5 Best Whole House Water Filter and Softener Combos *Update 2024
Written by: Alexandra Uta // Expert Fact-Checking: Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS // Last Updated: Jan 31, 2024
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Top Pick: What’s the Best Whole House Water Filter and Softener Combo?
The best whole house water filter and softener combo in 2024 is the SpringWell CSS, because it protects your family and home from water contaminants and hardness for up to 1,000,000 gallons. It further improves water aesthetics, is easy to install and maintain, fast (9-20 gpm), and backed by a lifetime warranty and satisfaction guarantee.
Tired of feeling like a detective, sifting through the sea of whole house water filter and softener combos? Well, put off your Sherlock Holmes hat, because we’ve done all the detective work for you! We’ve combed through the masses to bring you the crème de la crème of whole house filtration systems that also work their magic to soften your water. Whether you’re in need of a rock-solid solution or just want something basic, we’ve got you covered.
Since our buying guide burst onto the scene on August 11, 2020, we’ve been on a relentless mission to uncover the most jaw-dropping products on the market. We’ve tested and compared more than a dozen, like mad scientists to ensure that our recommendations are truly top-notch. Not only that, we’re also updating and upgrading our guide regularly to provide you with the most accurate and reliable insights. Let’s go!
Contents
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No Time to Read? Check Our List of the Best Whole House Filter-Softener System Combos!
| Systems | Details | |
|---|---|---|
 Best Combo for City Water: SpringWell CSS |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Price: $$ Filter Capacity: 1M Gallons Softener: Salt-Based Water for: 1 to 6+ People Warranty: Limited Lifetime Read Review: Click |
| *Alternatively, here is the whole house water filter paired with a salt-free water conditioner. | ||
 Best Combo for Well Water: SpringWell WSSS |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Price: $$$ Filter Capacity: Up to 10+ Years Softener: Salt-Based Water for: 1 to 6+ People Warranty: Limited Lifetime Read Review: Click |
| *Alternatively, here is the whole home water filter paired with a salt-free water conditioner. | ||
 Best Budget Option (Tap Water, Salt-Free): Kind Water Systems E-3000 |
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Price: $ Filter Capacity: 1 Year Softener: Salt-Free Water for: Up to 6 People Warranty: Lifetime Read Review: Click |
 Runner-Up for Tap/Well Water: Crystal Quest SMART Whole House Water Filter + Softener |
Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Price: $$ Filter Capacity: 1.0-1.5M Gallons Softener: Salt-Based Water for: Up to 4-6 People Warranty: 1 Year Read Review: Click |
| *Alternatively, here is the filter paired with a salt-free water softener. | ||
Whole House Water Filter and Softener Combo Reviews
Our Top Picks
- SpringWell CSS or CSF Whole House Water Filtration and Softener System (Salt-Based or Salt-Free) – Best for Tap Water
- SpringWell WSSS or WSSF Whole House Water Filter and Softener Combo (Salt-Based or Salt-Free) – Best for Well Water
- Kind Water Systems E-3000 (Water Filtration System with Salt-Free Water Softener) – Best Budget Pick
- Crystal Quest SMART Whole Home Water Filter w/ Softener or Salt-Free Conditioner – Runner-Up
- Tier1 Whole House Water Softener + Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
1. Best Combo for City Water: SpringWell CSS or CSF (Salt-Based vs. Salt-Free Softening)
In our opinion, the SpringWell CSS/CSF is the best whole house water filter and softener combo for city water in 2024.
Both combos use the same catalytic carbon filter to remove chemicals and organics among other water contaminants, turning even the nastiest tap waters into great-tasting drinking water.
The difference, however, is that the SpringWell CSS relies on a traditional salt-based water softener to remove hard water minerals, while the SpringWell CSF includes a salt-free water conditioner to reduce hard water scaling. Both combos have proven to be highly effective at what they do. Thus, it really depends on your personal preferences which to choose. We like either one. 5 stars!
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SpringWell CSS Whole House City Water Filter + Salt-Based Water Softener Combo |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Capacity: | 1,000,000 Gallons |
| Water Softener: | Salt-Based |
| Water: | For Up to 6+ People (9-20 gpm) |
| Warranty: | Lifetime (Limited) |
|
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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SpringWell CSF Whole House City Water Filter + Salt-Free Water Softener Combo |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Capacity: | 1,000,000 Gallons |
| Water Softener: | TAC |
| Water: | For Up to 6+ People (9-20 gpm) |
| Warranty: | Lifetime (Limited) |
|
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: CSS1, CSS4, CSS+
- Last Price: $2333.96-$3597.99
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$40 + Salt
- Filter Process: Catalytic Carbon, 5-Micron Sediment
- Backwash Rate: 2-4 gpm
- Softening Capacity: 32,000-80,000 Grains
- Filter Tank WxHxD: 9-13″x52-58″x9-13″
- Softener Tank WxHxD (with Head): 9-13″x57-63″x9-13″
- Brine Tank Dimensions: 18″x33″x18″
- Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
- Water Pressure: 25-80 psi
- Fitting: 1-1.5″
Key Features & Pros
- 5-micron pre-filter is a physical barrier for sediment. Prevents clogging of the rest of the system.
- Whole house water filter is filled with catalytic carbon and KDF. The carbon removes chlorine, chloramines, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pesticides, disinfection byproducts, and more. The KDF takes care of various heavy metals (e.g. lead) + it controls the growth of microorganisms.
- You get clean & healthy, refreshing, odor-free water. Perfect for cooking, drinking, showering, and washing.
- SpringWell guarantees chlorine/chloramine reduction below the minimum detection level for 1,000,000 gallons or 6 years.
SpringWell Salt-Based Water Softener Only:
- Ion exchange water softener replaces hard minerals (calcium, magnesium) in water with sodium. This makes it soft.
- Most effective water treatment method to eliminate scale buildup in your home.
- Entire plumbing system, fixtures, and appliances will work more efficiently and last longer. Less maintenance requirements, fewer repairs.
- Your hair and skin will look and feel better. Laundry will be softer.
- Upgraded 10% crosslink softening resin lasts up to two times longer than standard resin which is less chlorine resistant.
- Digital head unit controls water softener system regeneration.
- Bluetooth compatible: Can be connected to phone/tablet via app (available for iOS and Android). Allows for easy configuration of regen cycle frequency, length of backwashing, and salt dose.
- Control valve measures water use and adjusts the amount of water and salt that will be used during next regeneration. Vortech plate improves backwashing efficiency.
- Saves resources. (And money!)
- Water softener is fully NSF-certified for structural integrity.
- Choose from 3 different sizes:
- CSS1 combo provides a water flow rate of 9 gallons per minute. For homes with 3 bathrooms maximum. Water softener: 32,000 grains.
- CSS4 is rated at 12 gallons of water per minute service flow. Ideal for 4-6 bathrooms. Softener: 48,000 grains.
- CSS+ is the largest and only makes sense for a house with 7 or more bathrooms. 20 gpm. 80,000-grain water softener.
SpringWell Water Conditioner Only:
- FutureSoft water conditioner uses catalytic media to crystallize hard water minerals so they don’t stick to surfaces. Reduces scaling by as much as 99.6% (proven in scientific study).
- Suited for extremely hard water (up to 81 gpg).
- Protects entire plumbing system and appliances etc. + dissolves already existing limescale deposits.
- Remaining scale wipes of easily when cleaning.
- Conditioned water supports healthy hair and skin and doesn’t feel slippery compared to “properly” softened water.
- Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC) doesn’t lower water pH.
- No salt. No chemicals. Great for the environment and no heavy lifting of salt bags.
- No regeneration involved. Saves water.
- Media lasts indefinitely.
- Choose from 3 different sizes:
- CSF1 is suited for homes with 1-3 bathrooms. Setup provides a water flow of 9 gallons per minute.
- CSF4 combo was designed for 4 to 6-bathroom homes. 12 gpm water flow.
- CSF+ is for 7+ bathrooms. Service flow: 20 gpm.
- All tanks are wrapped in neoprene jackets for protection.
- DIY installation is possible but only if you’re handy with tools.
- Whole house water filter and water softener/conditioner feature bypass valve.
- Installation kit + detailed step-by-step instructions included.
- Except for refilling salt, water softener is completely maintenance-free. Same goes for whole house filter as well as salt-free softener. Only pre-filter needs changing every 6-9 months. Annual cost: ~$40. Cheap!
- SpringWell offers full refund for 6 months after purchase if you’re not satisfied.
- Everything is covered by lifetime warranty (limited).
- Helpful customer support by real experts.
Cons
- Some fittings are plastic. We would have preferred metal.
- Salt-free softener: Water must not contain iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, or copper.
Our Rating
- Overall Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filtration & Softening Capacity: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
These SpringWell filter-softener combos are best for people on municipal water containing chemicals like chlorine and high hardness levels.
2. Best Combo for Well Water: SpringWell WSSS or WSSF (Salt-Based or Salt-Free Water Softener)
SpringWell is our top recommendation for people looking for a whole house water filter and/or a whole house water softener. So it only makes sense for us to also recommend SpringWell if you want to combine the two.
If you’re on well water, your best option is probably the WSSS or the WSSF series. They’re perfect for water containing iron, manganese, or hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell), or a combination of the three.
Apart from filtration, your water will also go through a softening stage. Actually, only the WSSS combo uses a “real” salt-based water softener, whereas the WSSF setup applies a salt-free water conditioning system. Both effectively reduce scaling but the latter won’t remove any hardness minerals from the water doing so.
Which filter-softener combination should you choose? This is a matter of personal preference. Each has its own benefits (learn more below). Personally, we like them both. 5 stars!
Side note: In case there’re a lot of chemicals and organic contaminants in your well water you might want to consider adding the SpringWell catalytic carbon filter on top. It’ll not only greatly improve water aesthetics (odorless, clean taste), it’ll also make your water perfectly safe and healthy.
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SpringWell WSSS Whole House Well Water Filter + Salt-Based Water Softener Combo |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Filter Capacity: | Up to 10+ Years |
| Water Softener: | Salt-Based |
| Water: | For Up to 6+ People (11-20 gpm) |
| Warranty: | Lifetime (Limited) |
|
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
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SpringWell WSSF Whole House Well Water Filter + Salt-Free Softener Combo |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Filter Capacity: | Up to 10+ Years |
| Water Softener: | TAC |
| Water: | For Up to 6+ People (12-20 gpm) |
| Warranty: | Lifetime (Limited) |
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Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: WSSS1, WSSS4
- Last Price: $3189.77-$4266.32
- Annual Maintenance Cost: Salt Only
- Filter Process: Spin-Down Sediment, Air Injection + Greensand
- Backwash Rate: 5 gpm
- Softening Capacity: 32,000-80,000 Grains
- Filter Tank WxHxD (with Head): 10-13″x64″x10-13″
- Softener Tank WxHxD (with Head): 9-13″x57-63″x9-13″
- Brine Tank Dimensions: 18″x33″x18″
- Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
- Water Pressure: 25-80 psi
- Fitting: 1″
Key Features & Pros
- SpringWell WS whole house well water filter system eliminates rust staining in toilets, sinks, showers, etc. and unpleasant sulfur smell. The filtered water will also taste much better.
- Combines air injection oxidation with greensand media filtration to remove maximum combined of ferric & ferrous iron (7 ppm), manganese (1 ppm), and hydrogen sulfide (8 ppm). Also reduces arsenic and radium.
- Safe for septic and sewer systems.
- Digital head unit resets air pocket daily + backwashes greensand media periodically to flush out all accumulated contaminants. No need for you to worry!
- Can be connected to your mobile device via Bluetooth for programming.
- Spin-Down sediment pre-filter traps large dirt particles.
SpringWell Salt-Based Water Softener Only:
- Water softener removes hard water minerals and replaces them with salt. Little to no remaining water hardness.
- No more scaling in your home’s plumbing, appliances, and fixtures. Water heater will work more efficiently. Overall less maintenance requirements and fewer repairs.
- Soft water is gentler on your hair and skin (and clothes).
- 10% crosslink resin is more resistant to chlorine in case you shock your well.
- Digital head manages system regeneration fully automatically.
- Bluetooth functionality allows for easy programming of cycle frequency, backwashing length, salt dose, etc.
- Metered regeneration + Vortech mineral tank plate save water + salt. Highly efficient!
- Only NSF-certified parts are used.
- Whole house water filter-softener combo comes in 2 sizes:
- WSSS1 version is for homes with 1 to 3 bathrooms. Softener size: 32,000 grains.
- WSSS4 version is designed for any 4 to 6-bathroom household (20 gpm). Softener size: 48,000 grains.
SpringWell Water Conditioner Only:
- Sediment pre-filter protects conditioning tank from fouling.
- Saltless water conditioning system crystallizes hardness minerals. In crystal form they can’t attach themselves to surfaces – think pipes. Scale formation reduces by up to 99+% (scientifically proven).
- Protects your home’s entire water system from scaling. Existing deposits will vanish over time.
- Any remaining scale is soft and easy to clean.
- Conditioned water doesn’t feel slippery.
- No salt. No chemicals. No regeneration. No change in water pH. Great for you, your home, and the environment.
- Catalytic media has no expiration date.
- Max hardness level that can be handled is 81 gpg which is considered extremely hard.
- 2 sizes:
- Choose WSSF-1 whole house well water filter and salt-free water softener combination if your home doesn’t have more than 4 bathrooms. Water flow rate: 12 gpm.
- Choose WSSF-4 combination if you have more than 4 bathrooms. Water flow: 20 gallons per minute.
- Tanks come in neoprene sleeve for protection.
- Designed for DIY installation but you need to be handy with tools.
- Bypass valves + installation kit + illustrated instructions included.
- Both water filter and softener combos are maintenance-free. You just need to fill brine tank with new salt or replace the sediment pre-filter of water conditioner every 6 to 9 months. Cost: ~$40 per year.
- Everything is backed by 6-month money-back guarantee + limited lifetime warranties.
- SpringWell support is responsive, helpful, and knowledgeable.
Cons
- Some fittings are plastic. We would have preferred metal.
- Salt-free softener: Water must be free from copper.
Our Rating
- Overall Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filtration & Softening Capacity: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
These SpringWell filter-softener combos are best for people receiving hard well water that also contains iron, manganese, or sulfur.
3. Best Budget Combo: Kind Water Systems E-3000 Water Filtration System and Salt-Free Water Softener
The E-3000 water filtration system and salt-free water softener is a combo for the treatment of hard tap water that contains chlorine or chloramine.
The super affordable yet powerful filter-softener combo will give you access to considerably cleaner water throughout your entire home – definitely worth checking out! 5 stars.
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Kind Combo: E-3000 Water Filtration System with Salt-Free Water Softening |
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| Price: | $ |
| Filter Capacity: | 1 Year |
| Water Softener: | Salt-Free |
| Water: | For Up to 6 People (15 gpm) |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
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Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: E-3000
- Last Price: $1,698.30
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$145
- Filter Process: Sediment (5-Micron) + Catalytic Carbon Block
- Filter Stages: 3
- Max Hardness: 75 gpg
- WxHxD: 23¼”x29″x8″
- Water Temperature: 36-120 °F
- Water Pressure: 25-120 psi
- Water pH: 6.5-9.5
- Fitting: 1″ FNPT
Key Features & Pros
- Made in USA.
- 5-micron pleated sediment pre-filter catches visible particulate matter: Dirt, sand, and even silt and clay. Protects other filter stages from clogging as well as your plumbing system!
- A catalytic activated coconut shell-based carbon block is used in filter stage 2. It eliminates chlorine, chloramine, VOCs, pesticides, PFAS, HAAs, and more – for the cleanest of tap water without unpleasant tastes and odor.
- eSoft saltless water softener cartridge uses TAC technology. It eliminates the scaling effects of hard water minerals (calcium and magnesium) and dissolves existing formation with time.
- No regeneration required.
- Maximum allowable hardness level: 75 gpg.
- System can provide up to 15 gpm water flow (up to 6 bathrooms).
- Anyone with basic pluming skills can do the installation, says the manufacturer.
- Extremely low maintenance. All that’s required is annual filter replacements.
- Yearly cost come down to roughly $145 (get 15% off on autoship).
- Kind offers a 120-day money-back guarantee. It allows you to test the product completely risk-free. If you’re not satisfied for whatever reason you can send it back for a full refund.
- Limited lifetime warranty on all parts.
- Helpful and reliable customer support.
Cons
- No built-in bypass.
- Water must not contain iron or hydrogen sulfide.
Our Rating
- Overall Performance: 5.0/5.0
- Filtration & Softening Capacity: 4.5/5.0
- Price: 4.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 5.0/5.0
Best for
The Kind Water Systems E-3000 whole house water filter and softener combo is best for people on a tight budget who are connected to a city water supply.
4. The Runner-Up: Crystal Quest SMART Whole Home Water Filter w/ Softener or Salt-Free Conditioner
The Crystal Quest SMART whole house water filter is an allrounder that relies on a blend of multiple filter media to remove a broad range of contaminants commonly in tap water and well water.
Add pre- and post-filtration to that as well as a water softener or salt-free conditioner and all your water problems are taken care of.
You need to be prepared to pay a higher price, though…
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Crystal Quest SMART Whole Home Filter w/ Softener Combo |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Filter Capacity: | 1,000,000-1,500,000 Gallons |
| Water Softener: | Salt-Based |
| Water: | For Up to 4-6 People (9-13 gpm) |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
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Overall Rating: 4.5/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
Get 5% Off! Use Code: |
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Crystal Quest SMART Whole Home Filter w/ Salt-Free Softener Combo |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Filter Capacity: | 1,000,000-1,500,000 Gallons |
| Water Softener: | TAC |
| Water: | For Up to 4-6 People (9-13 gpm) |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
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Overall Rating: 4.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Gallery
Other Specs
- Model: CQE-WH-01127, CQE-WH-01128
- Last Price: $2,794.00-$3,439.00
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$50-75 + Salt
- Filter Process: Sediment (5 Microns), GAC, Catalytic Carbon, KDF, Ion Exchange Resin, Ceramic Balls, Tourmaline Balls, Carbon Block
- Softening Capacity: 48,000-60,000 Grains
- Media Tanks WxHxD: 10-12″x52-54″x10-12″
- Brine Tank Dimensions: 18″x33″x18″
- Water Temperature: 35-100 °F
- Water Pressure: 20-60 psi
- Fitting: 3/4″ or 1″
Key Features & Pros
- Combo is made in the USA thus the higher price tag.
- All in all, great-tasting, healthier water for drinking, cooking, and household use.
- 5-micron pleated sediment filter removes large particles (sediment, silt, sand…).
- Extends life of subsequent filter elements.
- SMART multimedia filter tank uses:
- Granular activated + catalytic carbon to adsorb chlorine, chloramine, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, industrial solvents, disinfection byproducts, benzene, and other related contaminants.
- Two different Eagle Redox Alloys to remove heavy metals like lead and chromium, more water disinfectants, and hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell). The copper-zinc blends also control growth of bacteria + algae.
- Ion exchange resin to reduce even more heavy metals and inorganics.
- Ceramic and tourmaline balls to adsorb any remaining impurities, especially metals. The balls also help balance water pH and are supposed to aid human metabolism.
- Coconut shell carbon block post-filter (5-micron nominal) removes VOCs, pesticides, etc. and cleanses any residual tastes and odor.
Crystal Quest Water Softener Only:
- Proprietary cation exchange resin bed softens water by replacing hard ions with sodium or potassium. This prevents limescale deposits in your home’s entire water system. Benefits:
- Pipes, fixtures, and water-using appliances will last longer.
- Efficiency of water heaters increases by up to 30%
- Detergents, soaps, and shampoo lather better. Save up to 70% and results in healthier skin and hair.
- Fabrics will be brighter.
- Overall reduced spotting on surfaces.
- System regeneration to replenish softening capacity is demand-initiated to save water and salt.
- All components are NSF Standard 61 certified to comply with health and safety standards.
Crystal Quest Water Conditioner Only:
- Crystal Quest Anti-Scale media acts as a catalyst to transform calcium and magnesium ions into stable nano crystals that are rinsed away by water flow without attaching to surfaces.
- Calcium and magnesium already built up also dissolve in a short time.
- Nothing will be added nor removed from water. Healthy minerals add to your daily nutritional intake.
- No regeneration means you save salt and water.
- All other benefits are as mentioned above.
- 1,000,000-gallon filter version + 48,000-grain water softener is for homes with 1-3 bathrooms. Water flow: 9-11 gallons per minute.
- Choose 1,500,000 gallons filter + 64,000-grain water softener if you have 4 bathrooms or more. Water: 10-13 gpm.
- Optional: Upgrade fiberglass to stainless steel tanks for looks and longevity.
- Self-installation is doable but certainly a bit more demanding.
- Maintenance requirements are low.
- Filtration and softening media last up to 10 years, depending on your daily water usage and feed water condition.
- Additional filter cartridges are good for 12-18 months, maybe a bit longer. Average annual cost: ~$50-75 which really isn’t much.
- Refill brine tank with salt if you opt for traditional softener.
- Crystal Quest warranty all its systems for 1 year.
Cons
- Not the most affordable option out there.
- Water conditioner might require pre-treatment of water if iron, manganese, copper, phosphate, or hydrogen sulfide content, or hardness level is too high.
- Best to contact Crystal Quest support team about this (they have a live chat!).
Our Rating
- Overall Performance: 4.5/5.0
- Filtration & Softening Capacity: 5.0/5.0
- Price: 3.5/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 4.5/5.0
Best for
The Crystal Quest SMART whole house system combos are best for people aiming for broad contaminant removal and reduced water hardness.
5. Tier1 Whole House Water Softener + Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
Tier 1 whole house water softener + point-of-use reverse osmosis drinking water filtration system. This is by far the most affordable solution when you want to combine water filtration with softening.
Both systems are designed for the mass market, mind you, so don’t expect outstanding quality. And there’re other trade-offs that you must expect in this price segment (more on this in a bit). That said, both units still get the job done – soft water throughout the entire house and filtered water ready for drinking straight from the kitchen faucet – guaranteed! 4 stars.
Tier1 Whole House Water Softener + Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System |
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| Price: | $ |
| Filter Capacity: | 6 Months to 2 Years |
| Water Softener: | Salt-Based |
| Water: | For Up to 4-5 People (11.2 gpm) |
| Warranty: | 1-Year + Lifetime |
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Overall Rating: 4.0/5.0 ⓘRatings based on softening/filtration effectiveness and capacity, cost, NSF standards, our own testing/experience, user feedback, customer support, product warranties, and other factors.
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Other Specs
- Model: WS-165-150, RO5
- Annual Maintenance Cost: ~$70.00 + Salt
- Filter Process: 5-Micron Sediment, Carbon Block, 1-Micron Sediment, RO, Carbon Post
- Membrane Rating: 50 gpd
- Recovery Rate: 20%
- Softening Capacity: 48,000 Grains (1.5 cu. ft.)
- Softener Tank WxHxD (without Head): 10″x54″x10″
- Brine Tank Dimensions: 15″x34″x15″
- RO System WxHxD: 14″x18″x6″
- RO Tank: 15″x11″, 3.2 gal
- Water Temperature: 40-100 °F
- Water Pressure: 21-120 psi (Softener), 40-75 (RO)
- Fitting: 3/4″ FPT (Softener), ½” NPT (RO)
Key Features & Pros
- This is about as affordable as it gets.
- Tier1 Everyday is a genuine salt-based water softener. Removes hard water minerals (calcium and magnesium) from water for little to no scaling.
- Capacity is 48,000 grains. 11.2 gpm water flow. Suited for small to mid-sized homes with up to 4, maybe 5 bathrooms.
- Protective neoprene tack jacket is part of the package.
- Tier1 RO5 under sink reverse osmosis system filters water at the point of use.
- Produces clean, pure water.
- Uses sediment and carbon block pre-filters, RO membrane, and GAC post-filter.
- 5-stage filtration process removes or reduces sediment and other particular contaminants, chlorine, taste and odor, chemicals, and the vast majority of dissolved solids (e.g. arsenic, chromium 6, fluoride, lead, cysts, nitrates, radium).
- Water is stored in 3.2-gallon storage tank and can be dispensed using dedicated chrome faucet. Enough water for family use.
- 4 reusable glass water bottles are included (only when you purchase on discountfilterstore.com).
- Both water softener and RO should be easy to install. There are printed installation instructions and video guides.
- Dedicated water dispenser of RO system requires hole in countertop or sink, so you need to drill one if there isn’t a spare one. You’ll definitely have to drill into the drain line of your kitchen sink.
- Maintenance is simple: Refill water softener brine tank with salt and change RO filter stages every 6 months. RO membrane itself lasts up to 2 years.
- Manufacturer provides satisfaction guarantee on water softener for the first 90 days after purchase (only valid if purchased from discountfilterstore.com and water is within stated specifications).
- One-year warranty on water softener control valve + tank. Lifetime warranty on RO unit.
Cons
- 8% crosslink softening resin is less chlorine-resistant and wears out quicker when used on chlorinated city water supply.
- Water softener installation instructions could be better.
- Programming the digital head unit requires some getting used to.
- Bypass valve is manual so water service disrupts during regeneration. 1 cycle takes about 2 hours.
- Not an issue when you set frequency to weekly and at night time.
- Some parts of the reverse osmosis system feel a little cheap.
Our Rating
- Overall Performance: 4.0/5.0
- Filtration & Softening Capacity: 4.0/5.0
- Price: 5.0/5.0
- Annual Cost: 5.0/5.0
- Overall: 4.0/5.0
Best for
The Tier1 setup is best for whole house water softening combined with point-of-use drinking water filtration.
More Reviews:
- Want the Best Whole House Water Filter in 2024? 11 Reviews [+ Guide]
- 10 Best Whole House Well Water Filtration System Reviews in 2024
- 9 Best Water Softener Reviews: 2024 Systems & Buying Guide
- Best Water Softeners for Iron Removal in Well Water
- The Best Rated Salt-Free Water Softening Systems of 2024
- What’s the Best Water Conditioner in 2024?
Comparison List
(Mobile Hint: Swipe to Scroll)
| Combos | Price | Softener Type | Filter Process | Filter Capacity | Grain Capacity | GPM | Yearly Cost | Warranty | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SpringWell CSS Carbon Filter System + Water Softener Combo | $$ | Traditional | Catalytic Carbon, 5-Micron Sediment | 1,000,000 gal | 32,000-80,000 | 9-20 | ~$40 + Salt | Life (Limited) | |
| SpringWell CSF Filter System + Saltless Softener Combo | $$ | TAC | Catalytic Carbon, 5-Micron Sediment | 1,000,000 gal | – | 9-20 | ~$40 | Life (Limited) | |
| SpringWell WSSS Filter System + Water Softener Combo | $$$ | Traditional | Spin-Down Sediment, Air Injection + Greensand | Up to 10+ Years | 32,000-80,000 | 11-20 | Salt Only | Life (Limited) | |
| SpringWell WSSF Filter System + Saltless Softener | $$$ | TAC | Spin-Down Sediment, Air Injection + Greensand | Up to 10+ Years | – | 12-20 | – | Life (Limited) | |
| Kind E-3000 Water Softener + Carbon Water Filter Combo | $ | Salt-Free | 5-Micron Sediment + Catalytic Carbon Block | 1 Year | – | 15 | ~$145 | Lifetime | |
| Crystal Quest SMART Whole Home Water Filtration System + Water Softener Combo | $$ | Traditional | 5-Micron Sediment, GAC, Catalytic Carbon, KDF, Ion Exchange, Ceramic + Tourmaline Balls, Carbon Block | 1,000,000-1,500,000 gal | 48,000-60,000 | 9-13 | ~$50-75 + Salt | 1 Year | |
| Crystal Quest SMART Whole Home Water Filter + Saltless Softener Combo | $$$ | Salt-Free | 5-Micron Sediment, GAC, Catalytic Carbon, KDF, Ion Exchange, Ceramic + Tourmaline Balls, Carbon Block | 1,000,000-1,500,000 gal | – | 9-13 | ~$50-75 | 1 Year | |
| Tier1 Whole House Water Softener + POU RO Filter System Combo | $ | Salt-Based | 5-Micron Sediment, Carbon Block, 1-Micron Sediment, RO, Carbon Post | 6-24 Months | 48,000 | 11.2 | ~$70.00 + Salt | 1 Year to Life |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Water Softener and Filter Combo System That’s Best for You
The following are key features worth considering when shopping for a water softener and filter combo. They will help you choose the right on for your needs and budget.
Test Your Water Quality
The best approach to finding the ideal water filter and/or water softener always starts with finding out more about your water quality. If there’s no recent quality report (check this page or this link here) for your water supply you need to have a direct sample tested by an independent lab – such as this one here. Or you can purchase a test kit and do the testing yourself to get a rough idea of which water contaminants and hardness level you’re facing.
Choosing the Ideal Water Filter Type
Primary Filter Media
It’s simple:
- If your water is high in sediment get yourself a sediment (pre-)filter.
- For chlorine, chloramines, and all sorts of chemicals and organics commonly found in tap water you want to install a carbon water filtration system. Carbon is also great for neutralizing off-taste.
- Iron water filters are designed for the removal of iron, manganese, and sulfur.
- KDF is not only bacteriostatic, it also reduces disinfectants and a bunch of heavy metals.
Choosing the Ideal Type of Water Softening System
Water Softener or Water Conditioner
There’re salt-based water softeners that use ion exchange to replace hardness minerals in water with sodium or potassium. And there’re salt-free water conditioners that apply different technologies to reduce the scaling effects of hard water without adding or removing anything from it.
The former are still the industry standard and preferred choice of most home owners due to their effectiveness. But, water conditioners are getting more popular as they’re becoming more sophisticated delivering better and better results.
Personally, we like both. If we were to go with a water conditioner, though, we would make sure it uses Template Assisted Crystallization.
Water Softening Capacity
Salt water softeners need to regenerate in order to replenishing their softening resin. The amount of grains that a system can remove between two regeneration cycles is its capacity. Depending on its size, capacities start at 8,000 hardness grains (portable water softeners) and can reach 80,000 grains (whole house systems) and higher if need be.
Simply put, your new water softeners needs to be large enough to handle your water hardness level and demand.
Water Pressure and Flow Rate
Both whole house water filter and water softener need to be able to process enough water to supply your entire household – kitchen, bathroom(s), appliances…
If that’s not the case your water pressure might drop when you use too many water outlets simultaneously, or raw feed water could bleed through.
10-15 gallons per minute water flow is pretty standard for whole house applications.
NSF Certifications
Look out for NSF Standard 42 in whole house water filters. It guarantees effective chlorine reduction.
NSF Standard 44 was established for cation exchange water softeners and covers things like salt and water efficiency, and most importantly the effective reduction of hard minerals.
Space
It might seem obvious, but don’t underestimate the size of a whole house water softener and filter combo.
Installation & Maintenance
Installing a whole house filter-softener combo really isn’t any more difficult than installing just a whole house water filter or just a water softener. So as long as you have the right tools and enough time and patience, and maybe some prior experience, you should be fine doing the installation yourself.
In case you don’t feel comfortable taking on the project on your own, expect to pay at least several hundred dollars when hiring a plumber to do the setup for you.
As far as maintenance is concerned, a water softener brine tank requires annual cleaning. You also need to make sure that the salt level is always above the water level. And there are several other maintenance tasks to perform. The same goes for looking after a whole house water filter. For example: Depending on the model, you need to clean and/or replace (pre-)filters on a regular basis. All this isn’t overly difficult and you certainly don’t need a professional to take care of your whole house filter and softener, but you should be aware that this isn’t a set and forget type of thing.
Cost
When it comes to cost, the initial price tags of a whole house water filtration system and softener are important, but so are operating/maintenance cost. Not all filter cartridges/media last equally long. And some are cheaper to replace than others.
As for water softeners, remember to take into account the expenses for salt and water required for regeneration (salt-based systems only). Compared to something super cheap, a more expensive but more resource-efficient unit likely turns out more cost-effective in the long run.
Warranty + Where to Buy
We like to buy online because you get the best prices and have the largest product selection possible. And we like to buy from sellers that
- Offer a lifetime warranty on their systems and
- Allow you to test their products in a trial period and return them for a full refund in case you’re not satisfied.
All-in-One Water Softener-Filters
We’re not fans of all-in-one water softeners and filters. First of all, they’re really rare. And second of all, they’re usually much less effective and efficient than separate filters and softeners set up in sequence.
One of the reasons is that proper water treatment takes time – contact time between the water and the filter media and the softening resin. Providing less of both, an all-in-one water softener and filter simply cannot keep up with two large separated systems.
More on Water Softener and Filter Combos
How Does a Whole House Water Softener and Filter Combo Work?
Now, this is not an easy question to answer because it depends on the exact setup.
Generally speaking, a whole house water filter uses one or more filter stages to remove certain water contaminants. For example:
- There are pre-filters that trap sediments based on size exclusion,
- large tanks containing carbon filter media for the adsorption of bad taste and odor, chlorine and chloramine, disinfection byproducts, and all kinds of chemicals and organics,
- and more specialized filter (media) types that may remove heavy metals like lead or iron, or hydrogen sulfide.
Traditional water softeners on the other hand all apply ion exchange to remove hard minerals from water. The process takes place in a large tank filled with softening resin, a media bed which consists of thousands and thousands of tiny microbeads. The beads are supersaturated with sodium ions. As hard water gets in contact with the resin bed, calcium and other hardness minerals are pulled out of the water. They attach to the beads which act like magnets and substitute the sodium ions which go into solution. Before the water reaches the bottom of the resin tank, it’s softened and ready for distribution.
After a while, the resin beads cannot bind any more hard water ions, which is when a water softener needs to regenerate. A regeneration cycle includes backwashing of the resin tank in order to expand the softening resin and remove any potential dirt, followed by a brining phase where highly concentrated salt brine is sucked from the brine into the resin tank. The brine washes over the resin beads releasing all accumulated hard water ions and replacing them with a fresh layer of sodium.
How Salt-Free Water Softeners Work
There are different types of salt-free water softeners also known as water conditioners. What they all have in common is that they eliminate or reduce the scaling effects of hard water without removing anything from the water. How? They simply prevent calcium and the other minerals from sticking to surfaces. There are a few different methods that can achieve this:
- Our preferred method is Template Assisted Crystallization. It makes use of catalytic media to convert hard water ions into large crystals. Scale prevention: Up to 99.6%.
- Some water conditioners use a chelation agent like citric acid to bind the minerals together so they precipitate out.
- Electronic and magnetic water descalers reduce scaling by electromagnetic water induction.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Water Filter-Softener Combo?
The benefits are manifold. Whole house water filtration means having access to clean, great-tasting water at every outlet in your home including shower(s). All water-using home appliances will benefit, too, and they’re lifespan is likely to increase. Installing water filtration before a water softener also helps to protect the latter from clogging.
Speaking of, a water softener is another device which not only protects your home appliances from damaging due to hard water scaling, your entire plumbing system will require fewer maintenance and repairs, and last up to 30 percent longer – all because the formation of scale is prevented.
Reduced or no scaling also results in water heaters working more efficiently for lower energy cost. Cosmetic benefits include reduce spotting on bathroom fixtures and tableware etc., softer and brighter clothes, and improved lathering of soaps and shampoos.
Some of the benefits associated with saltless water conditioners are:
- Less to no scaling
- Even existing scale deposits will vanish over time
- Some systems are virtually maintenance-free
- You don’t need to keep buying new softening salt
- No extra sodium in water is ideal for people on a salt-restricted diet and better for the environment
- The conditioned water doesn’t feel slippery
- No regeneration means no downtime and no wastewater
Do I Even Need a Water Softener if I Have a Whole House Filter?
Water softeners and water filters are fundamentally different. The purpose of a water filter is to remove one or more undesirable contaminants, for example to improve water taste and/or safety.
Water softeners were designed to provide a solution to water hardness. They remove certain minerals from water, first and foremost calcium, to prevent scale deposits from forming among other things
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will my water filter-softener combination last?
It depends. A high-quality setup can last up to a decade and longer. - How often will I need to change filters?
With sediment pre-filters, you’re probably looking at annual or biannual replacements. Large filter media tanks usually last between 5 and 10 years. - Is UV light required for water filtering and softening?
Not necessarily. UV light treatment is great if your water isn’t microbiologically safe as it kills any living organisms including bacteria, viruses, and cyst.
How We Chose and Tested the Best Whole House Water Filter and Softener Combos (Why Trust Us)
Are you ready for a behind-the-scenes look at how we review whole house water filter and softener combos? Buckle up, because our methodology is as thorough as it gets! Check out these steps we take to bring you the best options:
- We start by curating a list of criteria based on our years of experience and research. The 20+ attributes help us measure and compare all products.
- With over a dozen different and promising whole house water filter and softener combos available online, we dive headfirst into product manuals, descriptions, and data from NSF/ANSI testing and certifications. We even interview top brands like SpringWell and Kind Water Systems to get the inside scoop on their products and customer support.
- Armed with all this knowledge, we narrow down our list to no more than 10 combos that meet our standards.
- But we don’t stop there! We check online stores and marketplaces like Amazon for feedback and third-party ratings from real users, weeding out any fakes along the way.
- After this rigorous process, we’re left with 8 top contenders. We go the extra mile by ordering and installing some of them on a suitable water supply. We follow manufacturer instructions regarding system preparation, installation, and priming, taking note of the process. We then meticulously evaluate every aspect, from the taste and aftertaste of the treated water to overall system performance, giving each combo at least 4 weeks to prove its worth.
- To ensure real-life water hardness and contaminant reduction rates, we conduct our own lab testing (Tap Score).
- Finally, we take all this valuable data, translate it into easy-to-understand insights, and present everything in a pros vs cons format.
We want you to make an informed decision, so you can trust our unbiased and independent ratings. And rest assured, every detail has been carefully considered and fact-checked by professionals for accuracy. Most importantly, Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS played a vital role in the assessment of NSF and other certifications.
About Our Ratings
Currently, our evaluation of whole house water filter-softener combos is mostly based on these key factors: Contaminant reduction and softening effectiveness (25%), service life (20%), flow rates (20%), upfront cost and long-term affordability (15%), first-hand experience and user ratings (10%), customer support and warranties (10%).
We’ve rated each combo on a score of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest rating.
Questions? Ask away!
About the Author Alexandra Uta
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.