March 10, 2023

How Does a Whole House Water Filtration System Work

By: Nathan Hawkes

How Does a Whole House Water Filtration System Work

A whole house water filter system uses a series of filters to remove impurities, dissolved solids, and large molecules from water.

The process works by applying pressure to the water, which forces it through the various filters, leaving the impurities behind.

The purified water then flows to a storage tank, while the impurities are discharged through a drain.

The system typically includes a pre-filter to remove larger particles, such as sediment, as well as a post-filter to improve the taste and odor of the purified water. 

There are also many add-ons available, like ultraviolet light filters which kill bacteria, viruses and other pathogens.

Additional components are made that add essential nutrients back into the water once filtration is complete.

Most water filtration systems are limited to the kitchen sink or similar areas, but whole house water filtration systems can do a lot more.

How Whole House Water Filtration Works

A whole house water system is a type of water filtration system that is designed to purify the water that enters a building, rather than just treating the water at a single point of use, such as a kitchen sink. This means that any water entering your home—from the kitchen sink to the shower—has passed through the filtration systems and is purified of contaminants.

The whole house system is connected to the main water line, so you aren't just drinking purified water—you're showering with it, cleaning with it and even flushing with it.

Whole house systems work by using the same filtration methods listed above—water passes through a series of filters and membranes until the contaminants have been removed.

Do I Need a Whole House Water Filtration System?

Whole house water filtration systems are typically necessary for individuals or households that have high levels of dissolved solids, impurities, or other contaminants in their water supply. They can be especially beneficial for people who live in areas with hard water, high levels of chlorine or other chemicals, or high levels of bacteria or other microorganisms (that can be handled with a system's UV filtration add-on).

Whole house water filtration is a great idea for people with the following living conditions:

  • Rural areas with well water supply
  • Next to manufacturing plants
  • Any other area where water gets higher-than-normal levels of chemical, material or pathogenic contamination

Some specific reasons why someone might need a whole house filtration system include:

  • Hard water: Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause damage to plumbing fixtures, appliances, and clothing. A whole house system can remove these minerals and provide softer, cleaner water throughout the home.
  • Contaminated well water: If you have a private well and your water has tested positive for bacteria, viruses, or other contaminants, a whole house system can provide a reliable and effective way to purify your water supply.
  • Chlorine and other chemicals: If you are concerned about the levels of chlorine or other chemicals in your water, a whole house system can remove these contaminants and provide cleaner, better-tasting water throughout your home.
  • High levels of dissolved solids: If you have high levels of dissolved solids in your water, such as iron, sulfur, or manganese, a whole house system can remove these impurities and provide cleaner, clearer water throughout your home.
  • Aesthetic improvement: A Whole house system can improve the taste, smell and appearance of water, making it more pleasant to drink, cook and shower with.

It's important to note that a whole house system should be installed and maintained by a professional. If you're unsure about your water quality, you can get your water tested by a professional to determine the best treatment option for your needs.

Purified Water Benefits

house water filter systems whole house filter & sediment filters
  1. High level of purification: Filtration systems are highly effective at removing impurities, dissolved solids, and large molecules from water, making it among the purest forms of water.
  2. Improved taste and odor: Water is often considered to have a better taste and odor than tap water, as it can remove chlorine, sulfur, and other chemicals that can affect the taste and smell of water.
  3. Removal of dissolved minerals: Filtration systems can effectively remove dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause hard water, and can damage plumbing fixtures, appliances, and clothing.
  4. Better for people with sensitivities: Purified water can be beneficial for people with sensitivities to certain substances, such as chlorine or fluoride, as it can effectively remove these substances from water.
  5. Better for people with specific health conditions: Filtered water can be beneficial for people with specific health conditions, such as kidney or heart disease, as it can effectively remove dissolved solids that can be harmful to their health.
  6. Cost-effective: In the long term, a water filtration system can be a cost-effective way to have clean and safe water as it eliminates the need for purchasing bottled water.
  7. Environmentally friendly: Using a house water filter system can reduce the environmental impact of consuming bottled water, as it eliminates the need for the production, transportation, and disposal of plastic bottles.
  8. Better for appliances and plumbing: Filtered water can help extend the life of appliances and plumbing fixtures by removing dissolved minerals that can cause buildup and damage.

It's worth noting that water filtration systems remove essential minerals as well, which could be harmful if consumed in large quantities, this is why a post filter is often added to add back some of those minerals.

    Conclusion

    house filter doing house water filter work in house filtration systems

    In conclusion, a whole house water filtration system is a powerful and effective way to purify water and remove impurities, dissolved solids, and other contaminants. These systems can provide cleaner, better-tasting water throughout a home, and can be especially beneficial for people who live in areas with hard water, high levels of chlorine or other chemicals, or high levels of bacteria or other microorganisms.

    To ensure that the system continues to function effectively, it is important to maintain the system by replacing house water filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

    Additionally, it's always a good idea to get your water tested by a professional before making a decision, to ensure that you are getting the right solution for your needs and that the system you're considering will effectively address any issues with your water.

    Get started on your whole house system today—contact Express Water!

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