Which system does what?
| System | What it does | Look for |
|---|---|---|
| Whole-home carbon filter | Reduces chlorine and chloramine taste and odor at every tap | NSF/ANSI 42 certification |
| Water softener | Removes calcium and magnesium (hardness) to stop scale | Sized to your hardness and household |
| Salt-free conditioner | Reduces scale buildup without salt; does not remove hardness minerals | Honest claims about what it changes |
| Reverse osmosis (kitchen sink) | Drinking-water filtration that reduces many dissolved contaminants | NSF/ANSI 58 certification |
NSF/ANSI 42 covers taste and odor (aesthetic) claims, NSF/ANSI 53 covers health-related reduction claims and NSF/ANSI 58 covers reverse osmosis systems. Ask for the certification behind every claim.
Signs your water needs treatment
- White crust on faucets, shower glass and dishes (hard water)
- A pool-like chlorine smell or taste
- Dry skin and hair after showering
- Short-lived water heaters, dishwashers and fixtures
- Buying bottled water because the tap tastes off
How it works with us
- TestWe start with a test of your water so the system matches what is actually in it.
- RecommendA written recommendation: what to install, why, and the certifications behind it.
- InstallThe system goes on your main line, usually near where water enters the house; most installs are done in a day.
- MaintainYou get the filter and salt schedule from the manufacturer so it keeps working.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a whole-home filter or just a drinking-water filter?
If the issue is taste, smell or scale everywhere, treat the whole home. If you mainly want better drinking water, a reverse osmosis system at the kitchen sink is the usual choice. Many homes use both.
Is a water softener the same as a filter?
No. A softener removes hardness minerals to prevent scale; a carbon filter reduces chlorine, chloramine and other taste and odor issues. They solve different problems and are often installed together.
How often do filters need changing?
It depends on the system and your water use; follow the manufacturer's schedule, which we leave with you.
Does water filtration need a permit?
Requirements vary by city. Where a plumbing permit is required, it is part of the job.
Can I finance a water system?
Yes, qualified homeowners can finance water filtration alone or with other work. See how financing works.