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The 7 Best Whole-House Water Filters of 2024

Drink clean, safe water with these effective filtration systems

Collage of whole house water filters we recommend on a blue patterned background

The Spruce / Kristin Kempa

Everyone should have a ready supply of clean, healthy water in their home, but that isn’t always the case. Whether you’re on well water, or connected to a municipal source, your water may be loaded with a variety of contaminants and other impurities, including sediment, rust, heavy metals, and dangerous pathogens. If the water in your home smells or tastes bad, has a strange color, or appears cloudy, a whole-house water system could take care of it all.

But how do you know for sure if this is a problem? Testing your water to find out what types of filters you need is key, according to Andrew Hancock, operations manager at Gilman Heating and Cooling. You can perform a water quality test yourself using home testing kits available on the market, he says. The kits typically allow you to test for various contaminants, like bacteria, lead, pesticides, nitrates/nitrites, chlorine, hardness, and pH levels.

Once you know exactly what’s in your water, you can zero in on the specific types of filtration you need. “Activated carbon filters are particularly good for organic compounds, chlorine, and odors,” says Hancock. That might be all you need if your water quality is high, or you may need more advanced filtration methods if your water has other contaminants. “Reverse osmosis systems are broadly effective, significantly reducing a wide variety of contaminants, including fluoride, nitrates, and heavy metals,” he says.

We reviewed dozens of whole-house water filtration systems in a variety of configurations to identify the best options for different situations. We looked at the types of filtration methods, flow rates, ease of installation, and use, and other factors to help you find the system that will filter out the exact impurities that you’re dealing with.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Aqua-Pure 3M Water Filter System AP904

Aqua-Pure 3M Water Filter System AP904

Amazon

What We Like
  • Filters up to 100,000 gallons

  • High flow rate for large homes

  • Inhibits scale formation

  • Easy filter replacement

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn’t remove heavy metals

  • Not sufficient for well water

The best filter for your home ultimately depends on what's contaminating your supply. We think the Express Water WH300SCKS 3-Stage Filtration System addresses a long list of contaminants—including lead and organic matter—making it an effective option for a variety of households.

With this system, your water will pass through a sediment filter first, which takes care of small particles and organic matter. Next, the kinetic degradation fluxion (KDF) process media use a noxidation/reduction (redox) reaction to trace heavy metals, including lead, iron, mercury, and copper. Lastly, your supply is deodorized with the activated carbon filter to improve its taste and smell. The carbon also reduces chlorine levels and takes care of turbidity, which is the clarity of your water.

The only items this whole-home filtration system won't remove are bacteria and viruses. It can also be quite leaky, since some parts that connect to your plumbing are made of plastic and not as durable. However, this system has a sturdy, stainless steel construction that will last for years to come. Replace the filter for each of the three stages every six months or so, but it's easy to do without dismantling the system.

What Does Flow Rate Mean?

Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and it refers to how many gallons of water can pass out of the filtration system each minute. To determine the flow rate you'll need, calculate the sum of the gallons per minute of all fixtures that may be used simultaneously in your home. For instance, if you have two showers (2.5 GPM each) and a kitchen sink (2 GPM), you'd want a system that can handle at least 7 GPM to maintain proper pressure. Larger homes typically need higher flow rates than smaller homes, and homes with many residents require higher flow rates than homes with only a few residents.

Since this is a single cartridge system, the lifespan of the cartridges will depend on how much filtration they need to do. If you have a lot of sediment in your water supply, 3M recommends installing a dedicated sediment filter. That’s good advice for any whole-house water system that doesn’t have its own dedicated sediment filter though, because you can easily remove sediment, rust, and other particulate matter that might quickly plug a carbon block filter with an inexpensive, reusable mesh filter.

Professional installation is best for this system as it requires soldering, but 3M’s quick change cartridge system simplifies ongoing maintenance. There aren’t multiple complicated components, so filter replacement is quick and easy.

Dimensions: 25.2 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches | Number of Stages: 3 | Flow Rate: 20 GPM | Filtration Method: Mechanical, absorption, scale inhibition

Best Value

GE Whole House Water Filtration System & Basic Filter GXWH20T & FXUSC

GE Whole House Water Filtration System & Basic Filter GXWH20T & FXUSC

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy installation and maintenance

  • Accepts more advanced filters

  • Good flow rate

What We Don't Like
  • Only basic sediment and rust filtration

  • Adapter needed for 1 inch water supply lines

We think this kit provides high quality basic filtration in a package that’s easy to install, easy to use, and inexpensive to maintain. It comes with the GE GXWH20T whole-house water filter housing and an FXUSC filter, but you can upgrade to a more advanced FXWTC filter if your situation calls for more intense filtration.

The included filters handle things like sediment and rust, while the more advanced option also reduces chlorine and removes unpleasant tastes and odors. We noted that the flow rate is high, at a maximum of 12 GPM, which is enough to handle multiple simultaneous showers and other fixtures without a loss of pressure.

If you do opt to use a more advanced filter with this whole-house filtration system, adding a spin-down sediment filter in-line is a low-cost way to extend filter life. Otherwise, the filters usually last about three months and can process up to 16,000 gallons before you need to replace them. Filter replacement is easy, because the filter housing includes a bypass switch and a shutoff valve, and the filter is held in a clear screw-on container.

Dimensions: 2 x 5 x 9 inches | Number of Stages: 1 | Flow Rate: 12 GPM | Filtration Method: Mechanical

How many filtration stages are needed?

The number of filtration stages you need depends on the contaminants that are present in your water. Well water might need additional filtration for sediment, iron, or sulfur, and bacterial contamination is a common concern, which may necessitate UV purification. City water, on the other hand, often contains chlorine or chloramines, which activated carbon filters can effectively remove.

To determine the number and type of filtration stages that you need, use a home water test kit or pay for professional water testing. Municipal water utilities often post water quality statistics online, and some provide a water report by request.

Best Filter and Softener Combo

AQUASURE Whole House Filtration Water Softener

AQUASURE Whole House Filtration Water Softener

The Home Depot

What We Like
  • Automated regeneration and backwash

  • High flow rate suitable for large households

  • Includes an under-sink reverse osmosis system

What We Don't Like
  • Drinking water tank takes up a lot of space

  • Complicated installation

We like the Aquasure Signature Pro Series 64K, because it's a complete whole-house water filtration and softening system that does it all. It includes a triple purpose sediment, carbon, and zinc water filter, a high capacity water softener with digital controls, and a dedicated under-sink filter system for clean drinking water.

It does take up a lot of space, especially with the large brine discharge tank, but the results are well worth it if you have enough room. The inclusion of a filter, a softener with a brine tank, and an under-sink reverse osmosis system with a drinking water tank complicates installation, so you’ll likely need to hire a plumber for this job.

This three stage system starts with a whole-house filter that traps particulate matter, inhibits bacterial growth, and reduces unpleasant colors, odors, and tastes by removing chlorine and other chemicals.

Maintenance is easy though, because all of those filtration duties are handled by a single multi-stage filter that’s held in a screw-on housing. The softener is also easy to maintain, since the digital control head allows you to set up automatic back flush and purging to take place on your schedule. The system does add a tiny bit of sodium to your water due to the softening process, but it typically isn’t enough to impact taste, and the reverse osmosis system provides a way to remove the sodium from your drinking water.  

Dimensions: 16 x 60 x 28 inches | Number of Stages: 3 + 4 | Flow Rate: 20 GPM | Filtration Method: Mechanical, absorption, reverse osmosis

Best for Well Water

Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter System

Aquasana Whole House Well Water Filter System

Amazon

What We Like
  • Comprehensive filtration

  • Long-lasting filters

  • Easy maintenance

What We Don't Like
  • Flow rate insufficient for large homes

  • Warranty requires professional installation

The Aquasana Rhino Whole House Well Water Filter System is a comprehensive solution for those who depend on well water. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re dealing with low quality municipal water and need a comprehensive filtration solution.

This is a five stage system, so it filters out sediments and particulate matter with both pre-and post-filters, a copper-zinc KDF filter, a salt-free water conditioner, and a UV filter. The UV filter is the most crucial component for any well water filtration system, and this one sterilizes 99.99 percent of all bacteria and viruses present in your water. All of that filtration does come at a cost, which is a fairly low flow rate, so this system is best for smaller households and homes that use water-conserving low flow fixtures.

This system provides comprehensive filtering, but maintenance is very easy. The primary filters can handle up to 500,000 gallons between replacements, so you only need to worry about the pre- and post-filters for regular maintenance. Those filters need to be replaced every two months or so, but they’re contained in screw-on canisters so replacing them isn’t hard. T

here’s no need to drain the system for back flushing, and it will even continue working if you slack off on maintenance, just with a reduced flow rate if your well water contains a lot of sediment. This system does require professional installation though, because installing it without a licensed plumber voids the warranty.

Dimensions: 10.5 x 69 x 53 inches | Number of Stages: 5 | Flow Rate: 14.7 GPM | Filtration Method: Mechanical, ultraviolet, sedimentation

Best for Small Homes

iSpring WGB21B

iSpring WGB21B

Amazon

What We Like
  • Compact form factor

  • Easy filter changes

  • Two stage filtration

What We Don't Like
  • Higher flow rate than some will need

  • Doesn’t filter heavy metals

We think the iSpring WGB21B is ideal for small homes, cabins, and other places where space is at a premium, because it provides two stage filtering in a very compact form factor. It comes with one sediment filter and one CTO carbon filter, so it’s set up to handle both particulate matter and unpleasant tastes and odors right out of the box.

It doesn’t remove heavy metals or other contaminants though, so you may want to swap out the sediment filter for the iSpring FM15B Iron and Manganese Reducing Filter if your water has high metal contents. You could even install a dedicated spin-down sediment filter to handle sediment without taking up a lot of extra space or reducing water flow.

Whether you go with the stock filters or add an Iron and Manganese filter, this system provides a decent flow rate of 15 GPM, which is more than sufficient for small homes with only one or two bathrooms and modest water requirements.

For a small house with just one or two people living in it, 15 GPM is on the high side, as you’re unlikely to actually need that high a flow rate if you never run multiple showers, faucets, and water-hungry appliances like washing machines at the same time.

Dimensions: 26 x 19 x 11 inches | Number of Stages: 2 | Flow Rate: 15 GPM | Filtration Method: Mechanical, absorption

Easiest to Install

GE High Flow Water Filtration System

GE GXWH40L High Flow Whole House Water Filtration System

 Amazon

What We Like
  • Includes all necessary installation hardware

  • Remote filter reminder light

  • Easy filter replacement

What We Don't Like
  • Filters not included

  • Water hammer effect

This whole-house filtration system from GE comes with everything you’ll need to complete a successful installation, but excludes the filter cartridge itself. Installation is very straightforward as long as you have some experience with plumbing, because there’s no need to cut or weld anything.

The system installs in-line with your main water supply and includes one inch plumbing connections that will do the trick in most homes. The unit has a built-in pressure relief valve and bypass option, so installation really is as simple as hooking it up in-line with your supply.

This system doesn’t come with a filter cartridge, so you’ll need to pick up an FXHTC or FXHSC cartridge depending on your filtration needs. You need to change these filters every three months, or every 30,000 gallons, whichever comes first, but it’s a very simple process.

Since the unit includes a shut-off valve, it’s easy to switch the water off, unscrew the clear housing, and swap out the older filter for a new one. The unit also includes a purge valve, which you can press to bleed air from the system before turning the water back on.

Dimensions: 16.4 x 8.4 x 7.9 inches | Number of Stages: 1 | Flow Rate: 15 GPM | Filtration Method: Mechanical, absorption

Best Sediment Filter

iSpring WSP50ARB Spin Down Sediment Water Filter

iSpring WSP50ARB Spin Down Sediment Water Filter

Amazon

What We Like
  • Auto-flush feature

  • Easy installation

  • Simple operation

What We Don't Like
  • LCD display is a little dim

  • Display can get in the way

The iSpring WSP50ARB is our favorite sediment filter, because it’s easy to install and operate, with a digital display, automatic flushing option, and a built-in housing scraper. The touch screen is a little dim, but it’s a great feature that provides intuitive controls.

The unit comes set to automatically flush for 15 seconds every 15 days, but you can use the touchscreen to adjust the frequency and duration of the auto-flush if your water has more or less sediment than average. It also has semi-automatic and manual options if you prefer to check the unit regularly and take more direct control over flushing. Visual inspection is easy, because the filter is clearly visible through the pressure-resistant transparent housing.

This spin-down sediment filter includes a reusable 50 micron filter that removes large particulate matter, so it’s ideal if your only issue with water quality is the presence of rust, sediments, and other suspended particles.

It can also prolong the life of your other filters as part of a multi-stage system, since it takes care of the big stuff that can quickly plug up other types of filters. If the included filter is too fine for your needs, iSpring also sells reusable 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 micron filters.

Dimensions: 13.8 x 5 x 4 inches | Number of Stages: 1 | Flow Rate: 25 GPM | Filtration Method: Sedimentation

Final Verdict

We recommend the 3M Aqua-Pure AP904 as the best overall whole-house water filter. It features a high flow rate that’s suitable for large homes and families, filters up to 100,000 gallons before the tank needs to be replaced, and provides three stage filtration that includes scale reduction. If your filtration needs are more intense, our best for well water recommendation, the Aquasana Rhino Whole House Well Water Filter System has a lower flow rate, but it’s a full five stage filtration system that includes UV filtering to take care of harmful bacteria.

What to Look for in a Whole-House Water Filter

Filtration Method

Whole-house water filtration systems can make use of a wide variety of filtration methods, each of which handles different contaminants.

Each filtration method is also known as a stage, so a whole-house water filtration system that has one filter is a single state system, and one that uses five methods is referred to as a five-stage system. The stages can involve separate filter units, or multiple filtration methods can be combined inside a single unit.

Systems with more stages and more intense filtration typically restrict the flow of water into your home. That results in a lower flow rate, which is a measurement of how much water is available to all of the fixtures and appliances in your home. Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM).

Here are the most common filtration methods:

  • Spin down: These sedimentation filters trap large sediment and rust particles. Since the filtration is fairly rudimentary, they don’t restrict the flow rate very much. Our best sediment filter recommendation, the iSpring WSP50ARB, has a flow rate of 25 GPM.
  • Activated carbon: These filters are good at trapping organic compounds and some chemicals like chlorine, and they improve the smell and taste of water. They typically don’t restrict flow very much. Our best overall recommendation, the 3M Aqua-Pure AP904, is a three stage filter that relies primarily on activated carbon, and it provides a flow rate of 20 GPM.
  • Ion exchange: These filters remove dissolved ionic contaminants like magnesium and calcium from your water. According to Hancock, these can also effectively soften hard water.
  • Reverse osmosis: These filters force water through a semipermeable membrane that traps impurities. “In a reverse osmosis system, the water travels first through the filtration system and then through the reverse osmosis membrane,” says Constantin Geambasu, owner of Water Rehab. “This system removes 97 percent of pollutants.” That level of filtration also restricts water flow, which is why some systems only use reverse osmosis for drinking water. Our best filter and softener combo recommendation, the Aquasure Signature Pro Series 64K, includes an under-sink reverse osmosis filtration system to provide ultra-pure drinking water while maintaining a high flow rate of 20 GPM elsewhere in your home.
  • Ultraviolet: These systems use ultraviolet light to sterilize your water and kill potentially harmful pathogens. The water needs to remain in contact with the light for a certain amount of time for the sterilization to occur, so there is some reduction in flow rate. Our best for well water recommendation, the Aquasana Rhino, is a comprehensive five stage system with UV filtering, and it provides a maximum flow rate of 14.7 GPM.

Installation Requirements

To install a whole-house water filtration system, you need to have access to your home’s main water supply line. Depending on the system, installation may require plumbing tools like pipe cutters, wrenches, and plumbers tape, and some systems also require soldering equipment.

“Whole-house water filters typically require a location near the main water shutoff valve,” says Hancock. “You'll need enough space for the system itself and any future maintenance activities.” Different systems have different space requirements due to variations in filter size and configuration, so it’s important to consider your available space before you buy a whole-house water filtration system.

Consulting with a licensed plumber can also be useful, and Hancock cautions that, “Whole-house water filters are typically not a DIY task, and requires plumbing skills to cut pipes and install the system correctly.” Our recommendation for easiest to install, the GE GXWH40L, has a straightforward installation process that doesn’t require any soldering, but you do need to have some plumbing experience because you’ll need to shut off your water supply and cut into your water supply line.

Care and Maintenance

Ongoing care and maintenance requirements vary depending on the system, but it typically involves changing replaceable filters, cleaning and rinsing reusable screens, and checking the entire system for faults.

Geambasu recommends having your system checked every year, but cautions that some filters need to be changed more often than that. “Some filters need to be replaced every six months,” he says. “Others every year depending on water quality and usage.”

Here are some common maintenance requirements:

  • Spin-down filters: These filters require regular flushing because the sediment they trap can prevent water flow into your home if it accumulates. You may need to flush yours every week if your water has a lot of sediment. Our best sediment filter recommendation, the iSpring WSP50ARB, has an automatic flush and purge feature that takes care of this for you.
  • Sump filters: These systems use a large sump canister with a filter cartridge inside. The sump canister is sometimes clear, which allows you to see the quality of the water. To replace the filter, you shut the water off, unscrew the sump housing, remove and discard the old filter, and insert a new one. The filter cartridge usually needs to be replaced every three to six months, and the housings need to be replaced every five years for clear housings or 10 years for opaque housings.
  • Tank/cartridge filters: These systems employ disposable tanks or self-contained cartridges filled with various filtration mediums, like activated carbon. They are typically rated to filter a specific amount of water, after which they need to be replaced. They’re more expensive than sump filters, but they also last longer. The Aquasana Rhino that we recommend as best for wells has tanks that are rated to process up to 100,000 gallons of water, but it also includes pre- and post-filters that need to be replaced every two and six months respectively.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Jeremy Laukkonen is a commerce updates writer for The Spruce who has over a decade of experience covering home improvement, electronics, and other household goods. To prepare for this piece, Jeremy researched whole-house water filter systems for filtration methods, flow rate, longevity, difficulty of installation and maintenance, and other factors. He's lucky enough to live in an area where simple carbon filter bottles do the trick, but he has used reverse osmosis and other filtration systems in other locations.

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