The cost of installing a home water filtration system typically ranges from $1,129 to $3,539, with a national average of $2,271. According to HomeAdvisor, whole-house systems can cost as much as $5,400, depending on the features and complexity.
This investment ensures clean, safe, and high-quality water for your household. Beyond providing safe and clean water, a filtration system improves tap water taste, protects pipes and appliances from mineral buildup, and enhances your family’s overall health.
We’ll explain in this guide to help you understand the expenses associated with various home water filtration systems.
Average Cost of a Home Water Filtration System
The cost of installing a home water filtration system typically ranges from $1,129 to $3,539, with a national average of $2,271. However, costs can vary widely based on the type of system and additional factors such as water quality, labor rates, and any necessary plumbing upgrades.
| System Type | Average Cost Installed |
| Whole-House Water Filtration | $850 – $5,400 |
| Under-Sink Water Filtration | $170 – $580 |
| Well-Water Filtration Systems | $800 – $4,000 |
| Portable/Mobile Water Purifiers | $50 – $430 (DIY Install) |
| Reverse Osmosis Systems (Whole-House) | $4,800 – $8,000 |
| Activated Carbon Filters | $300 – $900 |
| Ultraviolet Light Systems | $350 – $1,500 |
| Water Softeners | $600 – $5,000 |
Whole-House Water Filters
A whole-house, or point-of-entry, water filter provides filtered water to every tap in your home. These systems are ideal for those who want access to clean water throughout their household rather than at a single point like a kitchen faucet. They are particularly beneficial for homes with city water containing chlorine or its by-products or well water that may have iron and manganese, which can stain fixtures.
Stages of Whole-House Filtration
| Filtration Stage | Contaminants Removed | Cost Range |
| Single-Stage | Sediment (dirt, silt, clay) | $100–$200 |
| Two-Stage | Sediment, Chlorine, VOCs | $200–$350 |
| Three-Stage | Sediment, Chemicals, Heavy Metals | $400–$550 |
| Four or More Stages | Comprehensive contaminant removal | $1,000–$4,000 |
Whole-house water filtration systems can range from single-stage to six-stage filters:
- Single-Stage Filters: Remove basic contaminants like sediment (e.g., dirt, silt, clay). Costs range from $100 to $200.
- Two-Stage Filters: Include a sediment filter and an activated carbon filter for broader contaminant removal. Costs range from $200 to $350.
- Three-Stage Filters: Add another layer, such as UV filtration or oxidation, for enhanced protection. Costs range from $400 to $550.
- Four or More Stages: Comprehensive systems that remove everything from sediment and chemicals to bacteria and heavy metals. Costs range from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on customization and technology.
Popular Filter Technologies
- Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection: Kills bacteria and viruses.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): Removes up to 99% of contaminants.
- Activated Carbon: Absorbs chlorine, pesticides, and VOCs.
- Greensand: Filters out oxidized iron and manganese.
Installation costs for whole-house systems vary between $500 and $4,000, depending on the complexity of your home’s plumbing.
Factors Influencing Costs
1. System Type and Size
- Whole-House Systems: These systems filter water at the point it enters your home, ensuring all outlets dispense clean water. Costs range from $850 to $5,400.
- Point-of-Use Systems: These systems, like under-sink or countertop units, are designed to filter water at specific outlets. Costs range from $170 to $580.
2. Treatment Methods
| Treatment Method | Purpose | Cost Range |
| Reverse Osmosis (RO) | Removes metals, chemicals, pathogens | $300–$950 (under-sink) |
| – | – | $4,800–$8,000 (whole-house) |
| Ultraviolet (UV) Filtration | Kills bacteria and viruses | Up to $1,500 |
| Chemical Injection Systems | Removes iron, hydrogen sulfide | Up to $1,500 |
| Distillation Systems | Boils and condenses water to remove impurities | Up to $3,600 |
| Activated Carbon Filters | Absorbs chlorine, pesticides, VOCs | $180–$550 (under-sink) |
| $300–$900 (whole-house) | ||
| Water Softeners | Removes calcium, magnesium (hard water) | $600–$5,000 |
The type of treatment method used in your water filtration system significantly impacts the cost and the contaminants it removes.
Some common water treatment methods and their costs:
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): The costliest method, reverse osmosis removes most metals, chemicals, and pathogens. Costs range from $300 to $950 for under-sink units and $4,800 to $8,000 for whole-house systems.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Filtration: Designed to kill bacteria and viruses, UV water filtration units cost up to $1,500 for both whole-house and under-sink systems.
- Chemical Injection Systems: Often used for well water, these systems cost up to $1,500 and help remove iron and hydrogen sulfide.
- Distillation Systems: These systems boil and condense water to remove impurities. A full water distillation system can cost up to $3,600.
- Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb chlorine, pesticides, and certain chemicals. Costs range from $180 to $550 for under-sink systems and $300 to $900 for whole-house units.
- Water Softeners: Address hard water issues by removing calcium and magnesium. Costs range from $600 to $5,000.
3. Additional Installation Costs
Labor Costs
The labor to install a whole-house water filtration system typically ranges from $200 to $600. In contrast, installing an under-sink filtration system costs between $120 and $300, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Qualified professionals who can install filtration systems include plumbers, manufacturer-certified specialists, water-treatment installation companies, or contractors from home improvement stores. Labor costs vary by the installer’s experience, geographical location, and the complexity of the project.
Plumbing Updates
Additional piping or modifications may add $150 to $850.
Electrical Work
Installing an outlet for filtration systems may cost $150 to $350.
Permits
Plumbing permits may cost $30 to $500, depending on local regulations.
4. Maintenance and Replacement Costs
- Annual Maintenance: Costs range from $50 to $300, including filter replacements.
- Filter Replacements:
- Reverse Osmosis Filters: $20 to $250.
- Carbon Filters: $15 to $65.
- UV Lamp Replacement: $20 to $100.
Cost by Water Source
- Well-Water Filtration: Systems for well water often require multiple filters (e.g., UV, carbon, and sediment filters) and cost between $800 and $4,000.
- Rainwater Filtration: Costs range from $350 to $2,400, depending on pre-storage and post-storage filtration methods.
How to Save on Costs
- Test Your Water: Conduct water quality tests (costing $30 to $500) to determine necessary filtration types.
- Choose Energy-Efficient Systems: Reduce ongoing operational costs by selecting efficient systems.
- Consult Professionals: Professional advice can help you avoid over-investing in unnecessary filters.
- Look for Rebates: Check for local incentives or rebates for water filtration systems.
Conclusion
Investing in a home water filtration system is a practical way to ensure safe and clean water for your household. While costs vary based on system type and installation complexity, the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment. Consult with professionals to select the right system for your needs and budget.
Source:
- https://homeguide.com/costs/water-filtration-system-cost
- https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/environmental-safety/install-a-water-treatment-and-purification-system/
