Whole-House Water Filtration System Cost
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
1. Cost
- Average Total Cost: $600–$4,800
- Labor Costs: $300–$500
- Permit Costs: $50–$500
- Water Testing: $30–$100 (DIY kits) or free via local government programs
2. Cost by Filtration System Type
| System | Average Cost (Materials + Installation) | |---------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Ultraviolet (UV) | $500–$1,500 | | Chemical Injector | $600–$1,500 | | Carbon Filter | $800–$1,500 | | Ionization | $1,000–$2,000 | | Well Water Filter | $1,000–$4,000 | | Water Distiller | $1,000–$4,500 | | Reverse Osmosis | $1,000–$4,800 |
3. Additional Factors Affecting Costs
- Water Testing: Identifies contaminants to select the right system.
- Filtration Stages: More stages often mean higher costs but not always better filtration—effectiveness depends on the brand and design.
- Plumbing Adjustments: $45–$200/hour for a plumber if modifications are needed.
- Electrical Work: $50–$100/hour if the system requires wiring.
4. Ongoing Maintenance and Repairs
| Maintenance Task | Cost Range | |--------------------------------|----------------------| | Filter Replacement | $50–$300 | | UV Lamp Replacement | $25–$100 | | Leak Fix | $150–$300 | | Hose Replacement | $5–$50 | | Annual Maintenance | $50–$300/year |
Operating Costs: May include increased water or electricity usage, depending on the system type.
5. DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY: Suitable for experienced homeowners with plumbing knowledge.
- Professional Installation: Safer and ensures proper functionality. Costs $300–$500 on average.
6. Popular Add-Ons
| Add-On | Cost Range | |--------------------------------|----------------------| | Water Softener Installation | $200–$6,000 | | Kitchen Faucet Installation | $160–$360 | | Bathroom Faucet Replacement | $170–$360 | | Tankless Water Heater Addition | $1,400–$3,900 |
7. Money-Saving Tips
- Buy Direct: Purchase the system from a home improvement store to avoid markups.
- Choose Simpler Systems: Budget-friendly options like UV or chemical injector systems can work well.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare prices from at least three contractors.
- Maintain Regularly: Proper care reduces repair and replacement costs.
Is It Worth It?
Whole-house water filtration systems are ideal for homes with contaminated water or well water. They provide clean water throughout the house, improving water quality for drinking, cooking, bathing, and appliances. However, for drinking water alone, point-of-use filters may be a more cost-effective choice.
