Does your water have a metallic smell or taste? If so, the iron content might be responsible. When in large concentrations, this can cause health problems in folks that already have medical conditions. Even if it doesn’t affect your health, you might hate the taste and smell of your water.
When shopping for the best iron filter for well water, make sure you consider its type. We suggest you opt for a 3-step type, as by using this, you remove not just iron but other minerals like heavy metals and other contaminants like pesticides, VOCs, bacteria, and more. Also don’t forget about the lifespan of a filter. Most manufacturer provide filters with the dates of expiry, but it is recommended to look through the packaging and reviews from other users beforehand. After reviewing 38 different models, we came up with a list of top 9 picks, and the iSpring WGB21BM deserved our Editor’s Choice nomination.
Extra features: water flow up to 15 GPM, 1” NPT inlet/outlet handle up to 0.25 gal/sec, pressure 25-80 psi, operating temperatures 40-100°F, ph range 6-11, NSF/ANSI standards 42.53 for drinking water treatment units, whole-house filter
The first option on this list is not the most popular iron filter that you might come across. However, do not let the obscurity drive you away. This is one of the best options that you can find right now. It comes with features that make it better than most of the other iron filters on the marker. The model comes with impressive flexibility. The housing and the cartridge on this model are detachable and can be swapped. Therefore, you discover that you can use the filter in different housing.
Another nice feature here is the impressive capacity. Weighing 25 pounds of weight, this unit can handle up to 50000 gallons of water. Therefore, if you are a family of about four, you will be able to use this filter for up to a year. This might even be longer if the water is not heavily contaminated.
Depending on the condition of the water, it is easy to adjust this filter to meet your needs. This unit is designed to meet most of the water issues that you encounter. The cartridge contains a pair of filters that last of a long time. Therefore, you don’t have to spend so long on maintenance of the system.
The stages for filtration are impressive in their roles. By using this filter, you can first remove the sediment and similar contaminants in the water. Then it helps you to remove even smaller contaminants like VOCs and all that.
What we liked: This model is an excellent iron filter that offers plenty of flexibility, a high capacity and long lifespan, as well as versatility to work in different conditions.
What could be better: Well, this unit does not come with a softener. Additionally, it is more expensive than several of the others on this list.
Extra features: water flow up to 15 GPM, pressure 45-80 psi, operating temperatures 40-100°F
If you are looking for a model that offers you up to 3-stage filtration, then you cannot go wrong with this model. It is an excellent iron filter that offers an excellent alternative to more expensive models. Due to the design, it will help you to get rid of contaminants in the water.
From our testing, we observed that this model uses a trio of filters. These therefore remove plenty of the contaminants from your water. This provides a more thorough filtration and cleaning process.
The first stage comes as a sediment filter. The filter will remove several large contaminants in the water. This includes dust, sand and similar debris.
The next filtration stage consists of the KDF filter. This filter will work to capture any large or heavy metals in the water, including iron. Apart from that, it works at removing contaminants like VOCs from the water.
Lastly, there is the carbon filter medium. This is made of activated carbon and will help to remove any smells and taste from the water.
Apart from the filtration system, another reason why this model is better than most of the options on the market is that it comes with a pressure gauge and release button. With these features, you will find the system easier to use. There is also a filter replacement indicator.
Construction-wise, this is a durable option that will last for long. It is constructed of PCE and ABS plastic. In terms of installation, there is no problem with installation.
What we liked: This is a model that offers incredible value for money. It is a cheaper alternative that offers one of the most comprehensive filtration performances.
What could be better: Installation is great if you have DIY experience. If not, you will find the instructions to be poorly written and the unit quite difficult to install.
Extra features: water flow up to 10 GPM, designed and assembled in California
Are you looking for a budget option? If so, then look no further than the iFilters FBA-MWH-D-WELL model. This is an excellent option that gives good performance despite the relatively lower price. It is a spin-down filter with enough ability to remove the impurities from well water and other water sources. Check it out and you certainly would not be disappointed.
The unit is constructed well and is durable. The parts are made of high-grade plastic which will last for a long time. Many of user have talked about using this model for several years without any serious issues coming up. Therefore if you want a cheap model that will last for a long time, then choose this model.
Apart from the durable design, what matters is the actual performance. Well, there is so much to like here. Due to the technology used, the model helps to remove different contaminants in the water, and not just iron. It will ensure that your water is clean and pure for as long as the filter is installed and maintained.
Another thing that is exciting about this filter is that it has clear housing. Thus, there is no keeping whatever is happening in the filter a secret. It is clear enough to tell you when the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. Additionally, this is a reliable filter that will not allow scale to build up. Therefore, you would be saving your plumbing and appliances by trusting this filter.
The high quality filter will work for a long time and will not need to be changed often. Installation is easier since the model comes with all of the hardware that are required for installation. The parts are high quality and will work for long.
What we liked: This is a cheap but very effective iron filter. It is durable and comes with all the necessary hardware for installation. It is versatile and compatible for commercial and domestic use.
What could be better: Several users have complained of quality control problems. Some of the stuff in the package do not arrive in the whole package.
Extra features: digital control valve, ships preloaded, water pressure 30-120 psi, 5 gpm, 1 cu ft of the carbon blend media
If you are looking for an air injection iron filter, then this black iron filter might just be the best option for you. It comes with a sleek design and an air injection system that is pretty consistent at helping you keep the contaminants like iron out of your water. It is a quality option that helps to remove iron 12 ppm. With this ability, you can rest assured that the iron content of your well water will be properly managed.
Aside from removing iron, the Durawater Air Injection Iron Eater Filter is also made to remove other impurities. For instance, it will remove Sulphur and manganese from the water without plenty of hassle.
Although some of the iron filters that we have discussed so far come with some difficulty in assembly, that isn’t the case with this model. As long as you have some DIY skills, you certainly can set this filter up by yourself.
This system is quite effective at turning the ferrous iron in your water into ferric. Once this is done, you will realize that the iron is easier to remove from your water. It is a very effective method. However, it also comes with some downsides. The main downside of this is that the iron might not completely oxidize. Therefore, the iron might start to build-up, and clog up your filter and some other appliances that use the water.
Overall, this is an excellent iron filter. Unlike the regular options, this is a single tank system. The advantage of this is that you spend less time on maintaining and caring for the unit.
What we liked: This unit is one of the most efficient options on the market. It is the easiest to install, and if you run into issues, their customer support is one of the in the industry.
What could be better: There is almost nothing to complain about here; The only downside here is that it is more expensive than others in its category.
Extra features: water flow up to 16 GPM, digital control valve, easy DIY installation
If the amount of iron in your water is having you feeling down and unable to add a water softener, then this product is just right for you. With the Iron Pro 2 Combination, you can have soft water even in the presence of plenty iron in the water. The secret here is that this softener is made to specifically deal with iron and other heavy minerals in the water.
In the past, you had to install independent pre-filters for sediments and mineral content in your water. However, with this type of product, who don’t have to worry about stuff like that. This option comes with a 64,000 grain design. This design, coupled with the other features results in a model that will eliminate iron and sediments in the water. Although it is relatively cheap, it offers some of the best features that you will find on more expensive models.
At first glance, it is clear that this is no ordinary model. It is made of high quality materials. Among these are the resin tank, brine tank, and high quality control head. When combined, you have a model that will last for a long time. One of the best features here us the LCD display. This shows you all the important parameters needed to keep your water clean.
It is very easy to use and program. You can create programs, and because of the internal power, it retains the settings even in the case of a power loss.
Another advantage of this model is that the resin tank is refilled. Thus, there is no need to worry about emptying out large bags. Also, the salt tank comes with a large capacity. You will not have to always refill it.
This large iron filter will serve a large family without plenty of hassle. It can handle up to 8 ppm of iron. Whether for your town water supply or for well water, you can rest assured that this model will help your water to be iron free and clean.
Overall, this offers a wonderful capacity to remove iron.
What we liked: This unit is excellent for places with serious iron contamination. It comes with a high quality digital head and can control a large amount of iron.
What could be better: This is a large filter. We could have done with an iron filter with a smaller footprint.
Extra features: water flow up to 15 GPM, pressure 20-90 psi, operating temperatures 40-100°F, max total dissolved solids (TDS) 2000 ppm
This model is the best whole house water filter if you are dependent on well water. If you observe fairly heavy iron contamination in your well water, then this is the right filter to buy. Apart from taking care of the iron content, it also works hard to remove other contaminants like Manganese and Sulfur from the water. Go for it if these are your needs. With this model, you will have clean water delivered to all parts of the home.
It is a 3-stage filter, which offers you more protection than most iron filters on the market. The model is a 3-stage water filter for the entire house. It comes with certain unique features that make it stand out. For example, it comes with a powerful sediment filter and radial flow iron.
The first filter is the sediment filter. However, this is not just any type of sediment filter. Instead, it is a sediment filter that comes with four layers. The filter’s layers ensure that the smallest strain of large contaminants like dust and corrosion as little as 1 micron are removed from the water.
The next stage has the radial flow iron reduction filter. The cool thing about this filter is the ability to remove even other types of minerals without much hassle. Lastly, there is an activated carbon filter. With this filter working for you, your water will be free from odors and taste.
The filter can handle up to 100,000 gallons of water in one year.
What we liked: This is a very effective filter that removes plenty of contaminants of varying sizes. It has high water pressure housings to that will withstand the flow rate.
What could be better: The filter is not great for acidic water.
Extra features: SCM technology, UV purifier, water flow up to 7 GPM, warranty covers DIY installation, 500000 gal or 5 years capacity
There is so much to love in this model. It is one of the most effective options at getting rid of contaminants in the water. It works to thoroughly eliminate chlorine, VOCs, herbicides, bacteria, and so on. One unique thing about it is that it comes with a water softener. However, unlike other softeners that need to be replenished, this is a salt-free option. Therefore, maintenance is reduced.
It is an ultra-high capacity option that will take care of the entire filtration system of your home. The salt-free softener is really impressive and one of the best things about it.
It offers, not three, but a 5-stage filtration system. The first stage has the sediment pre-filter. This filter is designed to eliminate large particles like dust, rust, and similar contaminants. The second process of purification has the Descaler or softener. This will help to make any hard water better and will stop the buildup of scale on the filter.
The activated carbon and KDF form the third process of cleaning the water. These will assist to remove chemicals and minerals in the water.
After this has been done, there is the 0.35 micron post-filter that, as the name implies, will trap and contaminants that are smaller than 0.35 microns. Lastly, the UV purifier works to disinfect the water and kill bacteria, algae and other microorganisms. When combined, this 5-stage filtration system helps to thoroughly clean your water. What is more, all of these work for the entire house.
What we liked: If clean water is what you want, then this offers the best water filtration. It works for the whole house as well. It offers complete protection.
What could be better: Although powerful, the filters need to be replaced every three months. The size also means that it will be difficult for one person to set it up.
Extra features: meets FDA requirements, water flow up to 10 GPM, max water pressure 125 psi, ph 5-11, operating temperature 40-100°F, clear housing
The clear housing of the MaxWater means that you do not need a filter indicator. You can see all that is going on in the system. Aside from being the best clear model on our roundup, it comes with other very useful features. For one, it is a three stage filtration system.
The first stage comes as a sediment filter. The filter will remove several large contaminants in the water. This includes dust, sand and similar debris.
The next filtration stage consists of the KDF filter. This filter will work to capture any large or heavy metals in the water, including iron. Apart from that, it works at removing contaminants like VOCs from the water.
Lastly, there is the carbon filter medium. This is made of activated carbon and will help to remove any smells and taste from the water.
Depending on the condition of the water, it is easy to adjust this filter to meet your needs. This unit is designed to meet most of the water issues that you encounter. The cartridge contains a pair of filters that last of a long time. Therefore, you don’t have to spend so long on maintenance of the system.
Installation is quite easy as well on this unit. It comes with instructions that are clear to follow. It also comes with great support. Weighing just 17 pounds, it is one of the lightest options on this roundup.
What we liked: This clear iron filter comes with the ability to eliminate plenty of contaminants including iron. The filters can last for up to 12 months as well depending on the level of pollution and use.
What could be better: It comes with just 1 year warranty.
Extra features: NSF certified, water flow up to 15 GPM, water pressure 45-60 psi, ph 5-11, operating temperature 40-110°F
The Apex Water Filters MR-3030 comes with the best NSF certification out of all the options that we have reviewed so far. It is a high quality model that offers excellent performance and filtration that will ensure that your water is clean and safe to use.
First of all, this is a three-stage filtration system. The benefit of a three-stage filtration system is that it will work to eliminate a large percentage of the contaminants. The first stage has the sediment filter. This filter is the first line of defense for you. It will help to keep out the relatively large contaminants out of the rest of the water.
The other filters are geared towards removing any contaminants that manage to escape the sediment filter. Therefore, it works to trap smaller contaminants like the metals and minerals, VOCs, and solvents. Part of the filter is the KDF filter.
The combination of these three filters result in a high-quality, highly effective filter media to keep your water clean.
Another excellent feature of this model is the installation. A look at the package reveals that all the filters and hardware that are required for set up are included. When required, the filter cartridges are rather easy to replace.
What we liked: This is one of the more comprehensive filters on the market. It removes all the main contaminants, is easy to set up and manage.
What could be better: The cartridge capacity certainly could be better. It requires replacement after 20,000 gallons, which is rather disappointing.
In the section above, we reviewed nine of the best iron filter for well water on the market right now. There are scores of these tools on the market right now; therefore, it can be somewhat stressful finding the right option. Well, the eight options that we have reviewed assist to narrow down your choices. Therefore, it will be easier for you to choose a model for you. In the buying guide section, we discuss how we chose the models above. We also discussed other important information that will help with choosing correctly. This will greatly assist you as well in choosing an iron filter of your choice – even if it isn’t from any of the options that we have reviewed.
Before we delve into the filters themselves, we will take time to discuss everything iron and how it can affect you and the family.
Iron, as well as other minerals is found in well water. They are naturally occurring. On their own, most of these naturally occurring minerals are not harmful to your health or body. In fact, in many cases, the most inconvenience is a result of the strong metallic taste that iron gives your water. Thus, if it isn’t that harmful, is there any need to add an iron filter to your water system?
Iron is important in the body, and it is something that you should ingest. It is important, and depending on certain factors like age, sex, and your health condition, you even benefit from a moderate amount of iron in your water and food. WHO states that some doses of iron might be fatal. However, if you take around 10-50 mg of iron everyday, then it has a good effect on the body.
The problem arises when you take more than you should. If you take large amounts of iron , say from between 200- 250 mg, then you will have health complications. It can affect your stomach lining, and even death.
Some people come with certain health challenges that might be affected by iron intake. For example, people that suffer from hemochromatosis are susceptible to liver, heart and pancreas problems because of the intake of iron.
Well water is a source of iron. According to reports, though, well water has a relatively low concentration of iron. It often has less than 10 mg for every liter. To be on the safe side, you can consult your health practitioner about the effect on your body. Ingest a lot of iron can have damaging effects on your skip. Some have suffered from serious skin issues because of the presence of iron in their bathing water.
Although the vast majority of people are fine with the iron levels in well water, everyone will enjoy having an iron filter in their water system. Even if you do not suffer from any health issues, you can drink your water without any of that metallic taste in it. Adding this filter is also good for other things like the durability of your clothes and the performance of some of the appliances that use the water.
Since well water is deep in the ground, you might wonder how it manages to get into this water. Is well water deep? Well, relatively, it is not. Although the depth varies from home to home, well water is often less than hundreds of feet deep. This is how the iron gets in. The iron is introduced to the water via corrosion or seepage. Seepage occurs through natural occurrences like rain.
As the water runs into the ground, it absorbs some of the minerals in the soil like iron. The concentration of iron in your well water is dependent on different factors. Some of the main sources of this depends on the geological location of the well and its depth.
Aside from these natural sources, iron also manages to enter your water via corroded pipes. This is one reason why some do not like using iron pipes for transporting their water.
As we have seen so far, most of the water in the ground has some minerals in it. Therefore, you might be looking for a way to get rid of that. Well, from our research, studies reveal that one very effective way of getting rid of these minerals is by filtration.
Yes, while it is near impossible to prevent minerals like iron from getting into the water, you can eliminate them when they come into your home for use. You can determine the amount of iron that you want the pipes to carry.
The first step, therefore, is to test and see the minerals in the water. After you have carried out all of these tests, you can then choose the correct filtration system that will end all the problems you might have. Some of the filters available on the market can help to eliminate up to 94% of the iron in the water.
You should note, though, that even the highest quality filters will not completely eliminate the iron in the water. However, it will keep the levels safe for you.
After installation of your chosen filtration system, you should test the water again. This will help you to know whether the filter works. Most of the options that we have recommended in this post come with very little maintenance requirements.
Iron in water, as we have seen, is quite good – especially when it is in the correct quantity. When in the right amount, it helps in transportation of oxygen and the production of red blood cells. However, as we have often said, this is only great when it is in a small quantity.
The iron filter is what helps to remove the unwanted iron from your water.
You might be curious about just how this filter helps to remove iron from your water. In this section, we will have an overview of the important parts of this tool.
Iron filter, as you have seen in our roundup above, come in different shapes, designs, and types. Despite the differences, though, it should be noted that these devices work in a similar fashion. Go through our list and you will see that they have a 3-filtration process. Let’s see these processes.
The first process in an iron filter is the pre-treatment. As the name implies, this is the stage where the filter starts to clean the water. The filter employs an oxidant that causes precipitation in the water. This means that the particles will start to be eliminated. Once the precipitation occurs, you will see that the particles and minerals are easier to separate from the eater. It is imperative that these particles are completely oxidized. If the oxidization is not thorough, then the contaminants will not be completely removed.
The second process has the water passed through the filter bed. The bed is made to capture any of the precipitated contaminants. This is where the iron is removed from the water.
The filter medium will determine if the filter will eliminate just iron or if it can remove even other types of contaminants.
After this stage, the third and last process, in most cases, is self-cleaning. Here, the filter cleans itself out to remove the build-up of debris and particles. If the filter doesn’t carry out this process, the filter will become dirty and clogged, which in turn will affect the effectiveness. If you don’t clean it out yourself, your filter will break down and completely stop working.
Most of the options that we have considered in our roundup come with this working operation.
As everything in this world also the iron filters for well water have their pluses and minuses, let’s have a closer look at them.
Pros:
There are several advantages to using these appliances in your water. In this section, we consider the pros of the system.
Well, this was always going to be the main benefit, right? An iron filter is designed with the aim of helping you to reduce the amount of iron in your water. As we have said earlier, some level of iron in water can be beneficial. However, in large amounts, it can cause harm to the body.
It is therefore great that this system will help you to regulate the amount of iron in the water. With this system in place, your water will taste and smell much better.
One of the processes involved in the operation of the iron filter is precipitation. Depending on the filter medium, you can have an iron filter that does not only help to remove iron, but also works to remove other impurities and sediments in the water.
Other forms of filtration might involve the addition of some type of chemical to eliminate other minerals. This can make your water taste and smell funny.
With iron filters, though, you can use them safely without any side-effects from chemicals. Some folks use water softeners in their system, but since this system doesn’t require that, you can say goodbye to any chemicals.
When there is iron in your water, it not only affects your health. Since water is used in so many things around the home, iron in water can cause different issues like staining. And if you have appliances that use the water, they might suffer discoloration at best, and complete breakdown at worst. Therefore, adding an iron filter will remove these minerals, reduce staining and damage to your appliances.
Nobody wants a system that needs constant supervision. Iron filters hold the advantage of being so easy to use and with little maintenance. You will find them super easy to use. Many of the options available on the market right now have a friendly interface and some even come with remote control. Thus m you will find it easy to monitor your water and adjust whatever parameters.
Another benefit of this design is that iron filters are self-cleaning. So you’d not have to worry a lot about cleaning it after use.
As with almost every other system, it comes with disadvantages. Thankfully, the cons are very minute.
This is the only issue that you might have with an iron filter. The filter might not clean away other minerals.
Thankfully, several of the options on the market are designed to help get rid of all types of impurities.
If your home has hard water, you certainly want something that will help you to get rid of that. One of the things that you can use is a softener. These work to reduce the build-up of calcium in your water. However, if you are determined to remove as much iron as possible, you cannot rely solely on a softener. While the softener will eliminate the ferrous iron, it will face problems with iron as time progresses. This is because this is liable to clog up the system.
Not everyone has this softener in their home, therefore, they might opt for a system that combines an iron filter and a softener. This works excellently. If you already have this softener in your system, then your work is pretty easy. All you need now is to buy any of the iron filters that we have discussed above. This comes with several advantages. For one, you will get a more thorough filtration. It will also make your softener work for longer since it doesn’t have to do all the work.
Whole house systems are increasingly popular. An example is the iSpring WGB21BM. This is avery good option because it ensures that all the sources of water in an around the home are filtered and clean. However, if you would be buying this type of filter, then you should have carried out enough testing that shows that you have a low iron content.
By using the whole house filtration system, you will have all the types of iron, both ferrous and non-ferrous eliminated from your water. It might be slightly more expensive than other options, but the result of clear, clean water is definitely worth it.
This system comes with a trio of separate filters, which each filter offering something unique. Most of these, though, don’t come with a softener, so that might be an independent purchase.
Another type of filtration that is used by homes around the country is the air injection. This system is quite effective at turning the ferrous iron in your water into ferric. Once this is done, you will realize that the iron is easier to remove from your water. It is a very effective method. However, it also comes with some downsides. The main downside of this is that the iron might not completely oxidize. Therefore, the iron might start to build-up, and clog up your filter and some other appliances that use the water. The Durawater Air Injection Iron Eater Filter is an example of this type of filter.
Are you confused about which of the options that we have discussed to use? Well, the best for you is dependent on the needs that you have. In our opinion, using a softener with any of the best iron filters for well water that we have reviewed so far will help you to remove most of the iron.
There are some things to think about before you choose an iron filter. In this section, we consider some of them.
Some have wondered whether an iron filter can be cleaned after use and reused. Well, this depends on the type that you buy. An iron filter, when properly used, can last for a long time, even more than one year. While you certainly want your filters to be clean, the fact is that you cannot remove the filter, clean it, and then reuse it.
Are these filters necessary? Well, if you have been following us since, you’d realize that these filters are very important. It doesn’t matter if you are using the public supply or your own well, the filters will help to eliminate the dangers that you might find in your water.
When choosing an iron filter, there are several important features that you have to consider. In this section, we will discuss some of the best features to look out for when making a buying choice.
The first thing that you have to consider is the type of filter that you are buying. A glance at the market shows that there are several types of this system available. In this section, we consider the most common types that you will find.
As the name suggests, these are installed upright. Many of them are fitted with water softeners, although some models do not have this feature. Another feature that is sometimes found in this type of iron filter is a digital interface. This can be used to control the system and provide information about important parameters. The options that come with softeners require that you keep up a steady supply of salt to help the process and remove impurities.
This type is quite common and many prefer them. However, there are some downsides. Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of this type of iron filter is that it adds salt into the water supply. Thus, if you have a medical issue that is affected by salt intake, you might be wary of this type. The Durawater Air Injection Iron Eater Filter is an example of this.
The other important type is the two-in-one option. This type is very handy and comes with cool features, Perhaps the best feature is that it comes with a softener and the iron filter. Therefore, you do not need to buy a softener for the water. It is very efficient at eliminating particles and contaminants.
This is a hugely popular option. Just as the name implies, it comes with a trio of filter cartridges. It is very effective at removing multiple types of contaminants at a go. By using this, you remove, not just iron, but other minerals like heavy metals, and other contaminants like pesticides, VOCs, bacteria, and more. The Express Water WH300SCKS is a 3-stage iron filter.
Another important factor to consider, and this is also related to the type of filter, is the medium of the filter. Water softeners, for instance, use salt as the filter medium. That is why they require a steady supply of salt to remove contaminants.
The softeners work pretty well at removing water hardness. However, the downside of this medium is that it doesn’t do more to remove other impurities in the water.
The 3-stage filter often uses another filter medium, depending on the stage. The medium found in this type of iron filter include KDF, sediment, and Carbon filter.
The sediment filter, as implied, removes bigger particles like sand in the water. After this is done, the KDF filter medium removes an even larger percentage of smaller particles.
The carbon filter medium targets any chemicals and contaminants that might affect the taste and smell of the water.
Therefore, when choosing your iron filter, you should consider the medium that it will be using.
When choosing an iron filter, the maintenance is one of the most important things that you have to consider. If you buy something, you certainly don’t want to spend most of the time cleaning it or checking on it. That is why it is important to choose something that will last you for long.
With regards to iron filters, the thing is that the lifespan of the filter depends on quite a number of factors apart from your maintenance. One of the most important factors affecting the lifespan of the filter is the contamination level of the water and the amount of water that passes through the filter daily.
If your family is comprised of four people, and your water is heavily contaminated with particles, you will certainly use up more water than a smaller family. More water will pass through the filter and this will affect how long you can use the filter.
Most of the manufacturers in this industry make iron filters and provide these with their dates of expiry or just give a general lifespan that is expected from a filter before you have to change it. Therefore, it is recommended that you look through the packaging and reviews from other users before you commit to buying an iron filter.
If the system involves the use of a softener, then what you will need most of the time is to simply replenish the salt supply. If you model doesn’t have that provision, it would likely come with cartridges that need replacement after some time. You have to factor in the cost of these as well. You also need to know how easy it would be to replace them.
The lifespan of the cartridge will depend on the filter and the model.
Maintenance of the iron filter might be a tad more expensive than you might expect, but that is a small price to pay when you consider that this will keep you healthy and your devices in good working condition.
As with every other system or appliance on the market, iron filters come at different costs. This cost spreads across the initial amount paid to buy the filter to the cost of maintaining it. If you do not know what you are buying, it is easy to buy one that is more than you can afford in the long run.
Before you make the purchase, do a cost analysis and consider all the things that you will spend on maintaining the filter. Aside from that, you should consider how much it can save you.
Think about the hard water for example. If left unchecked, this can wreak havoc on your appliances that use the water. These might include washing machines, dishwashers, heaters, and so on. Plenty of iron in the water can stain your clothes and make them smell.
While the iron filter system might be initially expensive, extending the lifespan of your machines, clothes and other things that use water in the home is worth the price.
In our roundup above, we consider some cheap options that still offer some excellent performance all round. The iFilters FBA-MWH-D-WELL is our budget option.
Another important factor to consider when buying your iron filter is the size of the system. Depending on whether you buy the right size or not, this can make or mar your experience with the filter.
The size of the filter is dependent on the grains that the filter has. If the model comes with a grain-based system, you must consider the grains per gallon of the unit.
Calculating the size that you need based on your water consumption might be a hassle, but there are online calculators that can help you to calculate accurately. In most cases, all you need to know to determine the size are the iron levels and the hardness levels of the water.
Many of the best options on the market, especially those that are multi-stage, come with manufacturer’s ratings.
The capacity is important, especially if you have a family. The models that we have discussed above come with the ability to successfully cater for a household of four. However, if your family is bigger than that, you should consider getting a model with a larger capacity.
The physical size of the unit is also important. If it is too big, it might not find a space for installation. And even if there is space, the size can make it quite difficult to install on your own. An example of a large model is the Aquasana EQ-WELL-UV-PRO-AST.
Another vital feature that must be considered is how easy the filter is to set up. Except you have some pretty good DIY skills, it might not do you any harm to seek the services of a professional to set up the system.
However, we recommend that you choose an option that you can easily set up. To that end, you should consider the instruction manual and the clarity of these instructions. Some of the best models also come with all the necessary hardware for installation in them. If this is the case, installing the filter should be really easy.
Coupled with the ease of installation is the accessibility of replacements. Iron filter systems often come with durable filters. However, over time, these might degrade and clog up. You should choose a model that comes with parts that are easy to find on the market. That way you can quickly repair or replace any parts without paying through the nose.
You certainly do not want to spend money on an iron filter only for it to break down after the first few weeks of use. That is why you should look for models that offer excellent durability. Many pf the options that we reviewed in our roundup come with high quality parts that will last for a long period.
The best options on the market, like the Iron Pro 2 Combination comes with a durable build.
You should also consider where you plan on installing the unit. If you set it up in an outdoor area, it will likely get exposed to the elements which can affect the housing material and quality. Therefore, if you would be installing outdoors, look for filters that are built to last even in bad weather.
However, if you would be setting it up indoors, a solid plastic housing is enough. The Express Water WH300SCKS is a good example of this type of filter.
This involves choosing a model that will suit the capacity that you will use. If you purchase a filter with a smaller capacity than you need, then you will have to frequently change the filter. Some of the best models on the market have filters that can last for years. However, the majority of the options on the market will last for months or around a year. The Durawater Air Injection Iron Eater Filter, and Iron Pro 2 Combination are incredible options that can last for up to five years before it requires any replacements. Others, like the Aquasana EQ-WELL-UV-PRO-AST last for around 6 to 12 months depending on the use.
Whenever the filter needs replacement, you should have the replacements handy. This involves buying a model with easily accessible parts.
Before you choose an iron filter, it is important to choose according to the condition of your water. If the water is from the municipality, then you might be better of looking for a whole house water filter like the iSpring WGB21BM. This type of filter will work well against contaminants found in this type of water. The important thing is that it comes with a sediment and activated carbon filter.
If the water is from your well, then you should consider any of the options we have discussed above. One of the best filters that it might have is a UV filter. The Aquasana EQ-WELL-UV-PRO-AST offers this type of protection.
It is also a good idea to consider going for filters with a high capacity. That way, you would not have to constantly replace the filter.
Well, the way you use the iron filter varies depending on the model. Therefore, there are no hard and fast rules.
Nevertheless, it is important to change the filters whenever indicated by the filter. This will make it work effectively and last longer.
The iSpring WGB21BM is our top choice. This model is an excellent iron filter that offers plenty of flexibility, a high capacity and long lifespan, as well as versatility to work in different conditions. The value pick is Express Water WH300SCKS. This is a model that offers incredible value for money. It is a cheaper alternative that offers one of the most comprehensive filtration performances. If you are on a budget, the iFilters FBA-MWH-D-WELL is right for you. It is durable and comes with all the necessary hardware for installation. It is versatile and compatible for commercial and domestic use.
We hope this best iron filter for well water review will help you to choose the right model.
