Showering is a part of our everyday lives – something that we do without ever thinking much about the whole process. But have you ever considered that maybe we should put a bit more thought into the water that we are using to cleanse our body with? This is where shower filters come in.
Designed to reduce all harmful elements from the water to give you a blissful shower experience, shower filters have become of utmost importance now. So, here is our article about the best shower filter for hard water along with the pros and cons of our recommendations.
Without further ado, let’s get the show on the road!
Editor’s Picks: Top 3 Shower Filters for Hard Water
What To Look For In A Shower Filter For Hard Water?
Before you head on to buy your next shower filter, you should definitely consider the following aspects. By reading about them, it’ll be easier for you to know which option is the right one for you.
Water Purification Abilities
The main reason why you are buying a shower filter is so that you can have clean and safe pH balanced water for your everyday shower. So definitely investigate how well the filter does its job.
Some filters are good at removing chlorine, hard metals, and sediments but do not work against pesticides. Others are not good at softening the water. You should always try to choose one within your price that has all these qualities.
Pressure
A shower filter that delivers the same amount of pressure even in a low flow situation is the best, as it prevents the pipe from clogging and maintains a good contact point.
Number of Cartridges
Some shower filters come with extra gifts that include cartridges. These types of filters are usually the better option while buying, as it means you will always have an emergency replacement in hand.
Price
If you are looking for a lot of features, you will need to prepare your budget that way. Otherwise, it is possible to get only some important elements at a relatively lower price.
Installation Process
Make sure that the process of installing the filter is not too complex. Otherwise, you might have to get someone to do it for you every time you need a replacement.
However, the filters we are going to review below are easy to install. So, you need not worry about that aspect.
5 Best Shower Filters for Hard Water
Here is a list of the shower filters we have chosen, along with their pros and cons. After going through them, it will be easier for you to make the decision. So, read on to find the ideal product.
1. AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter
The Aquabliss revitalizing shower filter is the best shower filter for hard well water, and for all the good reasons!
Designed to deliver maximum water filtration, this filter’s multi stage system eliminates all dirt, odor, chlorine, scale buildup, and pesticides from the water, giving you the cleanest shower experience you have ever had.
Along with actively eliminating all sorts of harmful elements, this shower inhibits the growth of fungi and mold in the shower. Thereby, it ensures your safety. By installing this shower, not only are you getting rid of unwanted chemicals, but also preventing other harmful things from forming.
A thing that sets this filter apart from others is that it does not only reduce the detrimental components of the water. Rather it also works hard to repair the damage caused to your skin and hair from years and years of using unfiltered water in the shower.
Since it can be attached to all shower types, you have nothing more to worry about. One of the best things about this filter is that it can be installed very easily, without the need for any additional tools. This makes it quite a hassle-free process. The filter is also very expensive, and the replacements are easily available at a low price.
- DAY 1 - IMMEDIATELY BEGINS REJUVENATING SKIN, HAIR & NAILS: HARD, chlorinated, chemical ridden water causing itchy skin, flaky dandruff, eczema, bone-dry hair and brittle nails? Let our UNIQUE, PROPRIETARY SYSTEMS MULTI-STAGE sediment filters, redox media, calcium sulfite, activated carbon and ceramic beads deliver MAXIMUM WATER FILTRATION to NEUTRALIZE ODORS, balance out your PH levels and INFUSE BENEFICIAL MINERALS into your skin, nails and hair from the first time you turn it on!
- ACTUALLY WORKS - EXPERIENCE THE CLEANEST CLEAN: Most inline filters for showers eliminate some chemicals for a short time, but do nothing to restore the damage done to your hair, nails and skin. Our ADVANCED REVITALIZING HEALTH FILTER reduces Chlorine, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, dirt, odors, helps control scale buildup plus restores what your hard, chemical filled water did to your hair, skin and nails!
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2. PureAction Shower Head Filter for Hard Water
Created using premium quality metal, the PureAction Shower Head Filter for Hard Water is an outstanding choice for dealing with hard water. It is durable, lightweight and has inline filter cartridge with Vitamin C beads. It also reduces chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, fluoride and other sediments. Therefore, not only are you provided with filtered water, but also extra nutrition for the health of your skin.
In terms of design, the shower head comes with laser cut micro holes that provide its users with a balanced yet strong water pressure. Moreover, you also get a swivel system which allows you to redirect the flow of water according to your personal preference.
The installation process of this product is also quite easy as it attaches to any standard wall-mounted, rain, rainfall and fixed showers without the requirement of any plumbing tools. Once installed, its users can expect a backup of about 10 months (roughly 10,000 gallons) on a single cartridge. However, the company provides an extra cartridge alongside the original product. Hence, you can enjoy using this product for almost 2 years without any plumbing concerns.
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3. AquaHomeGroup Luxury Filtered Shower Head Set 15 Stage Shower Filter
This luxury filtered shower head is known as the best shower water filter for hard water, and gives you a luxurious experience, as it is made out of premium quality metal. Its cartridge is infused with vitamin C and E, which helps to deliver some amazing goodness right into your hair and skin.
The 15 stage filtration system of this shower head works well to remove any chlorine, odor, dirt, and sediment from the water. This helps to ensure that you get the cleanest shower experience of all, without any unwanted elements damaging your skin and hair or harming your health.
One of the best things about this shower head is that it fits all showers. So no matter what shower type you have, this product has got you covered. It is also relatively easy to install, so you do not have to waste a lot of time in installing or replacing this product.
To add to all the good things this product has to offer, it comes with a premium gift box that people rave about. Included in the gift box are 5 nice shower caps and some Teflon tape, and this gift goes a long way to show the quality of the product.
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4. Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter System
The Aquasana shower water filter comes with a lot of wonderful features that help to restore the shine to your hair and skin. It is known for drastically reducing the amount of chlorine and other harmful elements in the water, so as to keep it safe for your use.
Containing a certified filtration media, this shower water filter reduces lead, mercury, hydrogen sulfide, pesticides, etc. from the water. Its copper-zinc blend also works to balance the ph of the water, so it does not dry out the skin and help improve lathering with a minimum amount of soap.
One of the best things about this filter is that it has a unique design which always maintains an optimal pressure point and prevents clogging. Therefore, you will get balanced water every time and do not have to face the hassles of unclogging a pipe.
Another thing that makes this filter a great product is that it is very affordable. It is also quite durable, so it does not need to be replaced for a long time. Its hassle-free installation system also makes this a great buy.
- Maximum Filtration & Water Pressure (2.5 GPM Flow Rate) – Constructed with a unique up flow design which maintains water pressure, prevents clogging, and increases contact time with media.
- Premium Carbon Filtration - Filter your shower water with coconut shell carbon and copper-zinc media that is independently tested to NSF/ANSI Standard 177 to reduce more than 90% of chlorine.
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5. Aqua Earth 15 Stage Shower Filter
The Aqua Earth shower filter is quite popular amongst many because of its skin-friendly properties. This filter acts as a ph balancer, purifier, and moisturizer all in one and will do wonders to repair the damage to your skin.
Its special filtration system allows it to remove chlorine, pesticides, hard metals, and any kind of sediment from the water and keep it clean and safe for your body. Water filtered through this shower head is beneficial for both the skin and hair.
One of the best things about this filter is that it is compatible with almost all shower heads. So no matter what kind of shower head you have, you can always buy this product and install it to get its amazing experience.
This product makes sure to always maintain a standard pressure of the water, which prevents hassles of clogging. Its installation process is also very easy, which is also quite an advantage for the users.
- Purifies Water Filter - helps fast remove chlorine heavy metals and other sediment and inhibits the growth of scale in the bath tub
- Body Care - less well risk of developing eczema, reduces dry itchy skin, dandruff cares about the health of the skin, hair, nails ideal for bathing Children and Pets
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6. Water Softener Shower Head
The water softener is known for filtering hard water by reducing chlorine, hard metals, iron, and sediments. Reduction of all these elements from the water makes it much more beneficial to use in the shower.
One of the best things about this product is that along with filtering hard water; this product also takes care of dry and flaky skin, eczema, and dandruff through the water it constantly filters. Therefore, your skin is restored into all its glory in no time at all.
Another thing to note about this product is that it maintains an output of constant pressure at all times. It is also very easy to install and replace, which makes another reason why this product is so popular.
Equipped with a premium gift box, this product surely knows how to satisfy its customers. The box comes with two replacement cartridges, a Teflon tape, and a luxury gift, which is sure to add to the product’s worth.
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Why Do I Need A Shower Filter?
Though water filters are an obvious choice when dealing with drinking water, do you really need one for your shower? Well, the simple answer is yes. Shower head filters provide a variety of benefits that can be highly beneficial for your health. Let us look at a few of them.
1. Provides protection from chlorine
Though chlorine protects us from majority of the bacteria present in our water supply, the chemical itself can be harmful over a long period of time. Since it doesn’t totally exterminate bacteria in water, it leaves room for micro-organisms to enter and attack the cells of humans in contact of chlorinated water. This can lead to a number of problems such as skin cancer, risk of asthma, bad taste and odor.
Most municipal water suppliers add chlorine to water since it is economical and also kills most harmful micro-organisms in water. Therefore, as a smart user, you must come up with smart solutions such as a shower head filter that provides optimal protection from chlorinated water.
2. Eliminates health risks for pregnant women and children
As we know, pregnant women and children are the two most delicate entities known to mankind. It is a must that they are provided with the utmost precautionary measures for their health. Since bathing is a daily activity, showers are one of the most vital spots for pregnant women and children to interact with bacteria and other harmful substances.
A shower head filter extracts all these substances while also adding benefits of Vitamin C and E, both of which are essential micro-nutrients for young ones.
3. Saves money
Many of us get caught up with a variety of beauty products to prevent skin related conditions. But do you really need them? What if you could find a simpler way to stop micro-organisms from entering your skin from the get go? Well, you can if you use a shower head filter for hard water.
Shower head filters provide complete protection from harmful micro-organisms while also adding extra nutrition to your water. This makes sure that your skin is not only safe from harmful contaminants during your shower session but also after you’re done.
4. Prevents contaminant buildup within shower head
Filterless shower heads might not look rusty from the outside but come with fragile spots that can turn into honeycombs for bacteria and other harmful micro-organisms. Additionally, since these micro-organisms can’t be seen using the naked eye, they fall alongside your unfiltered water every day without you even noticing them. Common problems faced in this situation are hair loss, rashes, etc. Getting a shower filter will protect you from catching such skin related conditions.
5. World’s full of toxins already
While the progression of technology and science in general continues to make our lives easier, it also comes with the vicious increase of toxins. These toxins can cause a great deal of harm to us humans some of which can even be life threatening. Therefore, the least you can do as a careful citizen is to provide yourself and your family with protection from contaminants through techniques such as shower filters.
Types Of Shower Filters
Now that we know how beneficial shower head filters can be, it is time to categorize them. This is necessary as each serves a different purpose and as a user, you must select one that suits your own shower head. So, make sure you go through each of the following types before making your decision.
1. KDF Filters
Kinetic Degradation Fluxion (KDF) filters are unique type of shower filters that use the combination of zinc and copper to extract all the contaminants out of your supplied water. For doing so, it uses a basic chemical process known as redox which enables it to remove a variety of substances including chlorine, mercury, lead, etc.
The redox reaction in KDF allows it to exchange electrons within water which converts contaminants into harmless substances. This technology is quite effective in high pressure and high temperature. Hence, it is ideal to be used for shower heads. Other than that, it is also used in greater applications where it is combined with other technologies for large scale filtering.
2. Vitamin C Filters
Unlike any other filtration technology, vitamin C filters are specially designed for shower heads. Since Vitamin C is one of the most vital micro-nutrients for skin health, its inclusion not only provides protection from contaminants but also adds extra nutrition.
In terms of contaminant removal, Vitamin C filters specialize in chloramine. To put things into perspective, they remove a whopping 99% of chloramine from water compared to 75-80% as seen in other water filtration techniques. Due to this, filters also tend to be relatively costlier both as an initial purchase and while replacing the cartridge.
3. Carbon filters
Carbon filtration is possibly the most common water filtration technique right now. In fact, many drinking water filters use it. Therefore, its purification is one area that can’t easily be matched by other filters. Moreover, carbon filters are also on the cheaper side of the spectrum comparatively.
It operates using the phenomenon of absorption. In simpler words, activated carbons present in carbon filters make sure that contaminants get trapped within the porous structure that comes with it. Think of it as a magnet for dirt. It is a great way of dealing with hard water though it does come with the limitation of being slightly ineffective at high temperatures.
Is A Shower Head Water Filter Really Necessary?
If you use a whole house filtration system, a shower head water filter is something you don’t necessarily need as your water is already getting filtered. However, if you don’t, getting one can a great cheaper alternative. Here’s why:
1. Supply stations aren’t as healthy as you think
Municipal water supply is rated quite highly in terms of health. However, in reality, it is quite the opposite.
As supply pipelines age, it starts providing shelter to a variety of contaminants and micro-organisms that reach directly to your body through your shower. Adding to that, most municipal water supply stations also provides chlorinated water. Though beneficial in hindsight, it does not exterminate bacteria so you basically get fragile water that can be easily infiltrated by harmful substances and organisms. This makes shower head filters an essential addition to your house.
2. Shower water contamination is more vicious
According to research, humans are more likely to absorb harmful chemicals in the shower as compared to drinking water. That is because shower water comes into contact with your complete body all at once inviting micro-organisms and bacteria to go open season wherever they wish to. This leads to skin conditions such as rashes, acne, hair loss, etc. Hence, it is recommended that you buy a shower head filter alongside your regular drinking water filter for complete protection.
3. Eradicates all previous procedures in the cycle
As we discussed above, there are a number of ways that the water supplied from your shower can get contaminated. Additionally, since the municipal corporation supplies on a large scale, a faulty pipeline on the way to your house can easily go unnoticed.
Let’s say all the pipelines are good, the issue might as well be in your own plumbing system. And if your house was built a few decades earlier, it is likely that you’ve been using older technology that does not get checked quite often. So, to save you from all these problems, getting a shower head filter only makes sense.
How To Install Shower Filter For Hard Water?
Installing a shower filter is a quite easy process and can be done by following these steps –
- Refer to the manual of the shower head you are using, and see what kind of fastener it uses. Use a pair of pliers to get the shower head out of the wall.
- Use some tape to wrap around the threads of the shower pipe. This will help ensure that there is no leakage from the filter. Make sure that the pipe is fully covered by the tape.
- Pale the filter onto the pipe and rotate clockwise until it is fixed there properly.
- Turn the water on without reattaching the shower head. The water will be discolored due to the elements of the filter. Let the water run until it is back to clear.
- Reattach the shower head.
Do Shower Head Filters Work For Hard Water?
Although not a massive health hazard on its own, hard water is the start of a snowball effect that can cause a variety of health problems. That is because it does not lather freely with soap solution while also producing sticky gunk on your bathtub and body. This leads to the creation of a mausoleum of dirt coated on your skin as an after effect to the shower session and also the wastage of soap.
The idea of showering is to clean all the dirt collected in your body. However, if all you’re getting is sticky gunk thanks to hard water, it is quite disappointing. So, to prevent any such issues, you must invest in a high-quality shower head filter for hard water. It will extract most of the contaminant particles from your water supply providing you with nutritious liquid that provides optimal protection from skin related problems.
Though it is recommended that you get a whole house filtration system for hard water, a shower head filter is a good place to start as well since that is the prime spot for hard water supply.
Pros and Cons Of Shower Head Filters
Here are a few pros and cons of shower head filters that you must keep in mind before investing in one:
Pros
- Easy to install: Most shower head filters are extremely easy to install because they can be attached to all kinds of shower heads including standard wall-mounted, rain, rainfall and fixed showers. You also don’t need any plumbing experience or equipment to install them.
- Comparatively cheaper: Most water filters such as whole house filtration systems are quite expensive. On the other hand, a shower head filter does the job for a fraction of the cost.
- Zero waiting time: Since shower head filters filter supplied water instantaneously, the user does not have to wait in order to use filtered water every time.]
Cons
- Point-of-use only: As great as they are, shower head filters only work on one faucet of your house. Therefore, if you have multiple bathrooms in your house, you would need to invest separately for each of them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You must have a lot of questions on your mind. So, below we are going to answer some of the most frequently asked queries on the internet about the topic.
Q. Are shower filters effective?
Yes, shower filters are very effective. Using them will visibly reduce the damage done to your hair and skin from using unfiltered water for showering.
Q. How can I soften my shower water?
You can attach a shower water softener to your shower head, and it will soften the water.
Q. Do shower filters soften water?
Yes, shower filters soften water by reducing the amount of rust iron, hard metals, chlorine and sediments in the water
Q. Why buy a shower filter?
Shower filters help to remove the unwanted chemicals in the water and repair the damage to your hair and skin. Some even go as far as to infuse the water with vitamins and balance the pH level overall. This is why shower filters are important.
Q. What do shower head filters remove?
Shower head filters remove a variety of unwanted chemicals and hard water substances including chlorine, chloramine, lead, mercury, etc.
Q. How long do shower head filters last?
While there is no fixed amount, most shower head filter cartridges last for about 8 to 10 months. In terms of quanity, that is about 9000 to 10,000 gallons.
A Final Word – Our Personal Recommendation
Now that you have read our article about the best shower filter for well water, you must have understood the importance of having a shower filter.
I hope this also helped you to choose what kind of filter you would like to install in your shower. So, go on, buy your chosen filter, and have revitalizing shower experiences forever on!
On an ending note, we personally recommend you to buy:
- DAY 1 - IMMEDIATELY BEGINS REJUVENATING SKIN, HAIR & NAILS: HARD, chlorinated, chemical ridden water causing itchy skin, flaky dandruff, eczema, bone-dry hair and brittle nails? Let our UNIQUE, PROPRIETARY SYSTEMS MULTI-STAGE sediment filters, redox media, calcium sulfite, activated carbon and ceramic beads deliver MAXIMUM WATER FILTRATION to NEUTRALIZE ODORS, balance out your PH levels and INFUSE BENEFICIAL MINERALS into your skin, nails and hair from the first time you turn it on!
- ACTUALLY WORKS - EXPERIENCE THE CLEANEST CLEAN: Most inline filters for showers eliminate some chemicals for a short time, but do nothing to restore the damage done to your hair, nails and skin. Our ADVANCED REVITALIZING HEALTH FILTER reduces Chlorine, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, dirt, odors, helps control scale buildup plus restores what your hard, chemical filled water did to your hair, skin and nails!
Provides complete water filtration, easy to install and inhibits fungi growth, this product is the pinnacle of all shower head filters. Also comes with nutritional add-ons for hair and skin repairing.
I like you use water every day in everything I do. I love to find better ways to filter water I drink, soften hard water and find amazing water bottles for when I’m on the go.
I want to share what I find with you and review the options you might be looking for.
Author Profile – Tony Cosentino
Last update on 2024-09-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. WaterFilterly is user-supported. We might receive a commission on any purchase you make through clicking links on this page.
