Water Filtration & Water Softeners

Clean, great-tasting water and scale-free plumbing start with the right water filtration systems and water softeners. This category brings together whole house water filters, under sink drinking water filters, reverse osmosis systems, UV purifiers, iron and sulfur filters, and salt-based or salt-free softening solutions for municipal and well water.

Choose filtration that targets your water profile. Sediment pre-filters (1–10 micron) protect downstream components. Carbon block and catalytic carbon reduce chlorine, chloramine, taste and odor. Specialty cartridges address lead and PFAS, while reverse osmosis lowers TDS for crisp drinking water. UV disinfection neutralizes bacteria and viruses without chemicals. For hardness, ion-exchange softeners remove calcium and magnesium to stop limescale; template-assisted crystallization conditioners reduce scaling without brine.

Key specs to compare include flow rate (GPM), pressure drop, micron rating, grain capacity, resin type, and regeneration method (time clock vs metered). Look for NSF/ANSI certifications such as 42, 53, 55, 58, and 44, plus filter life indicators and smart monitors that track gallons.

The benefits are immediate: better-tasting water, brighter laundry, soap that lathers, spot-free glassware, longer appliance life, fewer plumbing repairs, and potential energy savings on water heaters.

Most systems are DIY-friendly with the right tools and accessories: filter housings and wrenches, push-to-connect fittings, PEX cutter, tubing, PTFE tape, mounting brackets, bypass valves, and drain line air gaps. Plan your layout, shut off water, depressurize, and protect against leaks with proper supports.

Start by testing your water (hardness in GPG, iron, pH, TDS). Match a whole house filter and softener to your plumbing size and family usage, then add an under sink RO for drinking and ice. With routine maintenance—timely cartridge changes, brine tank care, and periodic sanitizing—you’ll keep water quality high and hassles low. For high iron or sulfur, add KDF, manganese dioxide, or air-injection ahead of the softener to protect resin.