How Much Does a Whole House Water Filtration System Cost? (2023)
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated: Aug 25, 2023
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The cost of a whole house water filter depends on many factors.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the prices of whole house water filters so that you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right system for your home.
We will cover expenses for purchase, installation, and maintenance.
So, how much does a whole house water filter cost?
Contents
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Key Takeaways
- System type is the determining factor when it comes to whole house water filter cost:
- Traditional carbon-based whole house water filters range anywhere from $100 to $1,500+, depending on their size and specific features.
- Sediment filters are usually cheaper than carbon-based filters. But tank-based system can get pricey as well. Range: About $50 to $1,500+.
- Iron, manganese, and sulfur filters typically cost between $2,000 and $3,000.
- Chemical injection systems are more advanced and thus tend to cost more, around $2,500 to $3,000.
- UV systems are a type of whole house water filter that uses UV light to kill bacteria and viruses. They can range from $200 to $1,000+.
- Whole house reverse osmosis systems are the most expensive. They range between about $500 and $10,000+.
- General prices are affected by the complexity of the filtration process, filter size, system capacity, extra features, the brand, and warranties.
How Much Does a Whole House Water Filtration System Cost? | Price Overview
A whole house water filter can cost anywhere between $50 and $3,000 or more.
Now, this isn’t exactly helpful. Thus, let’s take a look at several real-life whole house water filter examples:
| Whole House Water Filter Model | Price Tag |
|---|---|
| SpringWell CF4 Whole House Water Filter System | $1,199.67 USD |
| SpringWell WS1 Whole House Well Water Filter System | $2,204.00 USD |
| USWS Bodyguard Plus Whole House Water Filtration System (15 gpm) | $1,355.64 USD |
| USWS Matrixx inFusion Iron and Sulfur Removal System | $2,628.00 USD |
| NU Aqua 3 Stage Whole House Water Filtration System | $415.95 USD |
| Home Master HMF3SdgFeC 3 Stage Sediment, Iron & Carbon Filter | $579.00 USD |
| Crystal Quest Smart Whole House Water Filter (13 gpm) | $1,968.70 USD |
| Aquasana Rhino Whole House Water Filtration System | $949.00 USD |
| Pentair PC1000 Whole House Water Filter System | $1,338.30 USD |
| 3M Aqua-Pure AP903 Whole House Water Filtration System | $401.99 USD |
Whole House Water Filter Cost by Type
System type is the determining factor when it comes to whole house filter cost. Below are the most common ones.
By the way, make sure to also check out our review guide for the best whole house water filters!
Traditional Carbon-Based Whole House Water Filters
Traditional carbon-based whole house water filters work by using a tank filled with activated carbon to remove contaminants from water as it passes through. These systems are effective at removing a wide range of impurities, including chlorine and pesticides.
The price of traditional carbon-based whole house water filters ranges from $ to $$$, depending on the size of the unit and the specific features you want.
We Recommend: SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter
Get 5% Off! Use Code: BOS5OFF
- The #1 Carbon-Based Whole House Water Filter
- 3 System Sizes for Up to 7+ Bathrooms
- Removes Chlorine, Chloramine, Bad Taste & Odor, Organics, Some Heavy Metals, and More
- Filter Life of 1 Million Gallons or 6 Years
- Easy to Maintain for Highest Convenience
- 6-Month Satisfaction Guarantee and Limited Lifetime Warranty
- → Read Full Review
Here are some examples:
- SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter System | $981.79-1,677.98
SpringWell’s CF Whole House Water Filter Series includes 3 systems. Each has a different size and maximum amount of water it can filter at any given time. These systems all use large tanks that are filled with catalytic carbon media.
- Bodyguard Plus by US Water Systems | $1,175.24-1,536.04
The Bodyguard Plus is another tank-based system that has several flow rate options. The filter media in such a system typically lasts for about 5 years.
- NU Aqua 3 Stage Whole House Water Filtration System | $415.95
The NU Aqua 3 Stage Whole House Water Filtration System uses filter cartridges. These need to be replaced regularly, so for this type, although it is cheaper than other systems in the beginning, consider the maintenance costs as well.
Sediment Filters
Sediment filters are designed to remove larger particles from water, such as sand, dirt, and rust.
Sediment filters are usually cheaper than carbon filters, as they could range from $ to $$. However, the actual cost also depends on the system you’re looking for.
We Recommend: Crystal Quest Turbidity Whole House Water Filter
Get 5% Off! Use Code: BOS5OFF
- The #1 Tank-Based Sediment Whole House Water Filter
- 2 System Sizes for Up to 5 Baths
- Filters Sediment Down to 5 Microns (Nominal) in Size + Chemicals
- Filter Media Lasts for Up to 1,000,000 Gallons
- Pre and Post-Filters Need Replacement Every 1-2 Years at Low Costs
- 1 Year Product Warranty
- → Read Full Review
Here are two examples:
- Crystal Quest Turbidity Whole House Water Filter | $1,282.7-1,659.75
This is a tank-based sediment filter system that comes in different sizes and casings. Naturally, it’s more costly than your typical cartridge filter type.
- SpringWell PF-10 Sediment Filter | $80.40
This is a simple sediment filter cartridge with housing.
Iron/Well Water Filters
If you have well water, then you may need an iron/well water filter. These systems are designed to remove high levels of iron, manganese, and certain other contaminants.
Iron/well water filters typically cost between $$ and $$$ because of the complexity of the filtration process.
We Recommend: SpringWell WS Whole House Well Water Filter
Get 5% Off! Use Code: BOS5OFF
- The #1 Whole House Water Filter for Well with Iron
- 2 System Sizes for Up to 7+ Bathrooms
- Removes Iron, Manganese, Hydrogen Sulfide, Arsenic, and Radium
- Filter Life of Up to 10 or More Years at No Additional Cost
- Maintenance-Free, Backwashes Automatically
- 180-Day Satisfaction Guarantee and Lifetime Warranty (Limited)
- → Read Full Review
An example is:
- SpringWell WS Whole House Well Water Filter System | $2,128.95-2,861.93
Tank-based systems are great for private wells since they last long and are economical.
Chemical Injection Systems
Chemical injection systems are a more advanced type of whole house water filter. They work by adding chemicals into your water supply to precondition or neutralize contaminants. These systems are most commonly used to remove iron, sulfur, and manganese from water.
Chemical injection systems tend to cost more, around $$ to $$$. You also need to consider operating cost since there are chemicals involved in the process.
We Recommend: USWS Matrixx inFusion Iron and Sulfur Removal System
- The #1 Whole House Water Filter for Iron & Sulfur Bacteria
- 4 System Sizes for Up to 7+ Bathrooms
- For Iron Up to 20 ppm, Manganese Up to 1 ppm, Hydrogen Sulfide Up to 30 ppm
- Easy to Install and Maintain
- Filter Media Lasts 3-5 Years
- Lifetime Warranty on Filter Tank, 10 Years on Head Valve, 5 Years on Chemical Injection Panel
- → Read Full Review
Here is an example:
- USWS Matrixx inFusion | $2,628.00-3,173.60
A tank-based system like the USWS Matrixx inFusion is among the priciest on the market, given that the filtration process is rather complex due to the chemicals involved. The Matrixx inFusion comes in different sizes.
UV Systems
Ultraviolet (UV) systems are a type of whole house water filter that uses UV light to kill bacteria and viruses. They are incredibly effective at purifying water, but they do not remove contaminants like chlorine or lead.
UV filters may range from $ to $$$. However, you may have to shell out additional costs for other filters.
Here are examples of UV systems:
- SpringWell SPRW-UVC5-15 | $1,063.45
- Pentair Standard UV Disinfection System | $873.90-1,250.10
Prices vary for Pentair’s UV systems because the brand offers two flow rate/size options. They are also designed to integrate with other water filter systems.
Whole House Reverse Osmosis Systems
Reverse osmosis systems are more expensive than other whole house water filter types, but they are also more effective. These systems use a semipermeable membrane to remove the vast majority of contaminants from water. The water is then stored in a holding tank until you need it.
Whole house RO systems are widely considered the most powerful type of whole house water filters, hence they are really expensive. Expect to spend a range of $$$ to $$$$.
Here is an example of one:
- Crystal Quest Whole House Reverse Osmosis System | $1,495.00-8,763.00
The Crystal Quest Whole House Reverse Osmosis System is fully equipped and comes with storage tank kit components and a pressure pump. This system could last around 20 years with proper maintenance of the pre-filters and membranes.
Whole House Water Filter Price Factors
The right whole house water filter for your home depends on your needs and budget. When browsing options, take note of these factors that could affect the price:
Complexity of Filtration Process
The more complex the filtration process is, the more costly the system will be. The number of filters as well as the different filter stages are just some of the things that influence the price tag.
For example, a simple sediment filter is going to be less expensive than a reverse osmosis system that removes contaminants at the molecular level.
Whole House Water Filter Size
The size of the whole house water filter also plays a major role in determining its price. Bigger systems that can accommodate a higher flow rate are typically more expensive than smaller models.
However, a larger filter will be able to treat more water and will therefore last longer before needing to be replaced. As a result, you may end up spending less money in the long run even though the initial investment is higher.
System Capacity
The lifespan of the filter media or filter cartridge should also be taken into consideration. Some need to be replaced within a few months while others can last for years.
Generally speaking, larger homes or families do better with a system with a higher capacity.
Extras
Some whole house water filters come with additional parts, like pressure valves, pumps, or storage tanks, which will affect the price. Another extra to be on the lookout for is automatic filter flushing (backwashing), which can add to the cost but offers greater convenience.
Brand
As with most products, there is a range in quality when it comes to whole house water filters. In general, higher-end brands that use superior materials in their construction are going to cost more.
That being said, it is possible to find a quality system at a reasonable price if you know what to look for.
Warranties
Warranties for whole house water filters vary. Some manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty while others may only cover the system for one year. Keep in mind that the length of the warranty is not necessarily an indication of quality. It’s just something to consider when budgeting for your new filtration system.
Further Reading:
Whole Home Water Filter Installation Cost
The installation will also need to be factored into your budget when browsing for whole house water filters. Some manufacturers offer installation services for an additional fee while others do not.
If you are comfortable with performing the installation yourself, then you can save money by opting for a system that does not come with such a service. However, if you are not confident in your ability to install, it is best to leave it to the professionals.
Labor Cost When Hiring a Professional
When hiring a professional, the average labor cost for installing a whole house water filter is between $200 and $500+. The specific cost will depend on the type of system you choose, the supplies needed, and the number of hours it takes to complete the job.
If the plumber would need to modify the existing plumbing in your home, the cost could increase by $1,000 to $2,000.
It’s important to note also that some professionals will set a fixed price for the entire project, while others will charge by the hour.
What’s Involved in Professional Installation
When you hire a professional to install your whole house water filter, you are paying them to:
- Study the installation instructions and gather the complete equipment
- Purchase additional items needed
- Install the filter system and ensure it is working properly
Expenses for Installation Supplies
The total expenses will depend on what tools and materials you already have. Most whole house water filter systems come with a complete installation kit that includes all of the necessary components.
However, you may need to purchase additional supplies if your home does not have the right type of plumbing or if you need to make any modifications to your existing setup.
For example, Teflon tape is necessary for creating a seal between the filter housing and the plumbing fixtures. This can be purchased for less than $5. If you need to purchase a new water pressure regulator, you can expect to spend around $50.
Whole House Water Filter DIY Installation Cost
A DIY installation will not cost much (sometimes even not at all) if you already have the tools on hand. Most whole house water filtration systems already include the components. To give you a picture, here are the supplies you need for a DIY hook-up:
- Piping and fittings
- Drill
- Adjustable wrench
- Hacksaw
- Bucket
- Teflon tape
- Screwdriver
Permits and Inspection Cost
You don’t need any permits to have a whole house filter installed in your home.
Water Testing
If you want to have your water tested, the prices range from DIY kits at $15 to $200+ tests by a professional. The latter would provide more detailed information on the contaminants in your water.
Some home improvement stores offer free water testing kits. You can also check with your local water department for their services.
Total Installation Costs by System Type
| Whole House Water Filter Type | Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Cartridge-Based Sediment Filter | $100-300 USD |
| Tank-Based Whole House Water Filter | $200-500+ USD |
| Multi-Stage Whole House Water Filter | $200-500+ USD |
| UV Water Purifier | $200-500+ USD |
| Whole House Reverse Osmosis System | $500+ USD |
DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
You can save a lot by going for a DIY installation, but you have to make sure you have at least basic plumbing knowledge and skills. You can equip yourself by reading tutorials or watching how-to videos online. To save more, opt for a whole house water filter that comes with all the installation materials needed.
On the other hand, if you do not install your system correctly, it could incur additional repairs or costs and, worse, permanent damage. If you are not confident, it is best to hire a professional to do it for you. They will have the necessary tools and experience to get the job done quickly and correctly.
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain a Whole House Water Filter?
Whole house water filter maintenance costs typically range from $50 to $300 per year, mainly depending on the type of system in question.
Maintenance Cost by System Type
Different whole house water systems have different maintenance costs because of their varying levels of complexity.
- For cartridge-based systems, you will need to replace the filter cartridges regularly (usually every 3-12 months). This can get expensive, especially if you have a multi-stage setup. Prices vary per filter cartridge too. A sediment filter might cost $30, while a carbon block filter could cost $50. A fluoride removal filter cartridge is priced at around $200.
- Tank-based systems typically don’t need maintenance until it is time to replace the filter media, which can be every 5 to 7 (10) years. Although, some systems would need a replacement of their pre-sediment or post-carbon filters every 3 to 12 months.
- Reverse osmosis systems have a higher initial cost, but they are somewhat cheaper to maintain because you only need to change the filters once a year and the membranes every 3 to 5 years.
- Whole house water filters that involve chemical injection will require you to replenish the chemicals regularly. This can also get costly, depending on the type and strength of chemicals used. For instance, hydrogen peroxide costs $40 per gallon.
| Whole House Water Filter Type | Annual Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|
| Cartridge-Based Sediment Filter | $30-100 USD |
| Tank-Based Whole House Water Filter | $30-100+ USD |
| Multi-Stage Whole House Water Filter | $100-300+ USD |
| UV Water Purifier | ~$120 USD |
| Whole House Reverse Osmosis System | $300+ USD |
Average Cost (First Year)
Total average whole house water filter cost for the first year is:
| Whole House Water Filter Type | Price | Installation | Annual Maintenance | Total Average Cost (First Year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cartridge-Based Sediment Filter | $50-100 USD | $100-300 USD | $30-100 USD | $180-500 USD |
| Tank-Based Whole House Water Filter | $300-2,000+ USD | $200-500+ USD | $30-100+ USD | $530-2,600+ USD |
| Multi-Stage Whole House Water Filter | $300-500+ USD | $200-500+ USD | $100-300+ USD | $600-1,300+ USD |
| UV Water Purifier | $200-1,000+ USD | $200-500+ USD | ~$120 USD | $520-1,620+ USD |
| Whole House Reverse Osmosis System | $500+ USD | $500+ USD | $300+ USD | $1,300+ USD |
Where to Buy a Whole House Water Filter
There are three main places you can check for whole house water filters:
- If you are looking for the most affordable option, checking online retailers like Amazon is a great place to start. However, it is important to read reviews before making your purchase to ensure that you are getting a quality product.
- Water treatment companies usually sell higher-end whole house water filters and can provide installation services as well. If you have the budget for it, opting for a professional installation is always a good idea.
- Finally, some home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s also sell whole house water filters. If you have one of these stores in your area, it is worth checking out their selection to see if they have a system that meets your needs.
Benefits of a POE Water Filtration System
A point-of-entry (POE) water filtration system is installed at the main water line coming into your home. This means that all of the water that enters your home will be filtered, providing you and your family with clean, safe water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and more.
There are many benefits to choosing a POE system over other types of filtration systems, such as:
1. Access to Clean and Safe Water
Since POE systems are installed at the main water line, they will filter all of the water coming into your home. This means that you and your family will have access to clean and safe water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and more.
2. Improved Water Quality
Depending on type, POE systems can remove a variety of contaminants from your water supply, including chlorine, lead, iron, rust, and sediment. This can improve the taste and quality of your water, making it safer and more enjoyable to use.
3. Reduced Risk of Illness
By filtering out contaminants from your water supply, a POE system can help to reduce the risk of illness for you and your family. This is especially important for young children and infants, who are more vulnerable to the effects of contaminated water.
4. More Savings
Installing a whole house water filtration system can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for bottled drinking water and expensive repairs to your plumbing.
If you have any questions about whole house water filter cost please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
*All prices last updated: January 2023
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
Information provided on BOS is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.
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