Choosing a home water filter

Whole-house or under-sink: which system suits your home?

The right choice starts with where you want filtered water, how much flow you need and how you want to manage installation and cartridge replacement.

Discuss Your HomeUnderstand Quote Factors
Coverage explainedInstallation consideredMaintenance comparedNo one-size-fits-all claim

Direct answer

Choose based on the point you want to treat

A whole-house system is usually considered when a household wants filtration across multiple taps and water-using areas. An under-sink system is usually considered when the priority is drinking and cooking water at one kitchen outlet. Product suitability still depends on the water source, performance evidence, expected flow, available space and installation conditions.

Side-by-side comparison

Decision pointWhole-house systemUnder-sink system
CoverageInstalled on the incoming supply to serve multiple outlets, subject to plumbing layout.Serves a nominated drinking-water outlet, commonly at the kitchen sink.
Typical priorityBroader household filtration and sediment or taste concerns across the property.Filtered water for drinking, cooking, kettles and similar kitchen use.
Flow demandMust be selected for simultaneous household demand and the site's pressure conditions.Usually selected for the lower flow required at one outlet.
InstallationRequires a suitable entry point, mounting location and regulated plumbing assessment.Requires cabinet space, suitable connections and an appropriate outlet arrangement.
MaintenanceCartridge sets may be larger and access should remain clear for future service.Cartridges are normally accessed inside the cabinet or nearby service area.
Quote basisProduct, pipe access, bypass arrangement, mounting, pressure, plumbing and travel.Product, tap or outlet choice, cabinet access, connections, plumbing and travel.

When a whole-house system may be the better starting point

  • You want the proposed filtration applied across multiple household outlets.
  • You have an accessible incoming water line and a practical protected installation position.
  • You understand the required flow and pressure for the household.
  • You are prepared for larger cartridge sets and planned replacement access.

Read the Brisbane whole-house system guide for product, installation and maintenance details.

When an under-sink system may be the better starting point

  • Your main priority is water used for drinking and cooking at one location.
  • You want a smaller installation footprint than a point-of-entry system.
  • Your cabinet has usable space and suitable plumbing access.
  • You want to focus the initial budget and maintenance on one outlet.

Read the Brisbane under-sink guide for cabinet, outlet and cartridge considerations.

Some homes may use both

A household may consider broad point-of-entry filtration and a separate point-of-use drinking-water system when the two products have different, evidence-based purposes. More stages do not automatically mean better water. Each stage should have a clear function, compatible flow and a replacement plan.

Questions to answer before requesting a quote

  1. Which taps or appliances do you want the proposed system to serve?
  2. Is the property on mains/town water or another water source?
  3. What outcome are you trying to address: taste, odour, visible sediment, scale marks or another concern?
  4. Where are the incoming water line and kitchen connections located?
  5. Can you send clear photos of the proposed installation area?
  6. What product certification, performance evidence and replacement cartridge details are available?