Well Water Filter Selector
Different contaminants need different filters. Arsenic, nitrate and PFAS require reverse osmosis; lead can start with an NSF-53 pitcher; hard water needs a softener. Tell us what you're dealing with and how many people are in your home, and we'll size a system, list the cartridge schedule, and estimate the yearly cost.
Reverse-Osmosis & Filter Selector
Pick what you're concerned about and your household size — get the right system, the exact cartridge schedule, and the yearly cost.
Recommended tier
Under-sink Reverse Osmosis (5-stage)
Reverse osmosis is required for your water
Carbon pitchers and faucet filters do not reliably remove arsenic. A multi-stage reverse-osmosis system is the EPA-recognized treatment that brings these below the federal limit at your drinking-water tap.
APEC ROES-50 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System
★ 4.7Check Price on AmazonLower-cost alternative
Waterdrop 3-Stage Under-Sink Filter
~$55
Lower-cost under-sink carbon for PFAS/taste — pair with RO for arsenic/nitrate.
Check Price on Amazon →Your replacement-cartridge schedule
An RO system only keeps working if you change the cartridges. For a 3-person household, here's the schedule and the running cost:
| Cartridge | Replace | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sediment + 2 carbon pre-filters | every 6–12 months | ~$40 / set |
| RO membrane | every 2–4 years | ~$60 |
| Post-carbon polishing filter | every 12 months | ~$20 |
Not sure what's in your well?
Private wells aren't regulated by the EPA, so no one tests them for you. Test first, then filter for what you actually find.
Shop Well Water Test Kits →We may earn a commission from Amazon when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Product recommendations are based on treatment type and contaminant, not paid placement.
Recommendations are based on the contaminant's treatment requirements and the products we've verified are available, not on paid placement. Always confirm a specific model's certifications (look for NSF/ANSI 53, 58 or 42) for your contaminant before buying.