Review: Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter (Pelican PC600)

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The PC600-P by Pentair (formerly Pelican PC600) is a whole house water filter that provides great-tasting drinking water at every tap in your home and lets you enjoy cleaner showers for healthier hair and skin as well as improved indoor air quality; all for a reasonable price.

Eager to learn more? Keep reading!

Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter

Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter

Price: $$
Filter Media: 5-Micron Sediment, KDF + Catalytic Carbon
Filter Capacity: 650,885 gal
Water Flow Rate: 8 gpm
Annual Cost: ~$30-40

Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRating based on filtration performance, filter life, price and yearly cost, NSF testing/certification, customer support, product warranty, our testing/experience, user feedback, and other factors.

Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter – All Specs

  • Model: PC600-P
  • Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$30-40
  • Filter Media/Process: Sediment Pre (5 Microns), Catalytic Carbon, KDF
  • Filter Stages: 2
  • Flow Rate: 8 gpm
  • Filtering Capacity: 650,885 gal or 5 Years
  • Width: 9”
  • Depth: 9”
  • Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
  • Water Pressure: 25-80 psi
  • Water pH: 6-11
  • Fitting: 1″ Male NPT
  • NSF Certifications: Standard 42 (Chlorine Reduction), Standard 61, Standard 372
  • Warranty: 1 Year on Tank, 5 Years on Electronics

Pentair PC600-P – Key Features

The Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter was designed for the filtration of tap water (most well waters require different treatment) – whether chlorinated or chloraminated doesn’t matter, the system eliminates both disinfectants. It also reduces other chemical and non-chemical water contaminants that might be causing bad taste and odor or affect your health.

How does the PC600-P whole house filter work?

  • First, a standard 10″ sediment pre-filter rated at 5 microns removes larger particulates like sand and silt to protect the rest of the system from dirt and debris. Of course, this also protects your plumbing system and appliances from clogging.
  • Next comes coconut shell-based catalytic granular activated carbon. This is where the magic happens. Apart from around 96% chlorine removal which is more about water aesthetics, the filter media also targets pesticides, herbicides, industrial solvents, pharmaceuticals, and dozens of other contaminants that may be present in your water supply. Now on the one hand, catalytic carbon is more costly than “regular” activated carbon. But on the other hand, it has a higher capacity for contaminant reduction across the board which is a huge plus. By the way, with the PC600-P, chlorine and chloramine reduction below the minimum detection level is guaranteed for 5 years or roughly 650,000 gallons by Pentair.
  • Lastly, bacteriostatic copper-zinc oxidation media (KDF-55) controls bacteria and algae growth inside the tank for obvious reasons. The blend also further reduces chlorine content and even some water-soluble heavy metals.

All in all, the system has a filtration capacity of 650,885 gallons or five years, whichever comes first.

The service flow rate is 8 gallons per minute, so enough for small to mid-sized homes with up to 3 bathrooms. Peak flow is 12 gallons per minute. →The larger Pentair PC1000-P is for homes with 4 to 6 bathrooms which you can learn more about here.

Pentair Whole House Water Filter Pros

The Pentair PC600-P has been independently tested and certified according to NSF Standard 42 for chlorine taste and odor reduction as well as structural integrity.

What’s more, the media tank is wrapped in durable stainless steel for longevity. Besides, we like the looks.

The system is backed by a 1 year warranty on the tank and 5 years on the valve and electronics.

What about installation and maintenance? Don’t worry, the system can be set up by the average DIYer (flex lines and SharkBite fittings are your friends). And maintenance is a piece of cake.

What Contaminants Are Being Removed?

  1. First, the 5-micron sediment pre-filter removes sand, silt, sediment, and other debris that could clog the later filter stages or damage your home’s plumbing or appliances.
  2. Next, granular catalytic carbon filters out chlorine, chloramine, pesticides, herbicides, industrial solvents, disinfection by-products, and many other contaminants. Chlorine/chloramine removal will improve the water’s taste and aesthetics, as well as improve itchy, dry skin.
  3. Lastly, KDF-55 media – which is a combination of copper and zinc oxidation media will remove heavy metals, further reduce chlorine, as well as prevent microbial growth inside the system.

Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter

The Pentair PC600-P – learn more on Amazon.com

Installation

The Pentair PC600-P whole house water filter can be installed inside or outside. You only need access to your home’s main water line. Since this is not a backwashing system, neither electricity nor a drain is required.

Everything is shipped pre-assembled. The tank comes pre-loaded. This plus the fact that there’s a built-in bypass valve greatly simplifies the installation process saving you time and money. Still, you’ll need to visit your local hardware store for pipes and fittings.

Side note: The optional installation kit provided by Pentair is worth considering buying.

Please consider these instructions as a general guideline. Always make sure to check and follow your user manual before getting started.

Priming (Soaking) of the Filter Media

The catalytic carbon filter media has to soak for 48 hours before first use. This so-called priming isn’t complicated at all. But you need a location suitable for water flow.

Tools and Materials needed for installation:

  • Garden hose
  • Pipe cutters
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Plumber’s tape
  • Necessary fittings and adapters
  • Pipe (PVC, Copper, or PEX)

The system head can come loose during transit. Check the system head and hand tighten clockwise a ¼ turn.

To install the system, follow these steps:

  1. Before installation can begin, the system must be soaked and rinsed. This will remove the fine carbon dust present in the tank. To soak the tank:
    1. Find the carbon tank and the included hose bib attachment.
    2. Connect the hose bib attachment to the tank inlet. Connect a garden hose to the hose bib attachment and slowly turn the water supply on until water begins flowing from the tank outlet. The stream should be about the diameter of a pen or pencil. Let this flow for about 15 minutes.
    3. The first several gallons coming out of the tank will appear dark and cloudy from the carbon dust. This is normal.
    4. Let the system flush for 15 minutes, and then shut off the water for 1 minute. Then alternate running the water for a minute, followed by waiting for a minute until the water coming out is completely clear. At this point, remove the garden hose and hose bib attachment.
    5. If water pressure drops during the previous step, shut off the water supply, and let the tank settle. Then begin the process again at a slower pace.
  2. Now the sediment filter will be installed. This can be done either in the pre-filter or post-filter position, with well-water installations typically using the pre-position and city water installations using the post-position.
    1. First, unscrew the cover from the filter housing.
    2. Then, remove the plastic wrapper from the sediment filter and discard it.
    3. Place the fresh sediment filter onto the standpipe inside the filter housing.
    4. Now turn the water supply off.
    5. Fasten the filter cover to its mounting bracket using the included screws.
    6. Tighten the blue filter housing by hand and then cautiously tighten further with the included filter wrench in a counterclockwise direction. Be careful not to overtighten.
  3. Now, ensure your tank is level in the installation position. If it’s off-kilter, lift it up about 6 inches and gently tap until it levels out. The tank bottom has a self-leveling boot that allows it to stand up straight on a variety of surfaces.
  4. Determine the dimensions and material of your water line and source the correct plumbing to adapt to the included 1” male NPT assembly.
  5. Install the necessary fittings onto both ports of the bypass valve.
  6. Connect the inbound water supply running from the sediment filter to the inlet on the bypass valve.
  7. Connect the outbound water supply to the bypass valve’s outlet.
  8. Now, turn on the home’s main water supply and inspect the system for leaks.
  9. You can now peel the plastic wrap from the exterior of the stainless-steel tank. Apply the Pentair sticker if desired. Then apply this wax to the stainless-steel tank jacket once or twice per year going forward.

For the 72 hours following installation keep the water demand low by not running multiple outlets at once. This can disturb the media and restrict water pressure.

Keep in mind the installation process above assumes you have your water inlet and outlet pre-plumbed. If this is not the case, you’ll need to cut through the main water line to install the system.

Video

The Package (Parts)

  • 1″ Plastic Male NPT Assembly
  • Blue Sediment Filter Housing
  • Mounting Bracket
  • 4x Phillips Head Screws
  • 4x Bolt Head Screws
  • 4x Washers
  • 5-Micron Poly-Spun Sediment Filter
  • Sediment Filter Wrench
  • 4 oz. Bottle Non-Abrasive Auto Wax
  • Bypass Valve
  • Hose Bib Assembly
  • Whole House Water Filter
  • Owner’s Manual

Maintenance

Maintaining the Pentair PC600-P whole house water filtration system is a breeze.

All you have to do is replace the sediment pre-filter cartridge approximately every 6 to 9 months, depending on your water usage and the amount of sediment in your water supply. One cartridge costs around 15 to 20 dollars.

As for the catalytic carbon filter media, after 5 years of use or roughly 650,000 gallons it needs to be renewed. The good news: You can continue using the tank. Replacing just the media is the most environmentally friendly and cost effective solution (about $200). And thanks to the upflow system design you can do this yourself.

To replace the sediment filter:

  1. Shut off the home’s main water line and open the bypass valve on the tank.
  2. Open up a cold water faucet downstream of the system to discharge pressure in the plumbing. Leave this faucet open.
  3. Unscrew the blue-colored filter housing using the included filter wrench in a clockwise direction.
  4. Pull out the expired sediment filter and get rid of it.
  5. Dislodge the old O-rings and clean the groove. Then, lubricate two clean O-rings with food-grade silicone grease and replace them. Secure the O-rings in their respective grooves with your fingers.
  6. Set a new sediment filter in the filter housing. Ensure it fits onto the standpipe located inside the housing.
  7. Now, screw the filter housing to the filter cover by hand. Lightly tighten using the included filter wrench being cautious not to over-tighten.
  8. Slowly turn the main water line back on and allow the sediment filter to fill. Turn the bypass valve back to the ‘off’ position.
  9. Examine the filter and system for leaks.

Manual

Here is a link to the official manual:

https://www.pentair.com/content/dam/extranet/web/nam/pentair-water-solutions/manuals/pc600-p-pc1000-p-whole-house-water-filter-system-manual.pdf

NSF and Other Certifications

The PC600-P system is tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42. This is the standard for the reduction of aesthetic effects in water – namely chlorine taste/odor. The system is certified to provide a ~96% chlorine reduction at a capacity of 662,400 gallons.

The system is also tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 61 – which is standard for products that come into contact with drinking water such as pipes, hoses, fittings, gaskets etc. It ensures that they are safe to use.

Finally, the system also features an NSF/ANSI Standard 372 certification. This is the standard for lead-free or low-lead products that come into contact with drinking water.

Earlier Product Versions

The product has an earlier version under the Pelican brand – the PC600. It seems that nothing has actually changed between the two systems other than the new name.

Pentair House Filter Cons

This is no one’s fault but pre-soaking the carbon media can be a pain in the neck. Although, 1 or 2 people said the hose bib could do with an upgrade.

Personally, we would have preferred metal fittings. Looks like a few people had problems with their plastic connections leaking.

A small proportion of users also had issues dealing with customer service, but this seems to be relatively isolated so it’s unlikely to be a widespread issue.

Pentair PC600-P Review: Our Verdict + Best for

People who installed the Pentair PC600-P whole house filter in their home could immediately tell the difference in the quality of their water. Super fresh taste, no more chlorine smell, softer skin – they love it.

We are equally convinced. The price is fair, no unnecessary bells and whistles, everything as advertised. What more can you ask for? The Pentair PC600-P is best for city water with regular filtration needs. 4.5 stars!

Our Rating in Detail:

  • Filtration Performance: 4.5/5.0
  • Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
  • Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
  • Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
  • Overall: 4.5/5.0

Comparison to Other Whole House Water Filters

Let’s take a look at how the Pentair PC600-P compares to sever popular whole house filter systems – the SpringWell CF and the Kind E-1000.

SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter

SpringWell CF

Price: $$
Filter Media: 5-Micron Sediment, Catalytic Carbon, KDF
Filter Capacity: 1,000,000 gal
Water Flow Rate: 9-20 gpm
Annual Cost: ~$40

Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRating based on filtration performance, filter life, price and yearly cost, NSF testing/certification, customer support, product warranty, our testing/experience, user feedback, and other factors.

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Kind Water Systems E-1000 2-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System

Kind E-1000

Price: $
Filter Media: 5-Micron Sediment, Catalytic Carbon Block
Filter Capacity: 12 Months
Water Flow Rate: 15 gpm
Annual Cost: ~$145

Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRating based on filtration performance, filter life, price and yearly cost, NSF testing/certification, customer support, product warranty, our testing/experience, user feedback, and other factors.

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Pentair PC600-P Whole House Water Filter

Pentair PC600-P

Price: $$
Filter Media: 5-Micron Sediment, KDF + Catalytic Carbon
Filter Capacity: 650,885 gal
Water Flow Rate: 8 gpm
Annual Cost: ~$30-40

Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRating based on filtration performance, filter life, price and yearly cost, NSF testing/certification, customer support, product warranty, our testing/experience, user feedback, and other factors.

First, the SpringWell CF (read the full review here) is another tank-based system offering similar filter media to the Pentair. It features a combination of 5-micron sediment filtration, catalytic carbon, and KDF to remove a wide range of contaminants including chlorine, chloramine, sediments, heavy metals, VOCs, herbicides, pesticides and much more. The system is offered in three different sizes, with flow rates of 9, 12, and 20 gallons per minute respectively. Overall, the SpringWell CF is similar to the Pentair in many ways, although it’s slightly more expensive.

Next, the Kind E-1000 (review on this page) is a 2-stage cartridge-based system offering a 5-micron sediment filter stage and a catalytic carbon block. As it’s cartridge-based rather than tank-based, annual filter replacements are required – which total approximately $145 per year. The system costs slightly less than the Pentair, but annual filter replacement costs mean long-run costs will be higher. The system offers similar filtration to the Pentair, although it’s missing KDF media – so it can’t remove certain water-soluble heavy metals. It also offers an impressive 15 gallon per minute flow rate, which is better than the PC600’s 8 gpm flow rate.

Overall, both of the above systems have their strengths and weaknesses when compared with the Pentair. Still we would go with the SpringWell CF and the Kind E-1000 respectively.

This completes our review of the Pentair PC600-P whole house water filter. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

About the Author Gene Fitzgerald

Gene Fitzgerald is one of the founders of BOS and currently head of content creation. She has 8+ years of experience as a water treatment specialist under her belt making her our senior scientist. Outside of BOS, Gene loves reading books on philosophy & social issues, making music, and hiking.
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Gene

Information provided on BOS is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.
We adhere to strict editorial guidelines. Rest assured, the opinions expressed have not been provided, reviewed, or otherwise endorsed by our partners – they are unbiased, independent, and the author’s alone. Our licensed experts fact-check all content for accuracy. It is accurate as of the date posted and to the best of our knowledge.

Leave a Comment:

Chris Jennings says August 20, 2020

I need some new carbon filter media for my PC 600

Reply
    Gene says September 4, 2020

    You should contact Pelican.

    Reply
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