A water filter can improve the taste of your tap water and reduce chlorine, sediment and other impurities. But the right system depends on what you want to filter, where you want the filtered water, and how much maintenance you're willing to do. Here's what Gold Coast homeowners should know before installing a water filter.
Types of water filtration
Under-sink systems
Under-sink filters are the most common choice for households. They install beneath the kitchen sink and deliver filtered water through a separate tap or a three-way mixer. They're relatively affordable, simple to maintain, and effective for improving drinking water quality. Most use replaceable cartridges that filter out chlorine, sediment, and in some cases lead and other contaminants.
Whole-house systems
Whole-house filters treat all water entering the home, so every tap — including showers and laundry — receives filtered water. They're more expensive to install and maintain, but they protect all fixtures from sediment and can improve water quality throughout the house. They're worth considering if your mains supply has high sediment or you want filtered water everywhere.
Reverse osmosis systems
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane to remove a very wide range of contaminants, including dissolved solids. They produce very pure water but are slower, waste some water in the process, and require more maintenance. RO systems are typically installed under the sink for drinking water only.
Benchtop filters
Benchtop filters sit on the counter and connect to the existing tap via a diverter valve. They're the simplest to install — no plumbing modifications — and suit renters or those who don't want a permanent installation. They're less powerful than under-sink systems but convenient.
Installation considerations
- Location — under-sink systems need space beneath the sink for the filter housing and a hole for the separate tap (or a three-way mixer replacement).
- Water pressure — some filters reduce flow rate. If your pressure is already low, choose a system with minimal pressure loss.
- Plumbing connections — installation involves connecting to the cold water supply. A licensed plumber can install the system correctly and ensure there are no leaks.
- Backflow prevention — for whole-house and some under-sink systems, backflow prevention may be required to protect the mains supply.
Maintenance and filter replacement
All water filters require periodic cartridge replacement. The frequency depends on the system and your water usage — typically every 6 to 12 months. Failing to replace cartridges reduces effectiveness and can allow bacteria to build up in the filter. Some systems have indicator lights or timers to remind you when to replace the cartridge.
When choosing a system, consider the ongoing cost and availability of replacement cartridges. A cheap system with expensive or hard-to-find cartridges can be a false economy.
Do I need a plumber to install a water filter?
Under-sink and whole-house systems involve connecting to the water supply, and in Queensland this work should be carried out by a licensed plumber. A professional installation ensures the connections are watertight, the system is correctly positioned, and any required backflow prevention is in place. Benchtop filters that connect via a diverter valve can usually be installed without a plumber.
If you're considering a water filter on the Gold Coast, contact our team to discuss the right system for your needs and arrange professional installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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