5 Well Water Filtration Systems for Contaminant-Free, Better-Tasting Water
Updated: Apr. 04, 2023A well water filtration system is a good idea to provide safe, drinkable water that's free of contamination.
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“Well water filtration system” describes any device that removes contaminants from your well water. There are many reasons to filter water, but namely, well water filtration systems are used to remove contaminants, such as sediment particles, minerals, chemicals and bacteria.
There’s technically no difference between filtration systems for off-grid water sources, like wells, and those for any other residential water source. Although the details of how water filtration systems work vary depending on the type, the basic principle is the same: The water filter for your home is installed somewhere between the water source and the point of water use. Which type you choose depends on the condition of your water and what contaminants you need removed. That’s why testing your water is essential before investing in a system.
These are the most common types of water filters:
- Sediment filters: These contain a plastic cartridge with fine pores.
- Carbon charcoal filters: These filtering water through layers of carbon, which absorbs many chemical contaminants.
- Reverse-osmosis filters: Here, water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane, removing most contaminants.
- Ultraviolet light filters: These direct UV rays pass through incoming water, killing most microorganisms and bacteria.
- Water distillers: These systems boil water, creating steam that recondenses into liquid, removing nearly all chemicals and minerals.
These systems come in many sizes and designs, and some are easier to install and operate than others. Here are five of our favorite well water filtration systems, selected with DIYers in mind.
iSpring Two-Stage Filtration System
This budget-friendly water filtration system offers solid performance for the value price tag. It removes nearly all sediments during the first stage, and most chemical contaminants with carbon filtering in the second. This whole-house system reduces chlorine, sediment and bad taste.
“In my opinion, these are the best water filters out there in this price range,” writes five-star reviewer, John. “Just this week I have noticed an improvement in the water taste and am starting to notice a difference in the reduction of water spots on dishes after washing.”
Apec Water Systems Five-Stage Filtration System
Designed and built in the U.S., this reverse-osmosis water filtration system removes nearly all sediments and chemical contaminants. It performs better than many other reverse-osmosis water filters—even ones that cost more. It also comes with a faucet and a two-year warranty, so you can feel good about giving it a try.
“I was able to install this by myself and I have no plumbing know how whatsoever. It was as easy as something like this could be,” writes verified purchaser, FrostySloan.
3M AquaPure Filtration System
Large capacity, solid flow rate and easy installation are the chief benefits of this heavy-duty filtration system. With an extremely fine five-micron inner filter, almost no sediment can make it through this unit and into your water. The stainless steel fittings and thick plastic outer casing are built to last. The unit filters up to 20 gallons per minute, which is plenty for most homes.
With a 12-month filter life, you won’t have to worry about constantly changing the filter. However, when you do, the quick-change design makes it a painless task. The brand boasts the system’s ability to help increase the life of hot water heaters and appliances.
Hqua Ultraviolet Water Purifier Sterilizer
Compact design, high-quality materials, easy installation and extremely effective bacteria removal all make this ultraviolet water purifier sterilizer stand out from the rest. Made of stainless steel, it’s 37 inches long and 2.5 inches in diameter. Though fairly compact, it gives an impressive flow rate of up to 12 gallons per minute. It reliably removes all bacteria and viruses, and comes with an extra UV bulb.
Waterdrop Undersink Carbon Filtration System
If you’re looking for a quality carbon filter that removes unwanted chemicals and fits under your sink, Waterdrop’s water filter system is hard to beat. A little more than 1 foot long, it fits in most sink cabinets where it’s easy to connect to your water lines. It provides nearly 1 gallon per minute of clean, filtered water.
“This is just what I’ve been looking for. It goes right to my existing faucet. I didn’t want a separate faucet for filtered water. It was very easy to install. I’m out in the country with a well and this helps the water taste better,” writes five-star reviewer, Jennifer M.
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