Fixington

Whole House Water Filter

Trade: Plumber

⭐ Introduction

A whole house water filter is installed to improve the quality of water entering your home. It removes impurities such as sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants that can affect taste, smell, and the longevity of your plumbing and appliances.

You might need a whole house water filter if:

  • Your water supply comes from a private well or is known to have hard water.
  • You notice discolouration, sediment, or unpleasant smells in your tap water.
  • You want to protect your boiler, washing machine, and taps from limescale or debris.
  • You are concerned about the water quality for your health or your family’s wellbeing.

Installing this system helps ensure cleaner water throughout your home, not just at individual taps or water fixtures.

🔧 What the job involves

A whole house water filter is typically fitted at the point where mains water enters your property, often close to the stopcock or water meter. This ensures all water going to your taps and appliances is filtered.

The job involves:

  • Turning off and draining the water supply to prevent leaks.
  • Cutting into the mains supply pipe and fitting the filter housing securely.
  • Installing the appropriate filter cartridges inside the housing (e.g. sediment filters, carbon filters, softeners).
  • Ensuring the filter has a bypass valve, so water flow can continue during maintenance.
  • Testing the new installation for leaks and water pressure.
  • Advising on filter replacement schedules and maintenance.

The work requires a plumber with experience in water filtration systems, and in most cases, no special certified notification is needed as this is a straightforward plumbing upgrade. However, any work near the water meter or involving changes to the mains pipe might require notification to your water provider.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Enquiry: Contact a local plumber and explain your reasons for wanting a whole house water filter.
  2. Survey and quote: The plumber visits your home to assess your existing plumbing, water quality needs, and space for the filter. You’ll receive a written quote detailing parts and labour.
  3. Scheduling: Agree a convenient date for installation. The plumber may advise you to prepare the area or turn off certain appliances.
  4. Day of works: The plumber turns off the mains water supply, installs the filter assembly, tests for leaks, and explains how to operate and maintain the system.
  5. Completion: You receive paperwork including the invoice, product manuals, and warranty information. The plumber may recommend follow-up servicing or filter replacement intervals.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically £150–£300 depending on plumber’s rates and job complexity.
  • Filter housing and cartridges: £70–£250 depending on capacity and filtration type.
  • Additional pipework and fittings: £30–£80 for materials such as copper or plastic pipe and connectors.
  • Disposal: £10–£30 if the plumber removes old filters or packaging.
  • Warranty, certification, paper documentation: Usually included, but some suppliers charge small fees for certificates.

Example itemisation:

  • Labour: £200
  • Filter system: £150
  • Additional materials: £50
  • Disposal: £20

Total: approx. £420 (excluding VAT where applicable)

📊 What affects the price

  • The condition and accessibility of your mains water supply pipe.
  • Whether the job is a simple replacement or a new installation.
  • The complexity of pipe modifications needed (e.g. extra valves, bypass).
  • Local water quality requirements or regulations dictated by your water supplier.
  • Need for upgrading your stopcock, including any necessary permissions.
  • Location within the UK — rural or remote areas may see higher labour costs.
  • Timescale — urgent or out-of-hours work typically costs more.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Straight swap: 1 to 2 hours — removing an old filter and fitting a new unit in a straightforward, accessible spot.
  • Complex installation: 3 to 5 hours — fitting a new filter where pipe rerouting or additional valves are needed.
  • Additional time might be needed if you require a plumber to help with water supplier notifications or if remedial plumbing is necessary.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing a whole house water filter involves cutting into your mains water pipe. If done incorrectly, this could cause leaks or water contamination. It also requires shutting off the mains supply, which may intermittently affect your household water.

While some experienced DIYers may feel confident fitting basic filters, it's recommended to hire a qualified plumber, who will:

  • Know local regulations and ensure compliance.
  • Ensure the filtration works correctly and safely.
  • Provide any needed documentation.
  • Avoid invalidating your home insurance due to poor installation.

💰 Typical UK price range

On average, installing a whole house water filter in the UK costs between £350 and £700, including materials and labour. Always confirm whether VAT is included in the quote, as this typically adds 20%.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check your current water quality with your water supplier or consider a water test kit to identify needs.
  • Clear the installation area of clutter, ensuring easy access to the mains pipe.
  • Ask your plumber for recommended filter replacement intervals and any servicing plans.
  • Keep all paperwork, including receipts, warranties, and any compliance certificates safe.
  • Consider registering your product warranty with the manufacturer promptly after installation.
  • Have the plumber explain the bypass valve operation, so you can maintain your filter easily.
  • Verify if your water supplier needs notification before work begins.

A well-installed whole house water filter will protect your plumbing, improve water quality, and offer peace of mind for years to come.