different filtering products that are specifically designed to remove harmful toxins from well water.

Throughout this guide, we will review some of our favorite sediment filters for well water along with a handy buying guide that should point you in the right direction. Not all well water is created the same, your water’s unique traits and characteristics will guide us to the best sediment water filter for you.

Recommended Sediment Filter For Well Water

Last update on 2020-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Sediment Filter for Well Water Reviews – (Updated List)

1. iSpring WSP-50SL Reusable Whole House Spin Down Sediment Water Filter

Highlighted Features

The iSpring pre-sediment filter is a great option for those who are dealing with a ton of rock, rusts, and other solid contaminants.

It features a stainless-steel fine mesh barrier that grabs any impurities before the water reaches the spin-down filter. The spin-down filter is easy to use and is a great feature to ensure that your water filter is working at maximum capacity.

By redirecting the valve to be inline with the filter, the water will flow into the filter and clean it the filter from top to bottom. This process will elongate the filter life and will allow sediment-free water through for months.

If these filtered are not flushed every now and then, you will see a decrease in filter effectiveness. Luckily, the iSpring pre-sediment filter handles this dirty job for you.

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2. Culligan WH-HD200-C Whole House Heavy Duty Water Filtration System

Highlighted Features

Growing up, I had a Culligan water filter tank in my family kitchen. It was my first experience with water filtration, and I have trusted them since those days many years ago.
If you are on the search for a reliable sediment water filter made by a company with a decades-long reputation, Culligan should be on your list. This whole-home sediment filter is designed to extremely strong but easily installed by any homeowner.

The first thing you will notice is that there is no mounting bracket. The bracket is embedded into the filter housing. This was nice for installation because it allows for the filter to be installed virtually anywhere on the waterline.

There is a blue valve on the top of the filter that you can turn to select where you want the water to go. If you want the water to bypass the filter for any reason, it is as easy as turning that valve. The filter does a great job removing sediment and other hard metal particles.

If you want to install a filter that will get rid of harmful toxins and takes less than an hour to install, investigate this one.

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3. EcoPure EPWHE No Mess Home Water Filtration System

Highlighted Features

The EcoPure whole-house sediment filter is a great value. This system is compact, affordable, but packs a punch. The encapsulated filter chamber is an excellent design, it allows filters to be changed without ever touching the filter media. This allows you to keep your hands clean when removing the filter and it will not add any unwanted contaminants to the filter while you are adding one.

The filter life of 6 months is solid for a sediment filter and falls in line with many comparable products and their filter longevity. This filter is certified by NSF/ANSI for several different standards and by simply having this stamp of approval, it gives you peace of mind that you are getting a great product. There are several factors we loved about the EcoPure sediment filter, and many of them will benefit all homes.

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4. Rusco 1-1/2” Spin Down Separator Sand/Sediment Water Filter

Highlighted Features

Rusco has been providing consumers with sediment-free water since the 70s. It is easy to see why. When it comes to finding the most versatile and adaptable sediment filter, look no further. This small, light, and compact sediment filter is designed to remove sediment and sand from not just well water but plenty of other water sources. It weighs less than 2 pounds and can work with any water line.

One common use for this system for gardening and farming. Most times, water that comes from hoses is high in metal, sand, rust, and solids. Installing a spin down filter like the Rusco will add valuable minerals to your plants and farming needs.

If you rely on abnormal water supplies or maybe even have a farm, then this filter was designed with you in mind. It can be installed quickly into any garden hose, lake water supply, and of course well water supplies. It removes not only sediment but handles metal, rust, and other common contaminants with the best of them.

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5. Transparent Big Blue Housing Water Filter System

Highlighted Features

Simply put, the Big Blue Filter Housing is a tank. I have literally no worries that this thing will break or have any durability issues.

The polypropylene is super strong and is shatter-resistant, which is great for installing and uninstalling this system.

The included mounting hardware is just as strong and easily attaches to a wall with 4 included screws. The brass inlet and outlet valves are a nice touch, too. Many comparable systems use plastic for the inlet/outlet valves that tend to leak. Plus, the brass is good for the water!

When it comes to the filtering capability of the Big Blue, the pleated filter technology does a great job capturing sediment and other hard objects.

The pleats will trap rock, sand, dust, and more in the folds while the water that does get let through, will go through a 5 Micron filter to remove smaller impurities that did not get trapped by the pleats.

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6. 3M Aqua-Pure  Whole House Sediment Water Filter System

Highlighted Features

When it comes to reliability, there is nothing that compares to 3M. There is a reason that so many homes and industries rely on their products every single day and the Aqua-Pure whole-home filter is exactly why.

It is certified by NSF as an established sediment reducer, but it also does a number on other commonly found household water contaminants. We immediately noticed that the smell and tastes associated with chlorine and Sulphur were no longer present in the water.

In order to get your system up and running, you do not need any prior plumber experience. Because of the slender housing and the mobility of the product, it is ultra-easy to install into most homes.

The quick-change filter technology is revolutionary for the whole-home water filter world as well. You will never have to touch the filter material, for installation or removal. This will elongate the life of the filter after installation and keep your hands free from any sediment when you are removing the filter.

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7. Express Water Whole House Sediment, Charcoal, Carbon Filters Water Filter

Highlighted Features

We mentioned in the introduction that more and more water filter companies are turning their attention to ensuring that homeowners can install their own systems. The Express sediment filter is a great example of this. Each filter and filter housing are marked distinctly with all the information you need to tell you where it goes and that specific filter’s longevity. The steel mounting rack is tough as nails, too! You will not need to worry about it bending or breaking during operation.

When it comes to the Express sediment filters ability to remove contaminants, you can put it up there with the best of them. In addition to sediments that are commonly found in wells, the Express system also proved to be effective when combatting thousands of other toxins.

Most notably, the reduction in the amount of lead present was amazing. Overall, the Express whole-house filter is an effective, and affordable model that does a good all-around job with well water systems.

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8. Aquasana Whole House Water Sediment & 97% of Chlorine Filter System

Highlighted Features

The Aquasana whole-home system features one of the unique filtration styles that we have seen thus far. The water begins by flowing into a pre-sediment filter that will remove heavy metals and large sediment from the water supply before entering a bi-directional activated carbon filter. The pre-sediment filter is imperative if you are dealing with a lot of sediment in your water.

The bi-directional carbon filtration stage is extremely important when it comes to the taste, clarity, and odor of the water. The water flows down on the left side of the filter and then back up on the right side. This allows the water to go through the carbon filter twice, greatly improving the taste and clarity of your water.

Everything you need to install the system is included in the base package. The filter life competes with the best in the business, and if you take care of your system and change the filters on time, you will be able to enjoy the water from your Aquasana for over ten years. The additional package options will allow you to add a water conditioner and even add a UV-Light option to help reduce more bacteria.

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9. Home Master 2 Stage Fine Sediment and Carbon Filter

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For a two-stage filter, the Home Master system was very impressive. The first thing to mention is the flow rate. Many times, sediment filters will slow down water pressure and flow rate by a lot. But with the Home Maser 2-Stage system, the flow rate was the best we have seen up to this point. The filter housing has a 1-inch port that water flows out, which helps give increase the flow levels throughout your home.

In addition to an average reduction in the sediment of 95%, the Home Master system was also effective at removing chlorine along with the taste and odors that are associated with chlorine.

The other thing that stuck out about the Home Master system was the super-tough mounting bracket. It is not flimsy like many others and will not go anywhere once it is installed. Speaking of installation, this was one of the easiest installs we have had the pleasure of performing.

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10. GE SmartWater FXHSC GE Replacement Water Filter

Highlighted Features

GE is known for making a wide variety of respectable, affordable, and all-around quality products. This ultra-affordable replacement filter does everything it is supposed to do, and for the price, it is hard to ask for much more.

The pleated filter design does a wonderful job with well water contaminants like sand, dirt, and stilt. Because the pleats are folded upon one another, the sediment grains are trapped in the folds and do not reach the next level of filtration.

The 30-Micron filter ensures that you are removing these large elements from your water but also helps with the invisible toxins like chlorine and some bacteria. The water was some of the best we tasted throughout our testing process and we were really impressed with the consistent flow rate.

Many comparable sediment filters tend to slow down after just a few days but not the GE, it stayed strong and steady for weeks.

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What is a sediment filter for well water and why am I getting sediment in my water?

A sediment filter for well water is a uniquely designed water filter that is engineered to stop any sand, dust, dirt, rust, silt or any other solid that can be found in well water.

Water supplies that rely solely on well are notorious for testing high in these areas and it is strongly suggested to install some sort water purifier or filter before drinking that water. Because wells are essentially just big holes in the ground and that drill down several feet, particles from the earth are more likely to be floating around in the water.

Well water is very often the only choice many homeowners have, especially those that prefer to live in rural areas with very few neighbors or no city water supply available.

Years ago, homeowners in this situation would have no other choice than to drink the water and use it for all in-home purposes. Filtering was either extremely expensive or not effective enough to justify the costs and effort it took to install them. Now, homeowners relying on well water have thousands of options when it comes to filtering their water. The big question now, is which one is best for you?

Types of Sediment Filters

Spin-down Sediment Water Filters

A spin-down water filter is a sediment filter that is usually installed before another set of filters that will attack other contaminants like chlorine and fluoride. This spin-down sediment filter will collect larger particles so that the water that reaches the next stage will be clear of large impurities and will be easier to filter.

The thing that makes spin-down filters unique is that they can be flushed without the need to remove the filter from the housing or water line.

There will usually be a valve that when turned perpendicular to the waterline, will redirect the water into the filter to ‘flush’ out the filter and rid it of sediment that it captured. The water will be discharged, and the filter is clean and ready to begin filtering again.

Cartridge Sediment Water Filters

The most common type of filter for sediment removal is a cartridge filter. Often, these filters are packaged with several other filters and are usually the first line of defense when it comes to water filtration.

The term cartridge refers to the filter being in housing that attaches to the system and is placed on the incoming water line. Cartridges are usually very easy to install and remove and will be last many months with regular usage. Because cartridge sediment water filters have multiple other filters usually, this helps disperse the toxins among all filters. This will keep the filter functional for a longer time.

Pleated Cartridge Filter

The pleated cartridge filter refers to the specific filtering media that is used within the filter. Many sediment filters use a higher Micron rating and combine that with a folded, pleated filter design to help trap more large particles like sand, dust, and silt.

The Micron ratings are not the best, nor will they remove the most contaminants in your water supply but when combining a pleated pre-sediment filter with a multi-stage filter, you are getting a great package.

The pleated filter will capture anything solid while allowing smaller, less visible impurities to be captured by the next stage in the filter process. This allows filters to have better longevity and it will also extend the life of your appliances and pipes. Many sediment impurities can cause scale buildup in your water appliances and pipes.

Spun Cartridge Filter

A spun cartridge filter is a unique, cylindrical-shaped filter that is designed to encompass a sediment filter and more filter features.

They are made from melted down polypropylene and is shaped like a cylinder so that it can have multiple layers as water goes from outside in. The outermost layer of the spun cartridge filter is more porous and has a high Micron level. This level is designed to capture larger water particles that are common in well water like, sand, dirt, and rust.

As the water makes its way through the outer layer, each layer becomes less and less porous. The less porous the layer, the more microscopic contaminants are filtered out. They are a great option because they work with any filtering system and can improve many systems.

How do sediment filters work?

A sediment filter is designed to be the first line of defense for your home water supply. They will be attached to your main water supply and as water comes in, the sediment filter will remove the larger impurities that are common in your well. These things include rust, sand, dirt, silt, and more.

The sediment filter will capture these things while cleaner water is let through and into the next step or your faucets.

Do I need a sediment filter for well water?

It is strongly suggested that you have a sediment filter or a whole-home filter with a dedicated sediment stage if you rely on well water.

Water that is high in sediment can cause health issues when consumed over long periods. It will also not taste very good. It will leave streaks on all your glassware and shower doors as well. It is also common to install a sediment filter for the sake of your appliances and pipes. Water that is high in the sediment will do a number on your appliances and pipes.

Which sediment filter do I need?

This entirely depends on the unique make-up of your water supply. This will entirely depend on where you live and the elements that are common within your well water.

We can determine the best sediment filter for well water by running a basic water test and gaining an understanding of the exact amounts of sediment in your water.

For example, if your water is higher in the sand but lower in metal, we can determine which sediment filter is best for you based on a specific filter’s capabilities.

What Micron filter is best for well water?

When it comes to well water and Micron ratings in general, the lower the number, the better the filter.

However, because well water filters are specifically designed to remove sediment first, those filters will have a Micron rating between 5 and 30.

The best solution is to find a filter that has multiple stages, one of which is a sediment filter. This will allow sediment to be stopped by a higher numbered Micron filter while the other filters can have Micron ratings as low as 0.3.

The lower the Micron rating, the more it can filter out. You can run a water test on your well water, and it will tell you the exact levels of each contaminant, and then you can use that to choose the best Micron rated filters.

Sediment Filter Buying Guide: Consider These Important Factors

Water Source

If you are investigating sediment water filters, you are most likely relying on a well to be the main water supply to your home. But an important thing to remember is that not all well water is created the same.

Geographically speaking, you will find different sediment in different parts of the world. Therefore, you will not be able to buy just any sediment filter for your well water.

You must perform a test on your raw water. This can be done by purchasing a test kit online and the results will yield valuable information about your water.

The test will determine the exact amounts of specific contaminants and sediment within your water supply. By comparing the differing qualities and benefits of specific filters, you will be able to determine the best sediment filter for well water.

Type of Sediment

Numerous different types of sediment could be lurking around your well. You need to determine what you have and the amounts of it.

The water test we mentioned earlier will help with this. Some sediments can be trickier to remove entirely and will require a few different stages of filters to remove all traces of it.

Make sure you check exactly what a specific filter is best at removing from your water. Usually, your best bet is to find a system that has a sediment filter first with a higher Micron number and then other stages to follow.

Size

Something that many folks miss when they are researching sediment water filters is their capacity. Most water-based sediment is thick, nasty stuff that will get caked onto your filter.
Having a filter that is physically large enough to disperse sediment throughout is imperative. But be careful, the most important metric to investigate is the filtering capacity. This is either time frame or maximum gallon output the filter is rated for.

Many sediment filters will last months and some situations even a year. Ensure that the filter you choose has a large enough capacity that you will not need to constantly change them.
You will need to look at the amount of water your family consumes each day and ensure that the filter you choose, can accommodate that water usage.

Flushable

Many sediment filters come with a flushable feature. If you can find a filter that fits your needs & has a backflushing or spin-down element, you are in great shape.

Flushing refers to the process of cleaning your filter and removing the built-up sediment and rust that your filter has removed from your water so far.

Many filters can be cleaned by hand but this a messy job and occasionally, filters will break due to incorrect handling. Having a flushable filter means that you simply ‘rinse’ the filter off every so often to ensure it is operating at maximum capacity.

Installation & Where to Install

One of the most important aspects of selecting any water filtration device is the installation. Thankfully, many companies have directed a lot of their attention to engineering systems that can be easily installed by any homeowner.

You do not want to purchase an intimidating system with lots of parts, you may end up paying hundreds of dollars to install it.

Luckily, many sediment filters come with very parts and can be installed in mere minutes. Make sure to research the installation process for a filter, you will glad you did.

When it comes to finding the place to install your sediment filter, you will want to find one that is compact enough to fit near your water supply line. There are filters that you can install under your sink but that means you are limiting the filtering benefits to one sink. Installing the system at your main water supply point will be the best practice. Make sure the filter you want will fit in that space!

Maintenance & Warranty

Finally, one thing I always try to keep an eye on is the amount of maintenance required and the warranty from the company. As sediment water filters evolve, they are becoming less reliant on maintenance. The biggest things you need to investigate are filter changes and whether you need to flush your filter. Those two things will usually be the only maintenance involved.

Warranty is also vital to making a sediment water filter decision. Things happen, things get bumped, broken, damaged, and sometimes there is nothing we can do about it. Many companies are now offering multi-year warranties on all filter housings and sometimes filters. Make sure to read the fine print with these warranties, as some companies will be very sneaky!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Will a sediment filter remove iron?
Some sediment filters do a great job with iron! But the best course of action is to combine a sediment filter that can remove iron AND has multiple stages that iron will be removed by each one. Iron can be a tough contaminant but there are solutions out there.

Is sediment in water harmful?
Over time, certain qualities of sediment could cause health issues if ingested in large quantities. You must do everything in your power to remove as much sediment from your water as possible.

How do you test a sediment filter?
The best way to test a sediment filter is to get a baseline water test done on your water supply before installing the filter system. Then run the same test and verify the results are as you hoped.

What is better, 1 Micron or 5 Micron?
This is a tricky question. In general, the lower the number, the better the filtering capabilities a specific filter has. But when it comes to sediment, the characteristics of sediment are much larger and are solid particles that can be stopped by a filter with a rating as high as 30 Micron. Combing a sediment filter with secondary lower Micron filters is a great solution.

What does a 100-Micron filter mean?
Microns refer to the size of the particles that a filter can stop from getting through. The lower the number, the more contaminants a filter can stop. Some filters that are for more viral toxins like total dissolved solids have a rating as low as 0.1 Microns. This is some of the best filtering available as any organisms larger than 0.1 Microns cannot sneak through. A 100-Micron filter will be able to stop any sediment or organism that is 100 Microns or larger.

Conclusion

We are fully aware of the headaches that a well water system can give to a homeowner. The constant wondering of whether your water is hurting you is a fear nobody should have to live with. Fortunately, as water filtration technology evolves, so does the sediment filter world as well. We have so many different options to choose from and finding the best sediment filter for well water will give you peace of mind for years to come.

We are confident that our buying guide will help point you in the right direction and sincerely thank you for reviewing this guide. We wish you success in improving the quality of your well water and reaping the benefits for years to come.

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Refrigerator water filters are one of the best ways to ensure safe drinking water for your family as most refrigerators come standard with a water dispenser and a filter option. Those that don’t can utilize an inline system where the water is filtered before it goes into the refrigerator itself.

The challenge with water filters such as these is not every filter or cartridge is compatible with all filters. As you are searching for the best refrigerator water filter, please be sure to check compatibility with the model of your appliance.

Recommended Refrigerator Water Filter

Last update on 2020-11-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Refrigerator Water Filter Reviews – (Updated List)

1. EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter

Highlighted Features

This refrigerator water filter is a great option if you are looking to clean your water. It is approved by five of the biggest manufacturing brands in refrigeration, including Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, KitchenAid, and JennAir.

The filter reduces lead by 99%. It includes three filtration steps: particle-filtration, micro-filtration, and adsorption-filtration. Using these three steps, the filter reduces 28 contaminants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, waterborne parasites, and of course, lead.

The filter needs to be replaced approximately every six months to ensure the cleanest possible water. One filter can replace up to 1500 water bottles, which not only save you money but will also minimize waste in the environment.

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2. Samsung Da29-00020b-1P Refrigerator Water Filter

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This filter is designed for very specific models of Samsung refrigerators. Be sure to check that your model is compatible with this filter. For the most part, Samsung side by side or french door refrigerators that include an ice machine and water dispenser are compatible.

The filter removes up to 99% of chlorine, including bad taste and odor, heavy metals, and chemicals such as lead, and microbial cysts, including cryptosporidium. The filter lasts about six months or 300 gallons. There is no need to keep count of gallons used or months, though, as your refrigerator has a change filter indicator on the digital panel.

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3. General Electric MWF Refrigerator Water Filter

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GE designed this water filter to be top of the line. It removes over 15 major contaminants, including lead, cysts, asbestos, mercury, benzene, giardia, and pharmaceuticals such as ibuprofen and progesterone. The filter is very easy to install and replace, simply twist it into place in the correct spot.

The filter needs to be replaced approximately every six months or 300 gallons. This will ensure the best possible water for you to drink. The filter is compatible with side by side and bottom freezer GE refrigerators, though it is important to check the model number.

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4. GE RPWFE2PK RPWFE 2 Pack Refrigerator Water Filter

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This GE water filter removes a significant number of contaminants, including lead, mercury, asbestos, pesticides, cysts, and chemicals. It will also remove bad odors and tastes from the water while also protecting your refrigerator itself and elongating your appliance’s life.

The filter includes an RFID chip that communicates with the refrigerators and helps indicate when the filter needs to be replaced. A good rule of thumb is about 300 gallons or every six months.

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5. Waterdrop NSF 53&42 Certified DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter

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This is a very effective water filter. It removes up to 99.6% of lead, 96.6% of benzene, 97% of chlorine, 99.99% of cysts, and much more as well as eliminating bad tastes and odors. These contaminants are bad for your refrigerator as well, so having a good water filter can elongate the life of your appliance.

The list for compatible appliances with this water filter is very specific, so be sure to check your model number. The filter needs to be replaced every 6 months or 300 gallons.

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6. LG LT1000P Vertical Refrigerator Water Filter

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This LG water filter is great if you just need your water cleaned up a bit. It will not remove major contaminants like lead or pharmaceuticals; however, if you have fairly clean water already, those hefty filters are not necessary. It will reduce sediment, rust, iron, and chlorine, including the odor, taste, and color that comes with each.

This water filter will need to be replaced every six months or approximately 200 gallons, depending on how much you use it. It only works with 12 LG models, so be sure to check it works with yours!

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7. ICEPURE UKF8001 Replacement Refrigerator Water Filter

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If this filter is compatible with your refrigerator, it is a truly amazing option. It is reasonably priced and will get the job done. It reduces over 20 contaminants, including a reduction in chlorine by up to 99%.

The filter is compatible with some of the major manufacturers and has a thorough return policy as well as a money-back guarantee. It is constructed from lead-free, BPA-free, and food-grade material to ensure the safest possible filter.

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8. Mist UKF8001 Replacement For Whirlpool Maytag

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This Mist water filter is a great way to clean up your water. It has about a 6-month lifespan or about 200 gallons. While the filter does not remove a lot of major chemicals, if you have clean water already, you don’t need a super hefty filter. This filter will remove chlorine as well as its odor and taste, which is a very common issue, especially for people in urban areas.

The filter is compatible with a wide range of manufacturers and refrigerator models and is simple to install and use.

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9. AQUACREST MDJ64844601 Refrigerator Water Filter

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This three-pack of water filters is a great option if you have their specified LG or Kenmore model. This is a great filter if you already have fairly clean water, but just want a little something more. The filter will reduce or remove odors and tastes from the water, which is a great asset for many homes.

Each of the three filters has a 6-month lifespan or 200 gallons, so this pack will last you about 18 months. It uses a coconut carbon filter as a natural and clean way to filter the water.

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10. Culligan IC 1 EZ-Change Refrigerator Filtration System

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This water filter is different from most on the list in that it is an inline water filtration system. You install it before the water even enters the fridge. This can help elongate the life of your refrigerator while providing clean water that does not have any bad tastes or odors.

There is a two-year limited warranty on the system. The filter cartridge is easy to replace and has a 3,000-gallon lifespan, which usually lasts about 12 months.

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Ultimate Buying Guide for Refrigerator Water Filters

This buying guide will help you choose the best refrigerator water filter for your needs; there are a few key decisions that need to be made that will narrow down the field of water filters significantly.

This can make the decision process much easier as there is a smaller pool of products to choose from. What makes this unique, though, is most refrigerators come with the filter itself, but not the cartridges. Luckily, if your refrigerator is equipped with a filter, then you should have a variety of cartridges to choose from that will be compatible.

Find a Compatible Filter

The absolute first thing you need to do is determine if your refrigerator has a water filter that takes cartridges and what filters you can use with your refrigerator model. The model number for your refrigerator will be on the user manual you received with the appliance and is also likely somewhere on the appliance itself, such as on the edge of the door.

If you do not have your user manual, you might have to look a bit on your appliance to find the model number. Once you have the model number, you can use it to find filters that will work with it.

In the case that your refrigerator does not have a built-in water filter that only needs a cartridge, you are not completely out of luck. You can find complete water filters that are installed inline before the water gets to the refrigerator. This will ensure clean ice and water for the entire appliance.

Determine What Level of Filtration You Need

Most refrigerator water filters will you some form of carbon block to filter the water. Unlike whole house water filters or countertop water filters, there is not a lot of depth in choice when it comes to the type of filtration.

There is, however, the choice of what level of filtration you need. If you live in an urban area with fairly clean water, you probably only need a filter that will remove chlorine and maybe odor and smell. If you live in an area with severe water issues, you will likely be looking for something a bit heftier that will remove pesticides, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and other contaminants.

Set a Price Range

Price is one of the biggest factors in deciding to purchase a refrigeration water filter. When you set a price range, it is important to look toward the future as well. Many filters only have a lifespan of about six months or a year.

It is important to calculate how much you can spend each year on filtration. Luckily, the compatibility will remain the same on your refrigerator so you can switch the type of filter if your needs or price range changes

Installation and Maintenance

The installation and maintenance is another key factor to consider when buying a water filter cartridge for your refrigerator. Some cartridges are easier to install than others. Additionally, some refrigerators have filters in a more convenient place than others. If you do not have a lot of time to maintain the filter, then it is important to consider where the filter is located and how easy it is to change.

Some filters come in multipacks to make the maintenance of the filter and the cartridges even easier

FAQ

Do all filters work with my refrigerator?
No, each filter has specific models it is compatible with. Be sure to check to make sure you get the right one.

How do I know if I got the right filter?

Many filters list the model number of the refrigerators they are compatible with.

Where do I find my model number?

The model number is on the manual you got with your refrigerator. Most also have it on the doors or somewhere on the appliance itself.

Conclusion

Finding the best refrigerator water filter for your needs can be a challenge, but with the above buying guide and product reviews, hopefully, that will have been made easier for you.

The best pick is the EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter, as it is compatible with most of the major refrigerator brands and removes or reduces the greatest number of contaminants. This would be a great filter to have in your house whether you are looking for a water filter to get rid of a bad odor or smell or if you need to remove heavy metals from your water.

Having clean water is essential, and it should not be a hassle to find the right water filter for you. Hopefully, our buying guide has you on the right track, and our product reviews can help narrow down your options!

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