6 Questions to Ask About Water Treatment and Purification

A water treatment and purification system can prevent dry skin and hair, keep impurities and sediments from making their way onto your clothing and dishes, and extend your water heater’s life. Whether your existing system is on the fritz or you’re in the market for a new water filtration system, you want to choose your next steps carefully. So, have these six questions about water treatment and purification on hand as you discuss your installation with a pro. 

1. When do you need this work done?

Installing a water treatment and purification system in your home can take one to five hours, with most projects falling around the three-hour mark. Keep in mind that installation may take longer in older homes due to older plumbing. Ensure you have enough time and avoid any scheduling conflicts on installation day. 

2. Where do you want the system located?

Single-point water treatment and purification systems are typically easier to install than whole-home water treatment systems because they go on one source, such as a shower or sink. Whole-home filtration systems require shutting off water to the whole home and tapping into the main water line to filter water for the entire house effectively. They also require flushing and significantly more tubing. Call a local plumber to install a whole-house water filtration system.

3. What best describes the type of water treatment equipment to be installed or replaced?

There are many types of water treatment equipment available. Mechanical water filtration systems use barriers to keep contaminants out of your water. Activated carbon filters use carbon to remove chlorine and other contaminants, while ion exchange filters use ions to soften water. Reverse osmosis systems are one of the priciest options but remove the most particles from water.

4. Does your water have a strange odor or taste?

If your water has a strange odor or taste, it could mean that your filters have gone bad and need replacing. It could also mean there’s a problem with your water softener system. 

Some strange tastes are not harmful, however. If you’ve just installed an ion exchange filter and notice a salty flavor, this is normal because the filter uses sodium to swap out unwanted particles in your water. Purification systems such as reverse osmosis can also cause a “dry” taste because they remove most minerals from the water, which can impact flavor and texture.

5. How many people are in your household?

If you're installing a new water treatment and purification system, it's important to factor in the number of people in your household. The demand on your system will impact how frequently it needs flushing, as well as its life span and repair frequency. You don't want to choose the wrong size water system for your home because it won't be able to keep up with the demand. 

A pro can easily determine the correct system size by calculating your household’s water usage, so be sure to have this information ready when scheduling your installation.

6. Have you already purchased a water treatment and purification system?

If you’ve already purchased a water treatment and purification system, let your installer know so they can confirm that you have the right size and type for your home. If you haven’t already purchased a water filtration system, a water softener installation company near you can advise you on the best option based on your budget, water usage, home layout, and lifestyle. The average whole-house water filtration system costs between $1,100 and $3,500.