Sediment filters for well water are the first line of defence in your water supply line. Therefore, you want to get the right sediment filter. However, it can be a daunting task to settle for one amid the wide range in the market.
This article will review the 11 best sediments filters for well water. It will then discuss the different types of sediment water filters and provide additional information such as buying guide and answer FAQs.
Best Sediment Filters for Well Water
Best Premium: ISpring WSP50GR Whole House Spin Down Filter
- Type: Reusable spin down filter
- Filtering media: Stainless steel mesh
- Micron rating: 50
- Max flow rate:
- Connectors: 1-inch MNPT and ¾-inch FNPT
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year
The ISpring WSP50GR Whole House Spin Down Well Filter is designed with a high impact stainless steel mesh filter screen with a 50-micron rating. The mesh removes a wide range of contaminants including rust, silt, sand, dirt, sediments, and worms. It is a multi-layer gradient filtration system that offer high filtration efficiency.
The well water sediment filter has a reinforced construction. One of the reasons it features as a top pick for the best sediment filter for well water is that has a premium-quality build. Its components are tested and certified to NSF/ANSI standards but the unit itself is not certified. iSpring backs up its quality with lifetime support and a 1-year warranty.
It is double-threaded on both ends with the following fittings: 1-inch MNPT and ¾-inch FNPT. It has a 360-degrees rotatable head connection that enables the system to be installed in any direction.
The whole house sediment filter comes with all you need to set it up including a reusable spin down sediment water filter, filter cartridge, spare o-ring, housing wrench, plumber’s tape, drain fitting, and detailed instructions manual. Note that, unlike the WP50 that can be installed horizontally, this sediment filtering system can only be mounted vertically.
The spin down well filter is easy to maintain. It is flushable and reusable. Its design incorporates a ¼” flush-out fitting and a double-sided rotating scraper that cleans the steel mesh filter cartridge and housing. It also has a see-through casing that enables you to see the level of sediment accumulation.
The manufacturer recommends flushing it out, daily or weekly, depending amount of sediments in the water and the hardness level. Over time, the scale may build up on the mesh filter and flushing may not get rid of it. In this scenario, remove the stainless steel cartridge, soak it in vinegar, and scrub it gently in a brush. Ultimately, replace the cartridge every 12-24 months.
Best Value for Money: iSpring WSP50ARB Spin Down Sediment Water Filter
- Type: Reusable spin down filter
- Filtering media: Stainless steel mesh
- Micron rating: 50
- Max flow rate:35GPM
- Connectors: 1-inch MNPT and ¾-inch FNPT push fit
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year warranty
Like the ISpring WSP50GR, the iSpring WSP50ARB Spin Down Sediment Water Filter is also flushable and reusable. It is a larger, upgraded version of the ISpring WSP filter series. It also utilizes a multi-layer gradient filtration system to provide high filtration efficiency. It provides a maximum flow rate of 35GPM
It is made of high-quality, pressure-resistant materials. It utilizes a 50-micron food-grade stainless steel mesh filter screen to get rid of sediments, floating objects, and rust. Its design incorporates the lead-free brass machine head and explosion-proof transparent housing.
It is easy to install as the installation procedure does not include welding or the use of glue. It fits well on copper, PEX, and CPVC pipes. The 360-degree rotatable head construction enables you to install the system in any direction.
One of the most outstanding features of this whole house sediment filter is the auto flushing module with a dual power supply. The unit comes with an adapter but you can also power the auto flushing module with 3AAA batteries. It also has a manual flushing knob should you choose not to use the electrical auto flush module for any reason.
The auto flush valve coupled up with the scraper makes the unit quite easy to clean and maintain. You can choose between auto, semi-auto, and manual modes on the HD touch screen to set a flushing schedule.
The system is preset to flush for 15 seconds every 15 days. However, the manufacturer recommends flushing it for 30 seconds at least once per week to extend the filter life. Also, dismount the unit and clean it thoroughly with vinegar and a brush after every 8-12 months of continuous use.
It is easy to install as it comes with all the necessary parts for installation and a detailed instruction manual. It has a dual connection and comes with 1-inch MNPT and a ¾-inch FNPT push-fit on both ends. It should be installed indoors in a dry environment away from heat sources. For ultimate protection of your plumbing system, set it up alongside a water softener/descaler, whole house water filtration system, and a UV water filter.
Best Budget: Simpure 40 Micron Spin Down Sediment Filter
- Type: Reusable spin down filter
- Filtering media: Stainless steel mesh
- Micron rating: 40
- Max flow rate:20GPM
- Connectors: 1-inch MNPT and ¾-inch FNPT
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year warranty
The Simpure 40 Micron Spin Down Sediment Filter is designed to prevent sediments, debris, sand, and rust from getting to your plumbing system and appliances. It is a flushable and reusable filter system.
It has a premium quality design using 100% safe materials that are NSF certified and BPA free. It is fitted with a 40-micron food-grade stainless steel mesh filter that can capture large particles, about 40 millimicrons. It has a brass valve head and a transparent screen filter bowl that can withstand up pressure levels of up to 725psi. It also has excellent anti-freezing and water hammer resistance capabilities.
It is easy to maintain by simply opening the drain valve for at least 30 seconds to allow the system to self-flush. Ensure to backwash every 15-20 days and manually clean the filter every 3-6 months.
The manufacturer provides an extra 200millimicron filter element for free with this unit. The 200 millimicron filter element is best suited for use with well water while the 40 millimicrons is best suited for use with municipal or city water.
The whole house sediment water filter is easy to install. It comes with flexible connections including a 1″ Male NPT, 3/4″ Female NPT, and 3/4″ Male NPT. It is also compatible with any threaded connector with 1″ Male NPT, 3/4″ Female NPT, and 3/4″ Male NPT. The threaded connector does not come as part of the filter’s package and you would need to buy separately to suit your copper, PEX, or CPVC water piping.
- Type: Reusable spin down filter
- Filtering media: Stainless steel mesh
- Micron rating: 0, 200, 500, and 1000
- Max flow rate:20GPM
- Connectors: 1-inch MNPT and ¾-inch FNPT
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year warranty
The iSpring WSP Series of reusable whole house spin down sediment water filter consists of filtration systems in a range of micron sizes, including 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000. The flushable sediment filters deliver great value through their simple and highly functional design.
Their filtration media is a stainless steel mesh filter screen that lasts up to 24 months with proper maintenance. It has a solid lead-free brass head with double threads for easy installation with 1″ Male NPT, 3/4″ Female NPT connections. The see-through housing enables easy visual monitoring. The housing is made of BPA-free plastic.
This unit is designed for indoor use and can with pressure levels ranging between 20-100 psi However, reviews indicate that some customers experience a huge drop in the water pressure when using the sediment filter.
Like other iSpring flushable sediment water filters, is easy to maintain. You need to manually flush it daily or weekly depending on the water output and the amount of sediment in the well water. You also need to clean the steel cartridge manually every 3-6 months to get rid of any deposits that may have accumulated.
The manufacture warns against using these fine filters on rough water as it will cause the filter to clog reducing its efficiency and lifetime.
- Type: Pleated replacement cartridge
- Filtering media: Polyester
- Micron rating: 50
- Max flow rate:10GPM
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year warranty
The Pentair Pentek R50 Sediment Water Filter is a polyester pleated cartridge sediment filter. It fits all 10” housing. The polyester media is non-woven and reusable to enhance its durability. It can be used with both chlorinated and non-chlorinated water. It has a 10GPM flow rate rating. The manufacturer notes that it causes an initial pressure loss of less than 1.0psi. It is resistant to both bacteria and chemical attacks
It has a particle removal efficiency of 85% and can be used for both residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.
- Type: Spun cartridge filter
- Filtering media: Polypropylene
- Micron rating: 5
- Max flow rate:15GPM
- Connectors: 1-inch inlet/outlet, 20 X 4.5 in filter cartridge casing
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year warranty
The iSpring WGB32BM 3-Stage Whole House Water Filter is a point-of-entry filtration system designed to offer all-around protection on your plumbing system and appliances. It is designed to remove iron, manganese, and sediments. It also removes chlorine, rust, pesticides, VOCs, and industrial solvents.
It is easy to install and set up by following the detailed guidelines provided in the manual. It has a 1-inch NPT inlet/outlet and 20 X 4.5 in. filter cartridge housings. It has a flow rate rating of 15GPM with minimal impact on the overall water pressure.
The first stage is a 5-micron polypropylene sediment filter. The second stage is a carbon block filter made of high-quality coconut shell carbon, while is an iron manganese filter. The filter system has a capacity of up to 100,000 gallons depending on the level of impurities in the water. The filter cartridges need to be changed every year.
The iron-manganese filter system is effective for iron levels below 3.0ppm and manganese levels below 1.0ppm. Therefore, it is best to have your well water tested before installing the multi-stage filtration system. The carbon filter has a 99% efficiency in removing chlorine, bad taste and odors, VOCs, and harmful chemicals, and 88% in getting rid of sediments.
The system is third-party tested to meet NSF/ANSI standards. The manufacturer offers a 1-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime tech support.
- Type: Spun cartridge
- Filtering media: Polypropylene
- Micron rating: 5
- Max flow rate:15GPM
- Connectors: 20 X 4.5 in-filter cartridge casing
- Warranty/Guarantee: None
The Icepure 10” X 4.5” whole House Pleated Sediment Water Filter replacements cartridges can be used with a wide range of housings including GE FXHSC, DuPont WFHDC3001, Culligan R50-BBSA, HD-950, Pentek R50-BB, American Plumber W50PEHD, GXWH40L, GXWH35F, GXWH38F, GXWH30C, GNQH38S, WHKF-WHPLBB, Pentair Pentek S1 series, EP series, EPM series.
The pleated cartridges are made to high standards. They go through a 5-stage inspection and testing process. They are made using advanced fabric technology to ensure optimal efficiency in removing sediments. They are NSF/ANSI 50 for material safety. They also meet the European Food Grade Regulation requirements.
They can filter up to 30,000 gallons. However, they can be clean and reused. Their expected lifetime is 3-6 months after which you should replace them. They are easy to install by simply opening the housing, inserting the cartridge, and then closing.
- Type: Spun cartridge
- Filtering media: polypyrene
- Micron rating: 5
- Max flow rate:15GPM
- Connectors: 1-inch
- Warranty/Guarantee: None
The Culligan WH-HD200-C Inlet/Outlet Filtration System is compatible with different types of filter cartridges. It can be used with both spun and pleated cartridges. The heavy-duty housing has a one-inch stainless steel reinforced inlet/outlet connector.
It has a high-quality build that is WQA certified against NFS/ANSI 372 standards for low lead compliance, CSA B483.1 for material safety, and NSF/ANSI 42 for structural integrity.
It comes complete with all parts for an easy installation, including a WR-HD housing wrench, mounting bracket, filter monitor battery, and a filter life monitor. It also features a shut-off valve and an integrated bracket design.
This package comes with a CW5 BBS water filter replacement spun cartridge with a capacity for 16,000 gallons of water. The wound heavy-duty polypropylene offers multilayer filtration of sediments. It removes a wide range of sediments, including rust, scale, dirt, coarse and fine sand granules as well as extra fine sand and silt. It is best used on the water with a maximum flow rate of 8GPM and has a life expectancy of about 4 months depending on the water conditions and frequency of use.
- Type: Spun cartridge
- Filtering media: polypyrene
- Micron rating: 5
- Max flow rate:15GPM
- Connectors: 3/4-inch
- Warranty/Guarantee: None
The Culligan WH-S200-C Sediment Water Filter is a standard and cheaper version of the Culligan WH-HD200-C. Note that this is a water filter cartridge housing without cartridges. Its design includes a stainless steel reinforced inlet/outlet, bypass with a shut-off valve, pressure relief button, an integrated bracket design, and a removable filter timer. It installs easily on the ¾” main water line. The manufacturer also provides a wrench for easy installation.
- Type: Spin down
- Filtering media: Stainless steel
- Micron rating: 40
- Max flow rate: 20 GPM
- Connectors: 1“MNPT，3/4” MNPT，3/4“FNPT and 3/4” push-fit
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year
The Waterdrop spin down sediment water filter is a whole house reusable, flushable pre-filtration system. It has a modern, innovative design that features automatic backwashing. This feature saves your time and makes maintenance easy. You can choose between 7,15, or 30 days automatic flushing interval period. You can also flush the system instantaneously with a simple press of a button.
The filtering media is a durable stainless steel filter mesh that is corrosion-resistant. The 40-micron mesh is quite effective at intercepting large particles such as sand and rust. The housing is made of break-free and explosion-proof, food-grade glass. It can withstand up to 400psi pressure. It has a reinforced construction that ensures it is affordable. The machine head is made of brass and covered with acrylonitrile butadiene.
It comes with four types of screw threads: 1“MNPT, 3/4” MNPT, 3/4“FNPT, and 3/4” push-fit plumbing fitting and two extra push-fit plumbing fittings. The package also comes with Teflon tape and a wrench for an easy and fast installation. The auto-flush module is powered by 3 built-in AAA batteries that last up to one year.
- Type: Spun cartridge filter
- Filtering media: Polyester
- Micron rating: 5
- Max flow rate:10GPM
- Warranty/Guarantee: 1-year warranty
This is a heavy-duty, dual-gradient density spun cartridge. It is made of polypropylene and fits any 10” X 45” cartridge housing. The 5-micron offers up to 3X sediment holding capacity than similar products on the market. It is NSF certified to standard 42 for material requirements. It has a lifetime of about 6 months.
The unique dual-gradient density construction technology ensures it does not impose taste or odor in the water. It is resistant to both bacteria and chemical attacks. It has excellent particle removal efficiency with a dirt holding capacity of 3x the regular cartridges. It can be used for both residential, commercial, and industrial purposes. The manufacturer notes that it causes an initial pressure loss of less than 1.0psi.
Types of Sediment Filters for Well water
There are two main types of sediment filters for well water: Spin down sediment filters and cartridge sediment filters.
Spin Down Sediment Filters
A spin down well filter is one of the most effective tools for removing sediment particles in well water. However, there is only a limited range of spin down sediment filters on the market.
It has a unique design that looks like a large pipette. The exterior is typically clear, which enables you to see as the sediments build up. Most are fitted with a flush valve for easy and quick removal of the collected sediments. The flush valve ensures that you do not have to dismount the filter from the main water line or take the filter out of the filter housing.
Reusable spin down sediment filters have a filter medium spun around the middle part of the filter. The filter medium usually has a multilayered design that enables it to remove different sizes of particles ranging from 25 to 1000 microns.
Spin down filters come in different sizes and specifications for compatibility with different pipe sizes and flow rates. Most are rated 20GPM to 90GPM. They are most effective at removing medium to large particles and finer particles may manage to slip through.
Pros
- Easy to maintain –Unlike cartridge sediment filters, they do not have cartridges that need to be replaced regularly. All you have to do is remove the accumulated sediments and if it has an auto-flush valve, the cleaning process is quite easy.
- Durable and long-lasting
- Can support up to 150 PSI in operating pressure
- It can target sediments of different sizes (25-1000 microns)
- Wide range of products to choose from
Cons
- Allow finer sediments to pass-through
Cartridge Filters
Cartridge filters are designed to get rid of finer and smaller particles at lower concentrations. There are two main types of cartridge filters – Pleated and Spun
Pleated Cartridge Filters
As their name suggests, this type of sediment filter has a pleated filter medium. The filter medium is made of paper, woven wire, or cloth. The pleated design provides a large surface area for filtering out not only sediments but also chemicals, debris, and metals. Pleated cartridge filters support high flow rates and water pressure than spun cartridge filters.
They can filter out sediment particles as small as 0.10 microns. Some have a feature that gets rid of contaminants such as solvents, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
Pros
- Offer a larger filtration surface area
- Support high flow rates than spun cartridge and spin down filters
- Can withstand high water pressure
- Causes minimal pressure drop
Cons
- Gets worn down easily by larger particles
Spun Cartridge Filters
While the pleated cartridge filters optimize filtration surface area through multiple pleats, spun cartridge sediment filters optimize the filtration surface area through its depth. They have a similar design as spin down filters. They have a filter medium wrapped around the base of the cartridge. They provide multiple layers for filtering differently-sized sediment particles.
Pros
- Provide filtration versatility
- Readily available on the market
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use and maintain
Cons
- Short filter life span
Buying Guide: What Should I Consider When Buying a Sediment Filter for Well Water?
There is a wide range of well sediment filters in different types, shapes, and sizes. However, not every product will be right for you. Below are the key factors to consider when choosing a sediment filter for well water.
- Type of Sediments in the Water
If the water has medium to large size sediments, a spin down well filter or spun down cartridge filter is most appropriate. On the other hand, if it has finer particles, go for pleated cartridge filters.
- Flow Rate
Different well water sediment filters have different flow rate capacities. Ensure the filter you choose has a flow rate capacity that matches or is higher than the flow rate in your main water supply line.
- Micron-rating of Water Sediment Filter
The micron rating of your preferred sediment filter should be smaller than the size of the sediments. If you choose a water filtration system whose micron size is much larger than the size of the sediments, the filtration pores will get clogged. On the other hand, if the micron size is much higher than the sediment particle’s size, some of the sediments will pass through.
- Durability
The expected sediment filter life is indicated by gallons of water it can filter. The best sediment filter for well water is rated at 100,000 to 150,000 gallons of water. A filter that offers a minimum of 100,000 gallons of water is sufficient for most mid-size families. It lasts a year on average before needing to be replaced.
- Ease of Maintenance
Generally, well water sediment filters are low maintenance. They do not need to be connected to an electricity source. Therefore, you do not incur any energy bills. The only maintenance is changing the filter media or cartridge.
Most water purification experts recommend changing the well water filter every 6 to 12 months depending on the amount and type of sediments in the water. A reduction in water pressure is the most obvious sign that you need to replace the filter. It is an indication that the filter is clogged.
- Installation
While some filters are easy to install by yourself, others require the expertise of a professional plumber. Most sediment filters come with all the parts and tools needed for installation and a detailed instruction manual. Some manufacturers also provide an installation tutorial video on their website or YouTube channel.
- Additional Features
Some well sediment filters come with additional features. For instance, some have an automatic flush valve while others can filter out other contaminants.
- Warranty and Certifications
You want to go for a unit that has a warranty and a satisfaction guarantee. The longer the warranty and guarantee period, the better. Also, prioritize a seller that offers great customer and tech support.
Another thing to look out for is tests and certification. Third-party tested units and certified units are more reliable than their counterparts. Two of the most authoritative certifications include the Water Quality Association (WQA) and National Foundation International (NSF International).
- Seller Reputation
You want to buy a sediment filter from a reliable seller. Sellers who have been in the market for a long time have extensive skills and experience that enable them to innovate products that deliver excellent quality and efficiency. However, that is not to rule out newer sellers. Some can leverage the latest technology and research to create high-quality products.
Previous customer reviews can help you get a sense of the reliability of the product. It will also enable you to manage your expectations about the efficiency and durability of the products. The higher the product and seller rating the better.
Conclusion
Filtering your well water will improve its quality significantly. It also enhances the efficiency of the other filtration systems. You can choose between the cartridge and spin down filters depending on the size and amount of sediments in the water, your budget, preference. The best sediment filter for well water is efficient and durable. Pick one from the ones reviewed above.
FAQs
What are Sediments?
Sediments are broadly defined as particles in water. They form as a result of earth materials breaking down into the water through the process of weathering and erosion. Since well water is in direct contact with the earth, it is natural that it contains sediments.
The most common sediments in well water include sand or soil particles, silt, rust, clay, small rocks, and plant and animal remains. The size of sediments varies from fine silt to larger boulders.
Although there is no evidence that sediments harm our health, they can be breeding grounds for pathogens. They also compromise the quality of water as they cause it to be cloudy or to have an unpleasant taste. Ultimately, if left untreated to flow throughout the supply line, they cause clogging on other water treatment equipment and appliances, inhibiting their efficiency.
Why Do I Need a Sediment Filter for Well Water?
A sediment filter for well water acts as your first line of defense in your water supply line. It acts as a pre-filter to remove sediment particles that would clog up other water treatment equipment and appliances. By doing so, it optimizes the efficiency of this equipment. It also ensures that the water pressure and flow rate are not compromised.
The best sediment filter for well water will act as stand-alone or as part of a multi-stage water filtration and treatment system. In a multi-stage filtration system, well sediment filters protect and improve the efficiency of carbon filters, whole house water sediment filters, ultraviolet purification system, and reverse osmosis system.
Does a Sediment Filter Remove Iron?
A sediment filter removes insoluble iron but does not get rid of soluble iron.
Does a Sediment Filter Remove TDS?
A sediment filter for well water is not designed for removing TDS.
What is a Water Filter Micron Rating?
Micro rating refers to the size of the pore opening in a filter. Different filters have different micron ratings. The higher the micron rating, the bigger the pore openings. For instance, a 20-micron filter media has larger opens than a 5-micron size media.
Is Well Water Safe?
Whether your well water is safe is determined by its composition. Since private well water is not regulated by the EPA, you need to carry out a comprehensive test to establish its safety. It may contain contaminants such as arsenic, mercury, chromium 6, nitrate, radon, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemical contaminants.
You should your well water at least once a year. The following factors also necessitate testing:
- If you notice changes in the well water odor, taste, or appearance
- The well has a previous history of bacterial contamination
- A septic system nearby malfunctioned
- If people in your household experience recurrent incidents of gastrointestinal illnesses
Is Sediment Filtered Well Water Suitable for Drinking?
While well water that has passed through a sediment filter has better quality than its previous state, it is not suitable for drinking. This is because the water still contains other contaminants that were not removed by the filter e.g., VOCs, chemicals, metals, etc.
To make it suitable for drinking, it needs to pass through an elaborate filtration and purification system that includes a
- Carbon filter: to get rid of bad odor and tastes
- Iron and manganese filter: to get rid of manganese and iron
- UV filter to kill germs
- Softener to remove calcium and magnesium minerals
- Reverse osmosis to get rid of a wide range of contaminants
If the well water is highly contaminated, it is advisable to shock it by adding bleach. However, you will need to pass the water through a reverse osmosis system to get rid of the chlorine and other contaminants.
