Water Filtration Systems: Choosing the Best Solution for Your Property
Clean water. It's the kind of thing you don’t think about—until you have to. Maybe you’ve noticed a chemical taste, cloudy water, or white residue on your faucets. Or perhaps you’re running a business and need every drop to be spotless for your customers. Whatever your reason, making the right choice about water filtration isn’t just about health; it’s about peace of mind.
At Sky High Plumbing, we help homeowners and businesses tackle water quality challenges every day. We understand both the urgency (no one wants to wait when the water smells off) and the long-term benefits a proper system brings.
Why Filter Your Water? 💧
Imagine drinking from a glass, only to notice a strange odor or a film on top. Unpleasant, right? But it’s more than taste or looks. Water can carry minerals, chlorine, bacteria, and even lead. These contaminants may sneak in from old pipes, local infrastructure, or natural sources.
Key Benefits
- Healthier Living: Clean water keeps you and your family safer from bacteria, lead, and chemical exposure.
- Appliance Longevity: Hard water minerals shorten the life of dishwashers, water heaters, and even coffee makers.
- Better Taste: Filtered water tastes fresher, whether you’re brewing coffee or serving clients at your restaurant.
- Emergency Plumbing Readiness: Reliable filtration means fewer surprises—like sudden leaks caused by mineral buildup.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets guidelines for safe drinking water, but not every home or business meets these standards without extra help. That’s where water filtration systems step in.
Filtration System Types Compared
Not all filters are created equal. Choosing the right one is like picking the right tool for a job—each has a purpose. Here’s what you’ll find on the market:
Whole House Filtration
Think of this as a security guard at the front gate. It treats every drop entering your property, protecting pipes, showers, and drinking taps. Ideal for families with sensitive skin, lots of appliances, or anyone living in areas with high sediment or chlorine.
- Pros: Covers all water points, protects plumbing, reduces scale.
- Cons: Higher upfront investment, needs professional installation.
Under-Sink Filters
This is your under-the-radar specialist. Installed beneath a single sink (kitchen or breakroom), it focuses on one faucet—perfect for drinking and cooking.
- Pros: Direct access to filtered water, easy filter changes, budget-friendly.
- Cons: Only treats one source, not appliances.
Commercial Filtration
Running a business? Think bigger. Commercial systems cater to restaurants, offices, and retail spaces. These are built for volume and compliance with health codes.
- Pros: High capacity, custom options, reliable performance.
- Cons: Costlier, requires ongoing maintenance.
Other Types to Consider
- Reverse Osmosis: Excellent at removing even the smallest contaminants.
- Activated Carbon: Great for taste and odor, less effective for minerals.
- UV Purifiers: Neutralize bacteria, pair with other systems for full coverage.
How to Choose the Right System
Buying a water filter isn’t like picking out a new shower head. You need to understand your water’s story.
Start With a Water Test
Before you decide, get your water tested. Many counties offer tests, or you can ask Sky High Plumbing to help. Testing reveals:
- Hardness (mineral content)
- Chlorine/chloramine levels
- Presence of lead or bacteria
Consider Your Needs
- Household Size: More people means more water use.
- Appliances: Water heaters, washing machines, and boilers all benefit from softer, cleaner water.
- Special Concerns: Immune-compromised family, infants, or sensitive business operations.
Match the System
- If your test reveals high sediment: Look for whole house or sediment-specific filters.
- For taste and odor: Activated carbon under-sink filters shine.
- For bacteria or well water: Combine UV with other filtration.
Sky High Plumbing reviews every detail—your water test, usage, and future needs—to help you find the right match. No guesswork.
Installation & Maintenance Tips 🛠️
A filter is only as good as its upkeep. Think of it like changing the oil in your car—skip it, and things break down.
When to Install Yourself
Some under-sink or faucet-mounted filters are DIY-friendly. If you’re handy with basic plumbing tools and can follow instructions, this might work for you.
When to Call a Pro
Whole house or commercial systems? Always call a professional. These tie into main water lines, require code compliance, and must be leak-tight. Improper installation risks property damage, leaks, or even voiding warranties.
Maintenance Basics
- Change Filters Regularly: Most need replacing every 6–12 months.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect connections after installation and during filter changes.
- Sanitize Periodically: Some systems need annual sanitization to prevent bacteria.
Sky High Plumbing offers preventative maintenance—so you don’t have to remember every date or detail.
Quick Safety Checklist
- Read manufacturer instructions before touching your plumbing.
- Shut off the main water supply before installation or filter changes.
- Wear gloves when handling filters to avoid contamination.
- Confirm fittings are tight, but don’t overtighten—cracked plastic leaks.
- Dispose of used filters according to local regulations (some contain hazardous materials).
Water Filtration: DIY or Call Sky High Plumbing?
Let’s be honest: Not every job fits in a Saturday afternoon. Under-sink models? Maybe. Whole house or commercial-grade? Leave it to those with the right tools and training.
When DIY Works
- Simple cartridge swaps
- Faucet-mounted filter replacements
When to Call Us
- Installing systems on main lines
- Commercial or high-volume set-ups
- Water quality troubleshooting (unusual tastes, odors, or leaks)
Trying to save a few bucks now can lead to costly repairs down the road. Sky High Plumbing’s professionals handle everything safely and in line with local building codes—so your property stays protected.
What Sky High Plumbing Does When We Arrive
Expect a methodical, safety-first approach. Here’s our step-by-step process:
- Assessment: We start with your concerns and review your water test results.
- System Recommendation: Based on your needs, we show you options that fit your budget and water profile.
- Professional Installation: Our team ensures leak-free connections, proper pressure, and code compliance.
- Post-Install Testing: We verify the system works, check for leaks, and answer your questions.
- Maintenance Guidance: We’ll set you up for success with filter schedules and maintenance reminders.
We stay updated on plumbing codes (referencing standards from the International Plumbing Code and local authorities), so you don’t have to.
Prevention & Maintenance
A water filter is a long-term investment. Like any investment, a little care pays off. Here’s how to keep your system running strong:
- Follow a Replacement Schedule: Mark your calendar or ask us to remind you.
- Inspect for Leaks: Especially after filter changes or plumbing work.
- Flush the System: Some filters need flushing to prevent buildup—ask your installer.
- Annual Checkups: Have Sky High Plumbing perform annual maintenance on whole house or commercial systems.
- Know the Warning Signs: Drop in water pressure, strange taste, or visible residue mean it’s time for service.
Costs & Time Factors
You want clean water—but what about the price tag and timeline?
- Under-Sink Filters: Typically affordable, quick to install (1–2 hours).
- Whole House Systems: Higher initial cost, more complex (4–8 hours for installation).
- Commercial Setups: Custom pricing, may require weekend or off-hours work to avoid business disruption.
Maintenance costs depend on filter type and usage volume. Budget for filter replacements and occasional professional checkups. Remember: Proper installation protects your investment.
When It’s an Emergency
Sometimes, water quality issues become urgent—fast. Maybe you spot rust in your water, notice a sudden drop in pressure, or smell rotten eggs (a sign of bacteria or gas). This isn’t just a nuisance; it can signal pipe corrosion, sewer line issues, or a failing water heater.
Sky High Plumbing responds quickly to emergency plumbing calls. If you’re searching for "Sink Repair near you" or have a filtration system malfunction, don’t wait. Acting fast can prevent bigger headaches—like leaks, property damage, or health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should filters be changed?
Most need changing every 6–12 months. It depends on your water quality and system type. Some commercial or high-use systems may need more frequent attention.
Can I install a whole house filter myself?
It’s not recommended. These systems require cutting into your main water line and ensuring code compliance. Mistakes can lead to leaks, water damage, or even fines.
What if my water tastes bad even after installing a filter?
This can happen if the filter is overdue for replacement, or if you need a different filter type. Sometimes, multiple filters (like carbon plus reverse osmosis) are needed. Contact Sky High Plumbing for troubleshooting.
Do water filtration systems remove lead?
Some do—especially reverse osmosis and certain carbon block filters. Always check the manufacturer’s certification (look for NSF/ANSI 53 for lead removal).
Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌦️
Water quality isn’t static. It changes with the seasons, local construction, or weather events.
- Winter: Frozen pipes can crack and introduce contaminants.
- Spring: Heavy rains may overload municipal treatment plants or private wells.
- Construction Nearby: Can disturb old pipes and sediment.
Regular checkups and flexible solutions help you stay ahead of these changes—especially for businesses that can’t afford downtime.
Making a confident choice about your water filtration doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Sky High Plumbing listens, tests, installs, and maintains—so you can focus on what matters most. For clean, safe water and emergency plumbing that’s always there when you need it:
Call Sky High Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at 877-730-8216 .