There are some Americans that get their water from a personal well and if you’re one of them, then you’ll know why it’s important to have treated well water. Well water has a high content of sand and sediment that settles at the bottom of tanks or wells and it will eventually clog the plumbing lines and damage your appliances.
Luckily, there are sediment filters on the market to help solve this problem. However, finding the best sediment filter for well water can be a tedious and difficult task for some people, which is why we’ve created this guide to help you with that.
Before moving on to the list of best sediment filters for well water, we have also made a buying guide to help you choose the best sediment filter for well water. The guide consists of information that will allow you to understand more about a sediment filter and the things that you need to consider when buying a sediment filter.
Why Do You Need a Well Pump Sediment Filter?
Water from the well has a high content of sediment which means the water won’t taste good and when consumed for a long period of time, it can potentially cause health problems. Besides that, the water will leave streaks on your glassware and doors too. Hence, it is highly recommended that you get a sediment filter for your house.
For anyone that is familiar with water treatment solutions, you’ll most likely hear of sediment filters before. Sediment filters are also known as pre-filters and you’ll usually find them in whole-home systems such as reverse osmosis(RO) filters.
The function of a sediment filter is to remove the large sediments in the water which can cause a clog in the carbon filter or RO membrane, reducing the efficiency. Besides that, if you’re using the water from the well, it can also damage the water supply line, affecting the flow rate and water pressure. This is why, if you’re using water supply from the city or from the well, you will still benefit from a sediment filter.
What are the Types of Sediment Filters for Wells?
There are different types of sediment filters on the market and the two general types of filters are spin-down and cartridge filters. Besides that, there are more specific sediment filters and we will be covering that as well.
Spin-down filters
A spin-down sediment filter is the least common type of filter but it’s effective in removing sediment from well water. This filter is usually installed as the first stage filter, before other filters that remove specific contaminants such as chlorine, lead, fluorine and many more. A spin-down filter will collect the larger particles so that the water is free from big impurities, making it easier to filter.
Spin-down sediment filters are designed with a flush valve so you can flush them without removing the filter from its housing or water line. When you turn the valve perpendicular to the water line, it will flush out the sediment in the filter, discharging the water and the filter will be clean and ready to filter again. A spin-down filter normally has a transparent exterior so you can decide when you need to flush it.
Cartridge filters
A cartridge filter is the most common type of filter for sediment removal. The first line of defence in a water filtration system is usually the cartridge filters and a few other filters. Without them, the filter system will not function effectively.
You will normally find the cartridge filter installed on the incoming water line in a housing, or it would share the housing with a bigger multiple-stage filter. The cartridges are designed to be easy to install and remove while lasting for a very long time. Sediment filter cartridges can last for a long time because the toxins are dispersed among other filters too.
Pleated cartridge filters
Pleated cartridge filters are specific to the filter media used inside the filter and the media has a pleated and folded design. Using a higher micron rating, and the design of a pleated filter, it can trap more large particles such as dust, rust, sand and silt.
Although a micron rating cannot help to remove the maximum amount of contaminants, it is still a great thing to have when joining a pleated pre-sediment filter with a multi-stage filter.
A pleated filter can trap anything that is large and solid, while smaller particles can pass through and will be trapped at the next stage of the filtration process where the filters use a smaller micron rating. This ensures the durability of pleated cartridge filters and your appliances and pipes too because some sediment particles can cause scale buildup in the appliances and pipes.
Spun cartridge filters
Spun cartridge filters are named based on their design. They are a unique, cylindrical-shaped filter, normally made from several layers of spun, melted polypropylene. It is also designed to hold a sediment filter and other filter features.
The furthest layer outside a spun cartridge filter is the most porous and has the highest micron level. This layer is meant to capture large particles like sand, dirt and rust that are found in the water. As the water goes further into the filter, each layer will be less porous and have a lower micron level which makes the spun cartridge filter ideal to remove sediment of all sizes.
A spun cartridge filter can be used in almost any filter system which makes them one of the best whole house sediment filters. Additionally, it can also improve many systems and make them more desirable.
The Type of Sediment Filter You Should Use
Now that you know more about both cartridge and spin-down filters, you might be wondering which is the best sediment filter for you. To find the best one for you, you will have to first consider the quality and the make-up of your water supply.
This refers to the things that are commonly found in your well water and to find out what contaminants are in your water, you can use a testing kit to find out what your water contains. After knowing what contaminants are in your water, you can pay attention to the kind of sediment filter you need.
What to Consider when Buying the Best Sediment Filter for Well Water?
To ensure that you are getting the best sediment filter for well water, there are some considerations that you should look into.
Water Supply
The first thing to consider when looking into sediment filters for well water is your water source. Considering that you’re looking into sediment filters for well water, it is safe to say that your water source is from the well. However, well water can also be different for every household.
Where you stay can be a factor that affects the quality of the water because different types and numbers of sediments are found in different areas of the globe. To fully understand the contents of your water, we would recommend you to test your water first before buying a sediment filter.
Knowing what contaminants are in your water will help you find the best sediment filter for well water.
Sediment Type
There is a wide variation of the types of sediment and not all the best sediment filters can remove every sediment thoroughly. A sediment filter is great as the first line of defense and using it with a whole house filtration system will allow you to remove most of the large particles in your water.
Getting a whole home filter system that has a sediment filter with a high micron rating and extra stages is the ideal choice, especially for anyone that is unsure of the best filter to use according to the sediment content.
Water Pressure
To figure out the water pressure in your home, you can buy a pressure gauge online. The general water pressure should be between 40 and 60 PSI. It is essential to check your water pressure and make sure that it is suitable to install a sediment filter before actually installing one.
Not all water filters are designed to withstand high pressure and as a result, it could lead to the damaging of the internal system. On the other hand, if water pressure is low, it will affect the water flow rate of your home. Since the water has to pass through layers of filters, you will have to expect the flow rate of your water to be lower after you install the sediment filter.
Don’t worry if your water pressure is above 60 PSI because some filters are made to withstand up to 150 PSI. You don’t necessarily need to lower the water pressure, just make sure the filter you’re getting can withstand your water pressure.
Capacity of Filter
The capacity of a filter refers to the maximum output of the system or the number of months the filter can last. It is an important factor to consider when you’re searching for sediment filters for well water.
After the filter reaches the maximum filter capacity, you will need to replace the filter with a new one or it will be clogged with sediment and your water flow rate will be drastically lowered. As a general guide for minimal maintenance, you should get a sediment filter with at least 6 months of service life.
Micron Rating
When it comes to micron rating for a filter, the lower it is, the better. Micron ratings are the size of the filter pores and with a lower micron rating, the pores will be smaller. For example, a filter with a 1-micron rating is more effective at removing smaller sediment than a 5-micron one.
Normally, a sediment filter doesn’t go below 5-micron because the purpose is to filter out the large sediment and the filters that follow after will remove the smaller sediments. Normally, the best sediment filters have micron ratings between 5 and 30. If you want to fully remove the smaller contaminants, we would highly recommend whole house water filtration systems, where the sediment filter will be the first stage.
Installation and Maintenance
The next thing to consider from the best sediment filter for well water is the ease of installation and maintenance. Most filters nowadays are designed to allow homeowners to install it on their own without much skills needed. However, for bigger filtration systems, the sediment filters will come with several parts that you have to worry about and it would be recommended to hire a plumber.
As for maintenance, most filters will come with a user manual that provides you with the information you need to maintain the system. Just make sure to stock up on the replacement filters so you can change it whenever you need to. Also, you should check to see if the filter requires flushing periodically and do so to keep the filter functioning in good condition.
Extra Features
Some filters come with extra features to enhance performance and longevity. One of the examples would be a flushable sediment filter. Backwashing and spin-down sediment filters allow the water to pass through efficiently by clearing out the build-up sediment. You should take note that not all filters have a backflushing element and the filter media can be damaged if cleaned by hand.
Warranty
Having a filter that comes with a warranty shows the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality and durability of their product. It also assures you that if anything happens to your filter, you can get a new one from them. Most manufacturers give a warranty for a few years, especially for whole house systems. But not all warranties are made the same, so be sure to read the fine print.
Best Whole House Well Water Sediment Filter in 2022
Now that you have a better understanding of sediment filters, let’s dive deep into the list of the 7 best sediment filters for well water.
1. iSpring WSP-50SL Spin Down Sediment Water Filter for Well
Specifications
- 20 GPM
- Max pressure: 90
- Filter type: Spin-down
- Stainless steel mesh screen
Features
The first on the list is the iSpring WSP-50SL Spin Down Sediment Water Filter, a filter that excels at its job to large sediment like dirt, sand and rust. By filtering these elements, the sediment filter, iSpring WSP, can extend the life of your plumbing and appliances from severe damages. The filtering process is done through a stainless-steel mesh filter that traps the impurities.
The iSpring WSP-50SL spin-down sediment filter comes with a valve, making this a reusable and flushable sediment filter. With this valve, you can expect this spin-down sediment filter to be easy to clean and last for a long time. You will know when you need to clear the filter thanks to the stainless-steel screen that allows you to see if the filter is filled with contaminants.
In addition, this unit can handle between 20 to 90 PSI so you won’t have to worry about your water pressure, as long as it’s not exceedingly high. The spin-down filter comes with various choices in micron size, allowing you to choose the ideal micron size for your intended use.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for something made with top-grade materials. Unlike some filters that are made of plastic and PVC, this unit is built with stainless steel, so you can expect a durable product.
You want a sediment filter that is easy to maintain. With the valve installed for flushing purposes, you can easily clean out the filter when it’s clogged with sediments.
You fancy the choices of micron size. This water filter is offered with a variety of selections in micron size, allowing you to choose the desired one for your intended filtering purpose.
You will not like this product if:
You don’t prefer flushing it manually. You are required to open the valve manually to clear out the filter and if you’re not a fan of it, then this might not be the best option for you.
2. Rusco 1-1/2” Spin Down Separator
Specifications
- 25 GPM
- Max pressure: 125
- Filter type: Spin-down
- Light and compact design
Features
Rusco has been a reputable manufacturer of sediment water filters since the 1970s and you can tell why they’re so popular from the products they are offering. One of the best examples would be this Rusco Spin Down Separator Sediment Water Filter. It has a small yet effective design to remove sediment and sand from the well water.
The Rusco Spin Down Separator Sediment Water Filter is made with plastic and polyester mesh to ensure it’s lightweight and without the use of metal, it wouldn’t corrode over time. Not only is this the best option for filtering rust, dirt and sand from well water, but it is also incredibly great for other uses like farming and gardening.
This Rusco Spin Down Separator Sediment Filter comes with a valve that makes it reusable and flushable while prolonging the lifespan of your appliances. When used outdoors, this Rusco spin-down sediment water filter can provide a clean water supply. With a high flow rate and maximum pressure, you will find this Rusco well water sediment filter compatible in most homes.
You will like this product if:
You enjoy having a versatile item. Thanks to the size of this product, not only is this the best choice for filtering well water, but it is also great for providing a pure water supply outdoors.
You are a fan of the filter housing design. The filter housing is transparent, allowing you to monitor the filter.
You are looking for a filter that removes most impurities. This product by Rusco is amazing at removing big sand sediment and metals from the water.
You will not like this product if:
You are not a fan that it gets blocked fairly quickly. Since it gets blocked quicker than some filters, you will need to clear it more often.
3. Culligan WH-HD200-C
Specifications
- 10 GPM
- Max pressure: 100
- Filter type: Cartridge
- Reinforced plastic filter housing
Features
Next up, we have an impressive filtration system by none other than Culligan. They are known for making reliable filters and the Culligan WH-HD200-C is one of their best options for well water filtration. The Culligan WH-HD200-C whole house water filter has a 1-inch inlet/outlet and an automatic operation that ensures consistent filtration and water flow.
One thing that you will realise about this sediment filter is that there is no mounting bracket. The reason for that is because the bracket is integrated with the filter housing, so you can install it almost anywhere on the waterline. Plus, this design is not only able to remove sediment, but it can also get rid of metals and chlorine.
Unlike some of its rivals, this product comes with a few other items that the competitors are not offering. These items include a filter life indicator, housing wrench, bypass valve and more. Additionally, you can expect it to be extremely durable because the filter housing is built with extremely strong material.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for a certified sediment filter. The housing of the Culligan water filter is certified by WQA, so it would be the best choice if that’s what you’re looking for too.
You enjoy the convenience that it offers. As long as the filter cartridge is by Culligan, it would most likely be compatible with the housing and it’s convenient because you won’t need to spend too much time looking for the right filter cartridge.
You prefer something at a lower price range. The price of this sediment filter is cheaper than filters that are similar to it.
You will not like this product if:
You are expecting perfect operation with the indicator. The LED indicator for the filter life can be faulty sometimes.
4. Express Water Whole House
Specifications
- 15 GPM
- Max pressure: 80
- Filter type: Cartridge
- 1-year warranty
Features
When it comes to the best filter systems, Express Water is definitely at the top of its competitors. You would expect a great system from them and that is exactly what they are providing you with their whole house sediment water filter.
Firstly, the sturdy construction gives you peace of mind because you won’t have to worry about it breaking during operation. It even has an assurance for 1-year which shows how confident the manufacturer is with their product.
Along with its 3 stages of the filtration process, you can expect a reduction of harmful contaminants and heavy metals such as chlorine, iron, lead and many more from your water. The replacement of the filter cartridge is also made easy and you only need to change it after 100,000 gallons of water output or in 6 to 12 months, depending on the frequency of use and water quality.
You will like this product if:
You are planning to eliminate more than just sediment from your water. Not only is this a sediment filter for well water, but it can also remove unwanted elements such as chlorine and heavy metals from the water.
You fancy a safe construction that doesn’t add contaminants. The whole system is built with safe materials that don’t add any harmful contaminants to your water.
You prefer something easy to maintain. Maintaining it is easy because each filter is marked so you can know what goes in there.
You will not like this product if:
You don’t like the gauges connected to the system. The gauges are used to measure the PSI and even though it is quite useful, it is not securely connected to the system and it might be a deal-breaker for you.
5. AO Smith Whole House Water Sediment Filter
Specifications
- 4.0 GPM
- Max pressure: 100
- Filter type: Cartridge
- Built-in pressure relief button
Features
For anyone that is afraid that their water flow rate will be lowered, the AO Smith whole house water filtration system would be the best option. Not only does this whole house filter have a decent flow rate, but it also has a 5-micron filter which is more than enough for sediment filtration.
The NSF certified AO Smith filtration system is effective in reducing sediment in well water, including dirt, rust and sand, ensuring your water is free from sediment. The maintenance of this system is quite simple thanks to the use of a shut-off valve, diverting the water away so you don’t need to stop your water supply.
When you buy this system, it comes with all the things you need for installation, making this unit easy to install. Some of the things that are included are the initial sediment filter replacement, a housing for the filter and the housing wrench. With basic plumbing skills, the installation would be a walk in the park.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for sediment filters with a small micron size. This AO Smith water filter system has a 5-micron filter that is effective in removing unwanted impurities from your water, and you can extend the life of your plumbing system and appliances.
You want something that is easy to install. This water filter system comes with all the things you need for installation and all you need to have is some simple plumbing skills.
You are looking for a cheaper sediment filter system for well water. The price of this system is low compared to the others.
You will not like this product if:
You prefer a strong and sturdy mounting bracket. Unfortunately, some customers find the mounting bracket to be slightly weak.
6. EcoPure EPWHE No Mess Home Water Sediment Water Filter
Specifications
- 9.0 GPM
- Max pressure: 100
- Filter type: Cartridge
- Patented Flow and Capture Technology (FACT)
Features
If you’re someone that doesn’t like to get their hands dirty when performing maintenance for their appliances, then the EcoPure EPWHE No Mess Home Water Sediment Filter would be the perfect option. Thanks to the encapsulated filter chamber, you won’t need to touch the filter media when changing the filters, which means you can keep your hands clean.
Not only does the 5-micron filter remove sediment particles, but it can also ensure the removal of chlorine taste and odor. With its small micron sediment filter, it ensures that your appliances and plumbing are protected from contaminants.
Unlike most sediment water filters, the EcoPure EPWHE filter comes with an automatic bypass, allowing you to change the filter quickly and without any tools. It also means you won’t have to shut off the water supply.
You will like this product if:
You want to change the filters without getting your hands filthy. Thanks to how the filter is designed in a chamber, you can easily replace the filters without touching them.
You are looking for a small water filtration system. The system is decently compact, allowing you to install it almost anywhere, even next to a water heater.
You prefer a durable filter. This filter for your water can last for 6 months before you need to install a new cartridge.
You will not like this product if:
You want it to filter the odor from sulphur. Although this system is effective in getting rid of the taste and smell of chlorine, it is not great for filtering the odor and taste of sulphur.
7. Culligan WH-S200-C Whole House Filter
Specifications
- 4.0 GPM
- Max pressure: 125
- Filter type: Cartridge
- Clear housing
Features
The final sediment filter for well water is the Culligan WH-S200-C Whole House Sediment Filter, which is similar to the previous one that was mentioned. Instead of a 1-inch inlet/outlet, the Culligan WH-S200-C uses a ¾ inches inlet/outlet size. Not only is this an impressive well water filter, but it is also great for city water and municipal water.
The best feature about this whole house sediment water filter is that it can withstand up to 125 PSI of water pressure. This means you won’t have to worry even if you have a high water pressure in your home. In addition, this water sediment filter is able to filter 8,000 to 16,000 gallons of water, which is best for a small to medium size family.
With the use of a bypass valve, you won’t have to shut-off the water supply when you’re changing the filters, which means you can still access the well and city water. Plus, you will also know when you need to change the filters thanks to the transparent housing.
You will like this product if:
You are looking for a well water sediment filter that can handle highly pressurized water. This system is designed to handle up to 125 PSI so there’s nothing you have to worry about as long as your water pressure is below that.
You are expecting a constant water supply at all times. Thanks to the integrated bypass valve, you can get a constant water supply even when you’re doing maintenance.
You will not like this product if:
You are expecting the whole construction to be very sturdy. Unfortunately, the plastic threads on the system makes it look weak.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is well sediment bad for your health?
This will depend on the type of sediment and the amount of sediment. There are some that are dangerous when ingested in a high volume at once, which is why it’s good to have a sediment filter to make the water safe for consumption.
Are 5 microns or a 1-micron sediment filter better?
When it comes to activated carbon filters, a larger micron rating is not that great. However, when we’re talking about the removal of large and heavy sediment, then a sediment filter with 5 microns paired with further filtration with lower microns will be best.
Should I get reusable spin-down sediment filters or fine micron filters?
If there is a high amount of sediments in the well water, then reusable spin-down sediment filters would be better.
This is because spin-down filters are designed to block big particles of sediment that would normally clog the filter, turning it ineffective. A spin-down filter pushes the dirt particles to the bottom which you can release by turning open a valve.
What is the lifespan of a sediment filter?
This is heavily dependent on the frequency of use and the quality of your water. Generally, it would be 3,000 gallons of water or 6 months. However, there are some better filters out there that can last longer. You will know when you need to change the filter judging by the slowing down of your water flow rate.
When should I change my sediment filter?
Normally, it would be once in 6 to 9 months, but if your system is better, it can last for a year or longer. The best way to know when you need to change the filter will be based on your water flow. If it starts slowing down, then it’s time for you to change the filter.
Are sediment filters capable of removing iron?
Some sediment water filter can remove iron from your house water filtration system. However, the sole use of sediment water filter is insufficient if you’re experiencing a particularly high level of iron. The house sediment filter system could trap rust particles but incapable of removing iron particles which are soluble in water. Hence, if you’re wishing to remove iron entirely using your water filter then it is best to use home sediment filter alongside with a whole house water filter so the features are more comprehensive collectively.
