Water Softeners and Air Filtration Systems - New to water filtering, what are my options for whole house?

Hello everyone,

I have bought a new house in PA with septic and well water. Since Im a city kid I was a bit nervous about this so I wanted to know my options for filtering the water for the whole house. I was thinking of a softner for the entire house and some kind of RO unit under the sink but under there is all PEX. Is there any options out there that would so the entire house including protecting against bacteria? I guess my goal is to make sure the water is softer, clean and filtered, sulfer and bacteria free and anything else I can get out of there.

While Im at it, should I get is tested by an inspector or is one of the local testing places good enough?

I have been where you are now. It's a real pain. I called 3 companies to give me tests and plans for my system. I listened and read the results and decided which system I thought was best for me. Strange that it wasn't the most expensive or the least expensive either. I used the companies results and recommendations and made my own decision. Question anything you do not understand. I am still not an expert but was happy with the system I had installed. Good luck.

First thing is to get your water tested so you know what you have in the water and what you want to remove. Check around for local water treatment companies and get them to come out, test your water, and make treatment recommendations, but not all at the same time on the same day :) .

Ask your neighbors about their water quality and who and what equipment they use. If neighbors recommend a local dealer give them a call. Treating well water can be more complicated and expensive then simply hard city water so don't be shocked at what they tell you. Water quality is important and a quality softener that will last a long time is not a cheap appliance.

See what issues they agree on as far as water quality and what they recommend as far as treatment and the cost with installation. Ask lots of questions and if they seem to answer over your head tell them what Denzel said in the movie Philadelphia ... "explain it to me like I am a 6 year old". Ask them for referrals from local customers and call them. Home owners tend to tell the truth to other home owners. If they're happy they will tell you and if they're not they'll tell you that also.

A softener for the whole house and an RO under the kitchen sink is a common installation. PEX is no problem for a competent installer. In some locations an installer has to be a licensed plumber and may have to pull a permit.

Ask LOTS of questions about the install so you COMPLETELY understand what goes where, how it fits, , how it works, and service access so you know EXACTLY what to expect when it's done. Surprises suck.

If you find a local company that treats you right, explains what they propose to your satisfaction, will provide service after the sale, and their price is reasonable give them consideration.

Bring your questions here for another opinion after talking to the local companies.

Thanks, that helps alot.