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Understanding Filtration and How to Identify the Need

Whole house carbon filtration is designed to improve water quality throughout the entire home. This article explains what carbon filtration does, what it removes, and how to identify when filtration is needed while on a service call.

 

Why Filtration Matters

A large portion of plumbing issues encountered in homes are tied directly to poor water quality. If water is causing the problem, addressing the water is essential.

Whole house carbon filtration focuses on improving city water by removing unwanted substances before they enter the home’s plumbing system.

Filtration Versus Softening

Filtration and softening serve different purposes.

  • Carbon filtration removes unwanted substances commonly found in city water

  • Softening addresses hardness and mineral content

A carbon filter does not remove hardness, and a softener does not remove many chemical contaminants. Understanding the difference is key when recommending solutions.

What Whole House Carbon Filtration Removes

Whole house carbon filtration targets substances commonly found in municipal water supplies, including:

  • Chlorine and chloramine

  • Herbicides and pesticides

  • Industrial solvents

  • Disinfection byproducts

  • Unwanted taste and odor

These substances are introduced during water treatment and distribution and are not intended for long term exposure or consumption.

Chlorine and Chloramine in City Water

Chlorine and chloramine are used to disinfect water and control biological growth. Chloramine is created by combining chlorine and ammonia, allowing it to remain stable longer in the distribution system.

Once water reaches the home, these disinfectants have completed their job and no longer provide benefit to the homeowner.

Disinfection Byproducts

When disinfectants interact with organic matter in water, disinfection byproducts are formed. These byproducts are present in municipal water systems and can be found on standard water quality reports.

Whole house carbon filtration is designed to reduce exposure to these compounds throughout the home.

Understanding Fluoride and Point of Use Solutions

Some homeowners have concerns about fluoride in drinking water.

Carbon filtration does not remove fluoride from water. If fluoride reduction is desired, point of use systems designed for that purpose are typically recommended for drinking water locations.

Identifying Filtration Needs in the Home

Common signs that indicate a need for whole house filtration include:

  • Degraded rubber or plastic components

  • Dry skin or hair

  • Unpleasant taste or odor

  • Pinhole leaks or corrosion patterns

  • Bottled water usage or point of use systems already present

Observation during service calls helps uncover these indicators.

Exposure Through Bathing and Showering

Warm water opens pores and increases absorption through skin and lungs. Steam and off gassing allow contaminants to be inhaled during bathing.

Educating homeowners on this exposure helps them understand why whole house filtration addresses more than just drinking water.

Using Lifestyle Questions During Service Calls

Simple questions help guide the conversation:

  • Do you drink your tap water

  • Do you use bottled or filtered water

  • Do you notice dryness or irritation after bathing

These questions encourage discussion without pressure and help identify priorities.

Testing as the Foundation

Testing confirms what is observed.

Water testing helps:

  • Validate visible signs

  • Support recommendations

  • Educate homeowners with real data

Testing should be performed whenever possible during service agreement or maintenance visits.

Carbon Media and System Design

Not all carbon is the same.

High quality carbon media offers:

  • Increased surface area

  • Longer effective life

  • Improved removal capability

System components such as valves, internal distribution, and backwash efficiency all play a role in long term performance.

Installation Considerations

Key installation considerations include:

  • Proper backwash and drain setup

  • Air gap requirements

  • Protection of electronic components

  • Weather protection for outdoor installations

Following best practices ensures long term reliability.

Education Drives Success

Homeowners respond best to clear explanations supported by observation and testing.

Education builds trust, reduces resistance, and leads to better outcomes for both the homeowner and technician.

Key Takeaway

Whole house carbon filtration improves water quality at every tap by addressing common municipal water concerns. Identifying signs, asking the right questions, and educating homeowners are essential steps in providing effective solutions.

Need Help

For questions about filtration systems, applications, or training resources, contact Plumber’s Choice Water support or your Flow Tech representative.