Many modern homes use a two-step process. First, water goes through a whole-house softener to protect pipes and appliances. Then, it passes through a dedicated filter at the kitchen sink for drinking and cooking. This is the ultimate luxury, like having a personal assistant and a chef.
Pro tip: Always install the filter after the softener. Softening removes minerals that can clog the filter media quickly. You want the filter working on its cleanest water possible, not getting wrecked by hard water residue.
For apartment dwellers, combo products are emerging. You can now find countertop softener-filter hybrids that do both jobs in one compact unit. They’re not as powerful as separate systems, but they’re perfect for renters who value flexibility.
