What Whole-Home Filtration Does
Unlike point-of-use systems that treat water at a single tap, a whole-home (point-of-entry) filtration system installs where your water supply enters the house — meaning every faucet, shower, washing machine, and water-using appliance receives filtered water.
Whole-home systems are most commonly used to address chlorine and chloramine from municipal water supplies, sediment, tannins, and general taste and odor concerns that affect the entire home. They’re often paired with a water softener or a dedicated drinking water system for comprehensive treatment.
Common Reasons to Consider Whole-Home Filtration
- Strong chlorine or chemical smell when running water anywhere in the house
- Sediment or discoloration in water from multiple fixtures
- Concerns about water quality affecting shower water and absorption through skin
- Protecting appliances and plumbing from chlorine degradation over time
- Complementing a water softener with additional chemical reduction
Whole-Home Filtration vs. Point-of-Use Systems
The right approach depends on what’s in your water and what you want to protect. Whole-home systems excel at removing chlorine, sediment, and taste/odor concerns throughout the house. Point-of-use systems (like a reverse osmosis drinking water station) target a broader range of dissolved contaminants specifically at the tap. Many Waterhouse customers use both.
FAQs: Whole-Home Filtration
Will a whole-home filter remove hard water?
No — whole-home carbon filtration does not soften water. Hard water requires a dedicated water softener that uses ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium. For both soft and filtered water throughout your home, a water softener and whole-home filter can be combined.
How often does a whole-home filter need to be replaced?
Filter life varies based on water quality, usage, and filter type. Waterhouse provides ongoing maintenance and filter replacement services and can advise on the expected service interval for your system.
Does whole-home filtration reduce lead or nitrates?
Most whole-home carbon filters are not certified for nitrate or lead reduction. Those contaminants require reverse osmosis or specialized media. Waterhouse tests your water first to identify what’s present and recommends the right combination of equipment.
Can a whole-home filter be added to an existing water softener?
Yes. Whole-home filtration and water softening are frequently installed together and are fully compatible as part of a comprehensive water treatment setup.