Where is my whole house filter?

Author: Foster Boehm  |  Last update: Friday, November 14, 2025

Whole-house water filters are installed near your main water shutoff valve. This is generally located somewhere on the perimeter of your home, often in the basement or a utility closet.

Where is my whole house water filter located?

Usually, the best place for a whole house water filter is near your main water shut-off valve, which is usually located in a basement or on the perimeter of the house in a utility closet or other such area if you don't have a basement.

How often should whole house water filters be changed?

What is the replacement schedule for a whole house water system? The pre-sediment filter should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. If your water filtration system has a sub-micron-post filter, it should be replaced every 9 to 12 months. If your system has a salt-free water softener it should be replaced every six years.

What is the downside of a whole house water filter?

Whole-house systems are usually significantly more costly than their POU counterparts. It may require professional installation. You may need a licensed plumbing professional near you to fit this system, which adds additional cost. It may reduce water pressure.

How much does it cost to replace whole house water filter?

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 – $600 for a whole-house water filtration system installation, plus the cost of the system itself which can range from $3,000 to above $5,000 depending on the brand and specifications.

4 Years Later - Whole House Water Filters Update

What happens if you don t change your whole house water filter?

It's simple, really. If you don't replace your water filter, contaminants will clog the filter, leaving no room to capture any other chemicals or particles, which will then flow out along with the water.

Can you drink tap water with whole house filter?

Yes, a whole house water filtration system tackles incoming contaminants, resulting in healthier water from every faucet in your home.

How long does it take to flush a whole house water filter?

Instructions for Flushing a Filter That Has Not Been Used for seven days or Less. Whether you have a whole-house or commercial water filter or an under-sink filtration system , you need to flush the system for at least five minutes.

Why can't I find my air filter?

If you can't find an air filter near your HVAC unit, then you may have to look in your return vent. Because HVAC units are often set up in a more difficult to access area, the filters are sometimes placed here for better accessibility.

Is there a filter on my outside AC unit?

Tip: If you're looking to replace your outside AC unit filter, the filter location varies depending on the unit. However, it can usually be found along the air conditioner return duct.

How many filters does a home HVAC system have?

Essentially, most homes will have at least two air filters, because most homes have a return duct to go along with their air handler. Determining how many filters your home needs is a big step in helping improve your home's indoor air quality and keep you breathing easy.

How long does the average whole house water filter last?

On average, whole house water filters will last for the following lengths of time: Pre-Filter: Three- to Six Months. Carbon Filter: 12 Months. Post-Filter: Up to One Year.

Where do I find my water filter?

Look for the filter off to one side of the top fridge compartment, or behind the trim plate between the floor and the bottom of the fridge door—a favorite hiding place for Whirlpool side-by-sides. If you have a built-in, it might also be behind the service panel at the top of the appliance.

What are the disadvantages of whole house water filter?

The Cons of a Water Filtration System:
  • Speaking of cost, initial installation is more expensive than other filtration methods. ...
  • You can't pick and choose what gets filtered. ...
  • Fluoride and your teeth: If you choose a whole house water filtration system that removes ALL chemicals, you will also be removing fluoride.

Is whole home water filter worth it?

While the upfront cost of a whole-house water filtration system can be substantial, the long-term savings on bottled water, reduced soap usage, and extended lifespan of appliances and plumbing systems can make it a worthwhile investment.

Can you reuse a whole house water filter?

The spin down whole home water filter sediment cartridge can be used, cleaned, and reused again, lowering your cost on replacement filters. The large 1” connections and long, high-efficiency housings are designed for almost no reduction in your home's water pressure.

Do whole house water filters need maintenance?

Whole home cartridge filters can go up to three or six months before needing to be changed, while under sink systems can use the same filter for up to six months. The time until you need to change the filter is dependent on the quality of your water, as well as how much water you're using.

What are the side effects of filtered water?

Although filters can be helpful in removing harmful chemicals from our water, they sometimes strip away beneficial minerals too. These include magnesium and calcium, as well as iron and manganese, which are eliminated to make water softer and prevent discolouration, respectively.

Does a whole house water filter add value to your home?

Increase Your Home's Value: Installing a whole house filter can increase your home's value, as they are considered appliances that make a home more efficient and eco-conscious. Whole house filters are investments that pay off now and in the future when it's time to sell your home.

Where are whole house water filters installed?

We'll install your water filter on your main water line to ensure that all of the water in your home is running through the filter before it gets to where you are using it in your house. If you have a basement, your main water line is often there, and that's where we'll install your whole house water filter.

Do you need a plumber to install a whole house water filter?

Most areas do not require a permit to install a whole house water filter system but, if in doubt (or if you think the job might be too complex for your skills), hire a professional plumber.

What is the best whole house water filter?

Springwell Whole House Water Filter System

The filter is particularly effective at removing chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and other harmful chemicals, making it a top choice for households concerned about water quality.

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