The Best Whole House Water Filter Cartridges for 2023

What makes the best whole house water filter cartridge? Because there are many different filter cartridges available, you might not have a great time at all, especially if it is your first time buying this item. It is why we’ve created these reviews of the top choices on the market. They feature the top picks that have great qualities and are by reliable brands known for their heavy-duty and high-performance filters. Buying the top-quality whole-house water filter cartridge hinges on how you appreciate the following factors. These are not absolute, but they can help narrow down your options.

• Filtration Capacity: Whole-house water filter cartridges must accommodate as many contaminants as possible to ensure cost-effectiveness. Otherwise, you will spend more on replacement filters because they can only last so long. Hence, a 150,000-gallon filter is better than a 100,000-gallon system, provided all other parameters are equal.

• Contaminants Removed: You might want to test your water to determine the contaminants you must remove. For example, some households only require sediment, chlorine, and CTO reduction, while others might have issues with microorganisms, heavy metals, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, and other impurities. Although any filter can claim water contaminant removal, only those with NSF or WQA certification provide peace of mind.

• Flow Rate: Water filters reduce water pressure and flow slightly. You do not want the filter to lower your water flow rate significantly because drinking then becomes a hassle. A whole-house system should provide at least 15 gallons per minute.

By using this guide as a reference, you can be sure to buy the right water filter cartridge that matches your preferences and feature requirements. Let’s begin.

Top-Tier Whole House Water Filter Cartridge Reviews

1. GE FXHSC Household Sediment Filter

GE is a popular brand known for its high-quality appliances. However, only a few know that they also manufacture and sell filtration systems. One of these products is its household pre-filtration sediment filter. With this product, you’ll know that it was made with the GE brand of excellence.

As in its name, the GE household pre-filtration sediment filter is installed in the first part of your whole house filtration system. Because of this, this filter is responsible for removing and filtering out sand, silt, rust, debris, scales, and other sediments.

However, unlike other similar filters, the GE sediment is more effective. What I like about this product is that it can also remove chemicals, pollutants, and other microorganisms due to its 30-micron filter. As such, this filter cartridge can effectively improve the taste and smell of your water by removing chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, as well as other chemicals and pollutants.

With this installed, you’ll have a smooth-sailing filtration process.

Another thing I like about the GE household pre-filtration sediment filter is its capacity. Unlike similar brands, the GE model can filter up to 30,000 gallons of water. As such, you will only need to replace it every three months. This enables you to save up on costs and other expenses.

The GE household pre-filtration sediment filter is also versatile and convenient to use. It can fit any GE water filtration system as well as other 10″ x 4.5″ water filtration systems such as Culligan, Whirlpool, Omni, DuPont, Watts, Kenmore, and other brands.

Moreover, this product is also easy to install and maintain. In fact, you can even do the installation process on your own without the need for a professional. Maintenance is also easy as you just need to replace the filter every three months or once it treats 30,000 gallons of water.

2. DuPont Whole House Carbon Cartridge

DuPont is one of the most popular companies, not only in the water filtration scene but also in other areas such as Agriculture, Beverages, Automotive, etc. As such, when you buy one of their products, you are always assured of its high quality.

One of these products is their Universal whole house carbon cartridge. Made from carbon-wrapped polypropylene filter media, the DuPont universal carbon cartridge is durable and long-lasting. It’s also safe to use since it is certified NSF Aesthetic Chlorine Taste and Odor and Low Lead Content. As such, you wouldn’t have any worries using this product.

What I like about this filter is its carbon filter medium. Aside from enhancing its durability, the carbon filter is also effective in filtering out various bacteria, chemicals, pollutants, particles, contaminants, and other impurities found in your water supply.

Because of its 5-micron filter, it can even target small and microscopic particles, which are usually bacteria and viruses. As such, your water supply will effectively be filtered and purified.

Another thing I like about the DuPont universal whole house carbon cartridge is its capacity. This filter cartridge has the capacity to treat 15,000 gallons of water, depending on the water supply and contamination levels. The heavy-duty versions can even treat up to 30,000 gallons of water.

Moreover, the DuPont carbon cartridge comes in packs of two. As such, you wouldn’t have to worry about purchasing a replacement for some time. With a spare, you can easily replace the filter after it’s done.

The DuPont universal whole house carbon cartridge is also versatile and convenient to use. It can fit any DuPont water filtration system as well as others like Whirlpool, GE, Omni, Culligan, Watts, and other standard-sized systems.

3. PUREPLUS Water Filter Cartridge

The PUREPLUS whole house water filter replacement cartridge is made out of safe and durable materials and is even lead-free and BPA-certified. It also meets various European Regulations as well as the Australia Water Mark.

What I like about the PUREPLUS water filter replacement cartridge is its efficacy. It’s designed with a density of three PP layers, and it comes with a coconut-shell-activated carbon layer. With these, the filter can effectively remove and filter out a wide range of contaminants, particles, bacteria, pollutants, and other impurities.

With its construction, the PUREPLUS water filter replacement cartridge boasts a capacity of 30,000 water gallons, depending on the levels of contamination. With this, you can opt to replace it every 3-6 months. This enables you to save up on replacement costs even for a little bit.

Another thing I like about this product is that it has a 6-months return policy. Its multi-layer density provides for a durable and long-lasting product; however, the company still provides additional contingencies for the user.

As such, you can easily change and replace your filter if it’s broken within the 6-month time frame. You can even opt to return and get a refund on your product. Its friendly customer service will be there to assist every step of the way. Moreover, the friendly customer service staff can also answer some queries and questions you want to ask.

The PUREPLUS whole house water filter replacement cartridge is very versatile and can be used in any 10″x4.5″ Big Blue filter housings. You can also use these cartridges on other 10″x4.5″ filter systems such as Culligan, GE, Dupont, Omnifilter, Kenmore, Whirlpool, etc.

4. Culligan RFC-BBSA Water Filter

One of the well-known companies in the water filtration scene, Culligan, established its humble beginnings by providing a home water softening solution. As time grew, the company then ventured into water treatment systems and filtered bottled water delivery services, among others. One of Culligan’s products includes the whole house premium water filters.

Like all Culligan’s products, the whole house premium water filter is tested and certified against NSF standards. With this, you are assured that the filter can effectively do its job in removing contaminants and impurities in your supply.

What I like about this model is that it comes with a 25-micron filter and features a flow rate of 3 GPM. As such, it can effectively filter out sediments, debris, rust, scale, silt, sand, and the like as well as improve the smell and taste of your water supply.

Because of these functions, the Culligan whole house premium water filter is perfect to use in residential homes. With this, you’ll have cleaner and safer water to drink as well as water that won’t damage your floors, tiles, and appliances.

Depending on the water supply and contamination levels, the Culligan whole house premium filter can effectively treat up to 10,000 gallons. Unlike other 1-stage filter systems, this filter model has a lifespan of 6 months. As such, you’ll have ample time to save up on buying replacements.

Another thing I like about this water filter cartridge is that it’s versatile. It can easily slide in Culligan water systems as well as other standard-sized water systems from other brands such as DuPont, Whirlpool, Omni, GE, and the like.

The Culligan water filter cartridge is also easy to maintain. You really won’t have to do anything except replace the cartridge after six months.

Like all Culligan products, this water filter cartridge also comes with its own warranty. Moreover, with its helpful customer service, you can easily replace the product.

5. AQUA CREST FXHSC

Are you looking for whole house water filter replacements? If you were, you might want to consider the AQUA CREST. For one, it is compact and lightweight, measuring only 10″ x 4.5″. This item can fit many models of water filtration systems without any problems. Still, then you might also want to check yours before adding this item to the cart to ensure that it will fit. Also, I would like to mention that it is compatible with things like the Dupont WFHDC3001, GE FXHSC and Culligan R50-BBSA, to name some. Nevertheless, it is one of the most versatile choices on the market for its compatibility with many systems on the market.

The Whole House Water Filter is also available in a pack of two, making it a great value pick for many households. The top-quality 10 inch whole house water filter cartridge is also one of those that can offer effective filtration on the market because it can filter particles as small as five microns. I am also impressed with the filtration media of this item. It uses useful food-grade polypropylene material, so it is reliable when it comes to filtering out the many impurities in the household water supply.

Another thing to like about the filter is that it can improve the odor and the taste of the water coming into your home. In addition to taking out the sediment materials that would otherwise damage the plumbing and appliances, it can also ensure that it can enhance the quality of the water. With it, you can have healthy filtered water at home.

I am also impressed that the AQUACREST whole house water filter can offer a long service life, and that is thanks to its larger surface area. Having that said, you could also conclude that it could provide you with a more robust absorption capacity than others on the market could. So, if you would use this filter, you can ensure that your family will enjoy fresh water. However, you must be able to replace the filter at least every three months to ensure its efficiency. Nevertheless, the whole house water filter can filter up to 30,000 gallons of water.

6. Aquaboon Water Filter Cartridge

This Whole House Sediment Filtration is another to consider if you are looking for a premium quality item in the category. The 10-inch grooved type filter replacement makes it on top of consumer reviews for its great and reliable features. For one, I liked that this filter is compatible with different models that include the AP110, P5WFPFC5002, and CFS110, RS14.

If you’re looking to buy a six-pack cartridge to avoid buying it from time to time, you might also want to consider the AQUABOON. It is already available in a six-pack version, ensuring that you also save money in the process. Also, this model is compatible with many standard whole house and RO systems in households. The universal filter cartridge is also a great replacement that you can install easily and quickly.

More so, the filtration is quality in that it is made of pure polypropylene materials for its filter media. Quality filtration allows it to eliminate many types of water contaminants. This material is also pure and it has no solvents, binders, or any wetting agents. It also comes with five zones, which can ensure its filtering quality. It can also remove more contaminants as well as large and small particles from drinking water. These include particles, such as rust, silt, dirt, and sand.

I’d also like to mention that it can reach up to 3000 gallons of water. However, it might also vary based on the quality of water in your area. That is why you need to check for any clogs from time to time to maintain the quality taste of your water. I am also happy that it is compatible with housing, including the PF 3800 Series and Dupont PF 2800 Series.

7. Everpure H-300 Water Filter Cartridge

The Everpure water replacement cartridge is another top choice for its reliability and performance. It is a top-rated choice among consumers looking for great filters that can reduce the impurities in the water. One of the things that make the Everpure H-300 Cartridge reliable is that it can help in producing fresh and clean water. It can also enhance the taste of water on demand. It is convenient to use, but it does not come with a high operating cost. You can rely on it for crisp and clean water, and it can reduce particles with sizes as small as 0.5 microns.

Also, I am impressed that it can work in reducing volatile organic chemicals in the water. You can also count on it when it comes to lowering algae and mold. In terms of water clarity, this item can help in reducing the dirt and cloudiness in the water, too.

I’d also like to mention that it is made with KDF media. What it does is stop the buildup of scale in the water, preventing equipment damage. More so, the filter can also enhance the odor and taste of the water. How about the water flow rate? It is good that it can offer 0.5 gallons of water per minute.

I’d also like to note that the Everpure H-300 Replacement Cartridge can keep the minerals in the water. It can ensure that it can deliver not only a crisp and clean taste but also water with minerals. You can also rely on the well water filter cartridge to prevent damage to your appliance and plumbing system. You might want to check it out if you’re going to reap these rewards for using an efficient filter.

8. WHIRLPOOL Whole House Filter

This item is another top of the line choice for a whole house filter that can deliver the performance that you’re looking for when shopping around for this item. It is by Whirlpool, a renowned brand for its quality and heavy-duty appliances and products. You can count on this replacement filter for its vast uses.

This model is compatible with different filtration systems. However, you should check your model number to ensure that it will fit. Nevertheless, it works effectively in terms of reducing the particles in the water. Some include sand, silt, soil, rust, and sediment. With that said, you can rest assured that you can filter out contaminants that would otherwise be in your water supply. It will also help in preventing damage to your plumbing system and fixtures as well as water-using appliances, such as washing machines.

The WHKF-DWHV is also useful in removing rust in your water. It can also get rid of volatile organic compounds to ensure clear and crisp water is going into your house. It is indeed an essential component of your home filtration system. The reason is that it can eliminate harmful contaminants in the water. You can also save money on choosing it because it comes with two in every pack. In this case, you can have a backup and replace your old filter when needed.

9. Ronaqua Sediment Water Filter

Replacing the water filter cartridge is essential to ensure that your filter works optimally. However, it is not just replacing it with any other filter cartridges. Still, it must be efficient enough to perform what is expected of it. One of the most reliable cartridges to find on the market is this whole house water filter cartridge for well water. The Ronaqua Sediment Water Filter Cartridge is one of the most suitable choices in the category because it can perform and deliver what you need in a filter cartridge.

One of its unique features is that it can help you ensure that your family will drink well-filtered water to ensure their health. For one, it can offer four filtration layers, working to remove silt, rust, dirt, and sand. With that said, you could have peace of mind that the water will be free from these impurities, which might otherwise cause disease or skin irritation.

Another thing that makes the 5 micron water filter cartridge is that it can filter out even small particles that would otherwise contaminate the water. This model can also remove cysts and fluoride from the water. If you would use it, you can have peace of mind that you can use clean water at home. I want to mention that this filter cartridge is mostly chosen for a standard reverse osmosis system.

This model is also with a 10-inch housing that is matched with different models that include the 3M CFS110 and Dupont PFC5002. You can also check the specifications pages for the other models that it will fit.

I am also impressed that it can be replaced every two or three years. However, it will depend on the water quality in your place that it must filter. Thus, you might have to change it often if your water source contains much silt, for instance. Another thing is that this item is NSF certified, ensuring its quality and performance.

10. Filtrete Whole House Water Filter

The Filtrete water filter is another top choice to consider when comparing your options for a water filter. It is easy to install and use, not giving you any headache when it comes to setting it up. One of the things that also impressed me about the Filtrete item is that it can work on and filter smaller particles with a size of five microns. It just means that you can trust it when it comes to eliminating much of the contaminant in your water.

Also, I am impressed that this model is with a large capacity so it can be ideal for large households. I would also like to mention that it is in a drop style that makes it easy to install. Also, you can rely on it because it can filter many types of water contaminants and sediments that would otherwise get into the water supply you receive at home.

The whole house filter is also efficient in that it can filter the water coming throughout your household. With it, you can also have peace of mind that you can protect your appliances, including washing machines and plumbing systems. The reason is that it can get rid of the impurities that would otherwise cause damage to them. In addition, the large capacity is ideal for households with at least three bathrooms.

When it comes to drinking water, we don’t also like ours to taste like chlorine. In this case, we want a whole house filter to ensure that it can reduce that taste in the water, while also reducing the odor. You can check out this product because it is one of its amazing features.

11. EcoPure EPW2S Water Filter

If you’re shopping around for compatible water filter replacement cartridges, you might want to check out this item from EcoPure. It is universal that it can fit many notable brands. That said, you don’t need to be concerned about it, not installing your water system. This model is also available in two packs already, so you can have a backup filter when the other one needs replacement.

The Universal Fit filter is among the whole house water filter cartridge types that you can rely on if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient system to offer you excellent filtration. It can help in removing silt, sand, rust, cysts, and other contaminants in the water. It is what you need if you want to protect your appliances, as well as the plumbing water system and fixtures.

This model is also compatible with systems, such as Omni, Whirlpool, and Filtrate, among others. So, if you would like to use a filter that can work with many whole house and RO systems, you should consider this item. It is compatible with many models, including GE and 3M, too.

The filter is also NSF certified, ensuring that it can offer exceptional filtration. It is also efficient when it comes to reducing contaminants in household water. Some of these particles include dirt, sand, and sediment, among others.

The advanced filtration water system is what you need for efficient results. Every three months, you should replace it depending on the clarity and cleanliness of the water in your place. You can also sign up to get reminders on your phone. The EPW2S String Wound Whole Home Replacement Water Filter can reduce sediment to under 10 microns. You might want to consider it if you’re using well water or municipal water supplies. You should install a reliable filter like the EcoPure whole home system before your water softener and water heater. It is to protect your appliances and plumbing.

12. Filtrete Whole House Water Filters

The Filtrete whole house water filtration is suitable for those with large households. Many users tend to go for this brand, especially when they have at least three bathrooms in their homes.

What I like the most about this water filtration system is that it comes in 3 different styles to suit different needs. For example, there is the 30-micron carbon filter that effectively filters out and removes sand, silt, particles, debris, rust, and other sediments.

There is also a filter that aims to improve the taste and smell of your water. As such, it will also target and filter out chemicals such as chlorine and hydrogen sulfide. Lastly, there is a 5-micron filter that will ensure extra protection against microscopic bacteria, viruses, and anything that’s left.

Because of this, this water filtration system is extremely versatile and convenient to use.

The Filtrete whole house filtration system is also safe to use and easy to install. It has the necessary certifications, such as the WQA certification against NSF/ANSI Standard 42. Installation is also a breeze you can even do it by yourself, without the need to hire a professional plumber.

Another thing I like about the Filtrete whole house filtration system is that it comes with a free 3-months filter. With this, you are saved from some of the costs when it comes to expenses.

Replacements are also easy with this model as it provides three replacement filters. You can choose from granulated, grooved, and pleated carbon filters.

What Is A Whole House Water Filter Cartridge/ Who Is This For

Tap water, while the most accessible and abundant source for households, contains a lot of contaminants, particles, pollutants, and other impurities. Accidentally drinking it might pose a lot of health problems, especially for children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Using it to clean your surfaces and tiles might also be a bad idea since the water contains a lot of hardness minerals that might damage it.

As such, there is a need to filter water using a water filtration system. One of the most popular types in the market is the whole house water filtration system.

The whole house filtration system, as in its name, is a system that can effectively filter all the water that is currently found in your home. Also known as the Point of Entry system, the top-rated 10 inch water filter cartridge is connected to your main water line so that all your water dispensers in the house will give out filtered water.

In other words, this means that your toilets, baths, faucets, showers, laundry, kitchen, and the like will provide treated water. These whole house filtration systems are usually installed before the heater system. As such, both your cold and warm water are also filtered.

House water filtration systems are for those who have high contamination levels in their tap waters. With this, you can effectively bring down these levels and provide clean and safe water for your household.

Due to its size, the whole house filtration systems are for those who find using the small filtration systems a hassle. With this, you can quickly get your filtered water.

How Does It Work

Just as you would read in whole house water filter cartridge reviews, whole house filtration systems might come in different styles and types. Still, nonetheless, they work in the same way.

These filtration systems are usually attached to your main water line and placed before the electric tankless water heater.

Once the water goes in, the first thing it will see is the sediment prefilter. This filter medium is designed to get rid of large particles such as silt, rust, sand, debris, and other similar sediments.

After the water passes through this, it will then go to the activated carbon filter. This filter has a membrane that possesses millions of tiny, microscopic holes. It provides a more okay filtration process.

As such, contaminants that are bigger than these holes are left behind while the water goes through the next level. Among these contaminants are volatile organic compounds, chlorine, left-over sediments, and other chemicals and pollutants.

Water then goes through a copper-zinc and mineral filter. It is the final stage as it will treat most of the contaminants that are left behind.

There are also some models that offer the optional step of softening or descaling the water using ion-exchange technology. You also have models with UV filters and a post-filter.

What Are The Different Types Of Whole House Water Filter Cartridges

Whole house filter cartridges differ on the type of filter medium/media they use. Some of the most common examples include:

Activated Carbon Filters

These types of filter cartridges are one of the most popular as they can remove a wide range of pollutants, chemicals, and other impurities. It can completely filter out 81 types of chemicals and partially 50 types of others using its porous membrane.

However, while that may be so, they are ineffective when it comes to filtering dissolved metals and minerals, inorganic contaminants, bacteria and viruses, and the like.

Sediment Filters

As in its name, sediment filter cartridges are used to filter out debris, rust, silt, sand, and the like. These are further classified into standard sediment filters, more delicate filters, and ultra-fine sediment filters.

Sediment filters come in a multi-gradient design that contains several layers, each with its micron level. Because of this, it can also remove and filter out a wide range of particles found in your tap water supply.

This type is usually found in the first part of the whole house filtration system. It is to ensure that large particles won’t damage and clog up the other filters that lie ahead.

Iron Filters

One of the most common contaminants found in your water is dissolved minerals and elements. However, not all filter cartridges can remove these easily.

As such, many opt to use an iron filter to do the job. While it can filter out minerals and metals, it’s not that practical when it comes to other impurities.

UV Filters

UV water filter cartridges are there to filter out the deadliest contaminants in your water supply- bacteria and other viruses.

With this water filter, water will pass through a chamber and will be exposed to UV light. This radiation serves to inactivate bacteria, rendering them unable to reproduce and spread.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Water Filter Cartridge

Having your water filtration system will certainly bring a lot of benefits to your household in terms of health and money. Having a whole house filtration system is even better.

However, like all products, there is a need to weigh the benefits and consequences they will bring. As such, this section will list all the pros and cons of having a whole house filtration system.

Advantages

High-quality water

No matter how reliable your local water utility is, tap water will always contain bacteria, contaminants, particles, sediments, pollutants, chemicals, and other impurities.

As such, there is a need to filter it with a water filter.

With a whole house filtration system, you will get filtered water right into your home. Since it’s installed to your main water line, it can effectively filter all the impurities out from the water before it enters your home.

Improves Taste and Removes Smell

Aside from removing bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants in your water supply, the whole house water filter will also remove chlorine and hydrogen sulfide. These chemicals are known to affect the smell and taste of your water.

Convenient

The whole house water filter is more convenient than using the smaller and portable systems since the former can effectively filter out the contaminants and impurities before the water can even enter your home.

As such, you wouldn’t have to do it manually on your own. You just need to turn on your faucet, and the water you’ll use is already filtered.

Eco-friendly

Having your water filter will also mean you can reduce your bottled water consumption. With this, you are helping save Mother Earth.

Disadvantages

Costly

Whole house water filter replacement cartridges tend to have upfront costs. These types also require constant maintenance and check-ups. They also rely on electricity to work, and since they’re big systems, you can also expect big electricity consumption.

Buying Guide 

Whole house filtration systems enable you to have filtered water in every water dispenser in your home. It includes faucets, toilets, baths, showers, and the like.

As such, they are quite popular in the market and come in different types and styles. However, this wide array of choices might be confusing, especially for beginners in the water filtration scene.

But don’t worry. This section will list down all the factors that you need to consider when it comes to having your whole house filtration system.

Filter’s Lifespan

This looks at how many gallons of water your filter can treat before you must replace it. A long lifespan of water filter cartridge replacements is preferred since it’ll mean low long-term costs. However, there is a danger of cross-contamination, especially when you don’t replace it on time.

It’s recommended that you buy filters that have a lifespan of at least 1 to 5 years. These systems can usually treat 100,000 to 500,000 gallons of water. With this, you’ll have the best combination of efficacy and affordability.

There is also a 10-year water filter available that can treat up to a million gallons of water; however, they might be too expensive for most users.

Number of Stages

A multi-stage filtration system is recommended since it can remove a broader range of pollutants, sediments, contaminants, and other impurities.

Multi-stage filters can usually filter out sediment, heavy metals and chemicals, and chlorine from many gallons of water. There are also those that come with optional filters such as the UV filter, a post-filter, and a water softener. With this, you are ensured that your water is adequately treated and is of high quality.

Aside from this, multi-stage filtration systems offer convenience. With this, you are spared from the costs of buying multiple filters.

However, if you want, you can always choose a single-stage filtration system, especially when you know what areas to target. But keep in mind that its effectivity rate is lower.

Flow Rate

Sound whole house filtration systems won’t affect the water pressure of your supply and the number of gallons of water. As such, choose one with large inlet sizes and good filter designs to maintain the flow rate for the water pressure.

Easy to Install

Whole house systems require a bit of effort and patience to install. However, if you can, it’s recommended that you get a system that is easy to install by yourself. No one wants a system that is frustrating and difficult to install. You also have the option of hiring a professional to help you out.

Warranty and Customer Support

For multi-stage filtration systems, it’s most suitable to have at least a 2-year warranty. With this, you are protected from most problems.

Moreover, if you choose to have a filter with a long lifespan or large capacity, then you should ensure that it also has an extended warranty.

Another thing to look out for is the customer support provided by the company. It’s good to purchase from companies that are attentive to their customer’s needs. As such, when the time comes for queries or replacements, you can always ask them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the lifespan of a whole house filtration cartridge?

A whole-house water treatment filter cartridge can last six to twelve months, depending on the individual filtration components, water consumption, water quality, and filter size (or capacity).

For example, a 20 inch sediment pre-filter that removes silt and other solid particles might only last six months. On the other hand, a carbon-based water filter element could last about a year.

A whole-house filtration system also has a post-filter that screens particulates and organics that escaped the first two purification layers. This component has the same one-year lifespan as the carbon filter.

These figures are estimates because everything depends on how much sediments and contaminants you have in the water. The filter’s capacity can also be a limiting factor. For instance, a 20,000-gallon unit will not last as long as a 50,000-gallon system. Modest water consumption can also extend the filter’s lifespan.

Moreover, we must appreciate that a water filter manufacturer might use proprietary technology to improve its product’s operating lifespan. It is one of the ways they can ensure high-quality whole-house cartridges with a distinct competitive advantage.

What flow rate should you get for water filter cartridge for whole home?

A water filter cartridge’s flow rate is one of the factors assessed by Consumer Reports in evaluating any water filter. Flow rates range from 15 to 40 gallons per minute (GPM) for the whole house.

However, the GPM requirement is lower for under-sink or in-line filtration systems. For instance, the IcePure under sink water filter offers a flow rate of 2.5 GPM, which is above average.

You can also check your home’s ideal flow rate by checking the individual water fixtures. For instance, toilets use 5.0 GPM, while shower heads need 2.5 to 5.0 GPM. Meanwhile, faucets require 1.0 to 2.2 GPM.

Add the number of water fixtures and their respective stats to determine your water filter cartridge’s minimum flow.

Do whole house water filter cartridges reduce water pressure?

Yes, whole-house water purifying cartridges can reduce water pressure. Even professionally installed systems can show a slight drop in pressure.

You might have the top-tier product from a leading whole-house water purifier factory, but that does not mean anything if you have heavily contaminated water.

Filters screen contaminants in the water by trapping substances with a larger diameter than the filter’s pore size. For example, a 5-micron sediment filter for mainline applications can only prevent objects bigger than 5 microns from passing through.

Sadly, sediments and other debris can accumulate “before” the filter over time, preventing liquid from passing as fast as it should.

Are water filters necessary for water softeners?

That depends on whether you just want soft or soft and clean water. Filtration is necessary for a whole house water softener and filtration system. It is worth noting that water softeners do not remove water impurities, including sediments, chlorine, lead, and other harmful chemicals.

Instead, they replace hard water minerals (i.e., magnesium and calcium) with potassium or sodium ions to prevent limescale formation, sink stains, and plumbing corrosion.

Whole-house filters remove sediments and other impurities to lessen the water softener’s load, allowing it to function optimally and making the whole house water filter and softener system efficient.

What are the most trusted water filter cartridge brands?

When shopping around for the best whole house water filter cartridge, you must also check the Ronaqua, Filtrete, and AQUA CREST, among the rest that we’ve featured earlier. They are reliable and quality brands that know how to deliver satisfying and heavy-duty products to their consumers.

What is the best micron for the water filter?

Just like knowing the water filter cartridge sequence, you might also want to know what the right micron for a water filter is. At the very least, it is five-micron because it can ensure filtering even smaller particles.

When should I replace my water filter cartridge?

At the very least, you should replace it every three months. In some cases, it is every six months. It depends mainly on the water quality in your place. In this case, you might have to change it more often if it gets clogged up fast.

Which is better 5 micron or 20 micron?

The 5-micron filter is better because it can filter even smaller particles. For instance, the 20-micron filter has a larger opening, so it will let more solid particles pass through it than a 5-micron filter does.

How many microns is a good water filter?

It is suggested that you get a 5-micron filter because it is more effective in filtering even smaller particles. With that, you can be sure that your water will be healthier and cleaner.

What is the warranty?

Some manufacturers do not include a warranty on their product descriptions. To know about it, you might want to contact their customer service people. Warranty is an essential factor in ensuring that you can get help or a replacement if what you received is defective.

How to care & clean?

They don’t need caring and cleaning because they are replaceable. You need to change the filter when it is clogged and not working optimally as it should. You must replace it every three months at the very least or when it is clogged. It depends on the quality of the water in your place. In this case, you might want to check it from time to time when it needs replacement.

Where to buy?

You can buy these water filters in plumbing supplies and stores. It is also available in marketplaces, such as Amazon and eBay. You can also find them in Walmart and Lowes. Moreover, these filters are available on the manufacturer’s websites, too.

Conclusion

The best whole house water filter cartridge is a must-have item in your home. It offers benefits, such as reducing the contaminants in the water. It is also useful in ensuring clean and crisp water all the time. You can also count on it, especially if your water source is a well or a municipal water supply. This unit also prevents damage to your plumbing systems and appliances because it can remove sand, soil, silt, rust, and other impurities in the water. For reference, get started in the selection process using the product reviews above for a comparison of what to look for when buying this device. Also, it would help to read the buying guide on the factors to consider when shopping around for a whole house water filter. Buy a water filter today!

Ronald Brown

Hi, I am Ronald, founder of Saveourh2o. With this website, we aim to solve all the problems related to your water filters, softeners, and heaters. I have five years working in water equipment sales & service. I hope to bring the knowledge gathered from my daily work to help you to achieve comfort and safety in your home!