Jenny, Any update on what you ended up doing? I installed a whole house softener for hard water issues, but I have odor issues (sulfur and chlorine mostly). I'm leaning toward adding a charcoal filter before the softener. We also have RO in the kitchen and wet bars. Also, you could always just have another hole drilled for the RO faucet without replacing the granite slab. If you have an undermounted sink, the new hole is all you need. What did you end up doing?

I've been wanting to do the non sand filter thing and just happened to stumble upon one for free. I've back flushed so for twice this week. Best move yet for the koi.

Hi Nick, So that is the thing about water filters... they aren't something you want to set and forget. I've talked to people on here who are obsessed with water softener / carbon filter / iron filter / RO... and they forget that there aren't elves that come with each system. With virtually every system, not maintaining it is worse than not having it. The contaminants build up and then can be released in greater concentrations than what's going into the system. In general, carbon cartridge filters should be replaced after no more than a year. That's a general rule and there are exceptions. The reason is that they remove the residual disinfectant in the water and bacteria can build up in them. So I did a quick google search on Everpure H-100 and immediately came up with filters for $40 each. Honestly though, I'd look at paying someone to do something different there. You could do 1 filter to service both and a cheaper filter system (10" big blue). The big blue filter housing allows you to put in standard filters (or no filter at all). A carbon block filter that could service both (and probably then some) would cost you $30 a year. Just an FYI for others reading this: there's also a 20" big blue housing along with multiple stage housings. There are standard size filters that fit these larger housings. I have no connection to the website. I have just been a satisfied customer.

First question. How many returns do you have in your house? I personally prefer a 5“ pleated Filter media cabinet at return side of your furnace. Filter MERV rating 11-13. This will give you good indoor air quality, and superior protection of blower motor and Evap coil. Changeout is easy and filters can last up to one year before replacing. TD