Planning Home Water Treatment Into a Remodel
Open walls and new plumbing make it easier to add filters or softeners. Home water treatment should start with knowing what is in your water, since the right system depends on the problem. Public water systems publish reports, and testing can fill in gaps for specific concerns.
The State Water Resources Control Board Division of Drinking Water oversees public drinking water systems in California.
Start With Water Quality Information
Your water provider publishes reports on water quality. Read them first. Then decide whether a concern needs treatment.
Common Treatment Types
Point of use filters treat water at one tap, such as the kitchen sink. Whole house systems treat water entering the home. Softeners reduce hardness that leaves scale on fixtures.
- Under sink filters
- Whole house filters
- Water softeners
- Reverse osmosis at the kitchen
Home Water Treatment Space Needs
Whole house systems need space near the main line, plus drains and sometimes power. So plan a location during design. The garage or a utility area often works.
Plumbing Changes
Adding a system may require new valves, bypasses and drain connections. Because these changes involve plumbing, permits may apply. The City of West Sacramento lists water softeners among projects that need a permit, and other cities may treat them similarly.
Maintenance
Filters need replacement, and softeners need salt or service. So choose systems you can maintain. Then performance stays consistent.
Home Water Treatment in Kitchens
Kitchen remodels can add space for under sink filters and dedicated faucets. The article on kitchen storage design covers sink cabinet planning.
Water Heaters and Scale
Hard water can build scale in water heaters. The article on water heater options covers equipment choices.
Choosing a System
Match the system to the issue identified. Avoid buying treatment for problems you do not have.
Home Water Treatment and Costs
Costs include equipment, installation and ongoing filters or salt. So consider the yearly upkeep, not only the purchase price. Also ask whether the system wastes water during regeneration or filtering.
Because some systems need drains, installation costs vary. Then compare total costs over several years.
Testing After Installation
Once the system runs, test water again to confirm it works. Because filters wear out, set reminders for replacement. Also keep maker manuals with house records. So future owners know how to maintain the system.
Next Steps
Read water reports, test if needed and plan space and plumbing. Careful home water treatment planning fits easily into a remodel.