Shopping for a whole house water filter to remove chlorine from your water?
You’re at the right place.
Chlorine is commonly used in water treatment plants as a disinfectant. However, an apparent problem it poses is the strong, unpleasant smell and the bitter, metallic taste that it leaves in the water.
Although municipal tap water is treated with chlorine for safety purposes, what can you do when chlorine itself does not smell or taste great?
Well, the answer is pretty simple.
You need to install a whole-house chlorine water filtration unit.
This will bring cleaner water to every tap in your house. It will make sure you prioritize your family’s health by eradicating chlorine and other contaminants.
What Kind of Water Filter Removes Chlorine?
Although the market is crowded with all kinds of water filtration systems, chlorine can be successfully removed through 3 basic filters: reverse osmosis, ultraviolet light, and activated carbon filters.
Amongst the three, reverse osmosis filters have the maximum efficiency of up to 99% to completely filter water from chlorine.
The high pressure filters out chlorine, metals, and other contaminants by forcing water across a semipermeable membrane.
Backwashing carbon filters utilize activated carbon that converts chlorine into chloride and adsorbs it readily.
This activated carbon filter traps chlorine to purify water from all kinds of intolerable smells and tastes.
Meanwhile, ultraviolet filters are more beneficial in penetrating microbes and disrupting their DNA, thus improving the water quality.
What's In This Buying Guide
Table of Contents
This detailed buying guide reviews some of the best whole-house water filters for chlorine, thoroughly discussing their features, pros, cons, and limitations.
It also focuses on the functioning, installation and maintenance of these water filters and answers some common FAQs towards the end.
Best Whole House Chlorine Water Filters
Disclaimer: All links below go to Amazon.com
- 1. Editor’s Pick: iSpringWGB21B
- 2. Best for Large Homes: Aquasana EQ-1000-AST-UV-AMZN
- 3. Best Budget Pick: Reverse Osmosis Revolution
iSpring WGB21B (Editor’s Pick)
Best Suited for
Small FamiliesFiltration Technology
Polypropylene sediment filter + CTO Carbon block filterPurification
2 Stage purification of chlorine up to 90%Capacity
50,000 gallonsDimensions
17 x 18 x 9 inches 15 Pounds
Aquasana EQ-1000-AST-UV-AMZN (Best for Large Homes)
Best Suited for
Large HouseholdsFiltration Technology
Activated carbon filter + Kinetic degradation fluxion with copper zincPurification
2 Stage purification of chlorine up to 97%Capacity
1000000 gallonsDimensions
9 x 46 x 69 inches 10.18 pounds
Reverse Osmosis Revolution (Best Budget Pick)
Best Suited for
Budget RestrictionsFiltration Technology
5-micron sediment filter + Activated carbon filter + Premium CTO carbon block filterPurification
3 stage purification of chlorineCapacity
–Dimensions
16.4 x 16 x 8.4 inches 16.8 Pounds
The iSpring WGB21B is a good pick for middle-sized families. It easily fits on the main supply line and comes with a relatively easy guide on installation. It is fitted with a CTO filter and gets rid of chlorine and sediments.
The carbon block filter not only removes 97% chlorine from the water but also enhances the lifespan of the filters. The WGB21B comes with a 1-year warranty and is NSF certified.
PROS
- 2-stage effective filtration with 90% chlorine removal
- Good water pressure with 1” ports for flow rate
- 50000-gallon capacity is suitable for large families
- Premium-quality CTO filter for purification of each drop
- User-friendly and NSF certified
- Easy installation and filter replacement
- Retains healthy minerals in the water
CONS
- May leak without Teflon tape
- Not suitable for very large families
Our Review
Specially designed with a CTO (chlorine, taste, odor) filter, the iSpring WGB21B is one of the best whole-house water filters for chlorine in the market, available at an economical price.
It purifies water from all sorts of contaminants using a 2-step process.
The initial stage involves a polypropylene sediment filter that traps debris, dust, sand, and silt particles.
In the second stage, a CTO filter featuring coconut shell carbon and highly compact fabrication technology removes VOCs, chlorine, foul odors, chemicals and water cloudiness.
This highly processed system ensures that clean water reaches everywhere in your home.
The iSpring WGB21B comes pre-assembled for a DIY installation process to save up on additional costs. The pressure release valve is a thoughtful addition and makes it easy to change the filters.
The integrated auto-flushing module also saves time and effort to clean and maintain the filter.
With a 50000-gallon capacity and 10″ x 4.5″ size, the WGB21B can meet the needs of a family of four. The 1” port size is perfect for maintaining a steady pressure and high flow rate.
The construction is quite sturdy, but you might want to use a hefty amount of Teflon tape to prevent any leakage in case of high pressures.
Lastly, this iSpring unit is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Issues & Limitations
The iSpring WGB21B cannot filter rapid amounts of water for families larger than 4 members. It won’t be able to meet excessive consumption of water.
Many buyers have also reported leakage in the pipes, which requires Teflon tape to seal the cracks and leaks.
BOTTOM LINE
The iSpring WGB21B is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fully operative, practical and economical solution to chlorinated water.
It not only improves the quality of water but works efficiently without any pressure drop.
If you’re looking for water filters that can fit the needs of large homes, the Aquasana EQ-1000 is a good option.
It has a generous capacity of 1000000 gallons and a top-notch, efficient filtration system.
Although it is a little expensive, it’s cost-effective in the long run and guaranteed to work for up to 10 years.
You can even pair it with a conditioner, UV purifier, and salt-free technology to yield optimal filtration results.
PROS
- 1,000,000-gallon capacity for large families
- High-performance filtration system
- Purifies water by removing 97% of chlorine and other contaminants
- Guaranteed to last for up to 10 years
- Up-flow dual tank design prevents clogging
- Filters designed for easy and quick replacement
- Top construction quality to prevent leaks
- Extremely high flow rate of 7 gallons per minute
- Keeps water nutritious by leaving in healthy minerals
CONS
- Installation is difficult and might require professional assistance
- Expensive
Our Review
The Aquasana Whole-House Filter system is a highly effective system proven to eliminate 97% of chlorine from water.
It uses 2 filters. The first is the kinetic degradation fluxion (KDF) filter engineered with copper-zinc to ward off chlorine, heavy metals and inhibit microbes.
The second filter is activated carbon that fights off chemical compounds and pollutants in water. This dual process ensures great-tasting water.
Designed for larger households, the generous 1,000,000 gallons water capacity is definitely a huge attraction. The EQ-1000 has a 7-GPM flow rate to ensure purified water in all faucets and taps.
The Aquasana whole-house filter is considered a low-maintenance unit because of the up-flow, dual tank design that prevents clogging and does not require any back flushing. The pre- and post-filters are also easy to access and replace when needed.
The construction material is also commendable and eliminates the possibility of recurring leaks and cracks.
The EQ-1000 comes with a pro-grade install kit to assist in the installation process. This includes brass fittings, shut-off valves, and bend supports.
Issues & Limitations
The Aquasana EQ-1000 does not act as a water softener and does not function like salt systems to make water slippery. It will only filter water to improve its taste and quality.
Installation can be quite a hassle and can drive up the total cost you incur if you hire a professional plumber.
BOTTOM LINE
The double filtration stages of the Aquasana EQ-1000 ensure excellent purification while also maintaining a good flow rate.
Although it is pretty expensive, there’s no better choice if you need a chlorine filter for big families.
The Reverse Osmosis Revolution has a solid framework and guarantees immediate positive results with its triple stage water filtration. It is easy to install, thanks to the clearly mentioned steps.
With a highly economical price tag, this chlorine water filter proves that price isn’t a determinant when it comes to good quality.
PROS
- 3-stage effective water filtration delivers good-quality water
- Durable and solid construction
- Simple installation process
- Includes two sets of extra filters
- Highly economical
CONS
- ¾” port can lead to a slight reduction in water pressure
- Not capacious for large households
Our Review
Despite its affordable price, the Reverse Osmosis Revolution is as efficient as many premium units.
The ultimate 3-stage filtration process works wonders to get rid of every last toxic particle polluting the water.
The first stage is a 5-micron sediment filter that blocks out large particles, such as sand, dust, scale particles, etc.
The second stage involves a premium granular activated carbon filter designed to remove chlorine, VOCs, argon, foul odors, offensive tastes and cloudiness.
Lastly, an additional CTO carbon block filter further removes any residual chemicals or chlorine particles.
This elaborate filtration process guarantees that the water reaching your homes is safe and healthy.
The installation and maintenance of the Reverse Osmosis Revolution is a one-man’s job, requiring very little effort.
Issues & Limitations
The filter might clog early and call for a replacement within 4 -6 months of regular use.
Also, most water filters have a 1” port size, but the Reverse Osmosis Revolution water filter features a ¾” port, so you might experience a slight pressure drop.
BOTTOM LINE
Whole House Chlorine Water Filters: Buying Guide
What Is a Whole House Chlorine Water Filter, and How Does It Work?
A whole-house chlorine water filter is a filtration system installed where the main supply of water enters your home.
Mostly preferred in city dwellings, such water filters treat chlorinated water to make sure you enjoy better quality. It purifies each drop of water before it reaches the taps, faucets, showers, etc.
The working of a basic chlorine water filter is pretty straightforward. Water treated with chlorine passes through a set of pre-filters that remove large contaminants like sediments, dust, silt etc.
The second stage is activated carbon filters specifically designed to target chlorine. Carbon filters have a highly porous surface to stick chlorine particles by adsorption.
Once water through this stage, it is free from major contaminants and unwanted smells.
The final stage of a water filter involves post-filters, usually made of copper, zinc or mineral. This is to remove any leftover particles and ensure purified water.
Why Buy a Whole House Chlorine Water Filter?
Recent studies have shown that drinking large quantities of chlorine poses health risks to your body.
Using chlorinated water damages the skin, often causing irritation, and also leaves the hair dull and dry.
This is where a whole-house chlorine water filter comes in! It makes sure to get rid of harmful contaminants and guarantees a better and cleaner taste of water.
A whole-house water filter is much more environmentally friendly than purchasing plastic bottles of filtered water.
It also saves you from the hassle of installing several smaller filters, such as under-the-counter or faucet filters, in different areas of the house.
The water used in showering, washing, and cooking can expose you to high chlorine levels, so it’s much better to purchase a whole-house filter rather than going for bottled water or other short-term filters.
What to Look for In a Whole House Chlorine Water Filter?
Buying water filters can get quite tricky if you’re not well-acquainted with their specs and functioning. Below, we’ve mentioned some things you might want to bear in mind.
Filter Technology
When selecting a water filter, you need to opt for a system that removes chlorine at the highest efficacy.
Reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters are the most common choices, but out of the two, reverse osmosis is an undeniable winner.
Different filters have a different micron size to filter even the tiniest particles from 1-0.35 microns.
At the same time, keep an eye out for the number of filtration stages involved because more stages help eliminate even the tiniest residual particles.
Capacity
Since the supply is for the entire house, we suggest investing in a large-sized water filter with the maximum capacity and sufficient flow rate.
Make sure to buy a chlorine water filter based on your family size and average water usage. The ideal, standard size is around 4.5″ x 20″, suited for an average household of approximately 2 to 4 people.
Filter Lifespan
To avoid recurring costs, it is better to invest in a water filter that promises longevity. The lifespan of the filter depends on the quality of sediments and the quantity of contaminants.
Typically, water filters last for around 6 months to 1 year, after which they need to be replaced.
A good pre-filter can serve well for 3-6 months, whereas post-filters live up to 1 year. Carbon filters have an average lifespan of 12 months, whereas reverse osmosis filters last for an impressive 2-4 years.
Ease of Use
Make the most of your money by investing in a chlorine water filter that gets rid of additional contaminants, too. Look out for the water filter’s efficiency to check if it filters large quantities in a short time.
Also, make sure the filters are easy to install and maintain in your homes. We say this because user-friendliness is often overlooked and tends to emerge as a pressing concern later on.
Flow Rate
The flow rate is the quantity of water that could potentially come out of your taps, heaters and appliances. This is determined by checking the demand for water and family size.
General households require a flow rate of 6-12 gallons per minute, but for whole-house water filters, the flow rate can be anywhere between 15 and 40 gallons per minute.
This flow rate will be sufficient to yield clean, purified water if your household consumes large quantities of water throughout the day.
Port Size
The port size of a chlorine water filter significantly affects the flow rate and water pressure. The optimal port size for entire house filters is 1”. This port size is preferable for ¾” piping as well.
The 1” port size carries enough water for quick purification without affecting the pressure. Larger houses might have to go for a 1½” port to sustain greater demands.
NSF Certified
Choosing a tested and verified filter system is crucial for its long-term functioning.
Always look for the NSF seal on filters to know they have been tested with various contaminants, especially chlorine. This will erase any doubts from your mind about a dubious water supply.
Installation of Whole House Chlorine Water Filters
It is better if you call a plumber for the installation process because things might get a bit complex. But if you’re skilled enough to tackle it on your own, here is a brief overview of what you have to do.
- 1. Start by turning off the main water supply and draining all the pipes, taps, showers to relieve pressure.
- 2. Choose an accessible point to insert the filter. The location should be approachable so that you can change the filters readily whenever required.
- 3. Once the location is marked, use a pipe cutter to cut accurately into the pipe.
- 4. Sand the ends of the cut pipe, and install compression nuts or plastic fittings as the manufacturer says. This is a good time to add shut-off valves or by-pass valves for maintenance and ease.
- 5. Install the filter setup with the ‘In’ and ‘Out’ ports placed correctly. Make sure to use Teflon tape for sealing fittings to prevent leaks.
- 6. Turn on the main water supply of the house and check for any leakage. Tighten the fittings and connections as required.
- 7. Every time you need to change the filter, turn off the inlet valve, replace the filter and tighten it with a wrench. You’re done!
Pros and Cons
Whole-house chlorine water filters have become a necessity, particularly in city residential areas. However, they come with their fair share of cons as well.
Pros
Convenience
Possibly, the greatest advantages of a whole-house chlorine water filter are its accessibility and practicality.
It is an all-in-one solution and eliminates the need for separate water filters. You just need to attach it to your main supply line, and you will get purified water from every outlet in your house.
It saves time, energy and costs of replacing and maintaining multiple filters throughout the house. With a whole-house system, you’ll have clean water for your pets, laundry, bathrooms, kitchen – everywhere!
Clean Water
If you just can’t stand the smell and taste of chlorinated water, water filters will turn out to be your favourite.
They not only adsorb chlorine but also eliminate other additives and contaminants, including sand, dirt, metals, waste, chemicals and city pollutants that deteriorate water quality.
With a whole-house filter, you get not only pure drinking water but also clean water for showering, laundry, and cooking.
Chlorine has been linked to an increased risk of asthma, skin irritations, allergic reactions and cancers, which should be enough reason to get a whole-house water filter installed.
Environment-Friendly
Plastic water bottles are the largest contributor to land pollution. However, once you get a water filter in your home, you won’t need to resort to mineral bottled water anymore. A whole-house system is much easier for access to better-quality water.
Cons
Cost Expenses
If you’re aiming for better water quality, the initial investments could be pretty demanding.
Whole-house water filters are notorious for being expensive, and that, along with the installation charges, could cross your budget limits.
You can have a look at the general cost details here.
Effectiveness
Another drawback with whole-house chlorine water filters is that they filter out everything from water, including the beneficial nutrients too (such as fluorine).
This can impact the taste and nutritional value of drinking water, and you’ll have to replace these nutrients by adding supplements.
Some filters re-mineralize the water to add in the lost beneficial nutrients, but they are quite expensive.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Whole house filters need regular maintenance for proper functioning.
Here’s a basic outline of what you can do to maintain your whole-house chlorine filter. Make sure to refer to the manufacturer instructions to know how to specifically clean and maintain your unit.
To clean reverse osmosis filters, start by draining the filter tank completely.
Wear rubber gloves and carefully detach the pre-filter and RO membrane. Clean the filters and membrane with chemical sanitizers, unscented bleach, or dishwashing solution to remove any particles lodged in.
You can also remove the build-up by adding a cleaning solution into the pre-filter compartment. Rinse off everything with fresh water. Allow the filters to dry before reassembling the system.
Activated carbon filters demand a more careful approach while cleaning. Prepare the cleaning solution by adding two cups of muriatic acid to half a gallon of water. Stir it with a plastic stirrer till homogenous.
Allow the water filters to sit in the solution at room temperature for around 5 days. This will dislodge all the sediments, contaminants and residues from the water.
After that, soak the filter in clean water for five minutes, and rinse with a hose till it is free from the solution. Dry completely before reinstalling it into the filter.
Inspect the parts of the filters regularly for leaks, repairs or breakdowns. Change the filters at the required times whenever they get clogged. Do not use any harsh or corrosive cleaning products that could pollute the water content as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Filter Removes Chlorine from Water?
The best filter to remove chlorine from water is the activated carbon water filter.
Backwashing activated carbon filters are also valuable for adsorbing chlorine and trapping undesirable particles.
Does a Whole House Water Filter Remove Chlorine Completely?
No filter system has been designed with 100% efficiency. However, most water filters can get rid of up to 90-97% of chlorine content in water.
Some filters with upgraded performance can filter up to 99% of chlorine from the water.
Is It Necessary to Filter Chlorine from Water?
Chlorinated water has an unpleasant smell and metallic taste and can cause asthma, allergies, miscarriages, dental problems, and even cancers.
Exposure to chlorinated water in the shower tends to cause skin irritation, dry hair and damage to the epidermis.
Final Verdict: What is the best whole house water filter for chlorine?
While your selection ultimately comes down to your budget and household requirements, we believe that the iSpring WGB21B is an excellent option.
It is economical, removes over 90% of chlorine through a 2-stage quick setup, and has a 50,000-gallon capacity.
If this one doesn’t exactly fit the bill, you can also check out other iSpring reverse osmosis systems.
