When it comes to improving your home’s water quality, there are two standard options; whole-house water filtration systems and under-sink systems. Both are designed to remove impurities but work in different ways and serve various purposes. Choosing the right one depends on your household’s needs and water usage. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between these systems, along with the pros and cons of each.
Whole Home Water Filtration Systems
A whole home water filtration system filters water at the main water line, providing clean water to every home’s faucet, showerhead, and appliance.
How It Works:
This system is installed where water enters your home so that it is filtered before it reaches your sinks, showers, or appliances. Depending on the type of filter you choose, these systems can remove a range of impurities, such as sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants.
Pros:
- Filters All Water: Every water source in your home delivers filtered water, improving water quality throughout.
- Protects Appliances: Helps prevent scale build-up and mineral deposits, extending the life of appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.
- Healthier Skin and Hair: Reduces chlorine and other harsh chemicals, which can lead to softer skin and hair.
- Customizable: These systems can be tailored to address specific concerns, such as hard water or chemical contaminants.
Cons:
- Higher Upfront Cost: Whole house systems are more expensive to purchase and install, and professional installation is often required.
- Maintenance: Filters will eventually need to be replaced, which adds to the ongoing cost. The time frame of replacement may vary depending on your specific system.
- May Not Be Necessary for All Water Needs: If you’re mainly concerned with drinking water, filtering all the water in your home might be excessive.
- Space Requirement: These systems take up more space and are usually installed in a utility room or basement.
Under Sink Water Filtration Systems
Under-sink water filtration systems are designed to filter water from a single faucet, typically in the kitchen.
How It Works:
An under-sink system is installed directly beneath the sink, filtering water before it comes out of the faucet. Some models have a dedicated faucet for filtered water, while others filter water from your main tap.
Pros:
- More Affordable: These systems are less expensive to buy and install than whole-house systems.
- Easier Installation: Many can only be installed with professional help.
- Compact: These systems take up minimal space and fit neatly under the sink.
- Focuses on Drinking Water: Ideal for households mainly concerned with improving the quality of drinking and cooking water.
Cons:
- Limited Filtration: Only filters water from the connected faucet, meaning other sources in the house still use unfiltered water.
- Regular Filter Changes: The filters will need to be replaced to maintain performance. This typically occurs on an annual basis.
- Doesn’t Improve Bathing Water: Unlike whole-house systems, it won’t affect the quality of water used for showering or bathing.
- Filters Only Cold Water: Most under-sink systems only filter cold water, which may limit some of its use in the kitchen.
Which One Is Right for You?
Your choice depends on your household’s needs.
- Whole house systems are ideal if you want filtered water throughout your home, improving water quality for showering, laundry, and appliance use.
- Under-sink systems are best if your primary concern is ensuring clean drinking water at a lower cost. They’re also a good choice for smaller homes or renters.
If you’re considering installing a water filtration system, our preferred provider, HALO, offers high-quality, customizable, whole-house solutions that target a variety of impurities, including sediment, chlorine, and hard water.
At Beyer Plumbing, we understand that every home has unique water filtration needs. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive coverage of a whole house system or the targeted efficiency of an under-sink system, our team can help guide you through the decision-making process. We’ll assess your household’s water usage, quality concerns, and space requirements to recommend the ideal solution for your family.
Contact Beyer Plumbing today to learn more about our water filtration systems and find the perfect fit for your home’s water needs.
