Written by Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips

Ever scrubbed rust stains off your fixtures only to watch them reappear days later?

That’s the daily grind for families battling well water iron, sediment, and that stubborn rotten-egg odor. 

Our Iron Filter Installation Services are designed to transform your household water into pure, stain-free liquid you’ll actually enjoy.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk through spotting iron issues, comparing filter media, planning the install, and keeping your system in top shape—all with a friendly, down-to-earth approach.

Identify Iron Water Problems

Iron shows up in three main forms in well water: soluble ferrous (clear-water iron), insoluble ferric (red particles), and iron bacteria (slime and odors).

When levels exceed the EPA’s secondary limit of 0.3 mg/L, you’ll notice:

• Orange or brown staining on sinks, tubs, and fixtures
• Metallic taste and discoloration in drinking water
• Iron bacteria creating slimy buildup and a “rotten egg” smell
• Clogged pipes, reduced flow, and premature appliance wear

Sounds familiar?

If you’ve spent weekends scrubbing stains or replacing ruined clothes, it’s time for a permanent fix.

Explore Filtration Options

Before we install an iron removal system, let’s compare the main filtration technologies.

Each media type oxidizes or traps iron particles differently, so matching the right option to your well water chemistry is key.

Oxidizing Media Options

Oxidizing filters convert dissolved iron into solid particles, which are then backwashed away.

Three common media include:

Filter Type	Regeneration Agent	Pros	Cons
BIRM	Oxygen (no chemicals)	Low maintenance, chemical-free	Requires pH > 6.8
Manganese Greensand (MGS)	Potassium permanganate	Handles iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide	Needs chemical recharge
Greensand Plus	Impregnated permanganate	Faster regeneration, longer media life	Higher initial cost
MTM (Chlorine Inject)	Chlorine solution	Effective on iron bacteria, high iron	Requires chemical feed and safety measures

Air Injection Systems

Air injection oxidation (AIO) systems infuse water with air, oxidizing iron on contact and trapping it in a filter bed.

These units use no chemicals, offer automatic cleaning, and eliminate sulfur smells—all with minimal maintenance. Here’s the thing, if you’re tired of dosing chemicals, AIO is a game-changer.

Highlight SoftPro AIO Iron Master

When we launched SoftPro Water Systems, our goal was to fill a gap: honest pricing, robust performance, zero fear-mongering.

The SoftPro AIO Iron Master epitomizes that mission.

Air Injection Oxidation Technology

• Injects precise air volume, oxidizing iron, sulfur, and manganese
• Filters out insoluble particles with a durable media bed
• Automatically backwashes—no user-added chemicals

Benefits for Homeowners

• Eliminates stains in fixtures, laundry, and appliances
• Improves water taste and odor without impacting pH
• Low maintenance: annual check-ups, no cartridges to swap

Perfect for Rural Well Water

Just like the Robertson family on their 5-acre spread, you need a no-nonsense system that tackles 4–8 ppm iron, seasonal turbidity swings, and iron bacteria.

The AIO Iron Master delivers consistent performance even in challenging conditions.

Plan Installation Steps

Getting ready for an install isn’t rocket science, but a little prep goes a long way.

Here’s our streamlined process...

Assess Water Quality

1. Collect samples for lab testing—measure iron, manganese, pH, hardness, and bacteria
2. Determine iron levels: softeners handle 1–5 ppm, filters required above that threshold
3. Identify other contaminants—sulfur odor? Sediment? Iron bacteria?

Prep & Placement

• Choose a sheltered, level area near the main water line
• Ensure access to power and drainage for backwash cycles
• Confirm clearance for bypass valve, control head, and service access

Execute Installation

Our professional team handles:

1. Cutting into the main line and installing bypass valve
2. Mounting the tank, control head, and air injection assembly
3. Connecting drain line, air line, and power supply

Professional vs DIY Approach ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ While some homeowners tackle installs themselves, we recommend pros when:

• Iron levels exceed 8 ppm or iron bacteria present
• Local codes require licensed backflow prevention or permits
• You prefer warranty-protected work and hassle-free support

Test and Commission

After plumbing in the system:

• Flush and backwash to clear media dust
• Validate iron removal with post-install water test
• Program control settings—backwash frequency, air draw cycles

Calculate Costs and Savings

Budgeting for a filtration system means weighing upfront investment against long-term gains.

Upfront Investment

Expense	Typical Range
AIO Iron Master Unit	$1,200–$2,000
Professional Installation	$500–$1,000
Water Analysis	$100–$200

Long-Term Value

• Less spent on cleaning supplies and fixture replacement
• Extended appliance life—no iron clogging dishwashers or heaters
• Reduced laundry loads and stain-removal products
• Peace of mind from reliable, tasty water

Financing Solutions

We partner with QuadPay and Affirm to offer flexible, interest-free plans. That means you can start enjoying pure water now, and pay over time.

Maintain Your Iron Filter

AIO units demand very little upkeep, but a few best practices keep performance optimal.

Routine Backwashing

• Check control head settings quarterly—ensure backwash triggers match water usage
• Listen for uniform drain flow during backwash cycles

Seasoned Media Cleaning

• Annual inspection: look for media compaction or channeling
• Lightly agitate media if flow rates decline

Troubleshooting Tips

• Odd odors? Flush air draw port and inspect injector for clogs
• Persistent stains? Confirm pre-filter sediment trap is clear
• Error codes on the control head? Call our tech support for step-by-step guidance

Partner with QWT Experts

We’re a family-owned team led by Craig “The Water Guy” Phillips, and that hometown feel sets us apart.

Family-Driven Service

• Jeremy Phillips uses consultative sales—no high-pressure pitches
• Heather Phillips ensures smooth shipping, clear instructions, and friendly emails
• We treat your home like ours, because it is

Ongoing Support

• Free tech support via phone or video
• Comprehensive how-to videos and written guides
• Transparent pricing—no hidden fees or surprise markups

Review Key Takeaways

• Iron shows up as ferrous, ferric, or bacteria—test water to pinpoint the issue
• Oxidizing media and air injection systems each have strengths—pick one that fits your well chemistry
• The SoftPro AIO Iron Master offers chemical-free oxidation, automatic cleaning, and low upkeep
• Prep wisely: quality testing, proper siting, and permit compliance matter
• Factor in long-term savings on cleaning supplies, appliance replacement, and peace of mind
• Rely on our QWT family for honest pricing, expert installation, and lasting support

FAQs

How often should I backwash an AIO system?
That depends on water usage and iron levels, but typically every 1–3 days. We set your control head based on your household flow patterns.

Can I install an iron filter myself?
If you’re comfortable with plumbing and local codes allow it, yes.

For iron bacteria, high-iron wells, or warranty protection, we recommend our licensed installers.

Will an iron filter remove sulfur odors?
Our AIO Iron Master oxidizes hydrogen sulfide along with iron and manganese, eliminating rotten-egg smells without additional chemicals.

What maintenance does an iron filter need?
Aside from periodic backwashing, you’ll perform an annual media inspection and keep drain lines clear.

Our tech team walks you through every step.

How long does the media last?
With proper backwashing and water chemistry adjustments, filter media typically lasts 5–10 years before topping or replacement is needed.