Frequently asked questions
Do I need a plumber to install a whole-house system?
Most homeowners with basic DIY plumbing skills install our cartridge-based whole-house systems in 1–2 hours — they connect to your main water line with standard fittings, and every system ships with a manual. That said, if you're not comfortable cutting into your main line, any licensed plumber can do it quickly. We recommend a licensed plumber for all installations and can't take responsibility for installation work.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Cartridge-based systems and accessories: processed in 1–4 business days, then 5–12 business days in transit via UPS/FedEx Ground. Tank-based softener and conditioner systems ship by freight: the carrier calls you to schedule a curbside delivery appointment, usually within 2–3 weeks of ordering. Tracking is emailed the moment your order leaves our supplier's warehouse.
What warranty do I get?
You get the full manufacturer warranty on every product — for example, iSpring systems carry a 1-year manufacturer warranty plus lifetime US-based tech support. Because we buy through authorized distribution, your warranty is valid (gray-market purchases often aren't). Warranty terms vary by brand and are listed on each product page. We help you file any claim — you don't deal with the manufacturer alone.
What's your return policy?
30 days from delivery, unused and in original packaging. Because these are heavy items, return freight is the customer's responsibility, and a 20% restocking fee applies to non-defective returns. If your system arrives damaged, report it within 72 hours with photos and we'll make it right — see our full Returns page.
Do you ship to California, Iowa, or Wisconsin?
Sometimes with conditions. California and Iowa require state registration for water treatment devices that make certain health claims, and Wisconsin has its own approval rules. If your shipping address is in CA, IA, or WI, we'll confirm the system you chose is cleared for your state before your order ships — if it isn't, we'll tell you and refund you in full.
Why don't you carry the big brands I see at big-box stores?
Many of them don't allow independent dealers to sell their products online — they sell direct or through big-box retail, often with heavy discounting we can't and won't chase. Instead we carry brands with real authorized dealer programs (like iSpring, APEC, and Pentair-line equipment): genuine products, valid warranties, US-based support, and pricing we can stand behind.
How do I know which system is right for my home?
Three inputs: your water source (city or well), your main concern (taste/odor, hard water spots, sediment, or something specific in your water report), and your household size. Grab a $29 test kit or email us your city's water quality report — we'll read it with you and recommend honestly, including telling you if a smaller system will do.
How often do filters need to be replaced, and what does it cost per year?
Typical: sediment pre-filters every 3–6 months, carbon cartridges every 6–12 months, RO pre-filters every 6–12 months with membranes every 1–2 years. Each product page lists the replacement schedule and annual filter cost for that system. Join Filter Auto-Ship and replacements arrive automatically — 10% off, free shipping, skip or cancel anytime.
Will this system remove PFAS or lead from my water?
It depends on the system and the certification. We only repeat contaminant-reduction claims that the manufacturer publishes with third-party certification (such as NSF/ANSI listings). Check the Specifications tab on each product page for current certifications. If PFAS or lead is your concern, start with a water test so we can match you to a system rated for it — and talk to your doctor about any health questions. We don't make health claims, period.
Do you offer financing?
Yes — Shop Pay installments are available at checkout on qualifying orders, so you can split larger systems into monthly payments. Terms are shown before you confirm.
Will a whole-house system drop my water pressure?
A properly sized system causes minimal pressure drop — typically unnoticeable in daily use. Sizing matters: that's why we ask about bathrooms and household size before recommending. If your home has unusually low incoming pressure, tell us and we'll size accordingly.
How does Filter Auto-Ship work?
Pick your system, choose Auto-Ship at checkout (or add it later from your account). We time shipments to your system's filter schedule. You get 10% off every filter order and free shipping, and you can skip a shipment, pause, or cancel anytime from your account — no phone call, no retention script. We'll email you a week before each shipment so there are no surprises.