Hard water in the shower? What a filter can fix, and what it can't
Honest answers about hard water shower filters.
A shower filter reduces chlorine at the shower head, but only a whole-house softener removes hardness. Here's what each can do for your skin and hair.
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You're probably on this page because:
- Your skin stays dry no matter what lotion you use
- Your shower doors are covered in white film
A shower filter helps. Here's how far it goes.
Your shower, by the numbers
- Over 40% of people think their water affects their skin and hair.
- 18 months: how fast hard water clogged low-flow shower heads in testing.
Sources: Leaf Home; Battelle.
What a shower filter can do
- Cut chlorine
- Reduce buildup on the head
- Make hair and skin feel softer
What it can't
- Remove hardness
- Stop white film on glass doors
Life with it vs. without
| Without it | With it |
|---|---|
| Guessing what's in your water | Knowing, and fixing it |
Our take
The glass door test
This is the stuff our customers ask us most, after 20+ years and [thousands] of systems sold.
Here's a quick way to know what you need: if the problem is how your hair and skin feel, a shower filter helps. If the problem is white film on the glass and crust on the fixtures, that's hardness, and only a softener stops it.
Many homes start with the filter and add a whole-house softener later. That's a fine plan.
Written by people who install these every day
20+ years in water. No fluff, just how it really works.
- 20+ years in water
- Our own patents
- We supply other water companies
- [Thousands] of systems sold
- Licensed installers
Written by [Name], [title], [20+] years in water treatment. Reviewed by [Licensed plumber name], license # [#]. Last updated [date]. Sources: listed under each "By the numbers" block and linked in the copy
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Questions people ask
Do shower filters work for hard water?
Partly: chlorine and some buildup, not hardness.
What is the best hard water filter for shower?
One rated for your disinfectant, plus a whole-house softener for hardness.
Can a shower filter remove iron?
Some reduce small amounts.
Will it stop glass stains?
No, that takes a softener.
How often to change it?
About every 6 months.
Is it good for renters?
Yes.