Best Whole House Water Filter And Softener Combos (Top Picks)
Water softeners are specifically designed to reduce the levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium in hard water. This makes it easier on plumbing fixtures and appliances. While this is helpful for reducing damage caused by hard water, it doesn’t improve the taste of tap water or remove other impurities found in the home’s supply. That’s where installing a high-quality water filter comes into play.
There is nothing quite like having the best whole-house water filter and softener combo. With the right dual system in place, you can enjoy the benefits of better-tasting and healthier water while also protecting your home’s appliances and plumbing components.
In this article, I’ll explore the top water softener and filter combos to help you make the right choice for your home.
Benefits of Using a Water Softener and Filter Combo
Here is a list of some of the key advantages of using a water filter and softener combo:
Improved water quality: Water softeners and filters help remove hardness which reduces the number of harmful minerals in your home’s water supply. This improved water quality helps improve the taste and odor of your drinking water, while also reducing the amount of scale buildup in your plumbing and appliances.
Increased appliance efficiency: Hard water can cause scale buildup in your appliances and reduce their efficiency. A water softener and filter combo helps prevent scale buildup, helping your appliances run more efficiently and saving you money on energy bills.
Reduced soap scum: Soap scum is created when the hard minerals in your water bind with soap and create a slimy residue. Water softeners and filters help reduce soap scum, allowing you to enjoy cleaner, better-smelling showers and baths.
Improved laundry: Hard water can cause clothes to become dingy and stiff after washing as minerals bind to fabrics. Softening and filtering your water helps reduce the number of minerals in your laundry, allowing your clothes to stay brighter and softer for longer. Reduced plumbing repairs: Scale buildup in your plumbing and appliances can cause significant damage over time which leads to costly repairs. Water softeners and filter combos help prevent scale buildup, reducing the need for repairs and saving you money in the long run.
5 Best Whole House Water Filter And Softener Combos
Best Overall
Aquasure Signature Series Water Purification Unit - Chlorine Reduction, Fiberglass Material, Multicolor, 4-6 Bathroom Homes, 64,000 Grain Hardness Rating, Digital Metered Control Head
Best for Well Water
Aquasana Whole House Water Filter System - Water Softener Alternative - Salt-Free Descaler, Carbon & KDF Home Water Filtration - Filters Sediment & 97% Of Chlorine - 1,000,000 Gl - EQ-1000-AST
Best for City Water
APEC Water Systems WH-SOLUTION-15 Whole House Water Filter & Salt Free Water Softener Systems for 3-6 Bathrooms
Best Budget Pick
Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt Free Water Softener Combo, Filters Chlorine & Sediment Filtration for 1-3 Baths, 7 GPM, 1 Million Gallons
Best Salt & Electric Free
NuvoH2O Manor Duo Whole House Water Softener and Filtration System - Includes 1 Softening Cartridge and 1 Taste (Carbon Filter) Cartridge
Aquasure Signature Series Water Purification Unit - Chlorine Reduction, Fiberglass Material, Multicolor, 4-6 Bathroom Homes, 64,000 Grain Hardness Rating, Digital Metered Control Head
Aquasana Whole House Water Filter System - Water Softener Alternative - Salt-Free Descaler, Carbon & KDF Home Water Filtration - Filters Sediment & 97% Of Chlorine - 1,000,000 Gl - EQ-1000-AST
Filtersmart Whole House Water Filter System & Salt Free Water Softener Combo, Filters Chlorine & Sediment Filtration for 1-3 Baths, 7 GPM, 1 Million Gallons
💧 Perfectly designed for 4-6 bathrooms homes, the Aquasure Signature Series is the professional grade Whole House Water system that delivers high quality filtered, ultra-softened water to every outlet throughout your entire home. No need for manual regeneration, backwash, draining, this system automatically regenerates and backwash, making it cost efficient and easy to maintain.
💧 Effectively removes water contaminants such as chlorine, VOCs, pesticides, bad odors, bad taste, soil, silt, sand, rust, heavy metals, and sediment. Providing clean, healthy, and great tasting filtered water at all times. Inhibits bacteria growth and algae growth with KDF media while prolonging the lifespan of household appliances such as washing machine, dishwasher, water heater, etc.
💧 Rated to treat up to 64,000 grains of hardness by removing skin damaging hard minerals like calcium and magnesium that clog up the skin pore and causes irritation, dryness, cracked skin and hair. It is engineered for both city and well water. Connects to plumbing up to 1-1/4″ in diameter. Connections out of the softener are 1” high flow threaded ports. Save twice as much compared to other brands on purified water for 1,500,000 gallons.
💧 Exceptional performance & highly efficient digital metered control head allows you to easily set your personalized auto-flush intervals depending on your incoming water quality and water usage. Aquasure Reverse Osmosis system helps save water and reduce overall maintenance cost while giving you the highest performance in terms of softening water and rejecting water contaminants. Easily replace filters every 6-12 months for best filtration and flow rate.
💧 Every Aquasure Water Softener is constructed with a high-strength, corrosion-resistant, fiberglass-lined polyethylene tank, durable bypass valve, and prefilled premium-grade resin. Besides the 30-day money-back, Aquasure stands behind its products by providing free life-time U.S. based tech support and a 5-year extended manufacturer warranty when you activate your product online within 60 days.
Warranty: 5-year with free life-time U.S. based tech support
The Aquasure Water Softener and Filter Combo provide up to 64,000 Grains of whole-house water treatment. This powerful system is capable of supporting households ranging from four to six bathrooms so that everyone in your family can take their showers in comfort!
The powerful filtration system ensures that you can tackle even the toughest of contaminants and enjoy maximized cleanliness throughout your house. This convenient filter-softener combo automatically regenerates while also removing unwanted chlorine, VOCs, pesticides and bad odors, heavy metals, and sediment.
Its digital metered control head allows for personalized auto-flush intervals that are easily adjustable, and the overall operation of the product is effortless. With this combo, you can be sure your water quality is never compromised while saving energy with its efficient design.
Pros
High capacity: 64,000 grains
Durable corrosion-resistant material
Easy-to-operate
No need for manual regeneration
Cons
Need a professional plumber for installation
#2. Best for Well Water: Aquasana Whole House Water Filter-Softener Combo
Clean, Great Tasting Water From Every Tap In Your Home - Activated carbon reduces 97% of Chlorine. Plus, this Rhino's newly-improved divider valve enables a fast and reliable flow rate with no noticeable change in water pressure.
High-Performance Filter System - Salt-free conditioner, carbon & KDF filtration engineered to maximize filtration and reduce scale while leaving healthy minerals in your water. This system will NOT reduce Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Cost Efficient & Long Lasting - Clean water for less than dollars0.01 a gallon - Save twice as much compared to other brands on purified water for 1 million gallons or 10 years
Easy Maintenance - No draining or back flushing needed - Easily replace pre and post filters every 2 months for best filtration and flow rate
Top-Grade Install Kit & Components - System includes filter tank, conditioner tank, 20" pre-filter, post-filter, brass fittings for 1'' or 3/4'' pipes, bend supports, and shut-off valves – Item may ship in more than one box and may arrive separately
This Aquasana Filter-Softener Combo is one of the most effective solutions for dealing with well water. Thanks to its advanced filtration and softening technologies, this product removes up to 97% of chlorine as well as components like pesticides, herbicides, and other contaminants from your water.
The system utilizes a high-flow rate of up to 11.8 gallons per minute. The combination also includes a salt-free conditioner, carbon filter, and KDF filter that remove nearly 93% more contaminants than traditional sediment filters alone.
No draining or back flushing is needed for maintenance so you don’t have to worry about tedious upkeep projects and can simply enjoy clean healthier water. The unit also helps retain essential minerals and other nutrients in your water.
With an easy replacement feature, you can swap out your filters in minutes—and never worry about lugging around a salt bag or remembering to buy new softener cartridges. Everything you need for a quick and hassle-free setup is provided: no complex tools or experience necessary!
Pros
Provide water filtration for up to 10 years
Activated carbon to effectively remove organic chemicals
Salt-free operation
Improve water taste and prevent scale buildup
Cons
It requires installation by a licensed plumber for warranty claims
#3. Best for City Water: APEC Water Filter & Salt-Free Water Softener
Designed for 3-6 bathrooms homes, WH-SOLUTION-15 is the professional grade Whole Home Water Solution that delivers high quality filtered, softened water to every outlet throughout your entire home. No need for regeneration, backwash, or electricity, no waste water, this whole house combo system is cost efficient and maintenance free
Get luxury spa quality water for your shower, bath, and hot tubs free from chloramine/chlorine, odours and harsh abrasive chemicals. Enjoy healthier, more moisturized skin and hair
Delivers unlimited supply of clean, clear and refreshing water to your kitchen for cooking and washing fruits & veges
Salt-free water conditioner effectively prevents scale build-up and prolongs lifespan of pipes and home appliances without the use of corrosive chemicals or salt. It also helps reduce health risks for people with high blood pressure or on salt restricted diets. Suitable for hardness below 25 grains/gallon
Comes with a 10" BB Whole House Sediment Filter ($150 value) for free to maximize performance and prolong filter lifespan
Softener Type: Salt-Free water conditioner
Water hardness: Below 25 grains per gallon
Purification Method: Catalytic activated carbon
Dimensions: 13″L x 13″W x 48″H
APEC filter-softener combo is an efficient solution for city water. With its salt-free technology, it can handle up to 3-6 bathrooms. It offers the best quality of soft water without the use of excess salts or chemicals; ensuring that skin and hair remain healthy and hydrated after every shower or bath.
This unit is perfect for those looking to save money while keeping up with their water needs. It requires no electricityand the maintenance-free design means there are no ongoing costs associated with its use. Not only is it cost-effective, but the high-quality filtration system removes impurities and improves your water’s taste and clarity.
APEC combo provides your home with an unlimited supply of clean and safe water while preventing any scaling buildup in the pipes. Its specially formulated salt-free conditioner is suitable for water hardness below 25 GPG for much softer, fresher drinking and bathing water.
Pros
Salt-free water conditioner
Natural & safe operation
Maintenance free
No backwash or regeneration needed
Cons
Expensive
#4. Best Budget Pick: Filtersmart Whole House Filter & Softener Combo
GET THE HEALTHIER OPTION: Enjoy softer skin and hair. We use all natural coconut shell carbon for fresh, spring-like water, that is full of natural minerals. Our filters use the worlds best carbon from Jacobi. The carbon filtration uses premium NSF certified carbon made from natural coconut shells.
BETTER THAN BOTTLED: Get clean, delicious water at every tap without the waste created by plastic bottles. Our Whole House Carbon Filter System removes Chlorine (taste and odor), Chloramine, VOCs (Volatile organic compounds), SOCs (Synthetics organic compounds), THMs (Trihalomethanes chemical compounds), Pesticides, Herbicides and Industrial Solvents.
ECO-FRIENDLY: No more single-use plastic bottles. Get the smarter, more environmentally-friendly option that wastes no water or electricity. FilterSmart Salt-Free Softener does not add anything or remove anything from the water, retaining the important naturally occurring minerals, especially calcium and magnesium.
MAINTENANCE FREE DESIGN: One easy, convenient filter. Simple in/out design for easy installation. Never carry heavy bags of salt again! FilterSmart up-flow systems require no electricity to drain or salt replacements.
NSF CERTIFIED: Our granulated coconut shell carbon filters are guaranteed to remove chlorine to undetectable levels for a period of 5 years or 1,000,000 gallons. Instantly improve your tap water to better than bottled water quality at every tap in your home.
Softener Type: Salt-Free
Remove Chlorine: For up to 5 years or 1,000,000 gallons
Purification Method: Carbon filter (made from natural coconut shells)
Dimensions: The tanks are 9×48 inches (with the base and tank head sitting about 51 inches tall)
This budget-friendly solution allows you to enjoy all the benefits of filtered, softened water without an expensive outlay. The Filtersmart softener and filter combo is a high-quality yet cost-effective option suitable for one to three baths, making it ideal for medium-sized homes. Furthermore, this product has a salt-free process meaning that your environmental footprint – and wallet – won’t be negatively affected by its installation or use.
The system ensures that you receive only the healthiest water thanks to its clever combination of natural coconut shell carbon filters that uses NSF-certified carbon. Ultra-fine particles are removed from your home’s tap water, leaving you with balanced pH levels with a virtually limitless supply of clean and pure water.
With its maintenance-free design, you can enjoy clean and soft water without any hassle of special setups or complicated configurations. The filters are also conveniently designed with simple In-Out connections, making replacement quick and easy.
This salt-free water filter and conditioner can restore a natural mineral balance that’s often lost when using traditional water softeners.
Pros
Best budget option for a filter-softener combo
Cost-effective and maintenance-free process
Eco-friendly
NSF Certified
Cons
None
#5. Best Salt & Electric Free: NuvoH2O Complete Water Softener System
The Manor Duo Water Softener + Taste Filter System is ideal for homes that are larger than 1,500 sq. ft. and experience symptoms of hard water and have bad tasting or smelling water in their homes.
Prevents hard water scale buildup. Removes existing hard water scale. Compact design - fits almost anywhere. Simple cartridge replacement. Cartridge and filter last up to 6 months. Removes sediment and most chemicals from house water.
Developed from 30+ years of commercial experience. Extends the life of your water heater, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. Eco-friendly - no salt, no phosphates, no wastewater, no electricity.
Retains healthy minerals in your water. No slick feeling like you get with other water softeners. Complies with NSF/ANSI Standard 42
Included in package: System housing (1 head and 2 sumps), Mounting bracket, 1 Softener cartridge, 1 Carbon taste filter, 1 Wrench, Tapcon screw pack, System head screw pack, 2 O-rings, Lubricant, Installation guide and Warranty/Registration card.
Softener Type: Salt-Free
Softening Method: Uses chelation to keep minerals soluble
Purification Method: 10-Micron carbon filter
Power Source: Battery Powered
Dimensions: 26″L x 8″W x 8″H
The NuvoH2O is a complete water softener and taste filter system that is ideal for homes larger than 1,500 sq. ft. Its salt-free water softening technology requires no electricity so it’s easy to install and maintain. Plus, the taste filter ensures your family can always enjoy clean, healthy drinking water.
It completely removes existing hard water deposits while also preventing any future build-up. This not only helps improve the taste but increases the lifespan of all additional appliances in which your home’s water is used.
Its compact size makes installation a breeze while its simple filter cartridge replacement every 6 months helps to ensure fresh water delivery all year round. This product also has met the stringent requirements of NSF ANSI Standard 42 certification for taste, odor, and chlorine reduction.
Pros
Eco-friendly
Removes existing hard water scale
Cartridge and filter last up to 6 months
Developed from more than 30 years of commercial experience
Cons
Your water must be below 428 TDS for effective results
Things to Consider When Buying a Water Softener and Filter Combo
Before you go shopping for a water filter and softener combo system, here are some important factors to consider:
Identify and Test Your Water Source
The first step is to identify the source of your water. Is it municipally treated or a private well? Your water source will determine the type of water softener and filter combo system that you will need. It is also important to test your water first. This way, you can get an accurate picture of what kind of contaminants and minerals are present in your water supply.
A professional water testing company can help assess the quality of your water and provide detailed results regarding what type of impurities may need treatment with a combination filter/softener system. Testing also gives you an opportunity to understand the specific benefits that certain systems offer over others and determine which components best suit the needs of your household.
Choose the Right Size
You should also consider the size and capacity of the system you’re looking at. Make sure it is large enough to accommodate your family’s needs and the specific water softening and filtration requirements.
The size of the system will depend on the amount of water you use each day and the hardness of your water. It is important to select the right size system so that it can effectively soften and filter your water.
Consider the Maintenance Requirements
When buying a water softener and filter system, you should also consider the maintenance and upkeep required. Some systems require more frequent filter changes and salt replacements than others. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and determine if the maintenance requirements will fit into your lifestyle and budget.
Budget
Water filter and softener combos are available in a variety of price points and it’s important to compare the features and benefits of each one to determine which is the best fit for your home. Don’t forget to factor in installation costs as this can add to the overall cost of the system.
Warranty
Also, read customer reviews before buying the product. Look for a system that has a solid warranty and is made from durable components that can provide years of reliable service.
Get Professional Assistance
It is always best to get professional help when choosing and installing a water softener and filter combo. A professional installer can help you select the right system for your home, provide guidance on installation and make sure the system is running properly.
How Do Water Filter-Softener Combos Work?
Whole house water filters and softener combos are becoming increasingly popular as a single solution for treating water in the home. These dual units work by combining two processes, one to filter out sediment and contaminants from your drinking water and one to remove the hard minerals that cause scale buildup on appliances and fixtures. These systems provide a comprehensive solution to both purifying your drinking water and protecting your plumbing at the same time.
The process begins when dirty or hard water enters the system’s filtering tank. The filtration media is designed to trap particles like dirt, sand, rust, lead, chlorine, and other contaminants from entering your home’s pipes. After passing through the filter, it then enters a softening tank where an ion exchange process takes place which removes calcium, magnesium, and other hard minerals from the water supply.
How Do Salt-Free Water Softeners Or Conditioners Work?
Water conditioners or Salt-free water softeners are increasingly popular for people looking for an alternative to traditional salt-based water softeners. Salt-free water conditioners use a process known as template-assisted crystallization (TAC) to modify the composition of hard minerals found in tap water such as calcium and magnesium. This process prevents the formation of limescale which is typically caused by hard minerals in tap water. With TAC, no salt is added and no brine waste is discharged into the environment like with other methods.
Salt-free conditioners also employ a filtration system that passes through a semi-permeable membrane which removes contaminants from the water, including chlorine, heavy metals, and sediments. The result is clean and fresh-tasting water that leaves your dishes residue-free and provides softer fabrics when washing clothes or taking showers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a water softener if I have a whole house filter?
If your home has hard water, a whole house filter alone may not be enough. While a whole-house filter excels at removing impurities like chlorine, sediment, and various chemical contaminants from your water, it doesn’t affect water hardness. Hard water is rich in minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can lead to scale buildup in your pipes and appliances over time, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. A water softener, on the other hand, is specifically designed to address this problem by removing or neutralizing these hardness minerals. Therefore, if you’re dealing with hard water issues, combining a water filter and a water softener would likely be the best solution.
Do you put a whole house filter before or after a water softener?
When using both a whole house water filter and a water softener, it’s generally recommended to install the filter first in the sequence. This order ensures the filter can effectively remove large particles, sediment, and chemical contaminants that could otherwise interfere with the softener’s operation or even damage it. By filtering these substances out before the water reaches the softener, you can prevent salt buildup on the softening unit’s resin beads, thereby maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan.
How often should the whole house water softener regenerate?
The regeneration frequency for a whole house water softener depends on several factors: the hardness of your water, the capacity of your water softener, and the water consumption of your household. As a rule of thumb, regeneration might be needed once or twice a week. However, newer models often come with smart features that can optimize the regeneration schedule based on your water usage and hardness level, thereby saving salt and water. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult with a water treatment professional to determine the most appropriate regeneration schedule for your specific circumstances.
What is the lifespan of a whole house water filter and softener combo?
The lifespan of a whole house water filter and softener combo can vary widely based on the specific model, the quality of the water being treated, and how well the system is maintained. However, generally, water softeners can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, while the filters in the system will need to be changed more frequently, often every 6 to 12 months depending on the usage and water quality.
Can a water softener improve my skin and hair?
Yes, using a water softener can potentially improve the health of your skin and hair. Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can leave a residue on your skin and hair, leading to dryness and dullness. By softening your water, you can reduce this mineral buildup, potentially resulting in softer skin and shinier hair.
What maintenance is required for a whole house water filter and softener combo?
Regular maintenance for a whole house water filter and softener combo typically includes changing the filters, adding salt to the brine tank of the water softener, and occasionally cleaning the resin tank. The frequency of these tasks will depend on your water usage and the hardness of your water.
Does a whole house water filter and softener combo require professional installation?
While it’s possible for a technically-inclined homeowner to install a whole house water filter and softener combo, it’s often recommended to have a professional do the installation. This ensures that the system is set up correctly, which can affect its performance and longevity. Plus, professionals can provide guidance on the best location for installation and how to properly maintain the system moving forward.
Will a whole house water filter and softener combo affect water pressure?
Generally, a well-sized and properly installed whole house water filter and softener combo should not significantly affect your home’s water pressure. However, if you notice a substantial drop in water pressure after installation, it could indicate an issue with the system, such as incorrect sizing or a clogged filter, and it may be a good idea to consult a professional.
