Quote:
Originally Posted by Silversurfer007
Hi,
I’m looking to have a whole house system put in and would like to know what systems are used and the reliability of the unit and company.
Thank you
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The biggest mistake made by most people is buying a softener and filter system that has far too much capacity for their needs. For example, Nova is a reputable local seller/installer with a good product. However, both their softener and their 3-filter system is easily double or triple what is needed for a two person household. Instead, go to Home Depot or Lowes and buy a basic softener where the exchange tank sits inside the plastic bin that holds the salt. GE has a nice unit, although there are many similar ones. Next, buy a two-filter system (Nova sells a three-filter unit, the third filter being for heavy metals, which is completely unnecessary with The Village's water). Again, HD or Lowes has what you will need. Finally, buy the 10 inch model filter and not the 20 inch filters. One is for sediment and the other of activated charcoal is to remove the chlorine smell. Again, the 10 inch filters are more than you will ever need. However, the best reason to buy 10 inch filters is that the 20 inch models are very difficult to change. The filters are vertical and the plastic body screws into the metal head. When changing the filters (most likely once/year), you will be working on your knees, wrestling with a large wrench that slips over the plastic body, and unscrewing the plastic body upside down. The filter and body are filled with water and are very heavy, particularly as you will be working in an awkward position. That's why it is much easier with the 10 inch vs. 20 inch filters. Changing the 10 inch filters once/year is more than enough. Once/year with the 20 inch filters is overkill. You'll know when you need to change the filters when the chlorine smell returns.
If you have minimal DIY skills, you can install the system yourself. It is nothing more than cutting, fitting and gluing plastic pipes. You will need an electric drill to install the two, three, or four concrete bolts in the concrete block where you will be mounting the head of the filters. You can photograph and measure any of your neighbor's or friend's systems. There are several videos on YouTube. If you don't like doing it yourself, there are plenty of plumbers and handymen to do the job.
If you had a softener/filter system at a previous home, you know their benefits. If this will be your first system, you'll be amazed how much better the water will smell; how there will be no "white" build-up on your faucets and shower head, how much better your skin and hair will feel after showering; how there is no soap "scum" on your bathtub or shower walls, and how much cleaner your clothes are after being laundered.