Review: SpringWell CF1, CF4 & CF+ Whole House Water Filter Systems
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated: Sep 7, 2023
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SpringWell’s whole house water filter series includes 3 systems: The CF1, the CF4 and the CF+. They are for use on chlorinated water supplies or for city water containing chloramines.
All 3 systems will deliver filtered water throughout your home that will taste and smell significantly better from the start. But apart from aesthetic effects, your water will also be much cleaner under the microscope – for a decent price.
Interested to learn more?
Contents
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SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter System |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Media: | 5-Micron Sediment, KDF + Catalytic Carbon |
| Filter Capacity: | 1 Million Gallons or 6 Years |
| Water Flow Rate: | 9-20 gpm |
| Annual Cost: | ~$40 |
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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.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
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SpringWell CF1, CF4 & CF+ Whole House Water Filter Systems – All Specs
- Model: CF1, CF4, CF+
- Last Price: $1,016.44-$1,737.21
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$40
- Filter Media/Process: Sediment (5 Microns), KDF, Catalytic Carbon
- Filter Stages: 2
- Flow Rate: 9-20 gpm
- Filtering Capacity: 1,000,000 gal or 6 Years
- WxHxD: 9-13″x52-58″x9-13″
- Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
- Water Pressure: 25-80 psi
- Fitting: 1-1.5″
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
SpringWell – Discount Code
You can use our code “BOS5OFF“ to get a 5% discount on any purchase you make on springwellwater.com.
SpringWell CF – Key Features
First of all, what’s the difference between the SpringWell Water CF1, CF4 and CF+?
It’s their size and consequently the maximum amount of water they can filter at any given time:
- The CF1 whole house water filter delivers up to 9 gallons per minute (gpm) suited for homes with 1-3 full bathrooms.
- The CF4 delivers up to 12 gpm, enough for 4-6 bathrooms.
- The CF+ delivers up to 20 gpm for anything larger.
Regardless of which version you choose, this is what the filtration process looks like:
- Stage 1 is a sediment pre-filter. Rated at 5 microns, it traps any sand, dirt, etc. above that threshold to prevent the media in the large tank from clogging. A sediment filter also protects your plumbing system and appliances.
- At stage 2, a copper-zinc alloy (KDF) removes chlorine and heavy metals, and it inhibits the growth of microorganisms – think fouling.
- Next comes a coconut shell-based catalytic carbon bed. You probably don’t know, but catalytic carbon is more sophisticated than regular activated carbon, meaning it reduces a larger range of contaminants. And it lasts longer. It’s the heart of each SpringWell CF whole house water filter system and tackles chlorine, chloramine, TTHMs, pesticides and other organics that could be lurking in your water. By the way, SpringWell Water guarantees that, for 1 million gallons or 6 years, chlorine and chloramine will be reduced below the minimum detection levels.
All in all, your water will be much healthier to consume and also taste and smell a lot better. And chances are your skin and hair will benefit, too!
Side note: You can also use the sediment filter as the last filter stage.
Mike’s Video Review
SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter Pros
The SpringWell ActivFlo design eliminates channeling inside the filter tank while producing more contact time between water and filter media in order to increase filtration effectiveness long-term.
Besides, if you’re handy with tools, you can install a SpringWell whole house water filter yourself. The same goes for system maintenance which is kept at a bare minimum.
What’s more, if you’re not satisfied with your results, you’re free to return the filter within the first 6 months of use for a full refund. You also get a limited lifetime warranty. And SpringWell’s customer support is said to be helpful and cooperative.
What Contaminants Are Being Removed?
The SpringWell CF whole house filter removes sediments, certain heavy metals, water disinfectants, and many organic chemicals (HAAs, MTBE, TTHM, PFOA, PFOS, pesticides, herbicides, and more).
The SpringWell CF – learn more on Springwellwater.com
Installation
SpringWells are not any more difficult to install than other whole house water filters. There are just a few additional steps required because the systems don’t come preassembled.
Most importantly, there’s a bypass valve so you don’t have to worry about that, and the included step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, also thanks to a great number of images. SpringWell also provides elbow fittings. All you need to source is your own piping and fittings. (If you want you can purchase the optional installation kit. Otherwise, you’ll probably need to make a trip to the hardware store.)
Is outside installation possible? Yes, as long as temperatures are above freezing.
Please consider these instructions as a general guideline. Always make sure to check and follow your user manual before getting started.
Tools and Materials needed for installation:
- Drill and 3/16” drill bit
- ½” socket wrench
- Adjustable pliers and wrench
- Plumbers tape
- Garden hose (2 for the CF+ model)
- Level
- Shut off valve
- Pipe cutters (if not pre-plumbed)
Note that the installation instructions assume you have pre-plumbed the location where you plan to complete the installation. If this is not the case, you’ll need to cut through the main water line using pipe cutters.
Also, note that the system must be installed in an upright position. If it’s leaning to one side, lift the tank and tap it into the ground until it straightens out and fits snuggly into the base.
To complete the installation, follow these steps:
- The first step required is installing the tank head onto the tank. To accomplish this, complete the following steps:
- Loosen the filter tank cap and discard it.
- Find the tank’s head and line up the tank head bottom with the vertical pipe in the tank.
- Push down on the tank head and ensure the threads connect.
- Rotate the head until it’s fully tightened. Use a screwdriver handle inserted into the inlet or outlet port on the tank head to fully tighten.
- The next stage involves soaking and flushing the carbon tank to remove the loose carbon particles contained in it. Note that this will take approximately 48 hours, so be aware of this when planning your installation.
- First, connect the bypass valve to the inlet and outlet ports on the tank and push it into place. Then tighten the fasteners on both valves to secure the bypass valve.
- Attach an included MNPT fitting to both the inlet and outlet of the bypass valve. Hand tighten.
- Attach a garden hose to the hose bib and connect it to the tank inlet. Make sure the bypass is turned off.
- Turn the garden hose halfway on until water begins to flow from the outlet on the tank. Then, shut off the flow and detach the garden hose. Enable the bypass valve and wait for at least 48 hours before continuing on to the next steps.
- Now the pre-soak is completed and it’s time to flush the system.
- Connect the hose bib and garden hose to the tank inlet. Now, turn off the bypass on the tank. Some water might escape at this point.
- Now turn the water on and flush the tank for between 3 and 5 minutes – until the water coming out is clear. Swap the hose bib assembly/garden hose over to the tank’s outlet port.
- Now, flush in the reverse direction for about 3 to 5 minutes until the water coming out is clear. At this point remove the hose bib assembly. You can now cover and zip the neoprene sleeve included with the system onto the tank exterior if you wish.
- Now, unscrew the sediment filter housing lid. The O-ring should be pushed into the groove in the top of the sediment filter housing. Squeeze silicone lubricant onto the O-ring and spread it with your finger. Now, turn the O-ring over and oil the other side. Insert the sediment filter into the housing, attach the lid and tighten completely.
- At this point, the sediment filter will be installed. Make sure to apply plumber’s tape to all threads.
- Install a PVC nipple to both ports on the sediment filter housing. Tighten using a wrench or pliers being careful not to overtighten.
- Plan the sediment filter mounting location. The location should have enough room to position the carbon tank in front of the sediment filter. Use a pencil to plot your hole locations for pre-drilling the mounting bracket. A level is helpful for this step.
- Use a drill and 3/16” bit to pre-drill holes for the mounting bracket. Use four of the included bolts and washers to mount the bracket to the wall using a ½” socket wrench.
- Find the inlet and the outlet side of the sediment filter by looking at the markings. Position it so the flow direction matches the arrows.
- Use the four leftover bolts to fasten the sediment filter to the mounting bracket.
- Now shut off the main water supply to your home before proceeding to the next steps.
- At this point, a shut-off valve will be installed ahead of the system. This is not strictly necessary but is recommended to allow for easy maintenance. The exact process will differ slightly depending on your piping material, for this example, we will use 1” PVC. Be sure to use plumber’s tape on every threaded connection.
- Install 1” threaded adapters on the inbound water line with the threads pointing toward the tank. Point the other threaded adapter toward the sediment filter outlet.
- Connect the PVC shut off valve to the threaded adapter from the inbound water supply.
- Connect a PVC nipple to the other end of the PVC shut-off valve. Fully tighten.
- Connect the 1” corrugated water connector to the PVC nipple. Fully tighten with a wrench or pliers.
- Now we will install the main tank.
- Apply plumber’s tape to both ports on the tank.
- Place the carbon filter tank next to the sediment filter. Make sure the connections on the carbon tank face backwards.
- Attach the corrugated water connector running from the shut off valve to the tank inlet. Fully tighten using a wrench or pliers.
- Use another corrugated water connector to connect the tank outlet to the sediment filter inlet. Fully tighten.
- Run another corrugated water connector from the sediment filter outlet to the main water line flowing into your home.
- Now the system is installed and all that remains is testing. Before testing, ensure the sediment filter is completely snug using the included filter wrench.
- Open a water faucet downstream from the system.
- Close the shut-off valve to the system and ensure the bypass valve on the tank is turned on.
- Turn on the main water supply to your home and check the system for leaks.
- Assuming no leaks are found, open the shut off valve and let water run into the system. Inspect the system for leaks once again.
- Assuming no leaks are found, open the bypass valve and allow water into the main tank. Again, look for leaks.
- Run water through the faucet for between 5 and 10 minutes. A small quantity of sediment coming from the faucet is normal at this point.
- Now the installation is done!
The above process applies to both the CF1 and CF4 models. The CF+ has a slightly different installation process as it does not come with a built-in bypass. Essentially, you’ll need to assemble a bypass out of PVC pipe.
Video
The Package (Parts)
- Carbon filter tank (CF)
- Pre-filter housing with mounting bracket
- 5-micron sediment filter + O-ring
- Spanner wrench
- Hose bib assembly
- Bypass valve
- Tank head
- MNPT fittings
- Installation instructions
Maintenance
Like we said, maintenance is kept at a bare minimum, and it’s simple. All there is to do is replacing the sediment filter every 6-9 months. Cost: $40 per year with biannual replacement.
The media bed in the large tank lasts a full 6 years or 1,000,000 gallons. The good news is, you can renew it yourself. There’s no need to call a plumber and since you can continue using the old tank it’s the most cost-effective solution.
To change the sediment filter, follow these steps:
- Shut off the water supply to the system by turning the shut off valve to the on position.
- Open a cold-water faucet inside the home to relieve pressure.
- Unscrew the filter housing from the lid. A bucket underneath the filter will catch any water that comes out.
- Remove the old sediment filter and discard it. Remove the old O-ring and discard it.
- Rinse out the inside of the filter housing using a little dish soap if necessary. Rinse and dry.
- Replace the O-ring with a new one and coat both sides with food-grade silicone lubricant. Ensure the O-ring is seated correctly in the groove.
- Insert a new sediment filter into the filter housing.
- Hand-tighten the housing onto the lid. Use the included filter wrench to tighten until snug.
Manual
Here are links to the official manuals:
https://dpw4tdh0of7va.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/CF-Installation-Instructions.pdf
NSF and Other Certifications
SpringWell uses NSF-certified components for all of its products – including the CF series.
Earlier Product Versions
There was a slight update to the sediment filter housing’s appearance. This is fairly minor though and shouldn’t be a cause for concern.
Cons
Overall, most users seem to be highly satisfied with the SpringWell CF system, and complaints were fairly minimal. A small portion of users encountered an issue with air bubbles coming from their faucets, but this mostly went away within a few days of using the system.
As such, our only real complaint is that the provided fittings are plastic so there’s a chance of accidental cross-threading. No biggie but we would have preferred metal pieces.
SpringWell CF Review: Our Verdict + Best for
People are very happy with their SpringWell Water whole house water filter system. Even with the nastiest feed water results seem to be great. We don’t have much to add to this. All in all, it’s our favorite whole house water filter best for municipal water treatment. Our verdict: 5 stars!
Our Rating in Detail:
- Filtration Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filter Capacity (Life): 5.0/5.0
- Purchase Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Get 5% Off! Use Code: BOS5OFF
Comparison to Other Whole House Water Filters
Let’s take a look at how the SpringWell CF stacks up against some of the most popular whole house filters on the market – the Kind E-1000 and the US Water Systems BodyGuard Plus.
Kind E-1000 |
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| Price: | $ |
| Filter Media: | 5-Micron Sediment, Catalytic Carbon Block |
| Filter Capacity: | 12 Months |
| Water Flow Rate: | 15 gpm |
| Annual Cost: | ~$145 |
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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.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
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USWS BodyGuard Plus |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Media: | Catalytic Carbon + GAC |
| Filter Capacity: | 5 Years |
| Water Flow Rate: | 10-20 gpm |
| Annual Cost: | $45-100 |
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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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SpringWell CF |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Media: | 5-Micron Sediment, KDF + Catalytic Carbon |
| Filter Capacity: | 1,000,000 gal |
| Water Flow Rate: | 9-20 gpm |
| Annual Cost: | ~$40 |
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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.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
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First, the Kind E-1000 whole house water filter is a 2-stage cartridge-based system with a 5-micron sediment pre-filter and a catalytic carbon block filter stage. It offers a similar level of contaminant removal to the SpringWell although it doesn’t include KDF media – so it won’t remove certain heavy metals. The Kind has a respectable 15 gpm flow rate, which is enough to accommodate 4 to 6 bathrooms. The system retails for less than the SpringWell, although it does require annual filter replacements – which total about $145. So, while it’s cheaper upfront, it will cost more in the long run due to cartridge replacements.
The US Water Systems BodyGuard Plus is a similar tank-based system with both catalytic carbon and granular activated carbon as well optional 5-micron sediment pre-filtration. The system has slightly better flow rates than the SpringWell (10, 15 or 20 gpm depending on the size selected). It costs about the same as the SpringWell and has a similar lifespan of 5 years (vs 6 for the SpringWell). The Overall, there isn’t a ton separating the two systems, although the inclusion of KDF media in the SpringWell could be an advantage depending on your water conditions.
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This completes our review of the SpringWell CF whole house water filter systems. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
