You may sometimes find it difficult to know the exact contents of your household water. And sometimes, you may find out that your water supply boasts certain chemicals. These chemicals may otherwise be unsafe for consumption or your household appliances. Water from wells is more likely to bear impurities such as iron.
Although, in small amounts iron is not exactly unsafe form your health, in large amounts it is not the same. Large amounts of iron not only risk toxicity to your body but also put your plumbing and appliances at risk. The characteristic orange color will stain everything the water comes in contact with. And iron on its own causes rust and scaling on pipes and appliances.
The best iron filters for well water tackle this problem. They remove impurities such as iron and other heavy metals to purify the water. Doing so leaves your water pipes and appliances in good shape. Plus, their durability prolongs. Compiled below for you – the list of the 7 best iron filters for well water in 2020! No matter your household size or needs, you will find a unit to suffice these needs.
Top 7 Best Iron Filters For Well Water Comparison
Top 7 Best Iron Filters For Well Water Reviews
1. Express Water Heavy Metal Iron Filter For Well Water
The Express Water Heavy Metal iron filter features a 3 stage filtration system. The filtration system guarantees to provide up to 95% purified water. The iron filter comprises of the sediment, KDF and carbon block stages. The first sediment stage traps coarse contaminants that may harm appliances. These contaminants include sand, dirt, dust and rust. The sediment layer features a food grade polypropylene microfiber construction. This layer bears 4 distinct layers to catch the coarse contaminants down to 5 microns.
The second stage, the KDF, captures inorganic and organic materials. These materials include iron, lead, aluminum, and even algae. This filtration stage also helps to inhibit microorganism growth. The KDF stage boasts a catalytic carbon and an ionic charged copper and zinc granules. The final stage is the activated carbon block. This stage is ideally designed to capture chlorine, pesticides and other chemicals.
Features
- 3 stage filtration system
- Thermal bonded cap and industrial sealed silicon ring
- Free standing frame design
- Built-in pressure gauge
Pros
- 3 stage filtration system captures up to 95% impurities
- KDF stage equal flow design provides optimal chemical absorption
- Activated carbon stage enhances the taste and drinkability of the water by removing chemicals
- Thermal bonded cap and silicon ring enhance durability
Cons
- May not be as effective for highly contaminated water
2. Iron Pro 2 Combination Water Softener Iron Filter For Well Water
The Iron Pro2 combination iron filter features a standard 1 MNPT thread design. The thread design makes the iron filter’s installation easier. A bypass valve also comes with the filter. The valve allows system bypass without shutting off your main supply. This mechanism ensures that the filter is functioning at all times. The iron filter is also designed with a round brine tank.
The brine tank effectively holds the salt for regeneration. A safety float is also built into the iron filter to prevent accidental overflowing. A fine mesh resin with an iron removal capacity of up to 6ppm is also fitted to the iron filter. The iron filter and water softener are also designed to scale off scum and soap residues. The digital control on the other end provides easy adjustments. this, in turn, maximizes the iron filter’s capacity and reduces salt usage.
Features
- 64,000 grain capacity
- Digital control valve
- 2-in-1 iron filter and water softener
- 15 gallons per minutes flow rate
Pros
- The fine mesh resin effectively filters hard water
- User friendly control screen with LCD display
- Effective chlorine removal system
- Can handle up to 64000 grains of hardness before regeneration
Cons
- Cannot treat water during regeneration cycle
3. DuraWater Air Injection Iron Filter For Well Water
The DuraWater Air Injection iron filter boasts an effective oxidizing system. The oxidizing system helps to enhance the filtration process. The water oxidation process is what provides optimal filtration. The iron filter comes as a single tank making it efficient, space saving and cost effective. The tank is also designed to filter iron and sulfur. At the top of the tank, an iron eater traps air pockets as the system operates.
Water then flows through these air pockets and the iron and sulfur in it oxidize. The iron filter also comes fitted with a Flex 5600SXT digital control valve. This valve design helps to automatically backwash the system every day. It washes the system all the way down to the media. The tank also comes pre-loaded with the media to make installation easier for you at home.
Features
- Air injection filtration system
- Up to 12ppm iron removal
- 10 by 54 inches mineral tank
- Digital control valve
Pros
- Space saving and cost effective single tank design
- Automatic backwash and regeneration for long lasting durability
- Pre-loaded media in the tank for easier installation
- Effectively uses oxidation to filter iron and sulphur
Cons
- Can be a little expensive
4. DuraWater Fleck 5600 SXT Iron Filter For Well Water
The DuraWater Fleck 5600SXT iron filter comes pre-loaded with up to 1.5 cubic feet of fine mesh resin. A rounded salt brine tank complements the mesh for effective filtration and regeneration. A whole water house softening unit is also fitted to counter soap scum and to soften the water. The iron filter’s fine mesh resin utilizes the ion exchange process. The ion exchange effectively removes calcium and magnesium deposits to soften the water.
The water softening process protects your water pipes and appliances. Additionally, the iron filter also incorporates a meter based regeneration process. In this process, the water used is also measured and only regenerated when needed. And if the water usage increases, the regeneration readjusts to fulfill the needs. This process makes the iron filter usage quite cost effective.
Features
- Built-in iron filter and water softener
- 48,000 grain capacity
- 6-8 ppm iron removal rate
- 2-5 people home capacity
Pros
- Safety float prevents overflow and water mess
- Large enough filtration capacity for a small to medium sized family
- Effectively eliminates hard water by filtering calcium and magnesium
- Protects water pipes and appliances from corrosion
Cons
- Installation can be time consuming; for up to 1-2 hours.
5. AirInjection Platinum Fleck 2510SXT Iron Filter For Well Water
The Air injection Fleck2510SXT iron filter features improved performance. The filter comes with an upgraded Vortech tank for advanced functionality. Unlike traditional models, the Vortech tank enhances backwash. Its edge-to-edge plate ensures quick and thorough backwash. This design provides your iron tank long lasting durability. The iron filter also features a stainless steel bypass with a one-inch connection.
This steel bypass design makes installation easier. It also makes it easier to bypass the system without shutting off the water supply. The iron filter also boasts an air injection control head. During the backwash cycle, the head creates air pockets. These air pockets oxidize the water to provide optimal air filtration. And inside the filer, the high grade media tackles not only for iron. But other contaminating metals such as manganese and hydrogen sulfide.
Features
- Air injection filtration process
- Stainless steel bypass
- 27 ppm iron removal rate
- Upgraded Vortech tank
Pros
- Improved backwash and flow with the Vortech tank
- Removes iron and sulfur with no extra chemicals required
- Oxidation process provides optimal filtration
- High iron, manganese and hydrogen sulfide removal rate
Cons
- Can be a little expensive
6. AFWFilters Iron Pro 2 Combination Iron Filter For Well Water
The AFW Filters Iron Pro 2 series filters several contaminating metals. This iron filter is also designed to soften your household water. The iron filter removes iron and manganese at up to 7 ppm and 6ppm respectively. It also bears a high hardness removal of up to 70 gpg. A special fine mesh resin on the other end ensures the filter’s longevity in the presence of iron.
The special mesh resin design also gives it incredible filtration qualities. The Iron Pro 2 series also features a meter based regeneration process. The process ensures enough water flow and proper functioning of the filter. And with a 5 year warranty, the iron filer guarantees quality and smart investment for your money.
Features
- 64,000 grain capacity
- Digital metered valve
- 4-7 ppm iron removal rate
- Hardness removal of up to 70 gpg
Pros
- Improved backwash and flow with the Vortech tank
- Removes iron and sulfur with no extra chemicals required
- Oxidation process provides optimal filtration
- High iron, manganese and hydrogen sulfide removal rate
Cons
- Can be a little expensive
7. Fleck 5600 SXT Iron Filter For Well Water
The Fleck 5600 SXT filter features a metered softener valve for improved performance. The valve measures your household water usage to maintain effective consumption. The valve also enhances regeneration according to your needs. To cater to your household, the water softener features a high capacity 10 by 54-inch resin design.
Equipped with an ingenious working mechanism, the filter uses an ion exchange process. The process removes calcium and magnesium that cause your household water to harden. This preserves the longevity of your water pipes and household appliances. A safety float also comes in the filter to prevent overfilling. The overflow drain on the other end acts as a backup to avoid messes. The filter also features a standard square brine tank that measures 14 by 14 by 34 inches and can hold up to 250 lbs. of salt.
Features
- Digital meter
- Carbon filter& reverse osmosis
- 8% resin type
- 48,000 grain capacity
Pros
- Effective meter based regeneration
- Installation can be adaptable
- Filter doesn’t affect water pressure
- Comes as a complete kit with all installation equipment
Cons
- Control head back can make the connection wobbly
What To Look For When Choosing An Iron Filter For Well Water
Types of Filters
Iron filters for well water come in different types. So before you make a purchase you must ensure that you have chosen the right one. The common difference between iron filter types is how they remove the iron. There are several common types of iron filter for well water.
Stand up style filters are a common type. Many stand up style filters also double as water softeners. These filters also boast a digital head with LCD screens. This makes it easier for you to track, adjust and maintain the filter. A water softener uses an ion exchange process to soften household water.
The ion exchange process removes impurities that make water harden. These impurities include calcium, aluminum, and magnesium. Water hardeners use salt to execute this mechanism. Water then flows through the softeners and salt inside the filter tank. And it is here where the impurities leave the water in ion exchange and replaced with sodium ions from the salt.
This process softens the water to prevent scaling and rusting water pipes. Yet, keep in mind that the water hardening impurities reduce, and your water becomes salty. So if you are on a strict low to no sodium diet, these types of filters may not be the best choice. Sometimes, but, you will find stand up filters that don’t have a water softening element. So instead of using ion exchange with salt, water passes through a filter medium.
Another common example of water filters is the 3 stage filter system. A good example is the Express Water Heavy Metal Iron Filter For Well Water. These types of filters incorporate three filter stages. Because of this design, they tend to be quite effective.
The first stage filters coarse materials. The second stage filters contaminating metals whilst the third filters chemicals. Other than iron, other filtered materials include pesticides industrial solvents and bacteria. A 3 stage iron filter works great if you suspect your well water is contaminated.
Types of Filter Media
Inside the filters are the media. Filter media is what the water passes through to remove the impurities. Different iron filters use different types of filter media. So if you look at iron filters that work like water softeners as well, their filter media is different. Water softeners use salt as their filter media. This is because the salt that brings about the ion exchange. The salt forces the impurities to leave the water and the water to absorb the sodium ions.
Yet, water softeners will only work for hard water. So if your water is not only hard but also contaminated, softeners are not the best choice. This is where 3 stage iron filters come in. Each stage in the filter uses its unique filter media.
The first stage uses a sediment filter. The sediment filter is effective at removing coarse and slightly larger particles. This filter works on particles such as rust, sand, dust or dirt. The second filter is a KDF filter. KDF filters will remove contaminants such as iron, manganese, and chlorine. This filter is also designed to remove heavy metal contaminants.
The final stage features an activated carbon block. These filter media go beyond the other two. They are quite effective at removing chemicals. These filters remove chemicals such as pesticides and industrial solvents. Some activated carbon filters even feature UV filtration treatment. This treatment is especially great for removing microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.
Filter Size
The size also matters when you are choosing an iron filter. A filter designed for a 4 person family will not suffice a 10 person family. Many common models are also designed for a 4 person household. So if you have a large family, cross check the filter capacity before spending your money.
It is very easy to size your iron filter. Typically, you need at least a filter that runs 5 gallons per minute. This also ensures proper functioning and effective backwash. For larger families, you can even up it a notch to 20 gallons per minute. To give you an insight into how this works, consider your showers. You will need more water flow for more consumption. For example for proper pressure, you need 5gpm for 2 running shower at a time.
Maintenance
The maintenance of your filter is the burden it comes with. Different models have different needs. Yet, you will need to change the filter media from time to time. And if your household water is more contaminated, your filter suffers more. So you should expect to change the media in short periods.
Also, a large household will also change filter media more frequently than a smaller one. For water softeners, you will need to change the salt according to the usage. Maintenance may be costly and time consuming for you. Yet, it is what helps to preserve the durability of your water pipes and appliances.
And whilst you are on the topic of filter maintenance, you must also think of replacements. You must also ensure a filter meets your need to prevent frequent replacement. If you choose one that meets your needs, it will last you longer. Typically, very good quality filters will last you anywhere from five to ten years.
Installation
You don’t want to invest in an iron filter that is difficult to install. Nobody wants to spend hours and hours fumbling with filter equipment. You want to look for one that calls for simple installation. You will know this if the features say that you can install it at home with no need to call a professional.
To make it easier, also go for a unit that comes with an installation kit. For an option that requires extra hardware, installation may be challenging. It is especially challenging for a beginner. Otherwise, if you can afford to call a professional then, the sky is the limit.
Cost
You must also think of how much you are willing to spend. This includes the buying cost, installation, and maintenance. As mentioned before, you can do simple installations on your own. So you will save cash for such filters. And although it may appear that you are making a huge investment, you are not.
A single filter will protect other costly appliances such as washers and heaters. So even if it is expensive, a good quality iron filter will protect the appliances in the long run. Think of it this way. Iron will deposit on pipes and appliances over a period without using an air filter. Now think of the cost to replace the pipes and the appliances.
Why Use An Iron Filter For Well Water
If you depend on water supply from a well then, an iron filter is essential. Typically, you are very likely to find impurities, especially iron from well water. Generally, iron is can be unsafe for your health. Yet, iron also tends to have the red staining effect on anything it comes in contact with. This includes white ceramic bathroom fittings, dishes, and even your clothing or skin.
Furthermore, water that contains iron tends to have a bitter and unpleasant. Yet, iron can be dangerous for your water pipes and appliances. This is because iron causes scaling and rusting. This ultimately kills appliances, blocks and bursts pipes. So installing an iron filter helps to remove the iron impurities from your water supply.
In addition to iron, different water sources will also have different impurities. For example, some water sources may even contain bacteria or chemicals. Iron filters exist in different models and designs. You will also find filters that can remove bacteria and chemicals from your water supply.
Some of the common impurities many models of iron filters for well water can remove include:
- Iron impurities
- Other heavy metal contaminants such as manganese, sulfur, and hydrogen sulfide
- Calcium, aluminum, and magnesium (for 2-in-1 iron filters and water softeners)
- Coarse impurities such as dust and rust
- Chemicals such as industrial solvents, pesticides, and chlorine
- Microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi
FAQs
What Is The Difference Between An Iron Filter And A Water Softener?
An iron filter removes impurities and chemicals from water. A water softener also reduces impurities such as calcium, magnesium, and aluminum. But, it does this to tackle hard water because these metals are what makes it hard. So to soften water, a water softener is an ideal choice. Yet, if your water is also contaminated, an iron filter is what you need.
Can I Install a Filter By Myself?
The installation of your filter depends on its design and model. Some filters are very simple to install and come with straightforward manuals. But, some are quite complex and may need you to call a professional plumber. It is a good idea to call one to save you the hassle, especially, if you have minimal knowledge of plumbing tools.
How Frequently Should I maintain My Iron Filter?
This depends on the model of the filter and the manufacturer’s guide. Maintenance also depends on usage. Typically, some filters need maintenance within months. Other iron filter models can go for up to five years with no maintenance. If you find yourself struggling with this, it is also a good idea to consult a professional.
Can My Filter Get Moldy?
Yes. If your filter is not well taken care of it becomes susceptible to mold and algae build-up. This risk doubles if the iron filter comes in contact with direct light. To prevent this, ensure your filter is always well maintained. You should also avoid exposure to direct light.
Can Filters be Cleaned And Reused?
No, you cannot clean or reuse iron filters. But, you can still keep the filtration system clean with parts such as the pitchers. Instead of cleaning or reusing the filter, you should focus on its durability. Pick a good quality filter and one that is well suited for your needs. Doing so makes the filter more likely to last up to 5 years before replacement.
Is It Safe To Drink Well Water With Iron?
At a minimal level, iron is safe and quite important to your diet. However, in large amounts, it is not very safe. Some of the common effects of excessive iron in your body include:
- Unpleasant taste of water or beverages made from well water such as tea and coffee
- Sharp odor on the water
- Toxicity in the body causing conditions such as hemochromatosis
- Hair turns yellow and brittle
- Tinted and unhealthy skin
- Dries skin to cause conditions such as eczema
Conclusion
The reviews for iron filters for well water prove how important these devices are. As social beings, sometimes it is difficult to control your public water supply. Yet, an iron filter helps to reduce the risks in case there are any. Very good quality iron filters are also designed not only to remove iron impurities.
They can also reduce other impurities such as deadly chemicals and microorganisms. Some even up the score to soften your water. The list of the 7 best iron filters for well water above is where to look for the right option for your household. And if you are struggling to make your decision, the buying guide comes to the rescue. The guide outlines key factors to consider when choosing your options.