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About This Guide
So far, we’ve tested and compared 7 whole house water filters, with more to follow. For each system, we:
- Hands-on experience: Set up, used, and maintained it.
- Filtration effectiveness: Sent unfiltered and filtered tap water samples to a professional lab for analysis in order to determine real-life contaminant reduction capabilities. Plus, we checked for NSF/ANSI certifications and other test data.
- More testing: Performed taste & odor tests.
- All other product aspects: Considered initial + long-term costs, warranties, additional features, frequent customer complaints, etc.
DIY Systems Only!
This guide covers DIY whole house water filters only – systems you can buy directly and install yourself, with no appointments, in-home consultations, or professional installation required.
Our Top 4 Whole House Water Filters at a Glance
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USWS Bodyguard Plus (Incl. Interceptor Pre-Filter) |
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| USWS Bodyguard Fluoride Removal Filter |
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| SpringWell CF |
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| Kind E-1000 |
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7 Whole House Water Filters Compared
Full Screen On 
| Whole House Water Filter | USWS Bodyguard Plus (Incl. Interceptor Pre-Filter) |
USWS Bodyguard Fluoride Removal Filter | SpringWell CF | Kind E-1000 | Express Water 3-Stage Essential (WH-300RS-CGS) | Waterdrop WHF3T-PG | Aquasana Rhino WH-1000 & Rhino Max Flow WH-1010 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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| Type | Media Tank | Media Tank | Media Tank | Cartridge-Based | Cartridge-Based | Cartridge-Based | Media Tank | ||||||||||||||||||||
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| Final Rating | 4.71/5.00 | 4.74/5.00 | 4.64/5.00 | 4.56/5.00 | 4.35/5.00 | 4.31/5.00 | 3.92/5.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Verdict (Best For) | #1 for More Demanding City Water Supplies Improving Overall Water Quality, Taste, and Odor |
#1 for Fluoride Reduction | #1 for Standard City Water and Easy Installation Improving Overall Water Quality, Taste, and Odor |
#1 Cartridge-Based Improving Overall Water Quality, Taste, and Odor |
Solid Budget Pick Improving Overall Water Quality, Taste, and Odor |
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| Primarily Removes | -Chlorine/Chloramine -DBPs, PFAS, Pesticides, and Other Organics -Certain Metals Incl. Lead -Sediment |
-Fluoride | -Chlorine/Chloramine -DBPs, PFAS, Pesticides, and Other Organics -Certain Metals Incl. Lead -Sediment |
-Chlorine/Chloramine -DBPs, PFAS, Pesticides, and Other Organics -Certain Metals Incl. Lead -Sediment |
-Chlorine -DBPs, PFAS, Pesticides, and Other Organics -Certain Metals Incl. Lead -Sediment |
-Chlorine -DBPs, PFAS, Pesticides, and Other Organics -Certain Metals Incl. Lead -Sediment |
-Chlorine -DBPs, PFAS, Pesticides, and Other Organics -Certain Metals Incl. Lead -Sediment |
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| Comment | USWS Bodyguard Plus or Another Carbon-Based Whole House Filter Is Recommended for Pre-Treatment | Not for Chloramine! | Not for Chloramine! | Not for Chloramine! | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Buy Here | uswatersystems.com | uswatersystems.com | springwellwater.com | kindwater.com | expresswater.com (Deluxe Version Only) | waterdropfilter.com | Regular Size (Up to 2.5 Baths): aquasana.com | ||||||||||||||||||||
| OR | OR | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon | Max Flow (Up to 6 Baths): aquasana.com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Discount Code | BESTRO-5 – 5% Off! |
BESTRO-5 – 5% Off! |
BOS5OFF – 5% Off! |
KIND50 – $50 Off! |
WH3TBOS – 5% Off on Top of Most Waterdrop Sales! |
AQBOS50 – Up to 50% Off! |
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| Additional Link(s) | Regular Bodyguard System w/o Backwashing: uswatersystems.com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Score Overview | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| FiltrationFiltration score combines our lab results and taste testing with an evaluation of the filter media. | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 4.75/5.00 | 4.75/5.00 | 4.25/5.00 | 4.25/5.00 | 4.25/5.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Usability | 5.00/5.00 | 4.60/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 4.60/5.00 | 4.70/5.00 | 4.25/5.00 | 4.15/5.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| CostsCost scores reflect overall value for money rather than price alone. | 3.55/5.00 | 4.08/5.00 | 3.95/5.00 | 3.96/5.00 | 4.30/5.00 | 4.56/5.00 | 2.70/5.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Full Analysis | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| PriceNo short-term sales. (Sep 5, 2025) | $1,449 to $1,949 (Depending on the Size You Pick) | $1,299 to $2,109 (Depending on the Size You Pick) | $1,072.98 to $1,675.99 (Depending on the Size You Pick) |
$788.80 | $423.09 | $369.99 | $999 or $1,399 (Depending on the Size You Pick) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Sizes | -10 gpm (Up to 3 Baths) -15 gpm (Up to 6 Baths) -20 gpm (Up to 8 Baths) |
-10 gpm (Up to 3 Baths) -15 gpm (Up to 6 Baths) -20 gpm (Up to 8 Baths) |
-CF1: 9 gpm (1-3 Baths) -CF4: 12 gpm (4-6 Baths) -CF+: 20 gpm (7+ Baths) |
-Up to 15 gpm (Up to 6 Baths) | -Up to 15 gpm Peak Flow (Up to 6 Baths) | -Up to 15 gpm Peak Flow (Up to 6 Baths) | -Rhino WH-1000: 7 gpm (Up to 2.5 Baths) -Rhino Max Flow WH-1010: 14 gpm (Up to 6 Baths) |
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| Lab Results | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | 5.00/5.00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Taste Test | Extremely Clean | Didn’t Affect Taste | Great Improvement but Not 100% Perfect | Great Improvement but Not 100% Perfect | Great Improvement but Not 100% Perfect | Great Improvement but Not 100% Perfect | Great Improvement but Not 100% Perfect | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Odor Test | No Odor | Didn’t Affect Odor | No Odor | No Odor | No Odor | No Odor | No Odor | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Setup Process Incl. System Startup | -Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Straightforward as Long as You Follow the Detailed Instructions (Manual Includes Photos) -Smart Valve Was Quick and Easy to Program (Can Be Connected to Android/Apple Device Via Bluetooth Using the Free Legacy View App but We Used the Valve Itself) -Tutorial Video on YouTube |
-Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Straightforward as Long as You Follow the Detailed Instructions (Manual Includes Photos) -System Came Pre-Filled and Some of the Installation Steps Had Already Been Completed so We Didn’t Know Where to Continue at First |
-Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Straightforward as Long as You Follow the Clear Instructions (Manual Includes Photos -Plastic Cap of Pressure Relief on Sediment Filter Housing Snapped Off While Tightening but We Were Able to Put on a Replacement Brass Cap -Plastic Mounting Bracket of Sediment Post-Filter Feels Lower Quality When Compared to a Metal Bracket -Tutorial Video on YouTube |
-Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Pretty Easy and Simpler Than With Systems Featuring a Large Media Tank -Instructions Aren’t Bad but Lacked Corresponding Photos for Installation Steps (There Are Examples of Fully Installed Units) -Fairly Lightweight and Doesn’t Take Up Too Much Space -Everything Came in 1 Smaller Box and Was Packaged Very Well (Easier to Handle Than Other Systems) -Package Included Lag Bolts and Tapcon Screws |
-Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Pretty Easy and Simpler Than With Systems Featuring a Large Media Tank -Instructions Are Pretty Clear Including Photos, Except There Was No Guide to Change Water Flow Direction From Left to Right -Pre-Applied Stickers for “1st Stage”, “2nd Stage” & “3rd Stage” Are No Longer Valid Due to Our Change in Flow Direction -No Mounting Screws Included and Only 2 Anchor Points Which Works Fine but Seemed Insufficient at First -Tutorial Video on YouTube |
-Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Pretty Easy and Simpler Than With Systems Featuring a Large Media Tank -Informative Instructions Including Some Sketches but No Photos or Labels for the 3 Cartridges, so You Must Check Online to Identify Them and There’s No Warning That Filters Must Be Installed in a Specific Sequence -Only 2 Anchor Points for Mounting Which Works Fine but Seemed Insufficient at First -Filters Weren’t Wrapped in Plastic |
-Generally DIY-Friendly but You Need to Know What You’re Doing, Plan Ahead, and Have the Right Tools -Straightforward (With Some Extra Steps) as Long as You Follow the Clear Step-by-Step Instructions (Manual Includes Sketches but Must Be Printed After Scanning the QR Code on the Unit) -2 Plastic Nipples Were Already Glued to the Left Slip Union but Would Not Thread into the Left Port of the Main Filter Stage or the Pre-Filter (Though They Fit Other Ports), so We Used Our Own Metal Fittings Which Worked Fine -We Skipped the Included Shutoff Valve Since We Already Had One Installed and All the Plastic Components Don’t Appear Very Solid (the Base Unit Does) -Part of the Valve Connecting the 2 Main Tanks Appeared Slightly Damaged but It Did Not Cause Leaks -Tutorial Video on YouTube |
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| Everyday Use | -Straightforward and Without Issues -We Were Impressed by How Clean the Water Felt When Showering + We Saw Skin Improvements -App Allows You to Monitor Current Water Flow, Water Usage/Peak Flow Today, Days Until Next Backwash, Average Daily Water Usage, Total Regenerations, Total Gallons Treated -You Can Trigger Backwashing Cycles Using Valve/App |
-Straightforward and Without Issues | -Straightforward and Without Issues -Water Felt Cleaner When Showering |
-Straightforward and Without Issues -Water Felt Cleaner When Showering |
-Straightforward and Without Issues -Water Felt Cleaner When Showering |
-Straightforward and Without Issues -Water Felt Cleaner When Showering |
-Straightforward and Without Issues -Water Felt Cleaner When Showering |
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| Filter Cartridge & Filter Media Replacements | -Replacing the Filter Cartridge Is Straightforward -Replacing the Filter Media in the Large Tanks Shouldn’t Be Overly Complicated -App Helps to Better Estimate When It’s Time to Replace Filter Elements |
-Replacing the Filter Media in the Large Tanks Shouldn’t Be Overly Complicated | -Replacing the Filter Cartridge Is Straightforward -Replacing the Filter Media in the Large Tank Shouldn’t Be Overly Complicated |
-Replacing the Filter Cartridges Is Straightforward With Adequate Space Between Each Filter for the Wrench to Fit in | -Replacing the Filter Cartridges Is Straightforward With Adequate Space Between Each Filter for the Wrench to Fit in | -Replacing the Filter Cartridges Is Straightforward With Adequate Space Between Each Filter for the Small Yet Effective Wrench to Fit in | -Replacing the Filter Cartridges Is Straightforward -Instead of Replacing the Filter Media in the Large Tanks, You Replace the Tanks Themselves Which Is Straightforward and Time-Saving but Expensive |
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| Filter Media/Process | Interceptor Pre-Filter: 4.5″x10/20″, 5-Micron Pleated Outer Wrap With Pleated Nano Fiber Core (Mechanical + Ionical Filtration) Bodyguard Plus: 10/15/20 lbs Washed Quartz Gravel, 0.5/1.0 cu. ft. Coconut GAC, 0.5/1.0 cu. ft. Coconut Catalytic Carbon |
Washed Quartz Gravel, 1.0/1.5/2.0 cu. ft. Bone Char | KDF, Coconut Catalytic Carbon, Flex Bed (PP Beads, Churn Carbon Media to Prevent Channeling and Prolong Contact Time) Sediment Post-Filter: 5-Micron Melt-Blown, 4.5″x10″ |
Stage 1: 5-Micron Pleated Sediment Filter, 4.5″x20″ Stage 2: Coconut Catalytic Carbon Block, 4.5″x20″ |
Stage 1: 5-Micron PP Sediment Filter, 4.5″x20″ Stage 2: 5-Micron Coconut Granular Activated Carbon, 4.5″x20″ Stage 3: 5-Micron Coconut Activated Carbon Block, 4.5″x20″ |
Stage 1: 5-Micron Grooved PP Sediment Filter, 4.5″x20″ Stage 2: GAC + KDF Composite Filter, 4.5″x20″ Stage 3: Carbon Fiber + 5-Micron PP + GAC Composite Filter, 4.5″x20″ |
Stage 1: Sediment Pre-Filter, 2.5×20″ Stages 2+3: Dual-Tank Design Combining KDF (Top Tank, Upflow) With GAC (Bottom Tank, Downflow) Stage 4: Polishing Post-Filter, 2.5″x10″ |
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| Summary of NSF/ANSI Certs + Other Testing for Filtration Effectiveness | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications or Third-Party Testing for Contaminant Reduction | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications or Third-Party Testing for Contaminant Reduction | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications or Third-Party Testing for Contaminant Reduction | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications or Third-Party Testing for Contaminant Reduction | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications or Third-Party Testing for Contaminant Reduction | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications or Third-Party Testing for Contaminant Reduction | -No NSF/ANSI Certifications for Contaminant Reduction -Third-Party Testing for a Single Contaminant (Chlorine) but Tested Against Entire 1,000,000 gal Filter Life |
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| NSF/ANSI Certs for Filtration Effectiveness (# of Impurities Certified) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NSF/ANSI + Other 3rd-Party Testing for Filtration Effectiveness (# of Impurities Tested) Note: Not Always Performed Throughout Entire Filter Life |
42 (1) – Performance Data Sheet | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Flow Direction | Downflow (Backwashing) | Upflow | Upflow | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Valve Type | Programmable Smart Valve | Simple | Simple | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bypass Valve? | Y | Y | Optional | N | N | N | N | ||||||||||||||||||||
| System Dimensions | 54/58/61″x9/10/12″ (Hx⌀, Incl. Valve) | 52.5/56.5/58.5″x9/10/12″ (Hx⌀, Incl. Valve) | 52/58/58″x9/10/13″ (Hx⌀, Incl. Valve) | 15.5″x29″x8″ (WxHxD) | 23″x27″x9″ (WxHxD) | 22.91″x26.18″x8.46″ (WxHxD) | 32/34″x46/57″x9/11″ (WxHxD) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Pre/Post-Filter Hx⌀ | 13.5/23.5″x7.5″ | 14″x6″ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Plumbing Connections | ¾” or 1″ | 1″ | 1/1/1.5″ | 1″ | 1″ | 1″ | ¾” or 1″ | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Backwash | Standard Duration: 22 Minutes Required Flow Rate: 4/5/10 gpm Wastewater: 140 gal/Cycle |
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| Feed Water Requirements | -pH: 5-9.5 -Iron: <0.3 ppm -Manganese: <0.05 ppm -Turbidity: <3 NTU -Sulfur: 0 |
-pH: 6.5-8.5 -Chlorine: <0.1 ppm -Ferrous Iron: <0.1 ppm |
-Not for Well Water Containing Sulfur/Hydrogen Sulfide, Oils, Iron, Manganese -Copper: <1.3 ppm |
-pH: 6.5-9.5 -Iron: 0 ppm -Hydrogen Sulfide: 0 ppm |
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| Rated/Claimed Filter Life | Interceptor Pre-Filter: 6-12 Months Carbon: 1,000,000 or 5 Years |
Bone Char: 400,000 or 3 Years | Carbon: 1,000,000 or 6-10 Years Sediment Post-Filter: 6-9 Months |
Up to 12 Months | Up to 100,000 gal or 6-12 Months | Up to 100,000 gal or 12 Months | Sediment Pre-Filter: Up to 2 Months Dual Tank: 1,000,000 gal or 10 Years Polishing Post-Filter: 6 Months |
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| Maintenance CostEstimate is based on rated/claimed filter life. No short-term sales. (May 5, 2025) | Interceptor Pre-Filter Cartridges: ~$100-340 Per Year (Depending on the Size You Pick, Save 10% With Filter Subscription) Gravel + Carbon Media: ~$210-320 (Depending on the Size You Pick, About Every 5 Years) |
Gravel + Bone Char Media: ~$600-1,150 (Depending on the Size You Pick, About Every 3 Years) | Carbon, KDF, Flex Bed: ~$335 (About Every 6-10 Years) Sediment Post-Filter Cartridges: ~$25-40 Per Year (Save 5% With Filter Subscription) |
~$145 Per Year (Save 15% With Filter Subscription) | ~$110-220 Per Year (Save 15% With Filter Subscription) | ~$100 Per Year (Save 5% With Filter Subscription) | Dual Tank: $949 or $1,299 (Depending on the Size You Pick, About Every 10 Years) Pre & Post-Filter Cartridges: ~$140 Per Year (Save 15% With Filter Subscription) |
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| Product Warranty | Tank + Interceptor Housing: Lifetime Smart Valve + Electronics: 10 Years Carbon: 5 Years 1-Year Satisfaction Guarantee If You’re on Tap Water |
Tank + Head: Lifetime Bone Char: 3 Years 1-Year Satisfaction Guarantee If You’re on Tap Water |
Lifetime (6 Years or 1,000,000 Gallons, Filter Media Excluded) 6-Month Satisfaction Guarantee (25% Restocking Fee) |
Lifetime 120-Day Satisfaction Guarantee |
1-Year | 1-Year | Dual Tank: 10-Year Install Kit + Pre/Post-Filter Housings: 1 Year 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee |
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| Claimed to Be Made in | Italy (Filter Housings Only) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (More) Features/Pros | -Chrome Cover Protects Tank Against UV Damage -Distributors in Tank Prolong Water Contact Time for More Effective Filtration -Backup Battery Prevents Issues During Power Failures -Pre-Filter Cartridges Use 2 O-Rings to Prevent Bypassing -Pre-Filter Cartridges Are American-Made -Pre-Filter Cartridges Are Washable |
-Chrome Cover Protects Tank Against UV Damage -Distributors in Tank Prolong Water Contact Time for More Effective Filtration |
-Optional Tank Jacket Fits Well, Protects Tank Against UV Damage, and Gives Unit a Nice Appearance Overall -Performance Guarantee for Chlorine/Chloramine to Below Minimum Detection Levels for 6 Years or 1 Million Gal -Standard-Sized Post-Filter Cartridges Allow You to Go Off-Brand -Military and First Responder Discounts |
-Sediment Filter Cartridges Are Washable -20-Inch Standard Sized Filter Cartridges Allow You to Go Off-Brand With Replacements -System Feels Solid and Well-Built, but We Couldn’t Spot an Immediate Difference in Build Quality Compared to Express Water or Waterdrop – Despite the Housings Being Made in Italy |
-20-Inch Standard Sized Filter Cartridges Allow You to Go Off-Brand With Replacements | -Metal Tag on System Module Mentions Filter Lifetimes, Model Number, Water Temp & Pressure, Serial Number, and Company Contact Info -20-Inch Standard Sized Filter Cartridges Allow You to Go Off-Brand With Replacements |
-Comes With Assembly Kit Including Integrated Drain Valve + Shut-Off Valve -Handling Instructions, Size, and Operating Specifications Clearly Displayed on the Unit for Convenient Long-Term Reference -Standard Sized Filter Cartridges Allow You to Go Off-Brand With Replacements |
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| (More) Cons | -Although Pre-Filter Cartridges Are Standard-Sized You Can’t Replace With Other Brands Due to Double O-Ring Housing | -Parts of the Springwell Website and Instruction Booklet Show Old Metal Bracket for Sediment Post-Filter Which Has Been Replaced by Plastic Bracket | -Micron Rating of Pre and Post-Filter Cartridges Unclear (No Ratings Shown on Unit or Cartridges and None Listed in Product Description; Conflicting Ratings Found in the FAQ Section) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Frequent Complaints From Third-Party Customer Reviews | -Note: Not That Many Customer Reviews Yet | -Note: Not That Many Customer Reviews Yet | -Some Chlorine Taste/Odor Remaining in Filtered Water -Lackluster After-Sales Support |
-Note: Negative Reviews Were Hard to Find (Customer Feedback on Kind’s Own Website Is Nothing but Positive) -We Found These Complaints for the E-3000: Taste/Odor Issues, No Improvement in Water Quality, Cloudiness/Discoloration |
-Leaking -Lackluster Filtration -Poor Customer Service |
-Note: Not That Many Customer Reviews Yet | -Many Amazon Reviews Appear to Be for a Different Product (Aquasana Replacement Cartridges) -Major Flow Drops With Normal Use -Leaks & Breakage (Cracked Tanks, Failed Plastic Parts) -Poor Support & Warranty -Missing, Wrong, or Defective Components |
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Full Screen On
| Whole House Water Filter | USWS Bodyguard Plus (Incl. Interceptor Pre-Filter) |
USWS Bodyguard Fluoride Removal Filter | SpringWell CF | Kind E-1000 | Express Water 3-Stage Essential (WH-300RS-CGS) | Waterdrop WHF3T-PG | Aquasana Rhino WH-1000 & Rhino Max Flow WH-1010 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Type | Media Tank | Media Tank | Media Tank | Cartridge-Based | Cartridge-Based | Cartridge-Based | Media Tank | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lab Reports (Please ignore results for bacteria as we didn’t sample in a sterile environment.) | Filtered Water Report | Report After Filtration | Filtered Water Report | Filtered Water Report | Filtered Water Report | Filtered Water Report | Filtered Water Report | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Unfiltered Water Report | Report Before Filtration | Unfiltered Water Report | Unfiltered Water Report | Unfiltered Water Report | Unfiltered Water Report | Unfiltered Water Report | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reduction Rates for Undesirable Impurities & Contaminants | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Potentially Harmful | Aesthetic Issues | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Water Disinfectants | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Chlorine | ✖ | ✖ | 100% | Not Present | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disinfection Byproducts | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bromochloromethane | ✖ | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bromodichloromethane | ✖ | 100% | Not Present | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bromoform | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dibromochloromethane | ✖ | 100% | Not Present | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Chloroform | ✖ | 99% | 100% (Irrelevant!) | 100% | 100% | 100% | 99% | 100% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Industrial Solvents | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Methylene Chloride | ✖ | 100% (Flawed?) | Added (See Below, Flawed?) | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| o-Xylene | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| m+p Xylenes | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Metals | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Copper | ✖ | ✖ | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | 0% | Not Present | Added (See Below) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Iron | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | 80% | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Manganese | ✖ | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | Added (See Below) | Not Present | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Aluminum | ✖ | ✖ | 26% | 100% | Added (See Below, Flawed?) | 29% | 0% | 69% | 50% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Barium | ✖ | 0% | 50% | 78% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Boron | ✖ | 50% | 0% | 0% | 50% | 0% | 50% Increase | 50% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Zinc | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | 33% | Not Present | 1,500% Increase | 900% Increase | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lithium | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Strontium | ✖ | 0% | 69% | 72% | 0% | 0% | 7% Increase | 0% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Salts | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nitrate (N) | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | 0% | Not Present | Added (See Below, Flawed?) | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fluoride | ✖ | 6% | Reduction Anywhere Between 84% and 99% | 6% | 16% | 10% Increase | 18% Increase | 7% Increase | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Uranium | ✖ | Not Present | Not Present | 100% | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | Not Present | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Impurities NOT Detected in “Before” Water Sample | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Methylene Chloride (µg/L) (Flawed?) | ✖ | 2.17Our best guess is that the methylene chloride was added by some of the newly-installed plumbing components such as the sampling taps. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Aluminum (mg/L) (Flawed?) | ✖ | ✖ | 0.03We’re confident the aluminum increase is due to natural fluctuations and not an issue with leaching, as we’ve found significant amounts of aluminum in our water supply before. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nitrate (mg/L) (Flawed?) | ✖ | <0.5We’re confident the nitrate increase is due to natural fluctuations and not an issue with leaching, as we’ve found significant amounts of nitrate in our water supply before. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Manganese (mg/L) | ✖ | ✖ | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Copper (mg/L) | ✖ | ✖ | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Explanation: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Full Removal | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Considerable Reduction | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Concentration More Than Double of Unfiltered Water Sample | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Potential Leaching Reached or Exceeded the Strictest Public Health Guideline We Could Find | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Raw Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Water Disinfectants (Before | After) |
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| Chlorine (mg/L) | 0.57 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.5 | 0 | 0.54 | 0 | <0.1 | 0 | 0.9 | 0 | 0.86 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disinfection Byproducts (Before | After) |
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| Bromochloromethane (µg/L) | 0.76 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bromodichloromethane (µg/L) | 11.93 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10.48 | 0 | 23.57 | 0 | 26.38 | 0 | 16.96 | 0 | 15.75 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bromoform (µg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.57 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dibromochloromethane (µg/L) | 3.78 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3.79 | 0 | 7.45 | 0 | 7.82 | 0 | 6.17 | 0 | 5.84 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Chloroform (µg/L) | 65.26 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0 | 28.19 | 0 | 100.61 | 0 | 113.43 | 0 | 64.42 | 0.91 | 48.56 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Industrial Solvents (Before | After) |
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| Methylene Chloride (µg/L) | 0.62 | 0 | 0 | 2.17 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| o-Xylene (µg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.56 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| m+p Xylenes (µg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.89 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Metals (Before | After) |
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| Copper (mg/L) | 0.01 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.01 | 0 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Iron (mg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.03 | 0 | 0.05 | 0.01 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Manganese (mg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.02 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.01 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Aluminum (mg/L) | 0.23 | 0.17 | 0.17 | 0 | 0 | 0.03 | 0.28 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.16 | 0.05 | 0.04 | 0.02 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Barium (mg/L) | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.01 | 0.09 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Boron (mg/L) | 0.02 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.02 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.01 | 0.02 | 0.03 | 0.02 | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Zinc (mg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.06 | 0.04 | 0 | 0 | 0.01 | 0.16 | 0.01 | 0.1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lithium (mg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.01 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Strontium (mg/L) | 0.13 | 0.13 | 0.13 | 0.04 | 0.47 | 0.13 | 0.17 | 0.17 | 0.12 | 0.12 | 0.14 | 0.15 | 0.15 | 0.15 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Salts (Before | After) |
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| Nitrate (N) (mg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | <0.5 | <0.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | <0.5 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fluoride (mg/L) | 0.67 | 0.63 | 0.63 | <0.1 | 0.67 | 0.63 | 0.57 | 0.48 | 0.4 | 0.44 | 0.78 | 0.92 | 0.58 | 0.62 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other (Unfiltered | Filtered) |
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| Uranium (µg/L) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Water Parameters (Before | After) |
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| Alkalinity (mg/L) | 100 | 107.5 | 107.5 | 105 | 95.0 | 112.5 | 102.5 | 102.5 | 92.5 | 100 | 120 | 180 | 110 | 110 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| pH | 8.02 | 8.12 | 8.12 | 9.95The pH increase should subside after a few weeks. | 7.66 | 9.73The pH increase should subside after a few weeks. | 7.99 | 8.59 | 7.88 | 8.23 | 7.97 | 9.31The pH increase should subside after a few weeks. | 7.87 | 9.38 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Turbidity (N.T.U.) | 0.66 | <0.2 | <0.2 | 0.31 | <0.2 | 0.31 | <0.2 | 0.2 | <0.2 | <0.2 | 0.63 | 1.6 | <0.2 | 0.53 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hardness (mg/L) | 104.3 | 98.3 | 98.3 | 99.9 | 116.6 | 103.4 | 125.4 | 126.9 | 86.3 | 94 | 113.9 | 113.1 | 114.9 | 113.5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Whole House Water Filters
Please note: This page is still a work in progress. Additional content and details will be added shortly – stay tuned!
About the Author(s)
Sara has been a lifelong home-improvement fan (she’s been hooked on This Old House since she was five) and taught herself any project she didn’t already know by watching YouTube tutorials. She is also an award-winning filmmaker. Armed with this skillset, Sara installs, primes, samples, uses, and maintains nearly every point-of-use water treatment system we test – then brings her results to life on camera for our YouTube channel.
Adam has always loved testing and reviewing the latest products. He began his BOS Water journey doing simple pitchers and has since expanded his expertise to installing and evaluating advanced point-of-entry systems. Cultivating a small business in the filmmaking industry, Adam is also in front of the camera sharing his findings on the BOS Water YouTube channel.
Raoul has a background in mechanical engineering and has been writing about home water treatment since 2015. He designs our product review processes, analyzes the results, and ties everything together. As editor-in-chief, he tries hard to keep the whole operation running smoothly behind the scenes.